Regular gaming keyboards are no longer enough for the serious gamer. Features like low-latency, fast switches, full media controls, and “tournament mode” are appreciated, but with so many similar options on the market, standing out is a challenge. Enter Razer with its Huntsman lineup, boldly claiming a spot at the top with their innovative technology.

Today, we’re reviewing the Huntsman V3 Pro, a full-sized keyboard packed with premium features: optical switches, media controls, excellent build quality, and a luxurious wrist rest. Its standout feature is the Rapid Trigger technology, seamlessly integrated into the device.

Priced at R5,599.00, the Huntsman V3 Pro is on the higher end, but for those seeking the latest switch technology and top-notch build quality, it offers great value.

Design, Features, and Keycaps

The Huntsman V3 Pro series includes three models: the standard Huntsman V3 Pro (R5,599.00), the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL (R5,044.00), and the compact Huntsman V3 Pro Mini (R3,999.00).

We tested the full-sized Huntsman V3 Pro, which includes a numpad, a volume knob, and three multimedia keys. The volume knob also adjusts the switch sensitivity (actuation and Rapid Trigger) without needing Synapse software. The multimedia keys can be customized to perform shortcuts, macros, or launch programs.

The build quality is solid, featuring a plastic body reinforced with an aircraft-grade aluminum top plate. It looks premium, even if it doesn’t feel as substantial. Razer claims it can withstand heavy use, a believable claim given their track record.

The keyboard includes a full-sized magnetic wrist rest. It has a hard surface with a high-quality leatherette top, offering durability over comfort. The wrist rest stays in place with six rubber feet, though the magnets could be stronger.

Razer has upgraded the keycaps to PBT from the previously used ABS. These keycaps are more durable and have a grainy texture for better grip, even during intense gaming sessions. They are also shine-through, enhancing the per-key RGB lighting, which is bright but contained due to the OEM profile keycaps.

A unique feature of the keyboard is the center console above the arrow keys. It displays the status of NumLock and CapsLock keys, the selected profile, and the sensitivity settings for on-the-fly adjustments without using Synapse.

Sound Test, Switches, Stabilizers

The Huntsman V3 Pro uses Razer Analog Optical Switches Gen-2, featuring a 40g actuation force, adjustable actuation, Rapid Trigger, and ‘analog’ mode support. The latter mimics the WASD keys as a joystick, though its practical use is limited.

The optical switches are smooth and responsive but require deliberate pressing compared to other linear switches like Cherry MX Reds. The keyboard’s sound profile is typical for gaming keyboards—scratchy and noisy, with some dampening but still quite loud.

The stabilizers are well-lubed and tuned, though they sound scratchy and cheap. They don’t produce any ticking, which is a plus, but their long-term reliability remains to be seen.

Software and Performance

The Huntsman V3 Pro uses Razer Synapse for customization and programming. While you can adjust switch sensitivity without it, the software offers a comprehensive set of options for reprogramming keys, assigning macros, and controlling RGB lighting.

The main attraction is the adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger settings, configurable on a per-key basis. Synapse allows separation of upstroke and downstroke sensitivity for fine-tuning gameplay.

Adjusting settings mid-game without launching Synapse is possible using key combinations and the center console. The console’s LED indicators, while not numeric, are easy to understand.

Verdict

Despite its poor sound profile, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro excels in build quality, features, and Rapid Trigger technology. It’s a well-rounded gaming keyboard, albeit pricey at R5,599.00. Other Rapid Trigger-enabled keyboards may offer similar technology at a lower cost but lack the extensive customization of Razer Synapse. I Personally am also not a fan of the volume knob, having come from multiple keyboards with a volume scroll wheel, it does take some time to get used to.