Razer Huntsman Elite Keyboard Review

I’ve had four months with this keyboard and while it is certainly a great keyboard, there are a few things you should note before making this purchase.

First off, the aesthetics of this device are great. Everything you get from Razer will look decidedly geeky and gorgeous.

I won’t cover the specs on this review as you’ve likely already looked in to it. If you are like me, you are looking for that last nudge, and vote of confidence that will finally make you pull out your credit card and get the purchase over with.

With that said, do I like it; and should you buy it? Let’s first cover who this keyboard is for:

Gamers:

Razer has the gaming industry locked down. They know what gamers want. If you or the recipient of this gift are gamers, they will absolutely LOVE YOU.

While I occasionally play games, my purchase of this keyboard wasn’t based on needing a gaming keyboard which brings me on to the second group this keyboard is for.

Programmers:

I am a programmer. At any given time I have 3 terminal windows open, Visual Code, and an IRC client humming away. As a programming keyboard, this is great as it provides audible and tactile feedback that really helps when slinging code.

Those wanting audible feedback:

This thing is LOUD! It’s not normal. You’ve likely never heard a keyboard this loud. But it’s buttery smooth and if you are the one typing on it, rather than the person listening to it, you’ll love it.

Those wanting aesthetics:

Let’s face it, we want nice things. We want our nice things to have nice things and this is certainly a nice thing. The keyboard’s illumination is truly unique and you need to see it to appreciate it.

Pros:

• Beautiful, very tactile keyboard. You have confidence that the keys will register and the space bar will never break or jam.
• Integrated well with Linux. If you don’t know, I use Linux Debian almost exclusively and this keyboard runs great with the “OpenRazer” drivers available. So if you are looking for an illuminated keyboard for Linux, here you go.
• The volume control buttons actually are a Godsend as you don’t have to manipulate volume, mute et al with your mouse.

Cons:

• LOUD! I’ve warned you.
• Expensive, however most “top shelf” items are and this is certainly a premium device.

Verdict:

Do I recommend this keyboard? Meh. Meh? Meh.. I wanted a great programming keyboard and something aesthetic that will blend with my work station and stand-up desk. With this keyboard, I got that. This keyboard accomplished it’s mission. However, I’m not partial to Razer and I’m really no one’s fanboy. The price I paid for this I EXPECT it to be a premium device- and it is. I love my wife, I love my family, I love my friends, I love my dog. Do I love a keyboard? No, so “meh”.

If you want a great, aesthetically pleasing keyboard for programming, gaming or social “creds” if you are considering this for a gift, then with the Razer Huntsman Elite, you certainly have it:

If you do happen to purchase it, I would certainly appreciate you using this link to do so. I earn a couple bucks if you do. : https://amzn.to/2X2EJKJ