Razer is launching a Signature Edition of its Raiju V3 Pro PS5 controller, but you'll need to act fast if you want one. Razer only has 1,337 units of the gamepad in a limited, individually serialized drop of stock, and there's no promise that it'll come back after the initial batch is all gone.

I hope you're ready for this pricing though, because if you think the regular cost of $200/£200 is bad for an officially licensed PS5 pro controller, this is going to hurt. Holding onto something? Okay. The Signature Edition of the Raiju V3 Pro will set you back $349.99 / £349.99, and will be available exclusively from Razer on November 10.

As expensive as that is, it's hard not to gawk at the design of the peripheral, in fairness. It's got an exoskeleton design, almost similar to a few ultra-light gaming mice that try to cut as much weight as possible by relying on a honeycomb form factor. It also comes in a premium leatherette carrying case that will hold all of the Raiju's regular add-ons and accessories.

The semi-transparent touchpad is glass with laser-etching, the chassis is magnesium alloy, the grips are wrapped in a TPU, the buttons have been molded in a double-shot PBT process which will, in theory, give them a longer life that's more resistant to oil buildup.

“With the Raiju V3 Pro Signature Edition, we set out to illustrate what happens when Razer’s engineering and design capabilities are pushed to their absolute limits,” says Charlie Bolton, Global Head of Design at Razer.

“It draws on years of experience in high-performance controllers, delivering tournament-grade responsiveness in a design that feels like a statement piece in hand.”

As a reminder, the Razer Raiju V3 Pro launched late last year, translating a lot of the brand's Wolverine V3 Pro design and features over to PlayStation. It sports TMR thumbsticks, extremely responsive microswitch buttons, a 2,000Hz polling rate on PC, four back buttons, and two additional bumpers.

The Razer Raiju V3 Pro Signature Edition will be made available in regionalized drops starting on November 10, with more information to come on November 6. Razer says it'll be on a first-come, first-served basis, but hopefully there's some degree of coordination and a limitation to one per customer so that resellers don't benefit.

I see this going one of two ways. Either it'll sell out immediately in each region (to resellers or otherwise), or that pricing is going to be hard for any gamer to afford in this day and age, and, like the Asus ROG 20th anniversary Harpe II and Azoth anniversary editions I reviewed earlier in the year, it'll struggle to sell as well as its maker thinks.

For more, take a gander at the best PC controllers, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best TMR controllers.

I cannot tell you how excited I've been to try out the Razer Kiyo V2 Pro since its announcement. I've been using its predecessor, the Kiyo Pro Ultra, for over three years now for every YouTube video I've created, and I stand by what I said back in 2023 when I reviewed it: it's the best webcam ever made. That said, I can't pretend there aren't improvements I was waiting for in a sequel. I've been dying for the bump up to 4K60 recordings; I've been wishing autofocus was a bit quicker, and for some sort of customizable aperture to help with depth in my shots.

But the best live streaming gear for gamers has taken a bit of a turn in recent times. The trend with almost all of the webcams hitting the shelves these days is the inclusion of AI. Not generative AI, mind you, but AI image enhancement, and more often than not, some kind of clever pan, tilt, and zoom. The Kiyo Pro Ultra never had those AI features in it, but even as someone who hates the current AI situation, I can attest that most webcams use it pretty well. It's hard to offer a DSLR-type of performance in a USB-only webcam that's in a smaller body, so AI is used by lots of brands now to provide a less costly performance bump. It's the way the market has gone since 2023, so I'm not exactly surprised to see Razer follow the trend with the Kiyo V2 Pro.

Sadly, I've tested this thing, compared it to what came before, and I don't like it one bit as a sequel to one of my favorite pieces of content creation gear. For the same $299/£299 price as the Kiyo Pro Ultra, it feels like a worse product in almost every way, and not one I can recommend easily.

Design

Personally, I never had any problems with the design of the original Razer Kiyo Pro or the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra. Were they comically large for webcams? Yes. Were they a bit bulky and impractical when sitting atop a laptop or monitor? Absolutely. Did their design get in the way of anything? Definitely not. Were they big for a reason? Yes - they have larger sensors than other models, and in the case of the Kiyo Pro Ultra, the largest sensor ever put in a mainstream webcam. This made a big difference to the sort of imagery it could capture, and its low-light handling especially was perfect for the gaming content market.

All of that said, Razer decided to make changes to the design of the Kiyo for its V2 range, and the V2 Pro has followed suit. It now has the largely common design language of a modern-day webcam, small and round for the lens in the front, with a lot more junk in the trunk. I first saw this sort of design with the Logitech MX Brio: a smaller lens with a massive, wide body on either side of it. I can maybe see why this became the norm for a few cameras, but it is far, far more impractical for you to sit atop a monitor or try and squeeze between other things on your gaming desk because it has a lot more real estate on its flanks.

Despite its size changes, the Kiyo V2 Pro, at 380 grams, has somehow become heavier than the Kiyo Pro Ultra (348g). What you have, then, is a Kiyo V2 Pro that feels bulkier and more awkward to use than its predecessor, and what makes things worse are design decisions that make it less versatile as a camera.

For example, the Kiyo V2 Pro comes on a standard crocodile clip-like stand, but unlike the Ultra before it, it can't be removed from this stand, which makes mounting it to the Elgato Prompter or another tripod a lot more difficult.

Even worse is that this crocodile clip isn't very strong, so if you want to sit it up in different positions, the folding hinges can't even sustain the camera's weight very well, meaning it sometimes slowly wilts out of the framing you just spent a minute trying to line up perfectly. If you try to tilt the V2 Pro backward at all, it's so back-heavy it'll fall pretty much immediately. Most users will clip this onto a monitor or laptop, but I have my doubts about laptop screen hinges being able to deal with this sort of heft too.

Unlike other webcams that tout AI PTZ features (the Insta360 Link, the Insta360 Link 2, the Obsbot Tiny 2 4K, and the AverMedia cams to name a few), the Kiyo V2 Pro isn't attached to a gimbal, meaning it doesn't actually pan, tilt, and zoom; it just uses slightly punched-in shots from its wide-angle lens to track you with its AI features. There are vents on the back of the webcam's body, which I assume are for venting heat, but when software is doing the heavy lifting, I'm not sure why the thing needs ventilation or, indeed, its increased weight.

One thing I'm happy to see carried over is the privacy shutter you can close by twisting the lens. It's nice to have that peace of mind, especially in this day and age of digital security feeling like a lottery ticket. There isn't an external lens cap this time - even though you don't need both for privacy, I always thought the cap was more useful to protect the expensive lens and camera innards from breakage. It's a shame that, at the same price, Razer isn't offering you the same protection this time around.

Annoyingly, the small recording light placed on top of the Ultra's lens has been moved to the side body of the V2 Pro. That's hardly an issue for most users, but if you plan on chucking this webcam into the Elgato Prompter as I do for my videos, you're going to have more trouble spotting where to look.

Features

I think the main feature disparity to focus on here between the Kiyo Pro Ultra and Kiyo V2 Pro is the sensor. The Ultra features a Sony Starvis 1/1.2-inch sensor coupled with an f/1.7 aperture. The Kiyo V2 Pro uses a smaller 1/1.8-inch sensor with an aperture of f/1.9. The V2 Pro may have a wider-angle lens, giving an FOV of 86 degrees as opposed to 82, but don't be fooled by that. The Ultra's lens and optics let in more light; the V2 Pro can just capture a wider area.

In theory, with its sensor and updated innards, the V2 Pro should be able to capture more vivid colors, not least due to its UHDR support, which the Ultra didn't have (it was limited to HDR). That said, I didn't notice a more vivid color range in my testing. The Kiyo V2 Pro relies on software to try to tune your image, especially with features like one-click image enhancement. My issue is that the Ultra offered even clearer and out-of-the-box lighting balance because it was baked into the capabilities of the product on a hardware level.

We've run into this kind of thing before when we reviewed the Elgato Facecam Mk 2. While colors feel a bit flat and the imagery isn't so good right now, there's every chance it could improve with time and software patches - either way, at the top of the market, I think people should get a bit more bang for their buck on hardware alone.

You might think that the big engine running the show on the software side of things is Synapse, but it feels like more of a cheerleader this time around. In fact, Razer has partnered with Camo Studio for the V2 Pro, so much so that Razer's website even says the camera is "powered by" the software. That does mean that with a webcam purchase you'll get a lifetime license for Camo Studio Pro, but don't think of that as an added bonus because, as I found out in my testing, it's really a requirement if you want the quoted capabilities of the camera.

That's not to say Synapse doesn't have a lot going for it. It's here you'll have access to settings like autofocus, auto exposure, shutter guard, low light compensation, noise reduction, HDR, and image presets if you don't want to get into the nitty-gritty image settings within Camo Studio.

You will need to go to the third-party app if you want to access the pan, tilt, and zoom trickery however, which works just fine; don't expect the actual camera to move around with you, it'll just zoom in slightly and shift the focus around where you are in your shot. Yes, it still looks like an Oblivion NPC has stolen your in-game attention.

Essentially, if I had to sum up the features here, I'd tell you that, as a fan of the Pro Ultra, Razer has taken a more affordable step down in terms of the hardware and parts used in favour of giving you more software support. Where the Pro Ultra relied on pure sensor might to give you the best image possible, the V2 Pro relies on not one but two bits of software to make up for the fact that it isn't quite as strong a camera. And the big bonus? Capturing 4K footage at 60fps instead of 30.

Performance

I think the best way to tell you why I don't recommend this webcam is to run you through my experience with it from start to finish. Hopefully, with the testing footage and imagery I've captured, you'll get a sense of why it's not a match for the older Kiyo Pro Ultra.

To begin with, I slotted this camera into the Elgato Prompter in preparation for recording a new video essay I'm working on for my YouTube channel. I know from countless recordings with the Ultra what sort of image quality I should expect, and I was excited to see that scaled up to 60 frames per second as opposed to 30 this time around.

I went into Synapse to ensure I was working on the most up-to-date firmware, and found nothing besides Synapse telling me I could activate my Camo Studio license for enhanced features and PTZ stuff. Since I wasn't going to use those in my static video recording and was only interested in 4K60 and the out-of-the-box experience (because why would I need anything else with a $299 camera), I ignored that. I turned on the vibrant color mode, I made sure all of the other settings were correct, and I got cracking setting up lighting.

The first bump in the road came when I couldn't get the lighting right. The Kiyo Pro Ultra's larger sensor always means that if you're recording in a gaming room like me, using darker scenes with colorful lighting in the background, it's excellent at balancing things. The V2 Pro was struggling, and with Low Light Compensation on and playing around with the Shutter Guard, I couldn't get the balance I wanted at all because it was overexposing the image or not capturing the vivid colors of the blue lighting in my background. Keep in mind I was doing everything I could to make it work, including bumping my ring light down to 1% of its brightness. Things also looked pretty grainy, so I ended up turning both of these settings off. I finally found the balance I wanted, so I got to shooting my video.

When I went to watch it back a whole 40 minutes later (I had a lot of outtakes), my head immediately hit my hands. I must have recorded at 1080p, because this was not the sort of quality I expected at all from a 4K webcam. Below, you can see an example of the same lighting being used in an older video with the Kiyo Pro Ultra, then a sample of what I had just captured with the Kiyo V2 Pro. The difference is scary, and I knew something must be wrong - even if the properties of the file promised me the frame sizes were in 4K. It looked like 1080p stretched up to 4K.

The next day, I decided to look closer. First off, I did tests in 1080p and 4K to see if there was actually a difference in quality, and there wasn't.

I was sure there must be a firmware update or a wider software issue I wasn't catching, but Synapse had nothing listed that fixed the issue except that offer to download Camo Studio. I decided to give it a try, so I downloaded the app and accepted my included Pro license. Suddenly, the quality the V2 Pro could capture was enhanced and looked a lot closer to the sort of detail of a 4K image, but now, there was all sorts of noticeable AI noise going on in the background. To be clear, the Kiyo Pro V2 will actually capture at 4K60, but you need both Synapse and Camo Studio working in the background to make it happen.

But I had new problems: there was all of this visual noise and distortion when there was any motion in front of the lens because clearly whatever AI was working in the background couldn't keep up with the 4K60 promises on the box of the webcam. I hardly move around in my shots, but I didn't want streaky nonsense all over my facecam footage. I tried turning off Dynamic Noise Reduction to get rid of this, but the camera seems to be totally faulty without it. I couldn't capture any image with the V2 Pro in any application, as you'll see below.

Even with this noisy, blurry motion making the footage uncomfortable to look at, I still wasn't seeing the sort of crystal-clear, sharp imagery I'm used to from the Kiyo Pro Ultra, so I wanted to do some more direct comparisons. I plugged the older model back in, and despite my using the same cable, Windows was now telling me through its camera app that I could only record in 1080p. It wasn't until I uninstalled Camo Studio that the full 4K might of the Ultra was enabled again - very suspicious, if you ask me, and just one reason why I hate products like this relying on a bit of companion software.

Apps like this can be unruly, cause wider compatibility issues with other bits of your kit, and generally be subject to change in the future. I'd much rather buy a device whose hardware can do what I need it to.

Either way, once I expelled Camo Studio from my PC, there it was: the 4K, beautiful power of the Kiyo Pro Ultra. Was its autofocus slow? Yes, but its imagery was so noticeably better than its successor that I don't even know if there's a proper comparison to make here.

I tried a bunch of wider setting changes with the V2 Pro and played around in Camo Studio for a while, but I'm just not impressed at all. Thankfully, its autofocus was a bit quicker off the mark than the Ultra, and a wider-angle lens does give you more framing potential. But those things were never dealbreakers for the Ultra, and its amazing clarity spoke for itself. It's one thing to promise DSLR-quality image enhancements with AI add-ons, but when the image quality of the camera itself can't keep up in real time, and isn't as good as a product you released in 2023, it's hard to advocate for.

Should you buy the Razer Kiyo V2 Pro?

This isn't the webcam I was hoping for. Besides a wider lens and faster autofocus, the Razer Kiyo V2 Pro feels like a step backward from the Kiyo Pro Ultra in almost every conceivable way. The colors are flatter, the AI enhancements get in the way of crystal-clear footage, and the bulk of the camera makes it harder to use in a professional setup.

The annoying part is that the Ultra is now more expensive half the time, and it's getting harder to find. I haven't gone hands-on with the Elgato 4K60-capable webcam it offers in competition to the V2 Pro, but I'd be willing to bet that it relies on a lot of the same AI enhancements as this does. So what do I recommend over this?

If you can find the Kiyo Pro Ultra, go for that, because it's still the best webcam ever made in my eyes.

If you're looking for that ultimate 4K60 imagery, if you want access to more aperture and a suite of ways to make the photography your own, maybe it's finally time for me to recommend you look into a DSLR option. Personally, I hate to say it, but webcams might have reached a ceiling that no amount of AI can help you break through.

This is what I feel most webcam makers are missing in 2026 - it may seem as though harnessing AI features is the catch-all to improving this type of device, but the end result looks flatter, less crisp, and cheaper than if you were to actually invest in better camera specs. This wouldn't bother me so much, but when the marketing makes claims that these things can offer DSLR-quality anything, I think it's important to set the record straight.

Beyond actually going for a professional-grade camera for a bit more money, there is a plethora of 4K PTZ cameras that use AI a lot better than Razer has here, and of course DJI's range of tiny handheld cams.

Overall, it's really difficult to recommend a $299 webcam that's just okay in isolation, but so much worse when compared to what came before it.

How I tested the Razer Kiyo V2 Pro

As outlined in the performance section of this review, I integrated the Kiyo V2 Pro into my setup while attempting to record a new video for YouTube, but its difficulty out of the box without software and its blurred visuals when working with its AI companion software led me to go back to its older sibling. I did plenty of test recordings and comparisons with the V2 Pro before coming to a verdict, and I also did extensive testing in Camo Studio to mitigate the problems I was having.

For more on our testing methods, take a look at the GamesRadar+ hardware policy.

For more on content creation, check out the best capture cards, best streaming mixer, and the best microphones for streaming and gaming.

Last week, Razer unveiled the latest addition to its long line of cat-ear-having headsets, the Kraken Kitty V3. This new headset is designed to "transition seamlessly from streaming setup to cosplay accessory" thanks to its new 'Cosplay Mode,' which allows you to plug its USB-C cable into a power bank to keep it illuminated for cons and events.

As someone who used to cosplay before the word was even mainstream (yes, I'm that old), it's great to see brands like Razer acknowledge some of the most creative and hard-working individuals that have been fueling comic cons for decades, but just be careful when it comes to taking gaming tech to conventions. The $99 (via Razer) gaming headset looks neat, but any tech worn at a busy show floor is going to be a target for anything from damage to theft. I'd feel far more comfortable if you settled for using it to make videos with your friends at home than putting accessories that will be pricey to replace in harm's way.

When I've had cosplays that called for headsets or headphones in the past, I went down the cheap route. Hatsune Miku's Magnet outfit requires a pair of cans with butterfly wing attachments, while mine were fake and built up from foam pieces. I didn't want to lug around real headphones or stick Glow EL wire around tech I actually used that couldn't be removed later.

When it came to putting together a Futaba cosplay from Persona 5, I did dabble in a real pair of cans for many years, but grabbed the cheapest, less than £10 pair of wireless black headphones I could find. Futaba, being the nerd she is, likely would not have settled for a cheap headset, and in reality I could see her preferring a Razer headset like the Barracuda V2 Pro instead, but utilizing real and expensive accessories to replace them just wasn't on my mind. By that stage, I was more than familiar with what conventions were like since cosplaying from 2010, and running the risk of damaging or losing something I used for gaming or music every day wasn't going to be an option. Cosplay is expensive enough without factoring in replacing a gaming headset.

That's why, while Razer states that users can "keep the RGB lighting illuminated at conventions, cosplay gatherings, and community events" on its official blog, I'd recommend omitting the 'conventions' part. At $99, the Kraken Kitty V3 is one of the cheapest in the Kitty lineup (especially the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro that costs $179.99 / £179.99), but replacing even $100 when cosplay is pricey enough is not going to be fun.

Of course, there's every likelihood nothing will happen to your accessories, and I'm not your mom, so you can entirely do as you please. Just as someone more than familiar with the con circuit and headsets, I don't want to run the risk of your $100 headset, which isn't typically designed to withstand the climate of an over-sold and packed convention, ending up needing to be replaced. That's before I even get into the fact that it weighs 315g, and when adding heavy wigs into the picture, you don't really want that stuck on your head for multiple hours at a time.

If you do want the headset for gaming, streaming, and frolicking around in cosplay at small gatherings and meet-ups with your friends, there's plenty to like here. The pair is equipped with Razer's signature 40mm TriForce audio drivers, which sound great, and they feature a HyperClear cardioid microphone too. They're also Chroma-powered, so you can use Razer's Chroma app to sync them up to any other RGB-riddled Razer tech you have laying around.

