Blackwidow Chroma V2

Not an evil clone of Natasha Romanova

PRICE $ 299 www.razerzone.com The

Blackwidow Chroma V2 is an interative upgrade of the original Blackwidow Chroma, but the combination of these upgrades and the choice between three different switches makes the Blackwidow Chroma V2 an excellent premium mechanical keyboard. Whereas the original Blackwidow was limited to the clicky Green switches, the V2 can feature any of the Razer switches. We were sent two units to test, one with Green switches and one with the new Yellow switches. Both are excellent, but the new Yellow switches are a real standout.

The new Yellow switches are linear and feature a short throw, similar to those seen in Cherry Speed switches, Romer-G or Steelseries GS1. The actuation point of the keys is only 1.2mm, and this, combined with the 45g actuation force makes the switch feel very fast. The short actuation and light touch takes a little getting used to – you can expect quite a few miskeys during the learning curve, especially with the extremely light Caps Lock – but after that learning experience your fingers will fly across the keys.

The V2 has a bigger footprint than the original Blackwidow thanks both to a row of dedicated macro keys and one of the nicest cushioned wrist rests we’ve ever seen. The rest is a very elegant piece of design – rather than using clips, it attaches via magnets, snapping into place as soon as the rest touches the keyboard. The keyboard also hosts some nice bright RGBs, a USB passthrough and headphone jack. It’s a compelling, albeit rather pricey package. DANIEL WILKS

• Yellow keys are great • Excellent design • Wrist rest • Learning curve • Expensive VERDICT: The Blackwidow Chroma V2 is an excellent premium keyboard. It’s expensive, but worth the price.