Razer responded quickly after Asus’ Azoth caused a sensation with its high-performance, tenkeyless keyboard by unveiling this Pro version of Black Widow V4. Packed with features, you can personalize this keyboard to meet your individual needs using Synapse software downloadable through Windows or OSX.
Razer Yellow switches and key innovations such as an 8,000Hz hyperpolling rate, notched metal “Razer Command Dial,” and dual-side underglow RGB lighting are featured on this keyboard.
Keyboard Design
As with the BlackWidow V4 2023 from last year, this latest iteration of this popular keyboard aims to give gamers a more tailored gaming experience. The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% boasts a hot-swappable design which allows users to swap out switches with ease for their preferred options – providing greater control of key feel and sound! Furthermore, its socketed PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, allows screw-in stabilizers installation as well as plate foam to reduce unwanted pinging.
This year’s model features some improvements that enhance user comfort, such as a magnetically attaching wrist rest with an ergonomic, gently textured surface that feels good against your hands. Furthermore, there’s now a Command Dial button on the top-right side of the keyboard which features a two-inch OLED display showing various settings that you can configure.
Acoustics have also been modified for optimal performance; The BlackWidow V4 Pro utilizes a gasket-mounted FR4 plate with tape-enhanced PCBs, factory lubed keys, and is factory lubricated to create an extremely smooth keystroke and pleasing sound profile. Furthermore, double sound dampening foam pads prevent unwanted pinging or reverberation; its tenkeyless layout also makes it suitable for compact desk setups; preloaded Razer Orange Tactile Switches Gen-3 deliver an engaging typing and gaming experience with higher bump points and more satisfying sound signature.
Switches
Razer’s BlackWidow V4 75% hot-swap keyboard offers all-day typing comfort with its Gen 3 Orange tactile switches in a smaller footprint, along with customizable Chroma RGB lighting that can be tailored via Synapse for optimal lighting effects.
But the real draw of the Command Dial lies in its flexibility: you can access various commands to control your computer without opening and closing applications or windows. By default, its functions include changing keyboard brightness, skipping music tracks, switching applications/games etc. Additionally, any combination of controls can be assigned to a single key for when focus is needed without taking your hands off of keyboard!
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% improves on its predecessor in several important ways. It is wired, featuring an 8,000Hz polling rate and USB passthrough, to disrupt any non-gaming activities on your desk. Although more expensive, you do gain many more features such as premium PBT keyboard with super plush wrist rest; and an RGB onboard polling rate; however if gaming alone this extra expense might not justify itself.
Wrist Rest
The BlackWidow V4 Pro features a detachable wrist rest featuring a black leatherette surface. It magnetically snaps to the keyboard when attached and its own RGB lighting (38 zones across two sides and front) illuminates when attached – adding an impressive element that elevates this keyboard and makes it stand out as part of your battle station setup instead of just another peripheral sitting on your desk.
The keyboard itself features a full navigation cluster, dedicated macro keys and a programmable “Razer Command Dial.” Two internal foam plates and tape enhancement mod (essentially just thin layer of tape on PCB) help reduce noise when pressing keys and reduce any clunking when you do press them.
Razer PR stressed the product was created with gamers in mind and would engage with custom hobbyists, so it should come as no surprise that its disassembly exposes six standard Philips-head screws for further customizability. I wish there had been greater openness regarding switch selection as its default Green switches are tactile but noisy and might not provide optimal gaming conditions.
At $230, the BlackWidow V4 Pro offers an outstanding combination of premium feel, solid typing performance and advanced features. While serious typists and gamers looking for more targeted experiences may find other suitable keyboards more suited to them, for anyone seeking an upscale gaming keyboard that also supports custom themes it is an excellent choice.
Software
Razer continues their legacy of high-end gaming keyboards with the BlackWidow V4, boasting several innovations that make it stand out. These include an OLED display and clickable dial that control system-level functions; hot swappable design supporting three and five pin switches to customize key feel; plus its robust feature set that includes Razer Chroma RGB lighting, dedicated macro keys and plush magnetic wrist rest.
This full-size mechanical gaming keyboard from Razer features an aluminum alloy top plate and plastic chassis for lightweight durability and weighs in at an imposing 1.7 pounds. Though larger than usual desktop keyboards, its attractive gaming aesthetic can easily be customized through Synapse software configuration tool.
On the left of your keyboard lies a row of dedicated macro keys and a “Razer Command Dial,” programmable according to your active profile, that can take on different functions based on its current settings. This allows you to switch quickly between profiles or execute complex macros without leaving your game!
Snap Tap, another unique new feature, allows users to press two buttons simultaneously for rapid directional changes that give an advantage in games like competitive shooters where quick direction changes are essential. It prioritizes your latest input over earlier input, giving an advantage to players looking for fast action!