However, typically, conventions and expensive tech you don't want to replace or have any harm come to them don't mix. No matter how purr-fectly cool and illuminating they look.

• View all Razer Kraken Kitty gaming headsets at Amazon

Want more headset options? Check out our guides to the best PS5 headsets, best Nintendo Switch headsets, and the best PC headsets for gaming while you're here.

Razer launched the Barracuda V2 Pro on October 15, noting on its official blog that the newest addition to the lineup is designed with "versatility in mind" and, as it turns out, the marketing spiel has plenty of truth to it.

From its foldable form factor, dual-mic design, great sound, and understated look that doesn't scream "gaming headset", the Barracuda V2 Pro has managed to take priority in my backpack no matter if gaming or music-listening is on the agenda.

There was nothing stopping me from digging out any other Razer headset to use for both gaming and in lieu of a pair of headphones, but not all the brand's past pairs are suited for the outdoors. As much as I adore the Kraken Kitty lineup, I don't feel comfortable donning the RGB-powered cat ears to listen to the latest Troye Sivan album while running to the Big Tescos for the food shop, no matter how cute I find it. However, I've done just that with the Barraduda V2 Pro, and its versatility is entirely to thank.

Key specs

Design

Much like the black Barracuda X (2022), the V2 Pro is a closed black over-ear headset with oval-shaped cups. RGB haters (couldn't be me) will be happy to learn that the Chroma-powered logos of the Barracuda X Chroma haven't stuck around, and instead the three-headed snake branding is nothing but subtle, glossy, 3-dimensional-to-the-touch images on the exterior of each cup and nothing more.

The design differences of this new pair are so minor that you'd barely be able to spot the difference unless you're someone who spends far too much time in the land of headsets - which is undoubtedly me. What's new is that the foam padding on the underside of the headband now travels from the left yoke to the right yoke. The padding of the 2022 X release just sat in a small section in the center, but it's been extended to provide more optimal comfort. Comfort must have been on Razer's mind, as the fabric-coated ear cups are now made of a leather-like material too.

Features

The Barracuda V2 Pro is an over-ear, closed-back 285 g headset with 40mm Triforce Bio-cellulose audio drivers and THX Spatial Audio+ support. Unlike the existing pairs in the Barracuda lineup, the V2 Pro is holding a very neat (and handy) secret - its left earcup can be opened to reveal its HyperSpeed 2.4GHz wireless dongle.

This may not seem like a big deal, but for someone who constantly misplaces wireless dongles, it's been a bit of a lifesaver. Unfortunately, this lucrative hidden storage doesn't provide enough space to also store the adapter that's packaged with the pair, but I'll take any storage ingenuity over none at all.

Besides the storage, this headset is rocking some serious premium upgrades over its predecessors. The V2 Pro is equipped with simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless, so you can answer phone calls between gaming sessions, and it sports ANC - both of which can be selected through the pair's manual onboard controls. The ANC includes an ambient mode, so you can be more aware of your surroundings, and makes the V2 Pro handy for more than just gaming.

Using gaming headsets for day-to-day music listening can be awkward, particularly if there's a large microphone in the way. The V2 Pro has a solution as the HyperClear Full Band Mic is not only detachable, but the "dual-mode mic system" allows you to switch to using a dual hidden beamforming mics for chatting when you're out and about.

Performance

Testing Razer's Barracuda upgrade happened to coincide with my favorite time of year, Halloween. The smell of freshly carved pumpkins and dusty old spider decorations had fully enveloped my house by the time the headset arrived at my door, and so it felt entirely fitting to first test out Disney Dreamlight Valley with the pair on PC while its spooky-themed events were in full swing.

While I usually prefer to run around my Disney-themed valley on the OLED Steam Deck so I can multitask with a Netflix binge, being able to focus on the game's audio for once was a treat with THX Spatial Audio+. I occasionally find myself overwhelmed with the life sim, as there's always a myriad of Disney characters roaming around, and finding who you want can be a challenge even when you have fast travel to rely on. Thanks to the combination of the crystal-clear audio from the can's bio-cellulose audio drivers and spatial audio, I could easily pinpoint any approaching pal - whether it was Scar with a new sarcastic quip, or the Fairy Godmother about to check in. It was neat, as this game is already my happy place for when life gets a bit too much, so the extra level of immersion was a welcome experience, and one that's got me playing more on the PC than my Valve pixel-pusher ever since.

Of course, you don't need to be able to hear Goofy's cheeky laugh in a 3D soundscape in order to be a good Dreamlight Valley player, so I stuck on Counter-Strike 2 to put the "ultimate immersion" properly to the test. With the ANC and THX Spatial Audio+ working together, I was more than able to get absorbed into the game, so much so that I missed deliveries at my door on multiple occasions despite people both knocking and ringing my door. That may not sound like a good thing, but being able to entirely drown out the real world for a moment definitely proved Razer's "ultimate" marketing spiel.

While I'm not a fan of beamforming tech, I do love the V2 Pro's dual-mic setup. In this day and age where a cost of living crisis still affects so many of us and determines how we enjoy our hobbies today, I'd hope that a piece of tech that costs $200 would be able to be helpful for not just gaming, but everyday use too, and this is.

You didn't have to stroll uptown feeling a bit silly with a microphone dangling next to my face or wearing a gadget that looks and feels designed purely for gaming in mind. Instead, I was able to easily detach the HyperClear full-band mic and leave it at home, while being able to depend on the beamforming mics for incoming calls. I'd not recommend using the latter for streaming or podcasts, but they are decent enough where a quick call with your mum is entirely doable, and she won't be exclaiming "what" or "huh" every two seconds.

The main microphone was also great for playing Repo with friends and was enough to record my screams without sounding like a muffled, peaking mess. But what pleased me the most about the V2 Pro was that versatility, as it was just as formidable for music as it was for gaming. Its 285g weight was light enough to make long journeys across the city of Glasgow less of a strain on my ears, and its foldable design took up less space than my go-to JLab JBuds Lux ANC cans.

While switching from one pair to another left me feeling a bit glum (I really adore my JLab cans), it was nice to only have to worry about charging one device at a time. Although its 70 hours were enough to cope with a weekend of blasting out Wolf Alice and Florence Road, while keeping the pair on my head for weekdays, divulging in fun Repo madness with friends without having to pick up a USB-C charging cable once.

Should you buy the Razer Barracuda V2 Pro headset?

This is the most premium Barracuda headset the line has seen so far, but nabbing all of those juicy high-end upgrades and its versatile ways comes at a $199.99 / £199.99 cost that not everyone is going to afford. Especially at a time when the hobby has already become an expensive minefield.

The thing is, that price point is pretty much what you can expect when it comes to gaming headsets of all shapes and sizes that incorporate both simultaneous wireless audio and ANC into the mix. The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 also launched for $199.99 / £179.99 and had a similar simultaneous wireless and ANC combo. Whenever those features are key, you can expect to be paying upwards of $150 / £150, but you don't have to stick with it if you don't want to.

If you're just a fan of the V2 Pro's design and feel, the Barracuda X still remains a great multi-platform headset, and it's regularly found under $99.99 / £99.99. You'll have to forgo the dual wireless and noise-canceling, but it sports the same look and still sounds fantastic for its age. There's also the Barracuda X Chroma available for $129.99 / £129.99 if you love your RGB lighting.

If it's more of the premium trifecta of the dual wireless, ANC, and an impressive battery you're after, that's when the Barracuda V2 Pro feels hard to beat. Sure, alternatives like the aforementioned Stealth 700 exist with even an additional 10-hour battery life, but it's missing ANC. Meanwhile, my other go-to option, the Sony Inzone H9 II (which has dropped to a similar $200 price in recent sales) has the wireless and ANC covered but not the battery chops.

How I tested the Razer Barracuda V2 Pro headset

The Razer Barracuda V2 Pro became my one and only headset for two weeks, in order to see how it matched up against all other pairs I've tested to date. In that time, I used the wireless pair to play Counter-Strike 2, Marvel Rivals, and Disney Dreamlight Valley on the PC, while switching over to play Marvel Rivals, Doom Eternal, and Silent Hill Townfall on the PS5.

When I was in a gaming-on-the-go mode, I stuck the USB-C dongle into the Switch 2 and played everything from Marvel Kart World, Pokemon Pokopia, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Fire Emblem Fortune's Weave while taking breaks to watch Party Down on Netflix and catch up with some Halloween movie offerings, including Hocus Pocus on Disney+. The headset was also perched on my head as I listened to Wolf Alice, Florence Road and Troye Sivan via Spotify.

For more information on how we test gaming headsets, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Not a fan of the Barracuda V2 Pro? Check out our guides to the best PC headset for gaming, the best PS5 headset, and the best Xbox Series X headset for more options from Razer and our personally picked brands.

After a couple of years riding the optical analog train, Razer has hopped to the Hall effect platform, providing magnet fans with the Razer Huntsman V3 HE. The more widely popular adjustable-switch option is still less reliable, the brand is quick to point out, but keen to get their name among the Hall effect champions, Sneki has yielded its classic approach for this release.

Available in 65% and TKL form factors, the Razer Huntsman V3 HE starts life at a modest (for the best Hall effect keyboards) $119.99, jumping up to $139.99 for those navigation buttons. That puts it in a particularly competitive situation when looking across the rest of the mainstream gaming market. It's undercutting the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 range by a whole $100 in its smallest form factor, also dropping below the Logitech G512X ($179.99) and at a fraction of Asus's flagship costs.

The wider market has a few contenders under $100 that will save you a few bucks, but at the moment the Corsair Clipper Pro Mini 60 ($99) is the only mainstream Hall effect gaming keyboard I've tested that's cheaper than the Huntsman V3 HE. Whether it can hold its own against the best gaming keyboards on the market is another question.

Design

You wouldn't know this is Razer's first foray into a particular switch tech from looking at the Huntsman V3 HE. From the outside, this is the same all-black slab of brushed metal as any other Razer keyboard available. It's as solidly built as you'd expect from this brand as well, with an unyielding top plate, dense casing, and textured doubleshot PBT keycaps up top.

Underneath that top plate, we've got a pretty standard tray-mounted internal setup. That's a little cheaper than the gasket-mounted design you'll find in more premium decks, though I was relieved to find absolutely no ping, echo, or rattle across the chassis. That was my only gripe with the previous generation Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini; it felt great and had a few of its own tricks up its sleeve, but sounded pretty awful. The V3 HE model uses an additional sound-dampening layer to keep those unwanted echoes down.

While the Huntsman V3 HE suffers in uniformity and loses a little textured depth to its keypresses, it's still operating with a satisfying clack.

Two flip feet extend from the rear to provide a more comfortable elevation during longer typing sessions, and while they can pop out when moving or storing while unfolded, they hold everything in place well on the desk.

Features

Approaching the Huntsman V3 HE from the perspective of one searching specifically for a Hall effect keyboard, there are two main features we need to examine; the switches and the software.

Under each roughly textured keycap you'll find a creatively-named Razer Hall Effect Magnetic Switch. These clackers offer adjustment from 0.1mm to 4mm, the typical standard across the market, with a 40G operating force. That keeps them similar to standard linear red mechanical options in general operation, though with a little extra resistance as is usual for a magnetic switch.

Razer's got the full Hall effect menu here as well. Rapid Trigger mode resets each keypress dynamically, automatically preparing for the next input as soon as any upward motion is sensed rather than waiting for a full return on the key. Essentially, it makes for faster repeat presses in particularly competitive scenarios.

We've also got Snap Flex on this roster, an additional functional layer that can program certain moves and actions to the release of each key. That's accompanied by Dynamic Keystroke, a four-command action roster that can be triggered simply by pressing a single key. That doubles your inputs per-key compared to the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, which only allows for two commands, but it's worth noting this is a particularly niche use-case. After years of testing the latest Hall effect decks, I typically only assign one or two keys to multi-input macros during more competitive endeavors.

Razer's magnetic switches aren't doing anything you won't find elsewhere by themselves, then, though they are doing it at a slightly lower price compared to most of the mainstream competition. Its Synapse software, however, has a nifty trick.

Razer's still not too happy with Hall effect technology, that much is clear from the brand's insistence on its own optical analog switches. Those concerns have made their way into its customization software as well.

Alongside all the usual keybinding, actuation settings, and RGB configurations, Synapse also houses a recalibration tool for the Huntsman V3 HE. Magnetic fields from other devices on your desk can (though I've personally never witnessed it happening) interfere with the actuation of a Hall effect keyboard. Should that happen to you, Synapse will allow you to reset the accuracy of the magnets in your deck.

Say you're not approaching the Huntsman V3 HE from a Hall effect standpoint, though. To make way for those magnetic clackers, the simple design does drop some key features you'll find elsewhere on the market. There's no dedicated media controls here, less common on the TKL model compared to the 60%-er. This is also a fully wired deck, opting not to pump the additional weight (and cost) of the size of battery required to keep those magnetic clackers running. Still, the whole thing polls at 8,000Hz which ticks a box for the ultra-competitive among us, though most of us have little need for this fancy extra.

Performance

The Razer Huntsman V3 HE's biggest success comes in the improvement of its typing feel and, crucially, sound. With no more pings and rattles across the casing, these smooth, light, and bouncy keys hit the ear with a crisp, robust clack. While there's a little inconsistency in this tonality across the deck, Enter and Space keys producing a notably deeper sound, actual keypresses remain steady in actuation and overall feel.

There is, however, a temperamental side to the new line. The first Huntsman V3 HE I had on my desk, a 60% model, exhibited a notable amount of chatter, particularly around certain keys such as Shift. A fresh board removed the problem entirely, so I'm confident it was a manufacturing error - but it's worth highlighting some batches may perform better than others. With everything up and running, the Huntsman V3 HE keeps its cool in both a casual setting and faster arenas.

Typing remains equally comfortable on the Huntsman V3 HE, with the smoothness of those switches coming into their own compared to cheaper Hall effect decks. Many fall down here, with a resistance level set too high to feel truly nippy under the fingertips. Both that robust sound profile and the light feel of these clackers come together to produce an effortless experience through longer typing sessions.

Should you buy the Razer Huntsman V3 HE?

The Razer Huntsman V3 HE is priced competitively when looking across the market at Corsair, SteelSeries, Logitech, and Asus. While it's not quite as cheap as smaller brands in this space, it does well to offer such a wide range of switch adjustment options in a sturdy chassis.

Both the 65% and TKL layouts will sit larger on your desk than the slightly cheaper Corsair Clipper Pro Mini 60, but this is an easy recommendation if you're looking to maintain those separate arrow buttons, while Razer easily wins over SteelSeries thanks to its dramatically reduced cost.

Ultimately, the Huntsman V3 HE comes with the same caveat shared by most magnetic keyboards. By default, they're more expensive than their mechanical counterparts, often with fewer quality of life features. On top of that, it's generally going to be particularly competitive players getting the best bang for their buck here.

If you know you want a compact magnetic keyboard with arrow buttons intact, I'd recommend Razer's over alternatives. If you're just after a new gaming keyboard and aren't scaling ranked leaderboards, you'll either save cash or find more wireless options with mechanical models.

How I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 HE

I spent one month swapping between the Razer Huntsman V3 HE 65% and Razer Huntsman V3 HE TKL models, with an additional week spent on the larger form factor due to a faulty 65% unit. During that time, this keyboard became my daily driver for all work and play, taking center stage in Doom: The Dark Ages, CS2, High on Life 2, and Planet Coaster 2. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

We're also hunting down the best gaming headsets and the best gaming monitors to fully kit out your setup.

Razer and Pokemon collaborations are everywhere you look. Even in the time since I covered the new Lucario Edition headset, the brand has unveiled two more aimed at fans of Sylveon and Charizard. Now, a new 30th Anniversary Special Edition Pixel Art set has been revealed online, but not through the typical Razer social media channels you'd expect.

Razer's main X (Twitter) page has been silent on the reveal, leaving users like @Pokekalos to share a glimpse of the new collection, which is set to launch in China and encompasses more than one of the best Razer headsets with a new coat of Poke paint. Instead, the set includes a gaming chair, keyboard, mouse, and a mousepad, all draped in pixel art of nothing but the original 151 Pokemon. It's a feast for the eyes if you grew up with the original games, and while pre-orders began on October 15 in China, I'm keeping my fingers crossed we'll one day be able to catch it all too.

The upcoming Razer collection was shared on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, via the site's official Pokemon account on October 15, 2026. Google-aided translation reveals that the "Pokedex collection" exists to celebrate Pokemon's 30th Anniversary, and according to our friends at TechPowerUp, pre-sales have already begun at retailers Bilibili and Tmall.

I'm hoping those of us in the UK and US will be able to order it someday ourselves, as the set is a retro-fueled treat. My favorite piece has to be the chair, which appears to be an Iskur V2 X NewGen judging from the official marketing imagery. The back of it goes all out and features a large pixel art piece showcasing a Pokemon Center with sprites of Mew, Pikachu, Eevee, Charmander, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle standing in front. It's almost like they're having a much-needed discussion of who's the cutest OG pocket monster. (The winner is obviously Squirtle, FYI.)

The same sprites can be found on the backside of the chair, presented around a subtle silver Poke Ball motif, which is as classy as it is understated. Having the bright, colorful sprites sitting atop a silver base seems to be the trend of the entire collection, as the mouse, which looks to be a Viper V4 Pro, shares a similar design. The majority of it is coated in a shiny silver, while there's a yellow Poke Ball sprite on the palm rest and wireless dongle. All the same Pokemon are relegated to the left and right buttons, and the saturated colors of the little guys feel as prominent as ever in contrast to the cool tones of the metallic silver base.

While the chair is my favorite, if I had to grab anything from the set, it'd undoubtedly be the wireless keyboard and the matching mousepad. It appears to be the Black Widow V4 Pro 75% that's been selected, which is a feature-full board boasting third-generation Orange Tactile switches and includes an OLED display. I sincerely hope the latter is programmed to run the Pokemon pixel art by default; otherwise it'd be a missed opportunity.

The board's keys are draped in this lovely forest green coloring, which matches the trees surrounding the Pokemon Center as found on the collection's gaming chair. Meanwhile, I can't help but fawn over the adorable parade of Pokemon across the palm rest. The mousepad is just as cute, featuring all 151 Pokemon in pixel form.

From afar, I thought the mat's green border was plain, but on close inspection it's made up of a series of grass sprites, which is super fitting. The desk mat looks pretty large, so it's likely a Razer Gigantus V2 Pro that's been utilized this time around. Whichever it is, it'd need to be pretty large in order to include the entire original generation of Pokemon that I grew up with.

While you wait to see if this new Pokemon pixel art collection makes it to UK and US shores, be sure to check out the Hori Pokemon Pixel collection. You'll need to have a Switch 2 to make the most of the retro-fueled accessories, but they're at least available on both Amazon US and UK, unlike these pixel-perfect goodies.

