Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz review: a pricey but highly precise wired gaming keyboard
An evolved Huntsman keyboard with minor but impactful changes.
Razer believes its analog optical switches perform more reliably than Hall effect alternatives. Notebookcheck’s Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz review tests whether adjustable actuation fulfills that lofty goal. While marketed to esports competitors, new customization options may benefit a broader audience.Adam Corsetti Published
Verdict- small improvements bolster an already precise and customizable wired keyboard
It was a challenge for Razer to further innovate the Huntsman V3 Pro reviewed by Notebookcheck in 2024. Still, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz adds precision and versatility through incremental changes.
Rejecting Hall effect technology, the Gen-2 analog optical switches are even more tunable. Minor adjustments in its actuation range of .1 mm to 4.0 mm impact keystrokes. Improved noise absorption also results in a more pleasant typing experience.
Remarkably, many advanced settings are accessible without Synapse 4. The TKL layout proves generous enough for on-the-fly tweaks and a full array of media controls.
The Razer keyboard may be the quickest and most responsive asset for esports pros. Nevertheless, only the most talented gamers can profit from advantages like an 8000Hz polling rate.
Pros
Cons
Price and availability
The Huntsman V3 Pro 8KHz is for sale now at the Razer store and participating retailers. The black full-size version of the gaming keyboard costs $249.99/€279.99.
Meanwhile, the TKL alternative reviewed here is $219.99/€249.99. In white, the TKL keyboard demands $229.99/€259.99. Finally, the Esports Green Edition in the same form factor has an MSRP of $249.99/€269.99.
The performance-focused Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz strives to squeeze more accuracy from its analog optical switches. Among the most obvious upgrades, the wired Razer keyboard now ships with an 8000Hz polling rate. The new Huntsman V3 Pro contenders include full-size and tenkeyless models in various colors.
Specifications
| Form factor | TKL (full-size available) |
| Dimensions | 363 x 139 x 39 (mm)/14.3 x 5.5 x 1.5 (inch) without wrist rest |
| Weight | 719.5 grams/1.60 lbs without cable and wrist rest |
| Case materials | Plastic, 5052 aluminum alloy top case |
| Sound dampening | Thick case foam, bottom case foam |
| Switch type | Razer Analog Optical Switch-Gen 2 |
| Switch actuation | 0.1 to 4mm (adjustable) |
| Switch actuation force | 40g |
| Keycaps | Textured Doubleshot PBT |
| Connectivity | Wired, detachable USB-C cable |
| Polling rate | Maximum 8000Hz |
| Lighting | RGB per-key |
| Wrist rest | Magnetic firm leatherette |
| Software | Synapse 4 |
Packaging and box contents
The latest Razer keyboard ships in a black-and-green rectangular box. Inside, buyers will find a detachable braided USB Type A to Type C cable, magnetic leatherette wrist rest, and a quick start guide.
Design
Razer has stayed true to the design of the original Huntsman V3 Pro TKL. Dimensions are virtually identical, with the keyboard weighing 719.5 grams or 1.60 lbs. The device has a solid feel, reinforced by an aluminum alloy top plate. While not low-profile or the most portable, it’s not a burden for travelers without the detachable wrist rest.
Despite the TKL layout, Razer doesn’t skimp on media controls. The ring of Chroma RGB lighting outlining the digital dial, which turns red when Windows is muted, is again a highlight. The only drawback is that its low height can make it problematic to access without pressing on the keys below. Next to the dial is a multi-function media button and a programmable macro button.
The LED indicator for actuation and profile settings can be a bit difficult to see, depending on the typing position. Nevertheless, it’s a nice bell and whistle to have with a $200+ keyboard.
An overly firm wrist rest was a common complaint with the Huntsman V3 Pro. Unfortunately, with the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz, Razer made only minor revisions. The detachable leatherette component remains stiff to prioritize stability. Benefiting from strong magnets, it doesn’t easily separate from the keyboard’s bottom when sliding it around surfaces.
Setup and connectivity
The major motivator to upgrade to the new Razer keyboard is its 8000Hz polling rate. Boosted by more finely tuned second-generation analog optical switches, the company promises industry-leading speed and precision.
