I have been on a search for many years to find a keyboard that does everything well, and I believe I’ve finally found it. Please don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of very good keyboards out there, but this one hits every mark I want it to and with every device I want it to.
THE HARDWARE: SPECS, CONNECTIVITY AND SETUP
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Wireless keyboard is a premium, high-performance mechanical keyboard designed for gamers and power users who demand versatility and top-tier features. A key component of its hardware is the use of Razer’s Gen-3 mechanical switches, which are available in silent (Yellow), tactile (Orange) and “clicky” (Green) variants. For those who prefer a custom feel, the keyboard features a hot-swappable design compatible with most 3-pin or 5-pin switches, allowing users to easily change out their switches without soldering. The keyboard is built with a sturdy 5052 aluminium alloy top case and includes several features to improve typing acoustics, such as a gasket-mounted plate, sound-dampening foam, and lubricated stabilisers. Other notable hardware specs include doubleshot PBT keycaps for durability, dedicated media controls, a multi-function roller, and a plush magnetic leatherette wrist rest for enhanced comfort during long sessions.
The connectivity options for the BlackWidow V4 Wireless are a major selling point, offering seamless performance across multiple devices. It supports three distinct connection modes: Razer HyperSpeed Wireless (2.4 GHz), Bluetooth, and a detachable USB-C cable for wired use. The HyperSpeed Wireless mode is designed for gaming, providing an ultra-fast, low-latency connection with a polling rate up to 4,000 Hz, while also allowing you to connect a compatible Razer mouse to the same dongle. For multitasking or casual use, the Bluetooth mode lets you pair and switch between up to three devices with convenient hotkeys. The wired USB-C connection not only provides a reliable link but also charges the keyboard’s built-in battery, which can last for a long time thanks to an included power-saving mode.
Setting up the Razer BlackWidow V4 Wireless is designed to be a straightforward process. For a wired connection, you simply plug in the USB-C cable. For wireless use, you can either switch to HyperSpeed mode and plug the 2.4 GHz dongle into your PC or switch to Bluetooth and follow the pairing instructions on your device. The keyboard comes with a mode switch on the side, making it easy to toggle between the three connectivity options. To unlock the full potential of the keyboard, including customising per-key RGB lighting via Razer Chroma, remapping keys, and creating macros, users will need to install and configure the Razer Synapse software. The software provides a user-friendly interface for personalising the keyboard to your exact preferences, from setting up custom profiles for different games to fine-tuning polling rates and macros.
USER EXPERIENCE: GAMING, PRODUCTIVITY AND DAILY USE
With all of the features that are on the BlackWidow V4, there’s a lot to talk about here. But I’ll keep it to some pretty simple themes, starting with the focus of this keyboard: Gaming!
Suppose you’ve read this far into the review. In that case, you’re likely already aware of the Razer Synapse software that allows you to program the RGB lighting, change the functions of certain keys, and (when you’ve got multiple Razer devices) synchronise these effects.
The feature has been around for about 12 months now, but I have immediately seen the benefit of Snap Tap. I play a number of first-person shooters, including Counter Strike, Call of Duty, Escape from Tarkov and the classic: Team Fortress 2. So having something helping me in the background when I’m strafing around an opponent is hugely beneficial.
The other genuine highlight for me is the switches in the low-profile keyboard. Our review unit is orange switches, so they have a very tactile feel to them, but not the audible clicking that you expect from a full mechanical keyboard. I like the short throw of the switches, as just 3.5mm, and the 2mm actuation point has a really positive feel to it.
This positive and tactile feel has translated remarkably well over to the productivity and daily use scenario that I’ve put the keyboard through during testing. As I deal a lot with numbers through my day job, it’s important to me that a keyboard has a number pad and provides a positive feedback sensation when typing.
With the multiple connection options, this has the potential to become (as it has for me) the only keyboard you’ll use across all devices. I’ve even started using it when I’m using my laptop for any reasonable period of time; it’s such a great user experience.
BATTERY LIFE AND CHARGING
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile HyperSpeed offers exceptional battery life, rated for up to 980 hours of use when in Power Saving Mode. This mode conserves battery by reducing the polling rate, which is the frequency at which the keyboard reports its status to the computer.
A higher polling rate, such as the keyboard’s maximum of 1,000 Hz, provides a faster, more responsive experience ideal for competitive gaming but consumes more power and reduces battery life. Conversely, a lower polling rate is perfectly adequate for general use and significantly extends the battery. To charge the keyboard, you simply connect it to a powered USB port using the included USB-C to USB-A cable. You can continue to use the keyboard while it is charging.
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile HyperSpeed Keyboard is available now the earlier mentioned switch options through Razer online, or the usual retail channels for AU$369.00, or if you choose a Tenkeyless version, you’ll save AU$60.00
CONCLUSION
Ultimately, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile HyperSpeed is a premium investment that justifies its price tag. It’s a testament to Razer’s commitment to quality and innovation, offering a cohesive and powerful experience that excels whether you’re dominating a game or simply typing up a document. If you’re looking for one keyboard to rule your entire desktop, this is it.