• View all Pokemon Razer accessories at Amazon

Want more options for your PC setup? Check out the best gaming chairs, best gaming keyboards, and the best gaming desks we've tested.

Razer just launched the Barracuda V2 Pro, a follow-up to headsets like the Barracuda X, which remained a fixture of some of our best gaming headset guides for months on end. The brand boasts that the new £199.99 / $199.99 pair is equipped with everything from 40mm Triforce Bio-Cellulose audio drivers, ANC, and THX Spatial Audio+, but personally, the fact that the 2.4Ghz wireless dongle can be stored in the earcup is all I care about.

If you pop off the left earcup cover you'll find the pair's HyperSpeed wireless dongle, and I'm a bit obsessed with this revelation. Often brands package these tiny accessories in a Russian-doll cardbox scenario, and they're easy to go missing, especially when you have multiple laying around. But as Razer has carved out a dedicated place, I've not managed to lose this dongle yet - and anyone with the privity to lose their tech should be just as elated as I am.

Razer isn't the first brand to explore unique storage options. Fractal Design's first-ever headset release, the Scape, included a section on the underside of its charging base specifically designed to store its dongle. Meanwhile, controller brands like 8BitDo also rely on special compartments on the charging stands of their peripherals, like the Ultimate 2 controller, to allow players to keep their 2.4GHz gadgets safe and secure. However, it's just nice to see this design decision utilized on a headset, especially when I lose dongles just about every day.

The Barracuda V2 Pro's storage works by having the earcup cover attach magnetically; that way it can easily slip on and off when you want to switch up between Bluetooth and its 2.4GHz HyperSpeed connectivity. Unfortunately, the space is only designed to store the dongle and not the USB-C to USB-A adapter that's also included with the headset, so I foresee myself losing that in the future. However, at least an adapter is much more straightforward to replace.

Strangely enough, both earcup covers can be removed this way, despite the right one not storing anything but some relevant copyright information. While Razer hasn't announced it, there's a chance that they could be planning to release alternative earcup covers much like SteelSeries Booster Packs to allow you to switch up the color and style of the pair, but we'll have to wait to find out for sure. I have my fingers crossed that means some Pokemon Edition covers in the future, especially as Razer has been releasing Pokemon Collections left, right, and center in 2026.

While Razer hasn't mentioned anything regarding new earcup covers, they have provided a more in-depth look at what you can expect from the Barracuda V2 Pro. The pair is just 285g and has a foldable form factor, which makes it easier to store away in your bag for trips and travel. Razer doesn't provide a case with the $200 headset, but I can confirm from personal experience that its foldable nature makes it ideal for popping in your bag for day-to-day use. Much like the Barracuda X Chroma, it's already wound up as a pair I rely on for gaming and listening to music on the go.

Additionally, you can get up to 70 hours of battery life from the cups, and there's no garish RGB lighting to be found that can drain its juice. That's also why the cans have wound up in my backpack for weekend train trips, but you'll have to wait for my full review next week to see how they truly fare amongst the rest of the best Razer headsets I've tested for all my gaming and music travel needs.

• View all Razer gaming headsets at Amazon

Want more headset options? Check out our guides to the best PS5 headsets, best Nintendo Switch headsets, and the best PC headsets for gaming while you're here.

When a brand like Razer launches a new "edition" of its existing tech, I always prefer the design to go big or go home. Transforming my favorite goth-bunny girl's head into a pair of Kuromi Edition Razer Hammerhead V3 X HyperSpeed earbuds is definitely a go-big moment.

The $119.99 earphones don't just re-color the charging case pastel purple and slap on some existing Sanrio artwork and call it a day. Instead, the entirety of the existing gaming earbuds case has been swapped out with Kuromi's head, which even goes as far as to include her hood-covered ears and a 3-dimensional version of her cute skull-bow motif. This all comes at a $20 extra cost to the plain buds, but if I'm paying more for a "Kuromi Edition" anything, I'd much sooner prefer brands go the extra mile like Razer has with this new model.

Look, I'm not a fan of the inflated cost of gaming tech that's the result of a collaboration with a tech brand like Razer and an existing IP or brand. I get why it exists, as the licence fee needs to be recouped somewhere, but at a time when the RAM storage crisis is making everything related to this hobby more expensive, it sucks that representing your fandom through accessories comes at an inflated price.

If that price does exist, I at least expect the theming to go all out, and thankfully that appears to be the case with these new earbuds. Not only are there sculpts of Kuromi's ears, but the widow's peak of her hood plays host to the case's LED indicator, and the bottom of her head can be hooked up to a USB-C cable for charging.

The buds inside aren't plain either, and share the same pastel purple coloring while including a pattern of skulls down their side. The only thing that'd make it sweeter would be if Razer featured more skulls instead of its traditional snake logos on each earphone, but I can make do without it when there's plenty of Kurmomi-ness left to admire.

On the inside, they're the same Hammerhead V3 X HyperSpeed buds as always. Equipped with 7.1.4 surround sound, touch controls, they're designed with "gaming and everyday listening" in mind. They're also multi-platform friendly and could be an alternative to your go-to gaming headset, as they have 2.4Ghz wireless and Bluetooth 5.2 support too.

If you do prefer your subtleties when it comes to Razer accessories however, you can always check out the Pikachu and Eevee Collection instead. The set doesn't include a pair of earbuds, but does opt for a "less is more" sentiment by draping its Pokemon Edition tech in a dusty pink coloring and cute art with no 3D ears to be found. I prefer a bit more over-the-top whimsy for my licensed tech, but each to their own.

View all Razer Kuromi Edition accessories at Amazon

Prefer a pair of cups instead? Check out the best PC headsets for gaming, the best PS5 headsets, and the best Nintendo Switch headsets we've tested so far.

Razer's Pokemon collaborations have come a long way. The first set of official PC accessories (that was available to its US and UK customer base) left much to be desired, especially when it came to the Pokemon Edition BlackWidow V4 X, which combined black keys with a predominantly yellow board that felt less reminiscent of the electric-type icon Pikachu and more of a shockingly ugly eyesore. Yet the Ornata V3 Tenkeyless part of this new Razer Pikachu and Eevee Collection is leagues above what came before.

This time the entire spread of keys is the same dusty pink as the board, and the brand has incorporated unique and exceptionally cute art of Pikachu and Eevee across its 84 keys and the rest of the collection. Instead of the theming feeling like an afterthought, this £319.93 (via Razer) set feels like a Pokemon tech collection tailored for fans with cozy, pink setups - of which I am one. I just wish having this cute arrangement on your desk didn't come with the usual costly drawback of having to pay more than the plain versions of each item, as it means Pokemon fans with limited budgets won't be able to catch them all.

Pikachu & Eevee Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless keyboard

The £119.99 Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Pikachu and Eevee keyboard has wound up being my favorite piece of the set, which I wasn't expecting. It's a low-profile board, meaning it has shorter keys and switches, which aren't my preference, as I always feel like I have to put a lot of extra and awkward force behind each keypress. However, the clicky mecha-membrane switches are far more satisfying to type with than any low-profile alternative I've tested with so far.

It's also one of the cutest parts of this set, as there's more accessory real estate to play around with. The board comes with a magnetically attached palm rest that features the identifying artwork of the entire collection. On it, you can find a painterly image of Eevee and Pikachu, curling up together while having a little nap amongst a scene of falling leaves and yellow flowers. It always feels bad to type away as it means having to have my hands in the way of this lovely imagery, but thankfully there are other nods to it to be found. A little Eevee and Pikachu are sitting around the directional keys, and they're sitting across the spacebar too.

Of all the versions of this board available today (and that includes the Pokemon Espeon and Umbreon Ornata V3), it's this one that I adore the design of the board. But, should you pick this up, you do have to pay £50 more than the £69.99 (Amazon) MSRP of the plain, default version. Which is a hard, Poke Ball-sized pill to swallow.

Pikachu & Eevee Razer Cobra + Gigantus V2 Mouse mat

Razer's Pikachu & Eevee Cobra mouse carries this cute but costly trend. Right now I can find the exact same gaming rodent with its third-generation Razer-branded switches and 8500 DPI optical sensor for as little as £26.48 at Amazon today. There is a sale running, but even at full price it's only £40.

Picking up the Pikachu and Eevee version requires you to part with £60 if you grab it directly from Razer's online store, or £70 through retailers like Amazon - a £30 difference. Now, a £20 / £30 difference isn't unheard of when it comes to licensed tech, but at this rate, I'd have hoped the gap would shorten, particularly as the Cobra mouse, which originally launched in 2023, is starting to show its age. The brand's Basilisk V3, featured on our best gaming mouse guide, can be found for far less and includes the addition of far more RGB lighting zones and programmable buttons.

At least this one looks far more endearing with its pink colorway (wheel included) and Pokemon artwork on the left and right buttons. With it, Pikachu and Eevee can be found on the left and right buttons, awake and alert this time around. The art is also pretty resilient, managing to stay as pristine as possible with no wear and tear, despite the many hours I've spent playing Repo this Halloween season.

The matching mouse mat has also managed to withstand my gaming nights and clumsy coffee-drinking ways at my desk, and looks just as vibrant as the day I unrolled it. Its 360 x 275 x 3 mm sizing is also ideal for smaller desks but is still plenty to show off the cute artwork. I do prefer long pads, but it's the perfect size to stick under the edge of the keyboard while providing plenty of room for the matching mouse to roam across. Just be wary that at £34.99 you can get far larget mats, including ones from Razer.

Pikachu & Eevee Razer Kraken V4 X headset

I live and breathe the best gaming headsets as I'm testing a new pair pretty much every week, and I don't hate the Pikachu and Eevee Kraken V4 X, but there are higher-quality alternatives out there. Again, it's just the same Kraken V4 X as always, with its 40mm Razer Triforce audio drivers and retractable HyperClear cardioid microphone, but with an inflated price.

The Pikachu and Eevee version will cost you £109.99, while the all-black equivalent with the exact same features retails for £79.99, but can be found as low as £63.85 at Amazon as it is as I'm typing these very words. That's a £30 difference for the print colorway, sleeping Pikachu and Eevee art on the headband, and the art of the two Poke pals on the interior of the earcups.

I'm not disappointed by the way the art and theme are included where the headset is concerned, but I do wish Razer went the extra mile a bit here. It'd have been nice to find glowing silhouettes of the two Pokemon on the earcups rather than the traditional snake logos, and I feel like the white microphone stands out a bit too much. However, it does match perfectly with the rest of the set, in both its cute, pink aesthetics and its pricing.

Should you buy the Razer Pikachu and Eevee Collection?

If you're fortunate enough to be in a position where you don't feel guilty about every purchase you make, by all means, this is a quality collection worth adding to any cute-themed PC setup. You just have to be comfortable with the knowledge that buying each individual accessory will cost far more than if you opted for the versions not draped in Pikachu and Eevee imagery.

You also have to acknowledge that Razer has given its lower-end budget accessories the Pokemon treatment, and so they aren't going to be as feature-full as other products bearing the three-headed snake logo. In some ways, that's a good thing, as draping the Pokemon branding across tech like the £249.99 MSRP BlackShark V3 Pro headset would likely result in a £270 pair, and not all Pokemon fans can afford such a luxury.

I had just hoped that by the time this set had rolled around, the pricing would be a bit lower and therefore friendlier to Pokemon fans of all budgets. The individual items as part of this range are getting on in years, and their proximity to discounts made me hope the prices of their dolled-up Pokemon versions would be cheaper as a result. But alas, that has not been the case. Do I think it's still an absolutely cute collection that feels quality to use for day-to-day work and gaming? Absolutely.

But as always is the case, picking it up comes with the baggage and acknowledgement that cute comes at a cost.

• View all Pokemon Razer gaming accessories at Amazon

Want more options for your PC setup? Check out the best gaming chairs, best gaming keyboards, and the best gaming desks we've tested.

Razer has been rolling out officially licensed tech quicker than you can say "Who's that Pokemon." In fact, I'm typing these very words upon the brand's Pikachu and Eevee keyboard, which is draped in adorable art of the two pocket monsters, frolicking amongst flowers and foliage. Yet if you aren't as privy to cute PC accessories, Razer's new Lucario Edition BlackShark V3 X HyperSpeed headset may be more your style.

Unveiled this week on the brand's official blog, Razer has taken the BlackShark V3 X HyperSpeed and imbued it with new shiny blue earcups and art of the aura Pokemon printed across the headband. On the inside, it's the same V3 X HyperSpeed as before, but the exterior of the new £119.99 pair now has more of a fighting chance to stand out amongst the rest of Razer's BlackShark lineup.

When it comes to Razer's Pokemon tech offerings, I'm personally more of a fan when they go all out, like with the Razer Gengar Kraken Kitty V2. With it, the brand didn't just print illustrations of the ghost-type icon on the headband, but recreated its iconic head spikes that even someone with a passing knowledge of Pokemon could identify.

The Lucario Edition headset doesn't go quite as hard, though I'd be lying if I didn't like it. The shiny blue cups and their cream-colored interior scream 'Lucario' to me. It also feels entirely fitting that Razer chose one of its headsets designed with esports in mind to be themed around an iconic fighting-steel-type Pokemon like Lucario.

If you're thinking of picking this up for yourself, there are just a couple of things you need to take on board. The first being that I can't yet find it listed at the Razer US online store. So far, it's available for £119.99 on the UK side of things, but you may have to be patient while the Razer website catches up and lists it for sale.

Secondly, as with most licensed tech, this headset is pricier than its default model. In the UK, you can grab the plain-black BlackShark V3 X HyperSpeed for £20 less, but you'll get the exact same 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C connectivity options, 7.1 surround sound, detachable cardioid 9.9mm microphone, and second-generation Razer Triforce 50mm audio drivers.

If that's okay with you, I'll update this page the moment the US listing appears. In the meantime, I recommend checking out the original headset while it's currently $79.99 at Amazon if you'd prefer a cheap price over gaining aura points for adding a Pokemon-branded accessory to your PC setup.

• View all Razer Pokemon accessories at Amazon

Not a Pokemon fan? Check out our guides to the best Razer headsets, which include some of the best PS5 headsets and best Xbox Series X headsets our team has tested.

In the last year, Scuf and Razer have done the seemingly impossible. Despite previous generations stipulating that a brand could only release one officially licensed controller per PlayStation generation, both of them have launched their second PS5 controller.

They're both extremely feature-dense too. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro and the Scuf Omega both have six extra buttons alongside their standard PlayStation gamepad offering. Both are wireless, both have PC apps that let you dial down to their nitty-gritty settings, and both lend themselves to multiplayer, competitive gameplay on Sony's consoles.

There's no point in stretching this out, though. While both are excellent gamepads and we enjoyed testing them, we'd recommend one over the other, and that's not just the subjective view of one person. While I test and review all the latest controllers that come out, my managing editor, Tabitha, reviewed the Scuf Omega and has hands-on time with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro - the Xbox equivalent of the Raiju.

Meanwhile, I reviewed the Raiju V3 Pro and then tested and reviewed the Scuf Envision Pro, a PC controller with the exact same body and almost all of the same elements as the Omega, just without its official licensing from Sony.

We both have the same opinion on which controller you should buy, and it's the Razer Raiju V3 Pro. For a full rundown of these controllers, their design, and features, check out our reviews linked in the highlighted text above. But for time's sake, allow us to explain.

The side button problem

For starters, the Scuf Omega and the Scuf Envision Pro have what very few controllers have: side bumpers. On paper, and in other instances, these extra buttons are excellent additions, providing a way for you to actuate extra functions with your inner index knuckles as you play. Depending on how you grip and how long your index fingers are, that might be more useful than a pair of extra bumpers on the top of the controller (like the Razer Raiju has, for example).

The issue is that with the way Scuf has designed the Omega, these buttons are far too easy to push. You might read that and think, human error, get gud, but honestly, both myself and Tabitha have found that, despite our difference in hand sizes, Scuf's design is the issue.

The Envision Pro was the exact same when I tried it, and I actually really wanted to like and use those side bumpers because of how much I enjoyed them on the CRKD Nitro Deck+.

The way they're angled and their light actuation force means you will press them by accident often, and even once you adjust and relearn, they're a liability when you're in heated gameplay moments.

Sure, the solution you're thinking of is to remove them and replace them with the blank covers you get in the box - but then the Raiju is a clear winner with its six extra buttons. So unless you really prefer the design of the Scuf Omega or you want a custom colorway that only Scuf can provide, I'd avoid the trouble entirely and go for Razer.

Razer's back buttons

On the flip side, we really prefer Razer's back buttons. Scuf has a signature back button layout where they wrap around your middle finger and sit horizontally across the gamepad's back. This is opposed to the standard design the rest of the industry goes for where they're integrated into the grips of the controller for your middle and ring fingers to play with.

I'm sure this works for some people, but certainly anyone I've talked to about it who has tried both back button layouts prefers Razer's layout of one pair of back buttons underneath the other.

For the record, Razer's aren't my all-time favorite because they're a tad too close together, but they line up with the Wolverine V3 Pro in that they're positioned well and actuate with the same speedy microswitch clickiness that the rest of the controller's buttons do. That makes them feel more instantaneous when you need to press them in a tense gameplay moment, whereas the angles and positioning of the Scuf Omega's back buttons take a bit more of a thought adjusting to.

If you're looking for great back buttons, I'd go for the Raiju.

Slippy thumbsticks

Scuf brands itself as an FPS controller go-to, but I personally have always struggled to see that because its controllers have thumbsticks with absolutely no texture out of the box.

This is one of the most vital parts of FPS controller design, so I don't know what I'm missing here, but whenever I test one of this brand's pads, I need to really adjust and put more thought into pushing my thumbs down onto the sticks because they just have absolutely minimal grip.

That means smaller adjustments, which you'll want to make use of with TMR thumbsticks, are much harder to make. My aim always seems to suffer with Scuf's thumbsticks, so I don't know what I'm missing. The swappable tops you get in the carry case help a bit, but it's an issue with the texture this brand uses.

Especially if you're buying for competitive FPS gameplay, I'd go with Razer because you need confidence that no matter what thumbstick height you prefer, your controller isn't going to cost you the aim you're capable of.

The rest is pretty close

Besides those things, it's admittedly a pretty close race between the Raiju and the Omega. Both have TMR thumbsticks, both are symmetrical, which will suit PlayStation fans, both have clicky microswitch buttons, and both are subject to the same licensing parameters, so you won't get haptic feedback or adaptive triggers on either.

There are still some smaller design choices that we think differentiate the two, however. For example, the Omega has a four-way D-pad which, while PlayStation-remiscent, isn't as practical as the Raiju's floating 8-way one. Similarly, the trigger stop switches on the Omega are hidden into their triggers, which is very sleek and stylish, but not exactly practical if you want to flick one on while you're mid-match. Razer's are a lot more easily accessed.

