There are three variations of the Razer DeathStalker V2 which are obtainable: DeathStalker V2 ($199.99), DeathStalker V2 Pro ($249.99), and DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL ($219.99).
The launch schedule for these new keyboards is staggard. DeathStalker V2 Pro linear (used for this overview) is now obtainable as of July 26. The clicky model, nevertheless, receivedāt be obtainable till someday in Q3/This fall of this 12 months. For DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL, it is just obtainable in linear and receivedāt be obtainable till someday in August. For DeathStalker V2, the linear model might be obtainable in August, whereas the clicky variant arrives in Q3/This fall.
The keyboards might be obtainable by way of Razer.com, Razer bodily shops, and companions.
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro: What I like
At the rear, the utmost top of the DeathStalker V2 Pro is simply 26.6mm. (Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
Spec-wise, Razer packed so much into these keyboards, particularly the top-tier professional. The principal options embrace:
Razer Low-profile Optical Switches
70-million keystroke lifespan
Razer HyperSpeed Wireless Technology
Razer HyperSpeed Multi-device Support
Connect by way of Razer HyperSpeed Wireless (2.4 GHz), Bluetooth, or Type C
Multi-functional media button and media curler
Ultra-durable coated ABS keycaps
Razer Chroma RGB customizable backlighting with 16.8 million coloration choices
40-hour Battery life
Razer Synapse enabled
Hybrid On-Board Memory and Cloud Storage ā as much as 5 profiles
Fully programmable key with on-the-fly- macro recording
N-key roll over
Gaming mode choice
Detachable braided fiber Type C cable
5052 Aluminum Alloy Top Case
The solely distinction between the DeathStalker V2 Pro and the non-Pro mannequin is the latter lacks any wi-fi connectivity (Bluetooth, HyperSpeed) and as an alternative depends on a detachable Type-C cable.
For the DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL, it is just lacking the quantity pad keys leading to a extra compact design however nonetheless retains full wi-fi skills. Itās additionally solely obtainable in linear, as Razer says those that purchase the TKL are usually hardcore players who overwhelmingly choose non-clicky switches.
(Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
In the field, you get the keyboard, a braided Type-C (to Type-A) cable, the HyperSpeed Dongle, and the dongle extension, which can be utilized with the Type-C cable. As anticipated, the dongle stows away on the backside of the keyboard for journey or safekeeping.
Regarding design, Razer knocked it out of the park. The most top (within the rear) with the pop-up legs enabled is simply 26.6mm and 21mm within the entrance. The high layer of the keyboard deck is aluminum, so there isnāt a flex, and it feels extra premium.
But itās the keycaps that blew me away. For one, the laser etching is sharp as a tack, together with lit secondary key features. When the Razer Chroma RGB shines by, it appears to be like tremendous easy and simply elegant. These are a few of the best-looking keycaps Iāve seen.
Included equipment with the DeathStalker V2 Pro. (Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
However, the opposite essential function that may be a first for Razer is these keys have been handled to withstand ākey shineā ā the tendency for keycaps to get shiny from hand oils that construct up over time. Indeed, within the few weeks Iāve used this keyboard, the keycaps stay fully matte and clear. Compared to my Logitech G915, itās night time and day between the keycap high quality.
(Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
Key spacing is nearer on this keyboard than on a few of Razerās different keyboards, however I prefer it so much. The key measurement is great, and I make few errors when gaming or typing.
The different factor that shocked me was the linear switches. Typically, Iām a clicky sort of man, so I used to be a bit bummed when Razer despatched me linear (clicky receivedāt be obtainable till later this 12 months). I normally discover linear too mushy, comfortable, and simply not satisfying to make use of. Thatās not the case right here, nevertheless. Iām pleased with the sound profile (which isnāt fully silent) and stiffness. Razer spent lots of time tweaking linear and clicky switches to search out that steadiness. For linear, it needed much less noise, however for it to nonetheless have substantial suggestions ā I feel they nailed it.
On the rear are three Bluetooth profile buttons, a grasp change, an LED, and a Type-C port.Ā (Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
Battery life can be higher than anticipated. On the total Pro model, Razer suggests 40 hours of wi-fi connectivity from the 4200 mAh battery. Thatās when the per-key Razer Chroma is ready to 50% brightness, which remains to be vivid sufficient to be seen even in a lit room. For the TKL model, Razer pegs it at 50 hours just because it has fewer keys to gentle up, and I discovered these estimates to be correct. And, in a pinch, you could possibly use the DeathStalker V2 Pro wired by way of the Type-C cable.
A eliminated keycap from the DeathStalker V2 Pro. (Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
The multi-functional media button and steel media curler are issues I usually neglect this keyboard has because itās been so lengthy since Iāve used one, however they work fairly properly right here. As youād hope, that media scroller might be remapped by way of Razer Synapse software program to many features (by default, itās system quantity), together with adjusting display screen brightness, mic quantity, scrolling, switching apps, Windows zoom, and even Office zoom. The reality Razer stored these options on even the TKL model is noteworthy.
