Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL Review: Top Gaming Gear

The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL by Razer is a high-end gaming keyboard boasting analogue switches with adjustable activation heights and a plethora of advanced features.

Overview

Razer has recently augmented its Huntsman range with the V3 Pro model. The V3 Pro appears to be a step up from the slightly less equipped V2, still available on the manufacturer’s website. This premium series focuses on competitive gaming and features analogue switches with adjustable activation heights, alongside the usual array of gaming functionalities and RGB customization.

Priced at 250 euros, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL firmly sits in the premium range, akin to high-end peripherals from numerous other brands. There is also a full-sized model with a numeric keypad for 290 euros, and a 60% format Mini for 210 euros.

Its direct competitor, Corsair’s K70 Max, is priced at 230 euros for the full-size format and around 190 euros on promotion at the time of writing this review. This represents a notable price difference for a similar offering.

The TKL format of the Huntsman V3 Pro features a compact design, saving desk space and allowing ample room for mouse movement, especially for those who prefer large swipes on their mouse pads. The build quality is outstanding, with the keyboard measuring 36 x 14 cm, plus an 8.7 cm wide wrist rest.

The wrist rest, with its faux leather finish, adds a slight elevation for the hands in line with the keys. However, one wonders why Razer chose a solid model that doesn’t offer more comfort than a typical desk. We prefer memory foam, which is more comfortable and commonly found with high-end keyboards. The Huntsman V2, for instance, came with a foam wrist rest. A positive aspect of the Huntsman V3 Pro’s wrist rest is its magnetic design, making it easy to attach or detach.

The keyboard’s design slightly differs from its predecessors in terms of dedicated multimedia keys, which were previously only on the full-size version. A metal wheel is now present and is very handy for managing volume or muting by pressing down on the wheel. Clicking the button to the left of the wheel changes tracks or pauses the music (one click for play/pause, two to skip to the next track, three to return to the previous one). By default, the far left button opens the Xbox Game Bar.

In Razer Synapse, it’s possible to modify these shortcuts, as well as those of all the keyboard’s keys. The software also allows customization of the RGB backlighting on a per-key basis with predefined or user-adjustable lighting effects.

The keys are made of double-shot PBT to prevent symbol wear and ensure better durability. Unfortunately, the secondary legends on the number keys are not backlit — a persistent issue with Azerty versions of the brand’s keyboards.

Underneath the Huntsman, there are several non-slip pads, two-level adjustable feet, and a front-edge USB-C port for PC connection. Notably, the keyboard is wired, which is somewhat disappointing considering the price. While it’s less portable, this is often the case with keyboards featuring adjustable keys. It’s likely that few gamers move their keyboards regularly, but it’s worth noting.

As before, the Huntsman benefits from analogue optical switches with an adjustable activation height ranging from 0.1 to 4 mm. This technology is also found in other keyboards, like the SteelSeries Apex Pro or Corsair’s “magnetic switches” on the K70 Max, for example. The idea is to manage the reactivity of each key (especially in the ZQSD area) with extremely rapid activation, close to 0.1 mm, and much slower beyond 3 mm. This feature is also handy for switching from a reactive gaming mode to typing (around 2.5 mm, for example) to avoid too many typing errors. Everything is configurable in Synapse, but Razer has wisely pre-recorded profiles directly onto the small cluster of keys below the volume wheel for on-the-fly reactivity adjustments.

Another possibility with these types of switches is dual activation on a single key, halfway and fully pressed. This allows assigning walking and running to a single key in an FPS (First-Person Shooter), or crouching and lying down, for example. The feel remains linear like classic red switches, and those who prefer clicky or tactile will need to look elsewhere. The activation force is 40 g, slightly lighter than the 45 g required by MX Reds. Overall, the typing experience is quite pleasant. The switches are also guaranteed for 100 million activations, which is currently among the best available.

The keyboard’s polling rate is 1000 Hz, a fairly standard value, although some go higher, up to 8000 Hz at times. However, in practice, it’s impossible to notice a real difference. Additionally, a “rapid trigger” mode can be activated in Synapse to reset the key as soon as the finger begins to lift, which could be advantageous in competitive multiplayer for rapid, repetitive actions.

Finally, in terms of noise, the keyboard remains loud, as is typical for mechanical keyboards. There is also a metallic resonance when typing — a shame for such a high-end model. Lastly, a downside is the electronic whistling audible when the keyboard is connected. It’s not noticeable while playing or listening to music, but in a quiet office environment, it can be somewhat bothersome. This may be a specific defect in our test model, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re considering purchasing this keyboard.

Conclusion

The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL is an excellent keyboard for gamers, particularly notable for its superb finishes, fully adjustable analogue switches, reactivity, and dedicated multimedia keys. It’s also available in full-size or mini formats to suit individual preferences. However, the uncomfortable wrist rest and noticeable chassis resonance when typing are drawbacks.