It may come down to preference for you. If you've used a Scuf controller before and you like the back button layout and don't mind the thumbstick texture, the Omega might be good for you.

Personally, and this is backed up by my managing editor's hands-on experience too, it's got to be the Raiju V3 Pro.

For more, read up on the best TMR thumbsticks, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best Switch 2 controllers.

Two years on from the launch of its popular Wolverine V3 Pro controller, Razer is launching the Wolverine V4 Pro, and while it looks nearly identical, it's hiding some tricks within. Most notably, this new Xbox Series X controller has opted not to use TMR thumbsticks, which have become the industry gold standard since the last Wolverine hit the shelves.

In fact, Razer has chosen to include swappable magnetic elements in the Wolverine V4 Pro, which means a choice of TMR sticks (Tunneling magneto-resistance, which utilize tiny electromagnets) would undoubtedly cause performance issues. Instead, Razer is opting for what it says are even higher-resolution capacitive sensors that are also more power-efficient than TMR and Hall sensors.

This fancy new style of thumbstick technology is still immune to stick drift; don't you worry.

Interestingly, this time around Razer has dropped the carrying case from the offering, even while keeping the same $199.99 / £199.99 price as its predecessor. When I saw a sneak peek of this controller at Gamescom, I asked why that was the case, and the product designers told me it was because they find that people don't take their controller on the go enough to warrant it. Personally, that was never the reason I made use of the carry case, as it was a handy way to store the pricey accessory and keep all of its swappable parts safe. Not to mention, it was another way to differentiate it from its Tournament Edition model, which is a fully wired, cheaper alternative that'll also return for the V4 Pro generation.

That said, the Wolverine V4 Pro has the same swappable parts you'd expect from this product family. There are differently sized thumbsticks for you to choose from, a cable, a wireless dongle, and some blanks you can magnetically swap out if you'd rather remove the controller's back buttons.

In addition to those four back buttons, you'll also get two extra bumpers/shoulder buttons. As was the case for the V3 Pro, the entire gamepad is decked out with extremely clicky microswitch buttons brought over from the brand's Esports mice. This time, these have a slightly adjusted actuation, which the folks at Razer told me was implemented to add a bit more comfort.

The triggers maintain their stop switches too, so you can turn them into microswitches as well if you want the absolute speediest button presses possible. As you might expect, the entire device is controllable through Razer Synapse in case you'd like to fine-tune all the aspects of its settings. There will be four onboard profiles.

It seems as though Razer may be planning some more aesthetic choices this time around since it's emulating Scuf's magnetic faceplate design. I'll be interested to see what kind of cosmetic support arrives for it.

Most of all, however, I'm excited to see how Razer's gamble with a previously untested type of thumbstick module pays off in the V4 Pro. TMR sticks are already getting to a point where they're imperceptibly fast and even twitchier at higher polling rates, so as a controller reviewer, I struggle to see how we could be moving into an even more accurate generation of thumbstick technology. That said, this is the first gamepad of its kind, so it will be interesting to see if other brands pick up Razer's design in favor of magnetic, swappable parts.

Want to dive deeper? Check out the best PC controllers, the best TMR controllers, and the best PS5 controllers.

Razer has been a bit quieter on the content creation side of things in recent years, but today it's launching a new webcam that absolutely reinstates its claim to the top of the creator market. The Razer Kiyo V2 Pro is the world's second 4K60 webcam, and it's finally a true successor to the Kiyo Pro Ultra launched at the start of 2023. If this new model is anything like its predecessor, it could end up being one of the best bits of content creation gear ever made.

The new Kiyo V2 Pro adopts a different shape than the previous iterations of the Kiyo, with a horizontal body behind it, but it's still got the same recognizable lens on its face - and it's no less bulky than the Kiyo Pro Ultra.

It's fitted with a Sony STARVIS 2 sensor that's 1/1.8 inches and a lens that has an f/1.9 aperture. That actually means the new model has a smaller sensor than the Kiyo Pro Ultra, which does make some sense, seeing as the Ultra version still has the biggest sensor ever put in a webcam. Aperture on both models is the same, however. Razer says the V2 Pro supplies 4K60 capture with reduced motion blur over previous iterations. There's also ultra-high dynamic range and a wide-angle lens with no edge distortion.

Of course, there's plenty going on in Synapse to help you control it as well, with one-click image enhancement and DSLR image customization for things like aperture. It also wouldn't be a modern-day webcam without a dose of AI thrown in, so Razer has included AI-powered auto-framing. That's not generative AI, just the same kind of AI pan, tilt, and zoom we've been seeing in webcams like Obsbot, Insta360, and more.

In a deeper dive through Synapse controls, you'll be able to choose your ISO, shutter speed, white balance, exposure, gain, motion clarity, and more. Many of these settings were available with the Kiyo Pro Ultra, but with an updated sensor and innards, there's bound to be even more to play with.

I've been using the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra for all of my YouTube content since it launched, and people are frequently surprised when I tell them I'm not using a DSLR camera. I've always loved it for its image clarity in low-light conditions - it may be a bulky monster of a webcam that's not exactly in keeping with the tiny convenience of many of its rivals, but Razer's cams aren't bred for that purpose. The Kiyo V2 Pro, like its predecessor, aims to give content creators like me the best possible camera quality and capabilities without the need for a very pricey DSLR purchase, and a bulky body and massive sensor make that happen.

With that in mind, there's a universal mount and standard L-shaped mount to help you secure the camera to a monitor or mount it to a tripod. I'm hoping there's a sizing compatibility here so I can attach it to my Elgato Prompter, since this could end up being the ultimate combination for YouTubers and streamers like me. At the same time, you still get the best of both worlds if you want to use this as a webcam, because there's an integrated privacy shutter for when you're not using it and don't want people spying on you through software.

No rubber camera lens cover this time though, as Razer noted to me in a press briefing that they realised there was no need for both. Personally, I quite liked having the lens cover as protection for what was a very pricey webcam.

Speaking of which, Razer has kept the pricing of the Kiyo V2 Pro consistent with the Kiyo Pro Ultra, launching to the same tune of $299.99 / £299.99. That's still very expensive for a webcam, but I'm glad that, all this time later, it hasn't upped the cost, especially because, as stock has waned, the price of the Kiyo Pro Ultra has increased.

• Find the Razer Kiyo V2 Pro at Amazon

Looking to give your YouTube or Twitch channel a facelift? Check out the best microphones for streaming and gaming, the best streaming mixer, and the best capture card.

Like its predecessor, the Razer Naga V3 Pro looks not just to the FPS market or the MMO players, but to the Steam generalists. Those with every genre under the sun stored away in their backlog, but - crucially - those willing to invest in the hardware that can support each playstyle independently.

This is no cheap rodent. Starting life at $179.99 / £179.99, the Naga V3 Pro is one of the most expensive competitors we've had in the best gaming mouse arena. You'll find FPS-first rodents at the top of their game for around $20 less. The MMO mouse scene is a little smaller, but typically tends to track around $50 cheaper than Sneki's latest hybrid.

The Naga wants nothing to do with those hard lines, though. Its swappable side plates open your controls up to simple two-button speed play as well as more complex 12-button inventory panels. Its agnostic shape keeps palm and claw grip players comfortable (some might struggle with the weight in a fingertip grip).

Key features

• 3 swappable side plates with 12, 6, and 2 button options, up to 23 programmable buttons
• 50K DPI Focus Pro sensor
• 4-mode scroll wheel

The Razer Naga V3 Pro builds on the previous V2 Pro generation with the same swappable three side plates. That means a two, six, and 12 button option catering to everything from pared down first-person shooters to more complex MMO macros and keybindings. The functionality of these buttons hasn't changed between generations, but we've now got an additional key on the right flank, positioned under the ring finger in a palm grip as well as two along the main left click, set as DPI shifters by default.

In the center you'll find Razer's new HyperScroll Tilt Wheel Gen-2, with four spin modes spanning free-spin, tactile (24-step notched), precision tactile (48-step notched), and smart-reel. The latter has been spotted on plenty of other Razer gaming mice, like the Basilisk V3 Pro, and automatically swaps your scroll setting based on activity.

Underneath all that, Razer has outfitted the V3 Pro with its latest Focus Pro 50K Optical Sensor Gen-3, a 930 IPS / 90 G acceleration eyeball shared only by the flagship Razer Viper V4 Pro. That nets you access to the brand's updated Frame Sync tech as well as dynamic sensitivity and 26-step asymmetric cut-off.

The good

Comfortable for heavier grip types

Razer hasn't changed the form factor too much here. The Naga V3 Pro is still a stocky, heavily curved rodent under the hand, with a fairly bulky feel to the central hump but a shorter body overall. That means it's exceptionally comfortable in a relaxed palm grip, with plenty of support under the top of the palm and ergonomic graduation of levels down the right flank. With the middle finger parked on the right main click, the ring finger nestles nicely underneath on a separate platform / button, while the pinky is free to clutch at the side of the mouse itself underneath.

While I naturally rest in a claw grip, I found myself adopting more of a palm shape when using the Naga V3 Pro. The higher hump and wider base softly enforces this type of hold, but I was still able to get some mileage out of a higher hand position.

With weight generally distributed towards the back, arching the hand around the main clicks and allowing the thumb and pinky to do more of the work still remains comfortable and nimble. There's no undue strain on these outer digits due to the angled design across the right side.

It did, however, mean I was forced to bring my ring finger off the extra button on the right hand side, to allow additional purchase for finer movements towards the rear of the device.

A palm grip is ideal and a claw grip is workable, but this isn't the mouse for those who mainline a fingertip grip. The 117g weight is certainly a reduction on last year's 134g, but this is still a chunky mouse compared to the Viper's 49g or the Corsair Sabre V2 Pro Ultralight's 36g.

Combine that with the higher dome and wider base and manipulating the Naga V3 Pro in a fingertip grip becomes pretty cumbersome, losing both speed and precision in the process.

Massive range of customization options

The feather in the Naga V3 Pro's cap is obviously going to be those swappable side buttons. There's more versatility in this setup than any I've seen from other brands or rodents, providing a full 12-button array when you need it but completely avoiding the possibility of accidental presses when you don't.

On paper, a total of 23 programmable inputs isn't going to sound particularly impressive across the world of MMO mice. After all, everyone producing an inventory-minded rodent is shipping them with additional programming layers, hidden buttons, and DPI shifters. However, the ability to snap a completely different control scheme in and out of play is one only the Naga can boast so far.

Of course, so can the previous Razer Naga V2 Pro. In fact, if it's just this flexibility you're after I'd likely recommend sticking with the original run if you spot it on sale. Everything functions the same in this newer release, just with a price tag that's unlikely to wobble as far as the older model's.

However, Razer has also brought back on-the-fly DPI shifters running along the left main click, as well as an additional Hypershift button on the right edge. These are nice-to-haves, and I did find the Hypershift button a little too easy to actuate accidentally during everyday use, but heavier macro heads and sniper-focused playstyles will make the most of the newer features.

Fine-tuned scroll wheel

I didn't expect the Naga V3 Pro's scroll wheel to shine quite this bright. All the four-mode marketing washed over me the first time I brought it out the box, but after digging into the settings I fully came to appreciate the new precision tactile mode. This 48-step spin feels fantastic in the hands, providing a greater sense of scroll control that's proven itself across not just gameplay but everyday productivity as well. Notches and clean and defined, at just the right level of tension, making weapon swapping incredibly fast and, once the muscle memory kicks in, accurate.

Of course, there's also the fancy smart mode, swapping between the standard 24-step tactile mode and free spin. Helpful if you're swapping between map and scope zooms regularly, while also coming in handy for everyday scrolling and web browsing, this one generally proves too annoying for me to rely on day to day. It does pick up your scroll speed with sturdy accuracy, and responds quickly to change modes, but the acceleration on the free spin can feel a little too turbo-charged at times.

The bad

Still heavier in the hand

It's important to remember that the Razer Naga V3 Pro isn't designed for competitive FPS. It's got the 8,000Hz polling rate and top-of-the-range sensor to accommodate a faster playstyle, but its chunkier form factor, rear weight distribution, and wider base keep it from closing the gap on the battlefield.

This is a generalist gaming mouse, not a competitive one. That means paying for the high-speed polling rate feels a little counter-intuitive. Still, everyone's throwing these high-speed connections into mice that have no need for them these days - Razer's ticking a box for itself here, not you.

This is an MMO mouse that can also be used for casual action / FPS play, not the other way around.

An expensive catch-all

Razer casts a wide net with its Naga line, don't confuse 'multi-purpose' with mid-range. While its Viper and DeathAdder rodents want to nail the competitive FPS market, this is a device that wants to sit at the center of your gaming world for years to come and that carries its own price tag.

A cheaper, more focused gaming mouse is going to prove far more valuable if your Steam library leans more than 70% towards a particular genre.

Slightly tinny mouse clicks

The only physical concern I came across when testing the Razer Naga V3 Pro is the mouse clicks. While the same Gen 3 snappers are found across Razer's portfolio, they sound a little higher pitched here. It's a personal preference and one that might ring out better in the ears of another player, but having a general preference for a deeper, softer mouse feel the very-almost-hollow sounding clackers here hit a little wrong.

Should you buy the Razer Naga V3 Pro?

The Razer Naga V3 Pro is going to make sense for a niche set of players. It's a luxury buy, but where most premium gaming mice focus their price tags around prowess in a particular genre, the Naga's value comes from its versatility. That means it's not going to satisfy anyone approaching it from a specific genre preference.

Competitive FPS players may be drawn in by the 8,000Hz polling rate, but the weight and form factor of the Naga are going to hamper that speed. MMO players are going to run towards that 12-button side array, but should be wary that they're spending a lot more than they have to on additional features they simply won't be using.

Ultimately, if you're a more casual player looking to invest in a gaming mouse that can meet you wherever you find yourself that day the Razer Naga V3 Pro is going to sparkle. Those with the cash to splash on something that's going to lend a hand to every genre, rather than feeling tailor made to a specific playstyle should be investigating this stubby rodent.

How I tested the Razer Naga V3 Pro

I used the Razer Naga V3 Pro for a period of three weeks, using the device for all my daily work, play, and everything in between. I tested across slower titles like Planet Coaster 2 and Restory while also putting it through its paces in Doom: The Dark Ages and CS2. For more information on how we test gaming mice, check out the full GameRadar+ Hardware Policy.

For more setup suggestions, check out the best gaming keyboards and best gaming monitors on the market. We're also rounding up all the best gaming headsets as well.

Razer is reviving its Tartarus product range with the new Razer Tartarus V2 Pro, a gaming keypad designed to bridge the gap between controller and mouse-and-keyboard play. The original Tartarus launched all the way back in 2013 and hasn't had any sequel or seen much support since then. But with renewed competition in the gaming keypad space from Azeron, it's no surprise Razer wants to re-enter the best PC controller alternative race.

Much like the Azeron Keyzen and Azeron Cyborg II, the Razer Tartarus V2 Pro combines a thumbstick, palm rest, and suite of customizable keys. Paired with a mouse, it'll give you an alternative to gaming with a traditional keyboard designed around typing, and the ability to free up your fingers from the WASD keys.

The Tartarus V2 takes things a step further than Azeron's keypads, which are undoubtedly the go-to in the keypad market right now. The V2 Pro uses a TMR thumbstick, has an 8,000Hz polling rate, and more advanced actuation customization thanks to Razer's Analog Optical Switch Gen 2 technology. Meanwhile, Azeron's Keyzen, which launched last year, uses three different types of Cherry switches, but you can't mix and match or set different actuation points for them. The Keyzen has a Hall effect stick and a 1,000Hz polling rate by comparison.

That means you can set a 0.1mm actuation distance if you like, or enjoy a maximum bottom-out depth of 4.0mm. At the same time, Razer has included Rapid Trigger Mode, which enables immediate repeat presses by resetting pressed keys instantly after their actuation point. Snap Flex is also featured, allowing different actions to be assigned to a single key's press and release. In theory, that means you can assign four different functions to a single key press - one for halfway down, then the second half of downward travel, then both halves on the way back up.

There are a total of 31 mappable controls on the Tartarus V2 Pro, which expands the Azeron Cyborg II's 30, but lands just shy of Keyzen's 32. Where Azeron might have another edge is in physical customization and comfort. That brand's keypads have always made a point of laying out their rows of keys (towers) in an ergonomic fashion that lines up with the shape of a human hand. You can also adjust their length, depth, and height. Meanwhile, on the Tartarus V2 Pro, the keypad itself has been expanded over the original, but the rows are laid out on one fixed board, and the only adjustments you can make are to the angle and length of the wrist rest.

The Azeron Keyzen can store up to six profiles, with an infinite number stored on the brand's software. Razer's new Tartarus can store 3 profiles you create through Synapse, each with 8 keymaps supported for 24 configurations in total. And yes, you can assign macros to each key if that's your preferred method.

I'm looking forward to testing the Tartarus V2 Pro out for myself to see how it compares to the Azeron experience. When I'm not testing out the latest controllers for review, I spend all my time gaming on PC with a mouse in my right hand and an Azeron Keypad under my left, so I find any newcomer, or in Razer's case, returner, to this niche of gaming hardware to be something to celebrate.

For more on controllers, take a look at the best TMR controllers, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best PS5 controllers.

Razer's Sensa HD Haptics exists in a myriad of its gaming gear, from the Wolverine V3 Pro controller to the Razer Freyja gaming chair, but now it's another headset's turn to be equipped with the brand's immersive tech.

The new Kraken V4 X Sensa HD Haptics is a pair of wired cans that can emit physical sensations while you're playing your favorite PC games. Much like the tech found in Sony's PS5 DualSense controller, this headset takes gaming audio and sound and converts it into vibrations of different intensities to add another level of realism. The coolest part? Unlike other haptic headsets I've tested to date, this $119.99 / £99.99 (via Amazon) version is far cheaper.

Earlier this year, I tested the Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720, which is equipped with haptic tech of its own. The brand's patented multi-sensory Crusher bass technology massively increased my adrenaline while playing titles like Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth, as my head would shake alongside the bassy beat of the battle music. However, this neat feature came at a cost of $269.99 / £249.99, which is a bit more than many are willing to spend on a headset alone.

That's why I was pretty impressed to learn of the new Kraken V4 X Sensa HD Haptics in Razer's September 15 blog post, as being able to experience a similar mechanic for $120 / £100 is a pretty sweet deal. Unlike Skullcandy, Razer's new headset also has two different methods of providing the in-game audio sensations.

The brand states it takes advantage of "Dynamic Haptics," which are developer-designed effects mapped to in-game events, including movements, weapons, and abilities. Additionally, PC players can utilize Audio-to-Haptics (A2H), which creates extra sensations alongside the existing authored effects.

