Razer’s latest mechanical keyboard, the $ 250 Huntsman V2 Analog, looks similar to the company’s previous models, but the biggest differences lie in the switches. The optical switches of this model support adjustable operation (the amount of movement required to register a press), which allows almost endless adjustment by Razer’s Synapse software.
Perhaps the most appealing feature of these keys is that, instead of being limited to the usual on / off nature of key operation, they are programmed with analog inputs to mimic the joysticks of a controller for smoother, variable levels of movement and control. You will be able to program the keyboard in such a way that you can press the key slightly, and that you will run slowly in the game, while running it on a normal clip – just like an analog stick.
(Note that game support for using analog inputs and a mouse will differ at the same time, but using this feature requires Synapse software. And programming an analog input for a key will override the original use case , so you need to reset it or browse to another profile.)
Based on the feature, Razer’s keyboard also allows players to program two different functions that usually require two buttons on one key, one of which turns off at one operating distance and the other when you fully press the key. You can equip a grenade with a gentle push on the key and then throw it by pressing the key down completely, just to give an example.
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Image: Razer
In fact, Razer’s switches can be customized according to your specific operating preferences for games or any other use case. The Huntsman V2 Analog keys have a default of 3.6 mm, but you can adjust the distance to a much shorter 1.5 mm or anywhere between the values. It is important to note that it does not change how the buttons feel when you press them, but through a shorter operation you can type a little softer, without worrying that your keys will not be able to register a press.
This is how it works: instead of relying on separate physical mechanisms to demarcate between the drive conditions, the sensor of the switch assesses the distance pressed by determining the amount of infrared light it hits. The embedded animation shows it in action.
Razer’s Huntsman V2 Analog has an aluminum frame, a set of dedicated buttons to control media, and a rotary knob to adjust the volume, all of which look and feel good. Razer includes Doubleshot PBT keyboards, which reportedly carry better with age than standard keys, and you’ll also get a soft wrist rest that includes RGB lights and can be magnetically attached to the keyboard. As you would expect, the keyboard itself also has stunning Chroma RGB lights.
The cable that drives the Huntsman V2 Analog is USB-C, but Razer includes an adapter so you can plug it into USB Type-A ports. And if you want to use the single USB 3.0 Type-A passthrough port for an accessory, it has a second USB Type-A cable hanging on the back that you can connect to your computer.
By the way, if this is the first time you’re hearing about this kind of analog keyboard technology and adjustable control, the keyboard company Wooting Razer is at stake with similar keyboards dating back to 2016. The company’s current keyboards start at around $ 150, a lot less than Razer’s $ 250 Huntsman V2 Analog. Whether Razer’s model can justify the high price will depend on your thirst for Chroma RGB lights, dedicated media buttons, and optional USB-C connectivity.
The Huntsman V2 Analog is now available exclusively on Razer.com until February 9, when it will be introduced at more retailers.