Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: Unplugged Powerhouse or Overpriced Novelty?

In 2023, the wired BlackWidow V4 75% model came into being, signifying Razer’s foray into the high-end market. Recognizing the preference for a wireless and hot-swappable keyboard, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% was introduced in the autumn of 2024. Retaining key features from its predecessor such as the Gen 3 Orange Tactile switches, Razer aimed to maintain quality. The inclusion of an OLED screen positions this keyboard as the focal point for gaming arrangements.

The compact 75% design of the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro doesn’t sacrifice features found in larger keyboards. Amazingly, Razer manages to cram a multitude of technology into this reduced size peripheral. This keyboard can connect to Bluetooth devices and a HyperPolling dongle boasting a 4000Hz polling rate. It took me several weeks to fully grasp all the capabilities of the BlackWidow V4 75%. Given its premium price, is this innovative keyboard worthy of amassing a significant fanbase?

Design

The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, its wireless version, shares a similar design and key arrangement with its wired counterpart. However, it weighs slightly more at approximately 2.3 pounds or 1043 grams (without the wrist rest). A significant change is the replacement of the OLED screen for the volume rocker and media keys. In their place, Razer has added a Command Dial on the left side of the screen and a button along the keyboard’s edge instead.

Because the 75% layout is becoming more popular due to its efficiency in smaller setups, it’s often chosen for keyboards like the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%. It comes equipped with a dedicated top function row, arrow, and navigation keys. However, I found one drawback: it doesn’t have a Print Screen key, meaning some users need to press multiple keys to capture screenshots.

With the RGB keyboard dimmed or absent, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% resembles a heavy, black block resting on a desk. It’s not particularly compact for travel, but it does offer HyperSpeed and Bluetooth wireless modes. Much like other Razer keyboards, its extra weight is due to a sturdy aluminum top plate. Despite staying put in my workspace, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% has withstood a few accidental drops without issue.

The exceptional construction carries over to the robust Double-shot PBT keycaps, which offer a slightly rough surface to reduce slippage when gaming intensely. Unlike a low-profile keyboard, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% lets plenty of light pass through from beneath and between the keys. As expected, this keyboard showcases customizable per-key lighting effects in the Synapse 4 app. It’s worth mentioning that the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% features LED light bars on its sides, although they might not be immediately apparent during typing.

I found the detachable leatherette wrist rest on the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% keyboard, especially the one at the bottom edge, to be quite noteworthy. Although the magnets aren’t strong enough to prevent it from moving when you shift positions, the padding is luxuriously comfortable. Some users might find it raises their arms and wrists too high, but the adjustable feet at the bottom can alter the typing angle.

Usage

The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% can connect to computers and mobile devices using either a HyperPolling wireless USB dongle or Bluetooth. For the most responsive performance, it pairs with computers via a provided braided USB cable. This gives gamers flexibility in placing the keyboard without interference from wireless signals. However, when charging is needed, an additional USB-C cable or disconnecting the cord linked to the dongle becomes necessary.

This wireless keyboard by Razer now offers an enhanced Bluetooth connection experience. It simplifies the process with fewer key sequences to recall, and an OLED screen indicates the status of connections. The keys numbered 1, 2, and 3 illuminate, allowing the keyboard to store up to three devices and swiftly switch between them. Initially, I faced issues pairing the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% with my Android tablet, but upon connection, typing felt responsive even within its remarkable wireless range.

On the rear edge of your keyboard, you’ll find a slide mechanism that toggles between wired and wireless connections. To ensure proper functioning, always choose the wired mode when the keyboard is connected via a cable.

As an enthusiast, I must admit that the idea of a screen on a keyboard initially struck me as more of a gimmick than anything else. However, the display on the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% has proven to be surprisingly versatile, challenging my initial skepticism. The Command Dial and accompanying button offer multiple functionalities, such as controlling volume or adjusting OLED brightness, which is quite convenient. With Synapse 4, it’s a breeze to customize screensavers or home screens that appear after a specified time interval. Among the various options, those displaying battery levels or system temperatures are particularly useful, providing valuable insights at a glance.

The claimed 2,100-hour battery life for the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro places it approximately 75% higher than most wireless gaming keyboards in terms of longevity. However, without an energy-saving mode to dim its lighting and reduce polling rates, the Razer keyboard falls short of this promise. When used from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with RGB brightness set at 50% and a 4,000 Hz polling rate, it required recharging within a single day.

Software

As a devoted enthusiast, I can confidently say that the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% keyboard offers a user-friendly control experience through its OLED display and keyboard shortcuts, even without the need for software. Yet, to truly maximize this keyboard’s full capabilities, Synapse 4 is indispensable. Just prior to my review of the Kraken V4 Pro headset and Freyja HD Haptic Seat Cushion, the updated Synapse 4 app was released. At that time, I encountered some delay issues while utilizing a complete set of Razer equipment. However, it’s worth noting that Synapse 4 now separates most configuration settings and Razer Chroma RGB effects into distinct windows to enhance user experience.