Outside of its haptic technology, the Kraken V4 X Sensa HD Haptics is a pretty standard Kraken affair. It's got the usual Triforce 40mm audio drivers that you can find in a whole spread of the best Razer headsets around, advanced 7.1 surround sound, and a HyperClear Cardioid microphone for chatting to friends.

It's also got some RGB-powered logos on either cup. That way, you can not only sync the haptics to your favorite games, but also sync the lighting to match the rest of your Razer Chroma spread of accessories.

If the rest of the Razer cup's features aren't your thing, don't forget about the Kraken V4 Pro. It also features the brand's Sensa HD Haptics but in a wireless form factor with an up to 50-hour battery life. It's definitely more in line with Skullcandy's price range with its $399.99 / £399.99 MSRP (ouch), but you'll also have access to THX Spatial Audio, a HyperClear Super Wideband microphone, and the OLED control hub at your fingertips.

• View all Razer gaming headsets at Amazon

Not sure if the Kraken V4 X Sensa HD Haptics is for you? Check out our best PC headsets for gaming, the best Xbox Series X headsets, and the best PS5 headsets guides for pair best suited for your setup.

Razer is launching a brand new mobile controller today, and it's quite a departure from the brand's most recent on-the-go gamepads. The Razer Prio folds down to a footprint that's smaller than your phone, and will happily fit in your pocket or backpack. Razer has ruled the roost in terms of full-sized mobile controllers for the last few years, but it's now looking to provide a more portable option for those gamers who just want a quick and easy way to play on the go.

I first saw the Razer Prio at Gamescom last week, where the brand's product designers walked me through their ethos for the device. Where the Razer Kishi Ultra and Kishi V3 Pro line were all about translating the feel of the brand's console and PC controllers to a mobile device, the Prio tries to squeeze that feeling down into a practical and portable design.

“With the Razer Prio, we set out to erase the tradeoffs between portability and precision," said Travis Furst, Head of AI Hardware and Console Division at Razer. "It folds down to the size of a credit card, but the moment it opens, it plays like a full controller. That's the whole game, wherever you happen to be sitting.”

The Razer Prio could very easily pass for a payment card wallet, and in some ways, it's a shame the designers didn't leave any room for you to store some cards in it, because that'd be the only way to make its design more inventive.

Indicated by three small lines on one side of its back, you push one half of the controller away from the other. The sides will then separate, unfolding a bit like a clamshell. From there's it's a matter of spinning the right-hand side of the controller down the way, revealing the proper face of the controller.

On the right-hand side, there's a USB-C port, a tiny thumbstick, and AXYB fact buttons. On the left, there's another tiny thumbstick as well as a four-way D-pad. On top, you'll find the usual RB and LB bumpers, as well as a set of spongy triggers that depress all the way down. Unlike some other mobile controllers that try to squeeze down functionality into a portable footprint, these aren't just simple press buttons; you'll be able to accelerate properly in driving games, for example.

There are no back buttons to speak of here, and no extra functionality. It's a simplistic and relatively basic mobile controller (y'know, besides its incredibly inventive design), and that's intentional. Razer already provides options for you if you want a "pro" controller feel while playing on the go. The Prio is for those users who don't want a mobile powerhouse gaming setup; they just need something simple for a commute, or something they can take with them in case they get bored while out somewhere.

One of the true bits of genius when it comes to the Prio is how cables are hidden between its two halves. The elasticated band that holds them together also hides the wiring that will provide power and register button presses from one side to the other.

Interestingly, the thumbsticks are symmetrical but, unlike the Scuf Nomad, they're placed at the bottom of the controller and, due to their size, they're embedded slightly into the controller's face. I haven't done any proper testing of the Prio yet, but I'm interested to see how this feels, even in shorter sessions, since it could prove to be a bit uncomfortable.

Razer hasn't opted for Hall effect, TMR, or Potentiometer thumbstick sensors here. Instead, it's utilized contactless, capacitive analog thumbsticks. These will be immune to stick drift since there are no physical contacts to wear down and, in theory, have a higher resolution than even TMR sensors. To some degree, these are wasted on such a tiny controller but I'll be interested to see how they perform if Razer carries them over to full-sized products in the future.

There's just one main issue with the Prio from my point of view, even without testing it. Priced at $99 / £99, it's bloody expensive for something that's proclaimed as a simple, portable option first and foremost. The Razer Kishi V3 Pro line isn't that much more expensive. In fact, the Kishi V3 is currently discounted down to $69.99 at Amazon, so surely something that's geared at more casual on-the-go players should be a lot more affordable?

The GameSir G8 Galileo is a nice middle ground between comfort, functionality, and portability, and that's easily found around the $60 mark these days. The ELO Vagabond, which is the best mobile controller overall, is priced at the same $100 point in the market, and it offers a lot more functionality, so I do feel as though Razer has priced this a little high for its intended use.

For a verdict on how the Prio performs, come back soon and hear my thoughts after I've tested it.

For more on controllers, take a look at the best TMR controllers, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best PS5 controllers.

The 25th Anniversary Xbox celebrations continue. Razer has just dropped a series of officially licensed Xbox accessories on its online store, which sport the same transparent-green retro look as the upcoming anniversary console.

Part of the Xbox 25th Anniversary Collection, the brand has launched pre-orders for a new Razer Hammerhead V3 X HyperSpeed earbuds, Razer BlackWidow V4 75% keyboard, and a Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K gaming mouse that are set to drop on October 20 later this year. Better yet, you can pick up the entire set of Razer accessories for $199.99, $209.99, and $179.99, respectively, and still spend less than the rumoured $899.99 for the upcoming limited-edition console.

The limited edition collection starts with the $199.99 Razer Hammerhead V3 X Hyperspeed gaming earbuds. Just like the original model, these earphones are equipped with the brand's SmartSwitch Dual Wireless, so you can alternate between Bluetooth 5.2 and a low-latency 2.4 GHz connection. The buds also provide up to 10 hours of battery life, with an additional 25 hours if you top up their juice via the RGB charging case.

If you don't want to carry around Xbox-branded earbuds, you can save $20 by grabbing either the multi-platform or the PlayStation model instead. But you'll have to accept the extra cost if you want to add a touch of nostalgia to your PC setup.

It's the same situation with the $179.99 Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K mouse. It's $20 more than the original release, but you're essentially paying more for that Xbox branding and retro-futuristic design. The gaming rodent boasts a second-generation Focus Pro 35K Optical Sensor and a whopping 140-hour battery. It's also rocking customizable RGB lighting, which you can customize through Razer's Chroma software and sync up with the matching Razer BlackWidow V4 75% keyboard.

At $209.99, it's the most expensive item from Razer's Xbox 25th Anniversary line-up, though its MSRP looks far nicer on the eyes than that rumored Series X price. The board includes a 75% layout, as the name suggests, and it includes blue, yellow, green, and red directional keys that harken back to the original ABXY buttons of the OG Xbox Duke gamepad.

Razer isn't the only brand to be part of Xbox's new 25th Anniversary Collection. According to the official Xbox Wire blog, 8BitDo is also launching an X25 Special Edition Charging Dock for its Xbox controllers, which is available to pre-order for $39.99 (8BitDo) at its online store.

The charging dock is expected to ship in October 20 later this year. However, if you're too impatient, you could alternatively pick up the 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse, 8BitDo Ultimate 3 controller, or the 8BitDo Retro 87-Key keyboard starting from $59.99 at Amazon today. They're missing their 25th anniversary branding, as they've been around for a while. But with them, you'll still get that same see-through design.

The Backone Pro also has a 25th Anniversary Edition controller launching this October. With it, you have the chance to receive a blue, bold orange, and crystal-clear colorway at random, all colors that harken back to the original Xbox console. If you'd rather know what you're getting, pre-orders for the $44.99 (GameSir) GameSir X5 Lite for XBOX are now live, sharing the same green 25th look as the rest of the anniversary collection.

• View all 25th Anniversary Xbox accessories at Razer

Looking for accessories for your Xbox Series X? Check out our guides to the best Xbox Series X headsets, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best Xbox Series X hard drives.

Razer's highly detailed Artisan Keycap sold out pretty quick. Just eight minutes after the brand's X (Twitter) post that the accessory was live and ready to buy, the hand-painted key made in "highly limited" quantities was snatched up by Team Sneki fans across the globe.

Not even its lofty $89.99 / £89.99 asking price could deter it from selling out entirely. You could spend a fraction of the cost and get yourself one of the best gaming keyboards with a whole spread of keys, never mind just one. However, as it's already sold out, it's too late to remind everyone of its hefty MSRP. Instead, I'd much rather use my privilege of being sent a sample by Razer to assure those who have bought one that they're getting exactly what Razer said they would: a "painstakingly painted and assembled by hand" accessory that is full of detail and even prettier than it has any right to be.

Opening up the small cardboard Razer Artisan Keycap box for the first time was a surreal moment. I've seen custom keycaps in the past, so I was well aware of just how tiny they could be. However, the amount of detail on display in the marketing images made my brain assume the finished cap would be a large beast, and not the cute and compact accessory it turned out to be.

That's pretty great, as when it comes to practical keycaps, you ideally don't want something so big that it mammoths over your other keys and makes typing awkward, or even darn-right impossible. Fortunately, Razer's keycap doesn't do either of those things.

With its cross-stem (MX-style) switch compatibility, popping it onto any board I had in my household was a breeze. MX switches are pretty much the standard these days, so it didn't just fit my Asus TUF Gaming Hatsune Miku keyboard, but pretty much every board I had at my disposal. Even better, getting it all hooked up was just as simple as swapping out any other keycap. All I needed was a key-puller to pull out the original pink Escape key on my Asus board and a pair of sturdy hands to push down the Razer one in its place, and it was good to go.

Once attached to my board, I was pretty impressed with the amount of stunning detail that Razer managed to pack into such a tiny resin form factor. The microscopic slithers of yellow paint for the eyes are exactly where you'd want them to be, with not a touch out of place. Even the snake's little noses have been accounted for and painted, which I didn't suspect.

During Razer's original unveiling on its website, you can see the shadows that looked airbrushed on to create depth, but they look even better in person. The shadows bend perfectly with the Razer-green snake heads, and there are no harsh lines that look amateurish or like you're looking at a baby's firstWarhammer minature paint job. Despite being made of resin, a tricky material that often cirmounts in swarms of air bubbles, the surface on my sample was immaculate too. The only 'bumps' were the tiny little scales which you can see (and feel) across the backs of each snake.

It looked so impressive right out of the box that I was scared to use it, but the brand insists it's for "everyday typing," and so I put it through its paces with just that. Over the last week, the triple-headed snake replaced my pink Hatsune Miku Escape key and was used to type up multiple articles for GamesRadar+, as well as playing through games like Counter-Strike 2 and Marvel Rivals. I did deliberately attach it to a key that barely gets a lot of use, but at no point did it fall off, break, or render my 'Escape' functionality useless. Good job, snakes!

Yet as stunning, practical, and unique as this Razer accessory oddity is, I don't think I'd be personally comfortable parting with almost $100 for it. But then, I'm not a keycap aficionado, nor do I collect pieces of Razer gaming history, so there's every chance I just don't "get it" and might not be the target audience that this piece of gaming art was intended for.

I much prefer the look of Razer's Sanrio keycaps, which are far cheaper at $19.99 a box and include resin replicas of Hello Kitty and friends. That being said, while the triple-headed snake isn't my style (or within my personal budget), I'm glad that it's exactly as Razer said it would be - a "hand-finished resin masterpiece" that's easy to install, practical, and swarming with slithering amounts of detail. Should you be sitting there waiting like Scott Pilgrim at the door for yours to arrive, you should feel at ease that you only have your bank account to worry about, as its appearance even managed to live up to my venomous expectations.

• View all Razer keyboard keycaps at Razer

Check out our guides to the best Razer mice, the best Razer headsets, and the best Razer laptops if you're a fan of Team Sneki.

Believe me when I say I didn't wake up yesterday looking to make a Razer Game Boy. Just like most of you, I picked up the 8Bitdo FlipPad to do that to my smartphone, but the tiny hinged controller ended up incompatible thanks to silly design choices with the Asus ROG Phone.

Yes, I'll get to exactly how I created a Razer Game Boy using 8Bitdo's new flippy retro controller. But first, I want to explain how I got here, just in case some sort of retro handheld court wants to hear my story. The short answer is that my daily driver, the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, isn't compatible, and upon discovering that unfortunate hiccup on my review path, I started rummaging for something that could accommodate the buttons.

My whole experience using the 8Bitdo FlipPad so far feels like that "Junk Cars" meme. You know, the one often used to depict monstrous Lego creations that deviate from the instructions, preceded by a "We buy junk... Aw man, what's wrong with my car?" Case in point:

Yes, Asus' daft offset USB-C port means you can't use the FlipPad to turn it into a Pokémon machine. You'll have to stick with the GameSir Pocket Taco if you've got that gaming phone, a sentence that sounds absurd when you say it out loud. What you can easily do, though, is pop 8Bitdo's rival onto the Razer Edge, an Android handheld with a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, flip it vertical, and you've got yourself a stupidly long, high-spec Game Boy.

I can already hear an angry mob, gearing up to hunt my Razer Game Boy Frankenstein monster and me. One friend remarked, "Ew, what is that?" while another jabbed at my creation, saying, "Game Boy? Looks more like a Long Boi." In making the questionable decision to pair the FlipPad with the Edge, though, I've actually made a handheld that slaps for 2D romps and uses length to become a solid machine for TATE arcade shmups.

Naturally, having 5 inches of screen length stretching past the 8Bitdo FlipPad feels a little unbalanced. Some handhelds that use an extra-long screen, like the MagicX Zero 40 for Nintendo DS games, give you something to grip onto, but holding the Razer Edge by the buttons on the bottom feels a bit like flipping pancakes.

I'd say the benefits of flipping that 20:9 aspect ratio screen really outweigh the cons, though, as you'll end up with a 4-inch Game Boy play window that's larger than the Analogue Pocket. Plus, the colors and contrast rival my Game Boy Color AMOLED screen mod while tapping into the handheld's 6.8-inch display and 2400 x 1080 144Hz capabilities.

Is using the Razer Edge as a Game Boy overkill? Perhaps, but extra length at the top aside, you'll still end up with a really high-spec vertical handheld if you spin it and use the 8Bitdo FlipPad. As I've already spoiled, its real strengths lie in its natural TATE abilities, as that extra 5 inches is perfect for vertical shmups like Truxton.

The only handheld I can think of that offers up a larger screen for blasting down alien ships in a longer dogfight is the Evercade EXP-R. It specifically boasts a TATE mode while placing two alternative A and B buttons to suit the orientation, and Blaze also sells an optional grip. I'd argue the Razer Edge and 8Bitdo FlipPad provide a really similar experience to that portable, albeit with elevated screen specs.

I'll be giving the 8Bitdo FlipPad proper review treatment over the weekend, and that includes sourcing another smartphone for testing. So far, I'm absolutely delighted at its clicky metal dome switches, satisfying magnetic hinge for retaining full screen access, and its overall feel. On the flip side, I reckon phone compatibility, putting the shoulder buttons on the face, and no real standalone connectivity options will stand as controller cons, and that makes sense given my situation right now.

• Retro handhelds at Amazon
• Retro controllers at Amazon

Swing by the best retro consoles for classic remakes and emulation machines.

I think we can all agree that most technology is getting way too expensive, but if there's one absurd thing to me, it's the price tags of some of the best PS5 controllers. Sure, I love a controller with extra buttons, enhanced designs, and the ability to customize with swappable parts, but $200 is needlessly, inexplicably pricey when PC controllers that don't have to go through licensing for Sony's console cost way less.

Clearly, someone at Woot agrees with me, because one of the most expensive, newest, and feature-rich controllers on the shelves has just taken a gargantuan discount from its $219 price. In fact, in all my years of reviewing PS5 controllers and keeping an eye on their prices, I don't remember any of them getting quite so aggressive a discount.

The Razer Raiju V3 Pro only launched last year, and it's on the premium end of the PS5 controller spectrum. It's made by Razer, for one, so it's more likely to be pricey. It's also got six extra buttons for you to map to whatever functions you want and TMR thumbsticks (the latest standard of thumbstick technology that's even more futureproofed than stick-drift-immune Hall effect ones).

It's also designed around the same core principles as the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, in that it's covered from head to toe in the clickiest of microswitch buttons. In fact, Razer wanted to eliminate the speed differentials of PC and console players to such a degree that they just put the same clicky switches in these controllers as they do their Esports mice.

Of all of the third-party PS5 controllers I've tested, the Raiju feels the most authentic to PlayStation, not least because of its symmetrical thumbsticks and lengthy grips that accommodate your pinky fingers even better than the DualSense does.

There are only two real downsides that pop up when I think about the latest Raiju, the first being the fact that without any rumble motors inside it, it feels a little light and a little cheaper than its full price would suggest. That's not really on Razer, but something that every PS5 controller has to adhere to if it wants to properly earn its Sony logo and be compatible with PS5. Still, it's not ideal.

The other thing stopping me from recommending the Raiju V3 Pro is its price, and in this deal, that's not a thing you're going to need to worry about.

Is the Raiju V3 Pro my favorite controller for any platform? No, probably not, but in the fairly limited pool of PS5 pads, it's certainly up there with the ones I'd recommend first if you can afford it. But if anything, its price and its pedigree and its PlayStation licensing make this deal even better because usually those things would prohibit it from seeing a discount for a few years after its release.

This is one of the better controller deals I can remember seeing in the last year, so if you've been saving or shopping around for one, take this Woot offer seriously while it's less than half price. The retail page says you've got eight days left to make the most of it, "or until sold out", which might be possible with a price this good.

Expanding your search to other platforms? You can also find the best PC controllers, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best Switch 2 controllers.

No Sanrio character is free from being transformed into cute and practical Razer tech, and that includes Pompompurin, who will soon be available as a wireless Bluetooth headset.

A listing for the headset has appeared at Target for $139.99 as discovered by my old stomping ground at Dexerto, and is set to be available in-store and online on October 4. Much like the Cinnamoroll pair before it, this is not technically a new model, but a re-skin of Razer's Kraken Kitty V2 Bluetooth pair, a wireless headset that sports the brand's 40mm Triforce audio drivers, Bluetooth 5.2, and, most importantly for Sanrio fans, Pompompurin's yellow ears and his little brown beret.

Razer has yet to officially reveal this adorable pair on its socials, but the listing reveals everything you can expect when the pair eventually drops. As I mentioned above, it's powered by Razer's 40mm Triforce audio drivers, which are found in an abundance of the brand's headsets, including some of my favorite budget releases, from the Razer Barracuda X Chroma to its predecessor, the Razer Barracuda X. That means you don't have to fork out the extra expense for the upcoming Pompompurin Edition to get the same sound, but you will if you want to want your tech to pay homage to one of Sanrio's cutest mascots.

