If you’ve never used a mechanical keyboard before, then I’m sorry to say that you’ve been seriously missing out. Explaining the difference between dome switches and mechanical switches is beyond the scope of this review, but lucky for you, I covered this years ago in this article. Rest assured, there’s really no comparison. If you work or game on a computer, then you’re doing yourself a serious disservice by not using a mechanical keyboard.
With that out of the way, let me tell you about my new favorite keyboard, the Blackwidow Chroma V2 mechanical gaming keyboard from Razer. I’ve been testing it for the past few weeks, and it does not disappoint.
After you’ve opened the gloriously glossy box protecting it (yes, that’s my reflection), you’ll be greeted with keys that can only be described as deeply satisfying. If we can agree for a moment that mechanical switches are the way to go, then these custom Razer mechanical switches are the very best of the bunch. They come in three types with different qualities, but for this article I’m referring to the Razer™ Green Switch, which is described as tactile and clicky.
You’ll also notice that the keys are glowing, and while that’s something you can turn off, I personally like the accent the LEDs provide. Best of all, you can tune the colors and patterns exactly how you want. That’s the kind of thing you would expect from a high-end mechanical keyboard like this, and Razer certainly doesn’t disappoint. Full customization is a lot of fun.
Depending on what you find comfortable, there’s an optional arm rest, pictured above. It’s magnetic and just sort of locks into place as you place it near the keyboard. The material feels luxurious and provides ample support.
No respoectable keyboard would be complete without a USB slot and headphone jack, especially useful if you’re a gamer like me. They’re both placed on the right side of the keyboard, pictured above.
The Blackwidow Chroma V2 mechanical gaming keyboard isn’t exactly inexpensive at $169.99 USD, but with switches designed to last over 80 million keystrokes, this Razer keyboard is going to last you a long, long time. Even if you don’t use any of the advanced features, such as macro recording and back-light customization, this keyboard is still an awesome purchase. If you appreciate well made things, you won’t be disappointed.
