Razer’s gaming keyboard lineup has always offered gamers exceptional performance, each with its unique features and advantages. The newly released Razer BlackWidow V4 TKL HyperSpeed adds a much-requested feature: hot-swappable sockets compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. This transforms it from simply a gaming keyboard into a fully customizable keyboard experience.
As the name suggests, it adopts the popular tenkeyless (TKL) form factor and features Razer HyperSpeed Wireless technology for ultra-low latency and lightning-fast response times over a 2.4GHz connection. Let’s take a closer look at the various features of the Razer BlackWidow V4 TKL HyperSpeed.
Specifications and Components
Key Specifications
Form Factor : 87-Key Tenkeyless (TKL)
Switches : Razer Orange Tactile Gen-3 (Hot-Swappable)
Connectivity : 2.4GHz HyperSpeed Wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C Wired
Battery Life : Up to 980 hours (Power Saving Mode)
Polling Rate : 1000Hz (HyperSpeed Mode)
Casing : 5052 Aluminum Alloy + ABS Plastic
RGB : Razer Chroma RGB (Per-Key Customizable)
Keycaps : Double-shot ABS
Dimensions/Weight : 363 x 153.6 x 43.5mm / 974.3g
Inside the box, you’ll find the keyboard itself, a USB-A to USB-C braided cable, a dongle adapter, a 2-in-1 keycap/switch puller, and a user manual. The 2.4GHz dongle is stored within a compartment on the bottom of the keyboard.
Design and Features
The Razer BlackWidow V4 TKL HyperSpeed boasts a standard tenkeyless layout, maximizing desk space. Its classic Razer black color scheme is complemented by a refined and premium finish. It perfectly complements my existing DeathAdder series setup, creating a cohesive gaming aesthetic.
The key layout follows the standard QWERTY arrangement with an 87-key configuration, including all essential keys. The tenkeyless (TKL) form factor is a favorite among gamers, as removing the number pad reduces the distance to the mouse, minimizing shoulder strain and providing more space for mouse movement, which is crucial for FPS games.
Razer’s innovative Snap-Tap feature returns. In traditional keyboards, pressing two movement keys simultaneously cancels movement. Snap-Tap prioritizes the most recently pressed key, enabling more precise strafing, a significant advantage for FPS gameplay.
The top plate is crafted from durable 5052 aluminum alloy for a premium feel, while the bottom casing is made of ABS plastic, maintaining a suitable weight. The Razer logo is subtly placed on the front side of the keyboard, contributing to the clean overall design.
The multi-function roller in the top right corner is a key feature. This clickable roller, along with three dedicated buttons, provides quick access to media controls, battery status, and the AI Prompt Master feature. Adjusting volume or controlling media mid-game is seamless.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 TKL HyperSpeed offers three connection methods: 2.4GHz HyperSpeed Wireless for a fast 1000Hz polling rate, Bluetooth 5.0 for pairing with up to three devices, and USB-C wired connection for simultaneous charging and use, eliminating battery life concerns during extended gaming sessions.
Two-stage adjustable feet on the bottom allow for 6-degree or 9-degree keyboard tilt. Non-slip pads ensure stability on the desk. Customizable typing angles provide comfort during long gaming or typing sessions.
The rear of the keyboard houses the wireless/wired mode switch, status LED, and USB-C port. The status LED provides at-a-glance confirmation of the connection mode and battery status.
A dedicated storage compartment on the underside securely houses the HyperSpeed dongle. The dongle can be used with the included adapter and cable or connected directly to a laptop or desktop, offering flexibility.
Switches and Keycaps
The pre-installed Razer Orange Tactile Gen-3 switches feature a 2.0mm actuation point and 50g actuation force, providing distinct tactile feedback for both gaming and typing.
Factory lubrication ensures smooth and consistent switch operation. The distinct tactile bump provides clear feedback on keystrokes, highlighting the signature responsiveness of RAZER keyboards.