Talking of which, I love that the design of this new release doesn't play it safe. Razer already has a slew of Pompompurin accessories available, which you can create through the Razer Customs section of its online store. There, you can give the Orochi V2 mouse, Gigantus V2 mousepad, and even your phone case an official makeover of the cute pudding doggo, but it's just printed art rather than anything unique or flashy.

Actually modeling the headband over Pompompurin's ears and hat is far more interesting and helps it stand out from other licensed tech. Utilizing a design that looks that cosplay-worthy is what drew me to the Kuromi Collection and the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition, and I'm happy to see my friend's favorite Sanrio character get the same adorable treatment. There's also a bit of Pompompurin artwork on the underside of the headband, an extra detail that you're rarely going to see when it's on your head, but one I know fans will appreciate nonetheless.

If you happen to care more about its specs than its looks, it's also equipped with a Hyperclear Cardioid microphone, 7.1 surround sound, and stream-reactive RGB lighting. However, just as is the case with the best gaming headsets, be wary that having them on at all times can seriously drain the up to 40-hour battery of the wireless cups. If that doesn't quite cut it (this is a pair that's more about style than substance), then I recommend checking out the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro, as it's cute but also piles on tri-mode connectivity and an impressive 70 hours of juice.

Regrettably, there's no word on when you can expect to pre-order the newest addition to Razer's Kraken Kitty lineup. However, I recommend bookmarking the Target link and checking back in regularly if you're eager to make it yours. If you're desperate for some other Sanrio accessories in the meantime, the Sanrio Keycap Blind Bags are available at physical and online Target shops for $19.99. The keycaps are randomized, but if you get one, I'll keep my fingers crossed that you manage to get Pompompurin above the rest.

View all Razer wireless gaming headsets at Amazon

If you aren't a Sanrio fan, I've also rounded up the best PC headsets for gaming, the best PS5 headsets, and the best Xbox Series X headsets to check out.

Razer is adding more exclusive keycaps to its arsenal, but this time, instead of cute 3D depictions of Hello Kitty and friends wielding the brand's iconic tech, it's a detailed and, if I can be frank, somewhat terrifying Triple-Headed Snake Edition keycap inspired by the brand's "legendary emblem."

The Artisan Keycap is set to drop on August 23, later this month, and you can sign up to be notified when stock slithers to the site via the official Razer online store, should you want more Team Sneki representation. Unlike the brand's best gaming keyboards, this is a truly cosmetic addition to your setup and has no in-game benefits besides some bragging rights and the ability to bop the heads of a highly detailed snake as you game away.

When Razer's PR came to me about the keycap, they mentioned it was a bit of a "quirky" release, and I fully expected something along the lines of their recently released Sanrio line, but this is far more fancy-pants. According to the official blog post shared on August 13, 2026, the cap was brought to life using "advanced 3D modeling techniques" and then manufactured using resin.

The resin was mixed with color to "the ideal ratio" and "fully cured for maximum hardness", which should mean there are no air bubbles in sight in the final product. Back in my cosplaying days, I made a fair few accessories with resin, and air bubbles were my biggest nemesis, but I'm sure Razer has a better tight-knit manufacturing process than some bottles of UV resin and a nail gel light.

What I admire most about the Sneki accessory is that each one has been individually hand-painted. If you were worried that the process would result in errors of paint going out of line, I wouldn't be. Razer iterates that each cap is scrutinized against the original 3D model, and any errors, like visible air bubbles or surface defects, are taken care of. If only I had that amount of energy for scrutiny when it came to my cosplaying back in the day, I would have been unstoppable.

The finished product is designed to fit securely with cross-stem switches, so you don't even need a Razer-branded board like the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro to add it to your keyset. MX cross-stem switches are pretty much the standard these days, so you shouldn't have much issue with having a board that can facilitate the keycap, though I'd definitely triple-check before making the purchase. Anything that's labeled as a "one of a kind" collector's item is likely not going to come cheap, and you don't want to fork out a large sum on something you can't actually use.

If you do still feel compelled to add the highly detailed snake to your board, I recommend signing up to be notified about its drop on Razer's site, as these are being "produced in highly limited quantities and never to be found anywhere else." I suspect they will creep onto second-hand sites like eBay shortly after release, but you can definitely expect an inflated price to come along with them.

• View all Razer gaming keyboards at Amazon

Want to give your PC setup a makeover? Check out our guides to the best Razer headsets, the best gaming mice, and the best gaming chairs while you're here.

It's been four years since Razer last upgraded its multi-tool gaming mouse, the Naga. Today, the brand has unveiled the Razer Naga V3 Pro, bringing those same three control panels to a device packed with the latest Focus Pro sensor, Gen-4 optical switches, and Gen-2 Hyperspeed wireless. Essentially, it takes the swappable side-button approach that has earned the rodent a spot among the best gaming mouse models, and upgrades the internals to sit on the same competitive shelf as the Viper V4 Pro and DeathAdder V4 Pro.

That kind of tech comes at a price, though. While the average cost of a flagship pointer has risen to $150 / $160 in the last year, the Razer Naga V3 Pro is launching at $179.99. That makes it one of the most (potentially the most) expensive regular-release gaming mouse I've seen.

If you're unacquainted with the series, the Naga line is primarily pitched as a multi-genre jack of all trades. The three swappable side panels offer different control modes to suit everything from competitive FPS to macro-heavy strategy and MMO titles. They're toolless, simply snapping on and off the sides as required. We've still got the traditional array of buttons here: 12-button, six-button, and two-button side panels to swap between.

The main unit is slightly squatter than you'll typically find in a more FPS-oriented gaming mouse. That bulbous design can divide fans, but from my experience with the Razer Naga V2 Pro it retains its comfort in a claw or palm grip (provided you don't have particularly large hands for the latter). The V2 was always a little too heavy to be truly competitive, though, holding its two-button option back for FPS ranked players.

The previous generation weighed in at 134g, whereas the new model hits 117g. That's an improvement, but it's far from the 40-60g form factors of the fastest mice on the market.

So what's new here? Well, that Focus Pro sensor runs at 50K DPI with a 950 IPS tracking speed. It's the same model found in the new Viper V4 Pro, with numbers tracking higher than those of the Logitech G Pro X 2 Superstrike (the Viper's main competition). That's a blisteringly fast eye, but at this point you're getting diminishing returns from sensor specs. Most players won't move beyond 6,000 DPI, though that IPS ceiling gives you plenty of room for accurate and reliable tracking at high speeds.

The Razer Naga V3 Pro also uses Gen 4 optical switches, touted to be 12% lighter than the previous generation. The whole mouse now runs on the same high-speed wireless system as Razer's other flagships.

It's not all under the hood, though. The Naga V3 Pro brings back the ring finger button, now lockable, while also adding an extra button to the pinky rest on the right flank. When the MMO-inspired panel is attached, that gives up 23 programmable inputs to play with.

The Naga is also borrowing a feature from the Razer Basilisk line. The Basilisk V3 Pro introduced a slick smart scroll wheel, capable of automatically switching between a notched and free-spin response. That's all here, alongside two different notched 'Tactile' modes to choose from.

It looks like the Razer Naga V3 Pro is pickpocketing some of the best parts of the best Razer mice, but its value to you will entirely depend on whether you'll make the most of those swappable panels. Those who only stick to one genre can save some cash with individual Razer lines. Those investing in one gaming mouse to rule an eclectic Steam library, however, will find that $179.99 price tag easiest to swallow - though it might be worth keeping an eye on this similar rodent Duncan found at Computex.

• See all gaming mice at Amazon

I'm also testing more of the best wireless gaming mouse models, or check out the best gaming keyboards and best gaming headsets for more upgrade options.

Razer just unveiled a brand-new line-up of console skins for the Nintendo Switch 2 on X (Twitter) yesterday, based on a range of iconic Sanrio characters. Just like the brand's new keycaps, there's a set available for fans of everyone from Cinnamoroll to PomPomPurin, to be stuck to your official dock, Switch 2 Joy-Con controllers, and even Joy-Con grips to give a touch of Sanrio cuteness.

Like previous Sanrio keycaps these are exclusive to Target, and available now starting from $19.99. That means there's no way to get hold of these adorable skins in the UK for now, so this range is entirely for the US Sanrio fans.

Razer iterates that these new Nintendo Switch 2 accessories are crafted from premium 3M cast vinyl so not only do they seriously up the cute factor of your Switch 2, but they're sturdy enough to help "guard against scratches, scuffs, and daily wear from travel, docking, and frequent gameplay." Talking of docking, that's one of the main pros to grabbing a skin over a wrap-around case.

You see, right now I have a Pokemon-themed bumper case attached to my console, and the extra width renders a lot of my accessories entirely useless. As much as I love the Belkin Charging Case Pro, I can't actually use its charging capabilities as my slip case adds too much thickness for the USB-C port. Instead, these are "ultra-thin" and offer "full dock compatibility."

You don't need any tools to get these skins attached either. If you happen to get bored of Cinnamoroll (how dare you), Razer states these are also easily removable "without residue" so you won't need to worry about the condition of your console underneath. That's great news if you do want to switch things up, as this range encompasses not just Cinnamoroll, My Melody, and PomPomPurin, but Razer previously launched a set for Kuromi and Hello Kitty fans for the same $19.99 (Target) price.

If you're UK-based like me and want an alternative, Dbrand's Switch 2 skins ship to the UK, but you will have to forgo hopes of finding Hello Kitty's friends on their versions. But hey, some of its skins glow in the dark, which is cute in a nostalgic 90s kinda way.

• View all Razer Sanrio gaming accessories at Target

New to Switch 2? Check out the best Nintendo Switch 2 controllers, the best Nintendo Switch headsets, and the best Nintendo Switch 2 cases while you're here.

Razer's a little late to the party, but its first attempt at creating a multi-connection microphone is here. The Razer Seiren V3 Pro has capacity for both an XLR and a USB connection, and with a serious, studio, Shure-reminiscent design, it's clear that Team Sneki has not come to play around. This looks and sounds like a contender for the top spots on our best microphones for streaming and gaming list, but does it sound like one?

I, for one, am a little surprised to see some pro-level content creation gear coming from Razer in this day and age. Its Stream Controller X has been all but discontinued since Loupedeck was bought over by Logitech. Its presence in the capture card space is pretty much dead; its USB microphones are tiny, unicorn vomit devices that, although sound great, don't look like they want to be taken seriously. The Seiren V3 Pro has a professional, studio look to it that reinstates this brand as a name in content creation again. That said, I can't help but feel its XLR connection is without a friend because Razer's Razer Streaming Mixer is so out of date it should be in a museum.

But surprisingly, Razer has nailed it with this microphone. Its quality is excellent both in USB and XLR modes; it's easier to use than some of the other more premium XLR options on the shelves, and its price is only $249.99 / £249.99, which is actually on par with some of the other premium mics on the shelves today. Razer tax, where art thou?

Design

The Razer Seiren V3 Pro isn't subtle about the fact that it wants to go after the Shure SM7dB. Along with the BEACN Mic, the Maono PD200W, and Shure's MV6, it's joining the lineup of black, cylindrical microphones that want you to talk into them for your podcast, livestream, or YouTube video. This is an iconic look, and I like the way Razer has put its own spin on it.

Around its rim, there's an RGB ring which is fully customizable using Razer Chroma, and the capsule of the mic is covered by a familiar cylindrical pop filter/wind guard. There's some very subtle Razer branding which can be seen if it catches the light, but blends into the bodywork of the microphone so as not to overplay its hand and spoil the Shure lookalike contest.

What I really like about the design of the Seiren V3 Pro is that the mounting system complements the pickup pattern. A lot of XLR mics (and the Shure SM7dB specifically) require you to be pretty close and direct with them; hence why they opt for this black cylindrical design, and their mounting systems reflect that. The mounting arm here is more versatile in order to cater to a more generous polar pattern. I've attached mine to a boom arm and had it hanging down towards me, almost like it is actually a boom mic.

When in shot of my webcam, it does actually look like it's being held from somewhere out of view, and it gives my entire setup a premium podcast host feel. Its angular stand allows for that inverted type of mounting, but if you so please, you can leave it upright on its stand, or boom-mount it so it's facing up vertically. There's versatility here that I really like, and form complements function because the pickup pattern doesn't care about which direction you use it from.

The internals of the mic have had a lot of thought put into them too. The V3 Pro sports a 30mm Dynamic capsule with the below specs that I've compared directly to the Shure SM7dB for context.

The USB side of the microphone obviously demands a few more design bells and whistles than a standard XLR option. There's a manual gain control dial on the bottom of the mic, as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack for live monitoring through a headset. Note that this is reliant on Synapse, or at least didn't work for me until I had Synapse installed, so it isn't on a mere hardware level. There's also a capacitive mute button.

Features

As with the other hybrid mics we've seen hitting the shelves already, the Seiren V3 Pro harnesses the power of both USB-C and XLR connections. I've plugged them both in with different machines, and they've both worked at the same time. It is missing the wireless connection of the Maono PD200W, but in terms of the dual-connectivity it has it matches up with the Rode PodMic USB, Shure MV7+, and SteelSeries Alias Pro. It is probably worth noting that while a USB to USB-C cable comes in the box, you'll need to supply your own XLR cable.

On the software side, a lot of the V3 Pro's best features are reserved for Synapse pairing, which, if you're anything like me, is a big let-down. The RGB, 3.5mm live monitoring, gain control, and mute button all require USB power, so don't go in expecting those if you're going to hook it up using XLR through one of the best streaming mixers.

Synapse is going to give you lots of access to EQ, bass boosting, exciters, noise gate controls, AI noise cancelling, and other settings of the V3 Pro. There's also support within Synapse for 32-bit float support, which barely any of the competition mics have unless you go wireless with something like the Rode Wireless GO Gen 3. Moreover, Synapse now has a full mixing suite within it if you are using USB connections and can't mix using a separate interface. While this is an impressive update to Synapse that gives the Razer mics some longer legs to run with, it's a real shame that you're reliant on the entire Synapse ecosystem to use these things.

There's a reason that Elgato has its own separate software for audio devices, camera devices, and capturing footage with its capture cards. If you're buying one device from a brand, you shouldn't have to download a very intrusive and performance-heavy application that tacks on everything else it makes. Just let me have the parts I do need, and stop making it so hard to install and uninstall this silly program that's insistent on becoming the main character of my PC.

Performance

The first thing I'll say is that I really, really like the way this mic sounds. It captures some excellent quality that's absolutely up there with the Shure and Rode options out there. It's also consistent across its USB and XLR connections, with minimal sound disparity between the two.

I did the majority of testing in XLR mode through the RodeCaster Duo, and I have to say, it's on par with the kind of quality I expect from the Shure SM7dB, although with a few caveats. It feels like because of that extra adjustable gain and lack of 32-bit float, AI noise cancellation, and noise gate through Synapse, it's a bit more unruly. That could be a good thing for you if you've used the SM7dB and you've not got on well with its fairly low gain levels. But it also means that in XLR mode you're going to struggle to keep ambient room noise out of the mix.

Moreover, the pop filter simply isn't as strong as Shure's. Its foam isn't very dense, so it isn't doing as good a job at blocking out those attacking plosives. In USB mode, this is kept under control a lot better, presumably thanks to Synapse, AI noise cancelling, and 32-bit float. The pop filter doesn't do quite as strong a job as I'd like it to in XLR mode, where I feel like it's really going to be needed more for those professional recording quality uses. Its foam doesn't hug the capsule quite as tightly as Shure's does either, so I'm not convinced by it.

What I do love about the Seiren V3 Pro is its pattern, how generous it is, and how that works alongside its mounting design. I mention it in the audio sample above, but there's a brilliant versatility to this mic so that you can attach it to a boom arm at pretty much any angle, and as long as you're in close proximity, you get excellent, consistent studio-quality recordings. With Shure's SM7dB, you need to be a bit more direct and position yourself more closely in front of it to get the best sound, and even though it has some leeway, Razer has nailed an even more accessible polar pattern.

There's definitely still best value in proximity here, but people buying Razer's mic over something like Shure or Rode are likely going to be a little less studied in their mic etiquette, and it feels like Razer is aware of that and is actively trying to make the V3 Pro more user-friendly.

USB connection is good, as you'll hear from the quality above. Besides the gain being a little more muted and more of the Synapse effects working their magic, I'd say it's all pretty consistent with the XLR sound.

It's not unusual for USB mics to be reliant on software for the best results, but I do think Razer has been a tad too reliant on Synapse to get the best results here. No, you don't need Synapse open and running for these to work, but Synapse, when installed, is pretty much always running in the background, so it's hard to tell when it's really in use and when it isn't.

For the V3 Pro's lack of a noise gate in XLR mode, its USB noise gate is very, very aggressive, even after a firmware update to try and remedy this issue. You can hear in the USB sample audio that some of my words, especially at the beginning of sentences or after a small break in speaking, that my speech is getting cut off by the sheer wroth of the noise gate. That's not ideal, and I personally feel like the way Razer's noise gate cuts off any and all noise when it doesn't detect your voice is a bit too obtuse for a professional sound. It ends up sounding a bit cheap, manufactured, and silly when there's a really obvious cut-off of all the audio. If I was listening to a video, podcast, or stream and that was happening, it'd be so distracting I'd end up listening out for the cut instead of whatever a person was saying.

Hopefully this side of things gets patched and fixed as time goes on, but it's a bit much for my liking.

Should you buy the Razer Seiren V3 Pro?

I think there's real value for money in the Razer Seiren V3 Pro. The kind of quality it gives you in either XLR or USB mode is superb and is definitely good enough to compete with the Shure and Rode options out there. If you're a fan of the design of the Shure SM7dB but don't want to pay that much for it, this is a strong alternative that gives you a more accessible and user-friendly method of using it. Its noise gate in XLR isn't ideal, and its noise gate in USB mode is far too aggressive for my liking. Moreover, you are going to miss out on some features if you only use it in XLR mode.

In fact, this mic does feel like it's out here making a stand all on its own. I'm not saying Razer needs to make a rival to the RodeCaster Duo with all its bells and whistles, but a microphone like this is screaming out for a Synapse-compatible companion mixer. If Razer wants people to buy into its ecosystem, what does it want people to pair its XLR microphone with? I think it's time for a revamped audio interface, please, Mr Razer man.

Unfortunately, the mic market is really competitive. For an XLR option on price, the V3 Pro is sort of on par with the Shure MV7+ and Rod PodMic USB when ages, prices, and discounts come into play. Equally, the mic market has a Maono problem right now because, for paying less money, newcomers with lesser budgets could get the PD200W for far less and get great quality and a wireless connection.

I really, really like Seiren V3 Pro, and would happily use it for my own content. I'm not such a big fan of its reliance on Synapse, and if that's a problem for you too, I'd maybe steer clear of it. As a Shure alternative with excellent sound and an okay price, it doesn't get much better than this.