In the Customization section, gamers enjoy the freedom to reassign almost any key. When wirelessly linked, they may opt for a polling rate as high as 4000 Hz. The Snap Tap function, which is often debated, ensures that only the last key pressed in intense gaming scenarios is recognized. Titles like Counter-Strike 2 have prohibited this feature, but it can help awkward finger movements avoid incoming attacks.

The keyboard Synapse offers features a well-organized arrangement of functions, even with numerous capabilities. It optimizes battery life by adjusting OLED display brightness and setting the time for power-saving mode activation. For intricate RGB effects, you can access Chroma Studio via the lighting menu.

Generally speaking, during my testing with the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, Synapse 4 functioned well overall. However, there were instances when the app became unresponsive and needed to be reloaded a few times. I suspect that if you have fewer than two Razer peripherals, the app might load faster as it seems to prioritize device recognition.

Physical Customization

The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is designed for easy customization through hot-swappable keys and Razer graciously supplied me with some Gen-3 Yellow Linear mechanical switches to try out. The keyboard comes with a switch and keycap puller, but I found the wiring a bit frail. In the end, I had to use a metal prying tool to swap out the default Orange Tactile switches without causing any damage.

With a bit of ease, removing the keycaps unveils the inner mechanisms of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%. Its socketed PCB board accommodates both three and five-pin switches. A robust yet flexible white fiberglass FR4 plate is in place. For those up for the challenge, they can install alternate plate-mounted stabilizers. The screw-in stabilizers come lubricated to minimize unnecessary rattling.

1. Disassembling more of the keyboard reduces the sound of the case pinging because several layers of foam muffle it. Razer has added tape to the PCB board to minimize the annoying noise from clickier switches. The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% caters to both daring modifiers and straightforward switch replacers.

2. By taking apart more of the keyboard, multiple foam layers suppress the sound of the case ringing. Razer has attached tape to the PCB board to dampen the annoyance caused by clickier switches. The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is suitable for both adventurous modifiers and easygoing switch exchangers.

3. When you disassemble more of the keyboard, several foam layers help reduce the echoing sound from the case. Razer has put tape on the PCB board to make clickier switches less bothersome. The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is designed for both brave modifiers and straightforward switch changers.

4. As you take apart more of the keyboard, several layers of foam minimize the noise from the case pinging. Razer has adhered tape to the PCB board to lessen the disturbance caused by clickier switches. The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% caters to both daring modifiers and simple switch replacers.

5. By disassembling more of the keyboard, several foam layers reduce the noise coming from the case pinging. Razer has applied tape to the PCB board to make clickier switches less irritating. The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is ideal for both adventurous modifiers and straightforward switch exchangers.

Performance

Many users might not feel compelled to swap out the BlackWidow V4 Pro’s default 75% Orange Tactile keys, as they offer a tactile feedback without excessive noise during use. Unlike the Yellow Linear alternative, these switches aren’t completely silent, but they are quieter than traditional clicky keyboards. As a long-term Razer supporter, I was won over by their Orange Tactile switches. Despite having a 2.0mm actuation distance that might seem high for gamers focusing on speed, the typing experience is surprisingly smooth and lightweight.

To evaluate the performance of both orange and yellow keys under stress, I conducted multiple typing tests. The baseline orange switches allowed me to type approximately 85 words per minute. Yet, when switching to linear switches, my speed increased significantly to 100 wpm. Typing with these switches felt incredibly fast, but it led to more errors. Interestingly, the yellow switches have an actuation point of only 1.2mm and require a gentle touch. Paired with a wireless polling rate of 4000 Hz, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% transforms into a potent tool for gaming tournaments.

It’s tough to argue against the perks of linear key pressing in gaming. I was able to rapidly fire off attacks in World of Warcraft at an impressive speed. However, the absence of audio cues and certain unintended keystrokes made me yearn for Orange Tactile switches.

No matter which setting you choose, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% doesn’t produce the same level of noise as other, more resonant mechanical keyboards. The built-in foam and tape effectively dampen the typical clatter, but without giving the feel of typing on a less expensive membrane keyboard.

Does the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% Justify Its High Cost?

The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% offers Razer enthusiasts a top-notch wireless, hot-swappable keyboard experience. Within just 15 minutes, gamers can significantly improve the keyboard’s functionality. The era of noisy, high-end keyboards may be fading away as tape modifications and foam padding help emphasize the gaming action instead.

Not all switch types appeal to everyone, especially gamers who have distinct preferences. However, Razer’s Orange Tactile option strikes a balance between clicky and linear competitors, offering an appealing combination of features. These switches are available separately and can be utilized on various customizable keyboards. Meanwhile, the market has moved on from the wired BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, with the Glorious GMMK 3 PRO HE emerging as a popular alternative. This keyboard boasts smooth and durable Hall effect sensors with numerous actuation settings, and its wireless polling rate of 8000Hz is twice as fast as that of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%.

Although the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% may not represent a revolutionary change, it boasts a design with limited flaws. The Doubleshot PBT keycaps atop an aluminum frame offer a sturdy and robust feel. Remarkably, its OLED display proves beneficial for swift adjustments of settings with minimal button clicks. For gamers immersed in the Razer universe, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% introduces a touch of luxury to gaming setups, accommodating evolving typing habits.

2025-01-27 22:38