The double-shot ABS keycaps allow for even RGB lighting distribution. A slight texture on the surface enhances grip, and the crisp lettering ensures excellent readability. While potentially less durable than PBT keycaps, the quality is sufficient for typical use.
Pre-lubricated stabilizers on larger keys like the spacebar, shift, and backspace deliver a smooth typing experience. Compatibility with aftermarket stabilizers caters to keyboard enthusiasts’ customization needs.
One of the key advantages is the hot-swappable PCB, compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, allowing users to easily swap in their preferred switches.
Typing/Typing Sound
The Razer 3rd generation Orange switches offer a crisp, tactile typing experience. The distinct bump and satisfying rebound allow for accurate typing without the loud click of a Blue switch. It provides an ideal balance for those who prefer a more pronounced typing sound than a linear Red switch, but without excessive noise.
RGB Lighting
Razer’s signature Chroma RGB system allows for per-key customization with 16.8 million colors, numerous effects, and patterns. Game-integrated lighting dynamically reacts to in-game events, enhancing immersion.
The double-shot keycaps allow for vibrant and even RGB illumination, further amplified by the stainless steel plate. Brightness can be adjusted to conserve battery life in wireless mode.
Connectivity and Software
HyperSpeed 2.4GHz wireless connectivity minimizes latency with a 1000Hz polling rate. Multi-device support allows for a single dongle to be used with compatible Razer mice. Bluetooth mode supports pairing with up to three devices, enabling seamless transitions between a work laptop, personal PC, and tablet.
Razer Synapse 4
The redesigned Razer Synapse 4 is significantly more intuitive and efficient than its predecessor. Key mapping, macro creation, RGB customization, and battery management are all accessible within a single, unified software experience.
A dedicated Gaming Mode disables keys like the Windows key or Alt+Tab to prevent accidental presses during gameplay. Synapse also manages HyperSpeed multi-device pairing, polling rate adjustments, and Snap-Tap activation and fine-tuning.
The software allows mapping of the AI Launcher, which calls up the AI Prompt Master, providing quick access to ChatGPT prompts during games or work.
The Lighting menu offers a variety of Chroma RGB preset effects. Synapse-integrated games feature dynamic lighting that reacts to in-game events, boosting immersion. Brightness is adjustable across 10 levels, and automatic lighting shut-off timers can be set for battery conservation in wireless mode.
The Power menu provides several power-saving options. Users can configure automatic sleep timers and enable a Power Saving Mode that lowers the polling rate, disables lighting, and suspends Synapse connection to maximize battery life.
User Experience
In practical use, the typing experience on this mechanical keyboard is exceptional. The Orange Tactile switches provide satisfying feedback and resistance, making typing enjoyable.
In FPS games, Snap-Tap provided a noticeable advantage during strafing maneuvers, and the 1000Hz polling rate eliminated any perceptible latency.
The improved tactile switches offer a distinct tactile bump and pop sound, but the hot-swap functionality allows users to customize the keyboard with their preferred switches, a significant factor in choosing this keyboard.
The battery life is truly impressive. Even with RGB lighting enabled, after several hours of daily use for a week, the battery remained at approximately 60%. This confirms the claimed 980-hour battery life in Power Saving Mode is achievable. The dedicated battery indicator button provides convenient access to remaining battery life.
Concluding Thoughts
The Razer BlackWidow V4 TKL HyperSpeed blurs the lines between gaming and custom keyboards. Its hot-swappable sockets unlock vast customization potential, while retaining Razer’s renowned gaming technology in a refined wireless package.
The exceptional battery life, versatile connectivity options, and features like Snap-Tap cater to both competitive gamers, particularly those playing Valorant or League of Legends, and keyboard enthusiasts alike. Gamers who prefer the tenkeyless form factor or anyone interested in a hot-swappable keyboard should definitely consider this option.
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