How I tested the Razer Seiren V3 Pro

I've used the Razer Seiren V3 Pro as my main microphone for all gaming, content creation, and work meets for around two weeks now. I mounted it to my boom arm, plugged it into the RodeCaster Duo, and adopted it as part of my setup. I compared it closely to my daily driver, the Shure SM7dB, using it in the same ways and using it with the same settings through my audio interface.

I recorded plenty of audio samples and listened back to them, testing various ways in which the mic acts and reacts to different use styles. I also tested across different PCs, using a USB connection with a laptop to test out all of Razer Synapse's extras.

For more on testing methods, check out the full GamesRadar+ hardware policy.

For more streaming and podcasting gear, take a look at the best capture cards and the best ring lights for streaming and gaming.

The new Razer Sanrio Edition Keycaps have finally appeared at Target's online storefront, but the price for one single (and randomized) blind box is a bit more than I had hoped.

The official product page for these PC accessories lists them for $19.99 (Target) each, and there are up to five to collect in total. Each box contains one randomized collectible of Cinnamoroll, Pompompuri, Hello Kitty, Kuromi, or My Melody, so you'd have to spend around $99.95 to collect the lot - and that's if luck is on your side. Not to mention, there's an additional chrome-plated secret design to be found in one in every 24th box, so a full set could cost you more than the brand's own gaming keyboards, like the $119.99 Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Mini.

You don't have to try and collect the full set, of course. I'd be happy with just a single $19.99 keycap, especially as I have a soft spot for just about every Sanrio character included in this collaboration. However, if you're looking for a specific character, the nature of this blind box presentation could make it a costly endeavour.

It's a shame that it's not available as a full and complete set for those who prefer it. I'm sure plenty of Sanrio fans would much rather either know what they're getting, or have the ability to collect the lot without the risk of doubling up. It would make more sense too, as plenty of people with any of Razer's existing Sanrio tech, like that of the recently unveiled Cinnamoroll headset, would then be able to better match the cute caps to their existing Hello Kitty and friends-themed setups.

Talking of which, if the costly price of collecting the set wasn't a bummer enough, a review on the Target product page states that the "key caps don’t even fit with the Sanrio Razer keyboards", which seems like a major missed opportunity.

To play devil's advocate for a moment, Razer didn't state that they would. On the original blog post shared on July 12, 2026, the brand iterated that the keycaps were compatible with MX cross-stem switches, including the Razer BlackWidow V4 lineup. The Sanrio keyboards, like that of the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition I tested in March of 2025, utilize the brand's Mecha-Membrane switches instead. However, I feel like releasing a set compatible with the brand's existing Sanrio tech would have been a no-brainer.

If you're planning on heading to a physical Target store or want to pick up one of the blind boxes online, just go prepared. You'll need to make sure that your keyboard is equipped to handle the caps, and most importantly, that you can afford the investment should you not get the Sanrio character you want the first time around.

• View all Razer gaming accessories at Amazon

Our team has also rounded up the best gaming chairs, the best gaming headsets, and the best gaming mice if you're looking to refresh your PC setup.

Razer kicked off its adjustable switch operations with analog clackers in its Huntsman keyboard line; now it's gone full Hall effect. The new Razer Huntsman V3 HE ditches the analog optical in favor of the trendier HE moniker, but while it's not quite at the TMR forefront, those prices are certainly a sight for sore eyes.

If you've been perusing the world of the best gaming keyboards over the last couple of years, you'll notice a rising cost associated with newer magnetic switches. As mainstream brands like Corsair, Logitech, and SteelSeries have jumped on the adjustable actuation bandwagon, costs have soared to the $400s in some cases (looking at you, Asus). While most Hall effect keyboards now land in the $150 to $250 range, though, the new Huntsman V3 HE line starts life at $119.99.

I know! Razer, of all brands, coming in cheaper than the rest of the industry? What in the 2026?

Well, Hall effect isn't the buzzword it used to be. The cool kids are all about TMR with its improved power efficiency and (this is a personal take) better feel overall. It's why Corsair managed to impress with the Clipper Pro Mini 60 at just $99.99 earlier this month. Contrary to the way most of the industry seems to be going, those HE clackers are getting cheaper surprisingly quickly, and new releases are proving it.

That's not to rain on Razer's parade. Corsair's cheaper option comes in a 60% form factor, whereas you're paying just $20 more for Sneki's 65%-er and $139.99 all in for the TKL. That's undercutting the mid-range market (populated by the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid and, funnily enough, Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini) quite considerably.

So what do you get for your cash?

Barrie Ooi, Head of PC Gaming at Razer, states that "while our analog optical keyboards remain the benchmark for players seeking the absolute best in esports performance, the Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic 8KHz line is designed for competitive players looking for the best magnetic keyboard." If you can parse the difference between those two players there, be sure to let me know.

Regardless of who it's for, the latest Huntsman offers all the usual features you'd expect: 'Snap Flex' for assigning two inputs to a single key and "Dynamic Keystroke" for packing four actions based on the depth of your keypress. But we've also got "Instant Cancel Control" that allows you to halt that sequence of actions immediately.

Switches can be configured for actuation between the usual 0.1-4mm, with the usual suspects Rapid Trigger, adjustable actuation and Snap Tap (SOCD when it's at home) all invited to the party as well.

There are a few newbies here that I look forward to testing out, between that instant cancel and the Dual-Keypress system ensuring directional priority is assigned as quickly as possible. Perhaps more notably for most of us, though, Razer's boasting that its Huntsman V3 HE comes with thick foam dampening and individually lubricated switches. With the rattle and echo of the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini still ringing in my ears, Sneki's new sound profile better live up to its hype.

• See all gaming keyboards at Amazon

I'm also hunting down all the best hot-swappable keyboards and the best wireless gaming keyboards on the market.

The Razer Blade 18 took its place on my list of the best gaming laptops on the market last week, after making it out off the test bench with a 4/5 review score. It wasn't the dual 4K / 1200p resolution display or the slimmer 18-inch chassis that put it there, though, it was the fact that the Razer Blade 18 nearly beat the MSI Raider A18 HX's performance.

That's a big deal considering no gaming laptop has managed to near that beast's benchmark records since I reviewed it last year. Of course, time has moved on for the MSI Raider, and the numbers today tell a different story where value is concerned. With an extra 12 months under its belt, the RTX 5090 MSI Raider A19 HX A9W is a little harder to find on the shelves. Instead, you're more likely looking at an RTX 5080 model (16GB vs 24GB), which isn't going to give you the same payoff for 4K gaming. The invoice is far kinder, though.

Right now, the RTX 5090 model is only available at Excalbur PC on backorder, but its age means it still undercuts the Blade 18 at $4,499.99. So what does that mean in real-world play?

At full 4K resolution, the two machines are tying. The Blade 18 bookends its runs, with wins in the lightest title, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and the most demanding, Cyberpunk 2077 (though only just), while the Raider scores higher in Total War: Three Kingdoms and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. These are still neck and neck scores, though, a trend that continues further down the resolution ladder.

In FHD and QHD+, we've got a similar situation, though the Blade takes a lead in QHD performance overall.

Numbers match up once more when we looked at synthetic benchmarks, though, with MSI taking the more demanding Steel Nomad test alongside the easier Fire Strike run.

It all comes down to Geekbench 6, then, and the MSI Raider A18 HX A9W's higher average single-core test. This is a machine using the abominably powerful AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D, after all - even the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus inside Sneki's rig can't quite compete. The Blade scored 3,053 in its single-core test, while the Ryzen 9 typically averages at around 3,186. This is the only test in which a winner is decided.

Does that mean big spenders should buy the MSI Raider A18 HX A9W? Not quite.

The Razer Blade 18 has still made its way to my top list, now sitting as the best luxury gaming laptop I've tested so far. That's because, while it just whiskers out of the performance race against the MSI Raider it does so in a far sturdier chassis, with a much better keyboard, a higher refresh rate display, and a surprisingly solid battery life.

If I had $5,500 to spend on a gaming laptop, the lack of OLED or Mini LED display would be the only turn off here. Razer's decision to instead fit a dual-resolution 4K (240Hz) / FHD (440Hz) screen up top means you're not getting the more immersive contrast, color profile, and impact of a more luxurious panel. It's also unlikely that most players will be looking to fully take advantage of the top end of that 440Hz refresh rate - outside of elite competition, the vast majority of us will be able to get along just fine with framerates coming out of that RTX 5090 in 4K. The dual screen is an added expense that doesn't serve the majority of the market and cuts the Blade 18 off from the kinds of premium upgrades readily available in much cheaper machines.

That being said, there are very few 18-inch 4K gaming laptops on the market right now, and if that high-end build quality, excellent performance, and 240Hz refresh rate are worth more to you than color contrast it's a difficult one to beat.

• See all gaming laptop deals at Best Buy

I'm also hunting down all the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Razer laptops on the market. For something a little chunkier, check out the best Alienware laptops I've tested so far.

Razer is on a roll with its new cute releases, from its Pokemon Espeon and Umbreon Collection to its Pikachu and Eevee Collection - but now it's got Sanrio Edition keycaps out in the wild.

The new Sanrio Edition Razer Keycap Blind Box set was originally unveiled on Razer's community blog on July 12, 2026, but a new X (Twitter) post now reveals that it's available at Target stores in the US. These keycaps feature five designs of Hello Kitty and friends and can be swapped for your ESC key to inject it with that 'cute and cozy' factor. Only if you're okay with pressing a large replica of Sanrio's top mascot characters over the far easier-to-press original key of your gaming board.

Cute keycaps aren't exactly a new phenomenon. If you're as chronically online and immersed in the 'cute and cozy' world of gaming builds as I am, you've likely seen plenty of videos of them in the past and have been contemplating adding them to one of the best gaming keyboards you've got in your setup. However, these cute keycaps in particular include the likes of Hello Kitty and my personal favorite Sanrio character, Kuromi, holding real-life Razer tech.

While Razer doesn't state exactly what each character has amongst the palm of their paws, I could spot the white model Razer BlackShark V2 Pro that's perched on Cinnamoroll's head from a while away. It also appears that Pompompurin has managed to get his hands on the white model Razer Wolverine V3 controller. It's hard to decipher what laptop Kuromi has her hands on, but I at least hope she's got the Razer Blade 16, which currently sits on our best gaming laptops guide.

These keycaps are designed to fit MX cross-stem switches, which include the likes of the Razer BlackWidow V4 line-up. Their pricing hasn't yet been unveiled so I can't let you know what you can expect to fork out for these cute bling bags. However, if you're heading to a local Target near you to grab a few bags regardless, do make sure to check what board you have first to ensure it's compatible before spending a fortune on these randomized keycaps.

Talking of which, as you'd likely already surmised by now, they're available in blind boxes and cannot be purchased as a set. You have your "chance" to unbox one of the five designs and a secret chrome variant, which appears in one out of every 24 boxes, according to Razer. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of blind boxes, as you don't know what you're buying. There's every chance you could end up with just five Kuromi keycaps, and as much as I adore her, there is such a thing as too much Kuromi.

If you're in the same boat, you could alternatively grab Razer's Sanrio accessories from its Hello Kitty and Friends lineup starting from $27.99 at Amazon, no blind boxes included.

• View all Razer Sanrio PC gaming accessories at Target

Not a Sanrio fan? Our team has also rounded up the best gaming chairs, the best gaming headsets, and the best gaming mice if you're looking to refresh your PC setup.

Razer has unveiled two new collaborations with the Pokemon Company just days apart, including the Espeon and Umbreon Collection and the Razer Pikachu and Eevee Collection, and they're just as adorable as you'd expect them to be.

Both collections include accessories like the Razer Kraken V4 X headset, which has hung up its plain all-black looks for imagery of the adorable Pokemon instead. Yet as stunning as its new purple starry Espeon and Umbreon or pastel pink Pikachu and Eevee look is, I wish that the best Razer headsets and other top-of-the-line accessories in the brand's back catalog got the same treatment.

These collections always revolve around existing Razer headsets, keyboards, mice and mouse mats, but they typically encompass products on the lower end of Razer's price range. That means that while you might be getting one of the cutest pairs of cups out there, you won't be getting the one with the best features - which is a shame given the extra $30 cost you're paying for the privilege of your headset looking fit for a Pokemon master.

Brands like Razer always have to factor in the licensing fee that's required whenever it produces new lines with big-name companies like The Pokemon Company. With that in mind, there is some sense in always utilizing its lower-end accessories for these kinds of collaborations. I can only speculate, but if I were Razer and I knew I had to factor in that extra $30 cost for each item regardless, I could understand wanting the products to be as appealing as possible, and that'd involve keeping prices low to make them more accessible to a wider range of fans.

If you take the Razer Kraken V4 X headset into consideration, it's normally priced at $79.99 at Amazon when there are no sales around. When you incorporate the extra $30 cost, that takes the pair up to $109.99, which is exactly how much you can expect to pay for both the Espeon and Umbreon and Pikachu and Eevee Razer headsets. However, if Razer were to incorporate one of the best gaming headsets in its back catalogue instead, like that of the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro, it'd be a far higher price to contend with. The wireless headset has an MSRP of $249.99 (Amazon), which would mean fans would have to spend $279 for its own Pokemon makeover.

That price tag is likely one that would not appeal to passing fans of the franchise who just want cute accessories and don't care much for its specs. Or even parents of kids who are eager to please their kids with cute accessories featuring their favorite Pokemon but don't have the budget to spare on high-end accessories - particularly ones that little ones may not know how to take full advantage of. But I don't like to assume that people who yearn for cute accessories don't also care about specs - especially as I care about both, and I know I'm not alone.

In particular, I wish more feature-rich headsets were regularly part of these new collections. The pair frequently used by Razer for its Pokemon tech isn't bad by any means, but it's missing some key features that may not appeal to fans who care about substance as much as style.

The Razer Kraken V4 X carries the same Triforce 40mm audio drivers as past pairs like the Razer Barracuda X, a pair that frequently topped out best Nintendo Switch headset guides for years due to its quality. The brand's drivers enable a leveled sound that still makes games sound incredible regardless of which pair they're in. However, the V4 X is a wired-only headset, which makes it more limited compared to other Razer alternatives.

As someone with the Gengar Edition Razer Kraken Kitty V2 USB at my disposal, its wire gets tangled easily, and its USB-A connection makes it suited for PC platforms only. The Kraken V4 X fortunately comes with a USB-A to USB-C adapter, but you still have to put up with being tethered to a wire. I'd much rather prefer donning a cute headset on my head while experiencing the freedom of Bluetooth and 2.4GHz low-latency wireless, which is what you'd get if the BlackShark V3 Pro were selected for these new collections instead.

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro doesn't just have the option of a wired 3.5mm or USB connection, but you can utilize Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless too. It's also decked out with the brand's TriForce Bio-Cellulose 50mm Gen 2 audio drivers, which "entralled" our team's own Tabitha Baker in her review with how much space it conjured in its low end - a sound that many Pokemon fans would appreciate.

These limitations are just going to be apparent with the headsets chosen for these releases, but they're apparent with other accessories too. The Razer Cobra is the gaming rodent of choice when it comes to all of Razer's Pokemon sets, and it's a wired-only mouse that doesn't have all the bells and whistles of, say, the Razer Deathadder V4 Pro. Currently sitting as our best gaming mouse top pick, the Deathadder V4 Pro provides both wired and 2.4GHz connectivity options, includes Razer's Gen 4 optical switches over that of the Gen 3 found in the Cobra, and is even more lightweight at just 56g over the Cobra's 58g form factor.

It'd be incredibly neat if Razer chose a mouse like it, and options like the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, which joined our best gaming keyboard list last year, for their future Pokemon collaborations. That way, those who want to create a cute and cozy PC gaming setup don't have to feel inclined to settle for cheaper and less feature-full accessories.

It'd at least be nice to have the option as to what Razer accessories to add to your setup that are covered in cute Pokemon accessories instead. Razer even currently has a customizability option hidden amongst its online store, which could be perfect to utilize for just that purpose - pleasing those who are okay with budget-friendly accessories, and those who want something with beefier specs instead.

Within the Razer Customs page, you can select the Razer Orochi V2 mouse, Razer Gigantus V2 mousemat, and your smartphone to be bestilled with art from a selection of notable IPs that Razer has partnered with, including Squid Game, The Smurfs, Borderlands 4, and even art and designs from VTuber Iron Mouse. Pokemon is notably absent from the customization process, but its inclusion, along with a larger range of Razer gaming products, could be a great way to appeal to a wider selection of Pokemon and hardware fans.

Of course, it'd be entirely dependent on whether The Pokemon Company and Razer would agree to slapping Pikachu, Eevee, Gengar, and the Eevee evolutions across a wider variety of products, rather than the ones that are chosen time and time again. I can only speculate, but there's every chance that the Razer Cobra mouse or the Razer Kraken V4 X appear time and time again, as they're the only products allowed to be chosen for these collaborations.

In the meantime, by the time Razer announces its fifth Pokemon partnership, I hope I have a chance to pick up a headset that is dripping not just in cuteness the kind of impressive specs my PC gaming setup yearns for.

Check out our guides to the best PC controllers for gaming, the best PC headsets for gaming, and the best gaming chairs if you're on the hunt for new accessories that focus on substance over style.

The Razer Pikachu and Eevee Collection follows on from the brand's Espeon and Umbreon release just ten days ago. While our dark psychics took on more of a nightglow appearance, though, the Let's Go duo is looking a little brighter.

The all-pink Razer accessory set combines the adorably snoozy Pokémon with a baby pink aesthetic that will sit well in any cosy gaming setup. The full collection is mostly PC-focused here, with the Razer Ornata V3 TKL keyboard, Razer Cobra mouse, and Razer Gigantus V2 mouse pad. Nintendo Switch players can also get involved with the Razer Kraken V4X headset, though.

Like many of its themed drops, Razer's Pikachu and Eevee Collection focuses on the cheaper gadgets in the brand's arsenal. That means this isn't the way to upgrade your tech's specs or features if you've already got one of the best gaming keyboards or the best gaming headset. It does, however, plant two little sleepy fluffers on your desk - at a considerable markup.

As with all limited edition releases, you're paying a premium for that print. The Kraken V4 X headset usually ships at $79.99, so it represents the most egregious price jump in this roster. That Pokémon outfit will set you back a full $109.99, a rate that can easily net you a more sophisticated headset like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless. In its base black color, the Razer Ornata goes for $69.99 - for the Pikachu privilege, you're paying $119.99.

Yes, licenses are expensive, and I'm not here to quash your fandom. If you're looking to get the best value out of your baby pink glow up, though, I'd concentrate on the Razer Cobra mouse and Gigantus mouse pad.