Of course, when connecting the peripheral to PCs, these advantages aren’t visible. It’s elementary enough to guide a USB-C cable to an empty port on the left side of its back edge.
The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz stores six profiles onboard and offers pre-set options that are accessible without software. That said, gamers will still need to install Synapse 4 to fully customize the wired keyboard.
Razer Synapse 4 software
The updated Huntsman is feature-packed, which can make navigating Synapse's menus intimidating. Even so, Razer managed to divide the app into three tabs: Customize, Actuation, and Lighting. Customization allows gamers to tweak the polling rate or toggle options like Gaming Mode on and off.
Like previous entries in the Huntsman lineup, the keyboard can simulate a gamepad. Keys including W, A, S, and D replicate joystick movements, though users may notice unintended side effects. Some games prioritize the keyboard, causing them to ignore other controllers. Even with the option off in Synapse, the only way to disable the virtual gamepad is through Windows Device Manager.
With adjustable actuation, Synapse 4 devotes an entire screen to customizing keypresses. Gamers can control how individual keys respond. Alternatively, they may assign multiple commands depending on the pressure applied. A slight annoyance is that no keys are selected by default, adding another step to making wholesale changes.
Snap Tap and Rapid Trigger return, catering to aspiring and accomplished esports gamers. However, Razer now offers more options when prioritizing the last input. In Rapid Trigger, users can also specify exactly when a switch resets, unleashing unrelenting assaults in shooters.
Lighting options are largely unchanged, with basic effects available in the main Synapse program. A separate Chroma Studio interface is necessary to realize the full potential of per-key lighting.
Typing performance and switches
There are more choices than ever for gaming keyboards, with mechanical, analog optical, and Hall effect switches as options. The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz stays loyal to its predecessors by relying on analog optical technology.
Many gamers have requested that Razer embrace ultra-durable Hall effect switches. Yet the manufacturer insists it can’t achieve the same precision as with light beams measuring keypresses. Razer also worries that components in gaming setups can cause magnetic interference.
Razer may exaggerate these concerns, but it’s hard to argue with the performance of this wired keyboard. Gamers can select from an actuation range of .1 mm to 4.0 mm either by using a combination of key presses or Synapse 4. The company advertises that its inputs exhibit less variation than those of its competitors.
While testing the Huntsman, there was an obvious difference after making slight adjustments. 1.2 mm proved too sensitive for office tasks, but typos reduced dramatically at 1.8 mm. Competitive gamers can take advantage of this precision with more controlled keypresses. Likewise, most audiences may not benefit from the 8000Hz polling rate, but esports pros have another way to lower latency.
The Doubleshot PBT keycaps on the Razer keyboard feel particularly sturdy. They also have a rough texture that minimizes the risk of fingers slipping. Once again, glaring RGB lighting effectively illuminates the keycap labels.
The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL did not produce the quiet typing of linear mechanical switches. With the newer iteration, the added insulating foam has made a difference. Buyers shouldn’t expect an experience like the low-profile linear variation of the DeathStalker V2 Pro, but the clacking is now more muted.
Conclusion
As a showcase for capabilities like Rapid Trigger, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz is squarely aimed at esports enthusiasts. Even so, it can be an asset to gamers who demand the most functionality from a tenkeyless layout. Beyond variable actuation, the wired keyboard includes an unmatched level of customization.
With an 8000Hz polling rate targeting a specific market, owners of the Huntsman V3 Pro may not see many reasons to upgrade. Razer has refined rather than reinvented most of the keyboard's trademark features. The new leatherette wrist rest likely won’t convince gamers hoping for a more luxurious feeling.
While not a giant leap in gaming keyboard technology, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL 8KHz is a well-built peripheral. Already available in multiple colors and form factors, it can also fit into any setup.
Transparency
The selection of devices to be reviewed is made by our editorial team. The test sample was given to the author by the manufacturer free of charge for the purposes of review. There was no third-party influence on this review, nor did the manufacturer receive a copy of this review before publication. There was no obligation to publish this review. As an independent media company, Notebookcheck is not subjected to the authority of manufacturers, retailers or publishers.
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