On the rear, youāll find three buttons for pre-paired Bluetooth profiles letting you dynamically change between your PC, a cellphone, or another gadget just like the Valve Steam Deck. Thereās additionally a toggle to modify between HyperSpeed, Bluetooth, and off, together with a single Type-C port for charging. Itās a easy structure, and people Bluetooth buttons and additional profiles are welcomed additions in comparison with the competitors.
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro: What I donāt like
(Image credit score: Razer)
Iāve had no important points with the DeathStalker V2 Pro; it has now turn out to be my main desktop keyboard, and I plan to keep it up till one thing higher comes alongside.
But there might be extra minor issues that can hassle some. Price is all the time difficult and $250 for this keyboard places it close to the highest for mainstream PC equipment. Itās not out of the norm, nevertheless, as Logitechās G915, which was launched in 2019, additionally debuted at $250.
The 2.4GHz HyperSpeed dongle stows beneath the DeathStalker V2 Pro. (Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
Itās additionally a bummer that the TKL mannequin receivedāt have clicky keys, however Razer is assured that those that purchase it might choose linear. As somebody who loves TKL designs, I used to be disenchanted by that information, however upon utilizing these linear switches, Iād go for them as a result of slight discount in actuation drive (45 grams vs. 50 grams) and shorter actuation level (1.2mm vs. 1.5mm).
(Image credit score: Razer)
Razer doesnāt embrace a wrist relaxation with this keyboard within the field, which for $250 is a disgrace. Razer does promote its personal wrist rests for keyboards, however I discover them too tall for use with such a low-profile design. I purchased the $15 Grifiti Slim Wrist Pad, which will get the job carried out.
Finally, it nonetheless bugs me you possibly canāt save customized Chroma RGB lighting profiles to the āsave profileā perform of the keyboard, that means youāll should set it up for every PC you have got. Iād choose it if my customized RGB structure may very well be saved as default to the keyboard.
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro: Competition
The Logitech G915 Lightspeed from 2019. (Image credit score: Future)
The growing old Logitech G915 (and G915 TKL) is probably the most obvious mainstream competitors to the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro. However, I discovered that keyboard unremarkable after I purchased it in 2020, and I nonetheless really feel that approach. For one, the keycaps are straight-up trash, and never solely do they get horrible key shine, however the printed letters/numbers are additionally more likely to put on off over time. You additionally get only one Bluetooth profile (as an alternative of three), its development is flimsy, being all plastic, it has barely much less battery life (30 hours vs. 40), and it makes use of mechanical switches as an alternative of optical.
The HyperX Alloy Elite 2 will get rave opinions and is just $90 (often $130). Itās a TKL design however wired solely, which is why it has a decrease value. It additionally makes use of mechanical switches and never higher-end (and extra correct) optical ones. It does, nevertheless, use a strong metal body, which is great.
The Keychron K1 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Version 4 can be wildly standard and considerably cheaper. It is available in varied sizes (full, 108 keys, TKL) with choices for various switches. Some complaints embrace lack of customized RGB software program, a considerable amount of house between keys, no 2.4GHz or āsuper speedā wi-fi connectivity, and itās powerful to get one attributable to restricted drops in availability.
For extra concepts, see our greatest gaming keyboards information for different suggestions.Ā
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro: Should you purchase?
(Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
Whoās it for ā¦
People who need a low-profile keyboard
Gamers who need higher optical switches and many options
Those preferring minimalist PC setups
Anyone who varieties so much and desires one thing straightforward on the fingers
Who it isnāt for ā¦
People on a finances
Those who like deep key journey
Finding the proper keyboard might be difficult, particularly should youāre attempting to steadiness gaming with work. There are extra choices and selections as we speak than ever earlier than. Razerās new DeathStalker V2 Pro rapidly lands on the high of selections for folks, particularly if you have already got a couple of Razer peripherals (e.g., I take advantage of the Razer Basilisk Ultimate, Mouse Dock, and Nommo Pro audio system).
Even should youāre not a gamer, I give the brand new Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro an enormous thumbs up. The low profile, optical keys, and the way clear this keyboard appears to be like make it good for anybody who desires a wi-fi setup that screams minimalism. The reality the keys donāt get key shine is one other win (if solely Razer may do this with its laptops!). The linear keys, one thing I normally donāt choose, have received me over, which says so much, and the general construct high quality is improbable.
(Image credit score: Daniel Rubino)
The solely draw back goes to be that top priced, however even right here, Razer at the very least presents the lower-cost wired DeathStalker V2 ($200). Plus, Razer is usually excellent at operating gross sales, particularly through the holidays, that means itās best to have the ability to choose this keyboard up beneath retail within the coming months. Ā
The DeathStalker V2 Pro is a no brainer for me as Iāve moved on from my Razer Blackwidow with no regrets.
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro
Razerās top-tier low-profile wi-fi keyboard with optical linear switches is without doubt one of the finest keyboards you may get in order for you quick keys and a minimalist design.Ā
Leave a Reply