This high-performance, low-profile, mechanical gaming keyboard will make gamers drool, but prepare to pay up

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Previously, in our evaluation of the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro, we described it as an exceptional low-profile, high-performance optical gaming keyboard. However, it appears that Razer has been inundated with numerous demands for a genuine mechanical counterpart instead.

In a short while, we’ve advanced to the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed – quite a mouthful for such a petite keyboard. It’s nicknamed BlackWidow as Razer’s low-profile DeathStalker lineage remains steadfast, yet it will persist in using optical switches.

After spending some time with the latest BlackWidow keyboard featuring Razer’s innovative low-profile mechanical keys, I can confidently say that enthusiasts eager for a low-profile option from Razer will not be disappointed. However, it’s important to note that while this keyboard is compact, its price may take a bite out of your wallet.

Two sizes and an eight-button difference between them

The BlackWidow V4 HyperSpeed Keyboard offers two variations: full-sized and tenkeyless, both sporting the same black color scheme. As anticipated, their designs share numerous similarities, featuring approximately eight distinct differences.

This compact keyboard stands approximately 18.5mm tall, primarily made of plastic yet featuring a top layer of brushed aluminum. A protruding plastic ledge, particularly apparent in the TKL version, may seem peculiar, but I find its design appealing.

Unfortunately, the craftsmanship could use a bit more polish compared to what I anticipate from a high-end product. Specifically, there’s an inconsistency at the junction between the metal top plate and the mentioned plastic shelf.

This paraphrase maintains the original meaning while using a more conversational tone, making it easier for a general audience to understand.

This design exhibits an appealing touch with subtly integrated elements. However, the expanded version undeniably gives off a sense of comprehensive wholeness.

This premium wireless gaming keyboard offers a comfortable key size and an intuitive layout. It’s equipped with Razer HyperSpeed Wireless technology, featuring a hidden compartment for dongle storage. You’ll also find three Bluetooth wireless profiles, adjustable two-stage kickstands, non-slip rubber feet, and extra buttons and controls for added functionality.

If you share my preference for compact keyboards, specifically those without a numerical keypad (tenkeyless), it’s important to note that there might be a trade-off-you would get eight fewer programmable shortcut keys compared to full-sized keyboards.

Both versions come with a shared control dial, a triple-function macro button, an “AI” button to access Razer’s AI Prompt Master (which you can reassign), and a non-customizable battery level indicator button. The full-sized version offers additional features such as five reprogrammable macro keys and three media control keys, all located on the top plastic shelf that is vacant in the TKL version.

It seems there might be a design limitation preventing more keys on the compact Razer keyboard, or perhaps another reason. I was hoping they could have found space to include a few additional keys in the smaller design.

Slim and prim, but is it good enough for the price?

Considering the macro-level criticisms, is the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed really worth investing around $199.99 from Razer for the tenkeyless version? It’s understandable that developing unique low-profile versions of Razer’s own Green, Yellow, and Orange switches would be quite a challenge. However, one must question if these enhancements justify such a high price point for this particular keyboard model.

Crafting a mechanical keyboard with two layers of sound-absorbing foam, individual RGB lighting for each key, five pre-set profiles, and a battery lasting up to 980 hours (in power-saving mode) certainly seems like no small feat on paper. However, having had the opportunity to use it myself, I must say…it’s not just impressive on paper!

It feels like there’s always something preventing this keyboard from achieving total greatness.

It seems as though some factor continually hinders the BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile from reaching its full potential.

This keyboard offers an outstanding typing and gaming experience, featuring different modes to enhance consistency or responsiveness. However, it tends to be quite loud. The RGB lighting is attractive, yet it’s rather dim and doesn’t effectively highlight secondary functions. The battery life can be impressive, but intense RGB lighting can significantly reduce its longevity. The wireless performance is almost perfect, though it caps the polling rate at 1000Hz regardless of the connection method you use.

BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if …

  • You want a low-profile keyboard, but make it mechanical.
  • You can’t have low-profile switches without ditching the wires.
  • You want great gaming performance in a compact package.

❌You should not buy this if …

  • You don’t mind the extra vertical mass of a normal low-profile keyboard.
  • You don’t think “low-profile” should mean “higher price tag.”

As a devoted gaming enthusiast, I must admit that I’m curious about the market for a top-tier, low-profile, mechanical gaming keyboard, given its premium price tag. However, Razer has been making strides into various specialized markets with their recent releases, and this product is no exception to their innovative approach.

The BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed is also impressive, and I believe many people will appreciate Razer’s new low-profile mechanical switches. However, despite its numerous merits, some compromises or weaknesses may discourage potential buyers when considering the high price of this stylish keyboard.

This is particularly notable as brands such as Keychron are steadily expanding into the PC gaming market with budget-friendly, high-performance keyboards catering to enthusiasts. Nonetheless, I must admit that I am fond of this keyboard and you can purchase it right away, starting from $199.99 on Razer.com.

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2025-09-07 19:11