At $59.99, the Razer Cobra is still about $20 more expensive than you'll find it otherwise - but it's a much smaller price to pay for that special edition print. Plus, the Cobra itself holds up with a good set of specs that will see casual players through particularly well. The Kraken V4 X and Ornata? Not so much.

Then there's the cheapest in today's haul, the Razer Giganuts V2 mouse pad. This is where I'd recommend you start. After all, there's far less that can go wrong with a pad, and Razer's Gigantus is pretty solid for $30.

• See all Razer special editions at Razer

This isn't the only cute'n'cozy kit on the market right now. Razer also recently launched a Cinnamoroll line and Hori's diving deep on classic Pokemon aesthetics for its new Switch 2 accessories.

The 2026 Razer Blade 18 is more of an iterative update on what came before, swapping out that Intel Core Ultra 275HX processor for a shiny new 290HX Plus model. Still, this is a machine that's keeping pace with the most powerful on the market - and doing it all in a premium, slimline chassis. Throw in a dual-mode 4K display that you'll either love or loathe, a sturdy battery life, and a solid deck of keys and you've got yourself a suitably expensive rig vying for best gaming laptop status.

I'll be primarily comparing the Razer Blade 18 against the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (as our current go-to 18-incher) and MSI Raider A18 HX for some 4K insights (and as the most powerful gaming laptop I've tested so far). The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX / RTX 5090 Scar I've had my hands on goes for $4,499.99, $900 less than the Blade, while the Raider packs an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D and RTX 5090 for $5,609.99 - $210 more than Razer's.

Razer Blade 18 configurations

This being such a premium machine, the Razer Blade 18 sticks to the top end of the GPU market. That means you're choosing between RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080, and RTX 5090 flavors, paired up with Intel's 2026 Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus CPU. It's the processor that marks the biggest departure from last year's model, though the real-world performance upgrade is going to be minimal. That's why the price jump from $4,899 to $5,399 for an RTX 5090 model feels pretty squeaky.

Of course, with rising component costs everything is more expensive in 2026 - but when the previous generation model is still available (and starting at $3,499.99), it's worth sitting down with some priorities.

After all, this is the same dual UHD / FHD display with largely the same specs, and the same rock-solid chassis. RAM spans 32GB up to 128GB in the US (only 64GB in the UK), while 2TB and 1TB storage options are available as well.

Ports are bountiful, with both a Thunderbolt 5 and 4 at your disposal (though some kind of labelling system would have been appreciated), as well as three Type-As and an RJ45 for a wired connection.

Razer Blade 18 performance

Well, this is about as close any gaming laptop has got to threatening the MSI Raider A18 HX A9W's throne. The previously 'most powerful' gaming laptop I tested has come in neck and neck with the Razer Blade 18 from my RTX 5090 tests, and at times Sneki's in with a shot at gaining an edge.

MSI beat Razer in two out of my three 3D Mark tests (Fire Strike, the easier run, and Steel Nomad, the hardest and most true to life run). An early point for the Raider. Then we get to the in-game benchmarks, where the duo tie in FHD and UHD wins, with Razer taking the crown for QHD performance overall. That's a tie so far.

* With DLSS x4 generation enabled, the Razer Blade 18 averaged 172fps in Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K RT Ultra.

We can try and break that tie with CPU-only scores. The Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus scored 3,053 in its single core test and 20,387 in its multi core test. The first is good news for the Raider with its beefy AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D averaging around 3,186 in user tests. The second brings Razer right back into the race - AMD generally only musters a 20,220 position here.

The Razer Blade 18 has blown it out the park with its performance. This is a slimline chassis operating with half the RAM of the MSI Raider and still keeping pace with the monster.

That means we'll need to look deeper into the most important benchmarks; demanding QHD and UHD in-game runs and single core CPU performance.

Cyberpunk 2077 in RT: Ultra represents the biggest challenge in my test pool, and we're still pretty close here. The Razer Blade 18 ran at an average of 86fps in these conditions, with the MSI Raider eking ahead at 90fps. The script is flipped in 4K, with the Razer Blade 18 sitting at 60fps and the Raider dropping slightly to 59fps. These are both evenly matched machines.

Ultimately, then, it comes down to that single core performance. The Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus may be helping the Blade 18 keep its battery life in check, but it's not quite getting the machine over the line against the most powerful rig on the market.

What I loved about the Razer Blade 18

4K is a real luxury

You won't find too many 4K gaming laptops on the shelves right now, which is a little frustrating considering the RTX 5090 is the first mobile GPU I've seen that can actually natively tackle this kind of resolution in modern demanding games and DLSS 5 can get you there on lower cards as well.

Still, this is one of the few rigs I've tested in the last few years pushing that resolution up to a super crisp UHD+, and games look fantastic as a result. Doom: The Dark Ages is one of my favorites to run on these high-end panels, and every gnarly detail is offered up in incredible sharpness.

If you're spending big on immersive single-player content, this is a rare feature to keep an eye on. While other 4K rigs, like the MSI Raider A18 HX, opt for MiniLED panels, though, Razer has stuck with an IPS screen here. It's still got a card in its pocket, though, because at the flip of a switch (and a restart of the laptop), the Blade 18 can run in either 4K 240Hz or 1200p 440Hz.

It's a double edged sword as we'll see below, but it does give Razer a unique leg up against the competition. This is a unique party trick, allowing for both immersive solo ventures at full UHD+ resolution or faster competitive endeavours that prioritize sky-high framerates over visual detailing.

I did, however, encounter a few times when my refresh rate seemed to become locked to 60Hz in full 4K. A quick jump into Nvidia Control Panel could generally rectify the issue, though not always, and Synapse software didn't quite seem to catch up with the change once I'd made it. I've reached out to Razer regarding the issue, and will update here once I've heard back.

Big doesn't have to mean chunky

I feel like I say it every time a Razer laptop is on my desk but yes, this looks like a Razer Blade. Sneki hasn't deviated from the all-black CNC-milled aluminum chassis in years and it's not about to now. Being an 18-incher, this thing is still a lot wider than the Razer Blade 16 or Razer Blade 14 perched on my desk, but it's far from the cumbersome giants I usually have to wrestle with.

Measuring in at 1.1 inches thick with the lid closed, it's thinner than the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 and MSI Raider A18 (both 1.26-inches) while also maintaining a lighter weight. You're adding 3.1kg to your backpack, compared to Asus's 3.3kg waistline and MSI's 3.6kg heft.

That's still by no means at the lightest end of the market, an 18-inch gaming laptop isn't designed to be karted around, but it is slightly more portable than the chunkier beasts.

Impressive battery life

I can forgive gaming laptops for lacking battery life, and 18-inch powerhouses get an additional pass, but the Razer Blade 18 manages to perform surprisingly well without its charger close by. That's a relief, considering the chunky power brick shipped in the box.

I generally aim for a comfortable two-odd hours of gaming time on a larger 18-inch machine, with power and graphical settings whittled down to a playable state. The Blade 18 held up for just over three hours of Doom: The Dark Ages during testing, with about six hours of work (Chrome tabs, Spotify, and the odd image edit) achievable in a more balanced productivity setting.

For reference, the MSI Raider lasted for just over an hour when gaming and about three hours in productivity with full Eco Silent Mode and 50% screen brightness.

That's certainly a win for the efficiency-minded Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus.

Satisfying controls

With a full-sized keyboard and an expansive trackpad, the Blade 18 is outfitted with everything you need for both games and productivity - but it also feels fantastic.

1.5mm key travel and a 63g actuation force make for a nicely snappy set of switches with a firm base and energetic bounce. Of course, I'd expect a $5,000+ gaming laptop to offer a nice typing experience but it can't be taken for granted. The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18, for example, has a little more flex than I'd expect from this kind of price and the MSI Raider (despite its SteelSeries mechanical keys) is particularly wobbly.

While both its competitors do away with Razer's half-sized up/down arrow keys, then, it's by far the best option for those typing over longer periods.

What to consider about the Razer Blade 18

Price doesn't keep up with incremental update

The only major difference between the early 2025 Razer Blade 18 and this one is that processor. The Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus has stepped in and taken the reins from the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU. That's a processor that averages out at 2,799 single-core and 17,783 multi-core on Geekbench 6. We're looking at a 9% increase in the former test, and a 14.6% increase in the second.

The problem is that overall 10% price increase. While it sits inline with CPU performance upgrades (though slightly higher than single-core performance uplift), the 275HX is unlikely to meaningfully downgrade your experience. These are very similar chips - you'll feel that RTX 5090 start to sag long before the CPU starts presenting problems.

Screen investment only makes sense for niche players

Back to that dual UHD+/FHD+ display, then. One can only assume it's adding to the final price tag, and potentially in no small way. Considering we're already paying a premium compared to last year's model, I'd argue the ability to swap down to high-speed 1200p isn't in the best interests of most players. It's only going to be the ultra-competitive among us who are unhappy with the kinds of framerates that RTX 5090 can spit out at full throttle, and only those players who will even be able to take advantage of the sky-high 440Hz refresh rate.

Considering Mini LED options are rife across the rest of the high-end 18-inch market, offering a boosted punch to colors and vibrancy compared to the Blade 18, I'd rather invest the cash in that panel type or keep it in my pocket.

Runs a little warmer than chunkier models

The Blade 18's slimline design comes with its own drawbacks as well. The machine becomes noticeably hot to the touch after around half an hour of intensive gaming. Poring over a sweltering keyboard in a heatwave isn't exactly my idea of comfort, even if thermals never climbed to a throttling level. Using the Blade 18's keyboard becomes a slightly sticky endeavour after a short while, by virtue of that more condensed unibody design.

Chunkier machines may be more difficult to transport but, as a desktop replacement, I'd take the extra vents and grills instead.

Should you buy the Razer Blade 18?

See, now this is why I love and hate Razer laptops. I can spend a thousand words talking about how great it looks, feels, and plays, and then ultimately have to say it's difficult to recommend.

Up there with the best Alienware laptops, these are some of the most expensive models on the market and the 2026 Blade 18 not only upcharges by $500 compared to last year's, its dual-mode display is adding potentially unnecessary costing into that final price. It's vastly more expensive than the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 and a good chunk of change costlier than larger 16-inch models.

And yet, in some lights, it's worth it.

The older model I mean, definitely buy the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX variant while it's still around.

This thing is packing just as much power as the MSI Raider A18 HX A9W, for slightly less cash than MSI's $5,609.99 MSRP. For your money you're getting the same performance, a faster UHD+ refresh rate, a far more premium build quality, an actually workable battery life, and a more compact form factor. That's pretty compelling.

It's not a decision without sacrifice; the Raider wins for its overall screen quality thanks to that Mini LED panel and it also adds an additional Thunderbolt 5 rather than reserving one USB-C for Thunderbolt 4. The final ace in MSI's deck is its SSD. It's one of the few gaming laptops packing a full Gen 5 drive.

Ultimately, if you're shopping in these upper echelons with your heart set on a machine that looks and feels like its price tag, Razer's going to be your best bet. If you just want 60fps QHD power on a larger, immersive 18-inch display, Asus still wins for overall value for money.

How I tested the Razer Blade 18

The Razer Blade 18 became my central control panel for a period of two weeks, with some testing overlapping the Acer Nitro 18 AI. In that time I used the machine for work, play, and everything in between, running Doom: The Dark Ages, High on Life 2, and Planet Coaster 2 for day to day sessions.

I used 3D Mark's Time Spy, Steel Nomad, and Fire Strike benchmarks with the Blade set to a Turbo performance setting while testing in-game across Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Horizon Zero Dawn: Remastered, and Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p, 1600p, and UHD+ in each game's high and highest settings. Each test was completed three times, with the final result above representing an average of each run.

For more information on how we test gaming laptops, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I've been testing plenty more of the best Razer laptops, as well as all the best Asus gaming laptops on the market. For something a little more reserved, though, check out the best gaming handhelds available.

Razer is known for its cat-ear headsets, but the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is the set I'd recommend the most for those after the purrr-fect pair.

While the majority of the Kraken Kitty line is full of limiting wired or Bluetooth-only headsets, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is the first to bring 2.4GHz into the mix. Its extra wireless options don't make it an entirely no-brainer recommendation as its $179.99 MSRP is a bit much for its boasted features. However, today's discounted $104.99 rate at Amazon feels far more reasonable, especially as it's never been this cheap before.

There's always a bit of an assumption that headsets that cater to players with a love of everything cute and cozy must be pretty rubbish, but the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is proof that's not the case. While it's definitely priced a bit higher than I'd like on a normal discount-free day, this is still a fantastic wireless option.

Finding a pair with a trio of connectivity options around the $100 mark isn't a difficult feat, but it's important when you consider that so many of Razer's other pairs aimed at 'cute and cozy' players are usually wired or Bluetooth only. Even the most recently announced Cinnamoroll Edition Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT pair drops 2.4GHz.

Those after a cute pair with customizable Chroma-powered RGB ears deserve to take advantage of a low-latency wireless connection as much as anyone.

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The headset also features the brand's 40 mm Razer TriForce Titanium audio drivers, the very ones found in the Razer Barracuda X Chroma -one of my favorite Razer releases.

Amazon states that today's Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro headset is a "limited time" deal, and as of typing, 53% of people have already claimed one for their own setups. That's not too surprising given this is the lowest I've ever seen for this headset, which I'm more used to seeing marked down to $129.99, as it was during March earlier this year. But with that in mind, you need to be quick if you want to pick this up for a price that seems more than reasonable for its specs on offer.

• View all Razer Kraken Kitty gaming headsets at Amazon

If you're not a cat person, I've also rounded up the best PC headsets for gaming, the best PS5 headsets, and the best Xbox Series X headsets for your setup.

Razer announced its brand new Cinnamoroll Edition Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT wireless headset on July 9, and it's one of the most adorable pairs of cups the brand has unveiled so far.

The Kraken Kitty V2 BT, which is set to launch on July 20, 2026, has swapped its usual pointy, RGB Chroma-powered cat-ears for Cinnamoroll's adorable puppy dog ones instead. While other Razer collabs result in headsets that are simply covered in officially licensed art, this partnership with Sanrio has resulted in a pair that looks so recognisable for the iconic Sanrio mascot that you could use it for cosplay. As someone who hasn't officially made an outfit in several years, I am seriously considering doing just that with this upcoming $139.99 (Razer) pair.

I cover plenty of the cutest and best gaming headsets released by brands like Razer, but so often these collabs result in designs that are a little more understated. Take the recently announced upcoming Razer Espeon & Umbreon Collection for an example. It includes an Espeon and Umbreon Edition Razer Kraken V4 X headset, but it's essentially just a purple version of the existing pair, with some images of the two Pokemon on the headband.

As officially licensed tech typically comes at a higher price (this Cinnamoroll Edition is $40 more than the typical Kraken Kitty V2 BT at $99.99 at Amazon), I much prefer when the designs are more in your face about their inspirations. Fortunately, that's exactly what's happened for this new Cinnamoroll Edition model. Cinnamoroll is known for his down-turned floppy ears, and they're right there on the headband, as is the iconic white and pastel blue color palette that I associate with the Sanrio puppy.

If you were to create a gijinka cosplay (which means to create a human design inspired by an animal/creature), this pair would be perfect. I can already imagine the little ears peeking through a matching white wig. The only problem that would arise would be disguising the Chroma-powered RGB Razer logos on each cup, but the rest of the Cinnamoroll iconography is fortunately reserved for the interior of the headset, which is ideal for cosplay. The real Cinnamoroll doesn't wear images of himself, so why would you in cosplay form?

Of course, I'm not going to recommend that you grab this upcoming $139.99 pair if you purely if you want to dress up as your favorite Sanrio character. It should really be on your radar if you want to look cute and if you're after a new gaming headset. It's rocking the brand's TriForce 40 mm audio drivers, which are found throughout the best Razer headsets available today and still sound fantastic.

Begrudgingly, this is a Bluetooth model, and so there's no 2.4GHz wireless to take advantage of. With that in mind, I'd mainly recommend it to PC players, rather than anyone rocking a PS5. While that might be disappointing to some, this headset is part of a wider PC Cinnamoroll Edition lineup, which also includes a Razer Iskur V2 X NewGen gaming chair available for $449.99 at Amazon, so there's plenty of opportunity to give your desktop a freshly baked Cinnamoroll look.

• View all Razer wireless gaming headsets at Amazon

If you aren't a Sanrio fan, I've also rounded up the best PC headsets for gaming, the best PS5 headsets, and the best Xbox Series X headsets to check out.

So long as the current gaming climate hasn't made you throw out your consoles in a fit of rage, you can soon grab a pair of Razer's Hammerhead V3 X Hyperspeed earphones for both your Xbox Series X/S and the PS5.

Razer unveiled on July 9, 2026, that both an Xbox and a PS5 model of the best gaming earbud contenders were incoming, sporting bespoke Xbox and Sony branding. Of course, these new earphones aren't just about showcasing the brand's synonymous logos and black and white color palettes, as they now allow full Bluetooth support to work natively on both consoles, which was not previously possible.

Xbox and PS5 consoles don't natively support Bluetooth audio, which is why you often see the best gaming headsets released in Xbox models too. However, with these upcoming buds, that won't be an issue, though you'll have to wait a bit to find out pricing and availability if you want these buds for yourself.

Razer has remained hush-hush on the pricing and availability for these upcoming earphones for now. However, both incoming Hammerhead V3 X Hyperspeed earbuds for Xbox and PS5 appear identical to the existing model, besides the fact that each one will allow Bluetooth audio to work without a hitch.

They'll not only provide you with Bluetooth 5.3 support, but you'll also be able to take advantage of the brand's speedy ultra-low-latency 2.4 GHz audio, which you can enable by plugging the charging case into the console of your choice. That's right, the included HyperSpeed Case doesn't just look the part with its RGB lighting, but it doubles up as a wireless transmitter, so you don't have to keep track of any tiny additional dongles.

Talking of the buds HyperSpeed Case, it can provide an additional 25 hours of charge for the buds, adding to the 10 hours of existing playback. Up to 35 hours isn't to scoff at, especially if these upcoming buds are priced at a similar $100 price point to the non-Xbox and PS5 model.

Additionally, the earbuds feature an IPX4-rated water-resistant design, so they'll double up as a great way to listen to music on the go, something I do with my SteelSeries Arctis Game Buds regularly. However, gamers will be able to specifically take advantage of the pair's spatial audio capabilities, which include support with Windows Sonic for Xbox platforms, 3D Audio on PlayStation, and THX Spatial Audio on PC, so even those who play their favorite Xbox titles on their gaming PCs haven't been excluded.

Razer did not include any pricing or availability details in its Hammerhead V3 X Hyperspeed for Xbox and PlayStation announcement, so you'll have to be patient if you want these for yourself. However, PS5 players can simply grab the existing pair if you don't mind giving Bluetooth a miss. In fact, that could even be the cheaper option if these proprietary Xbox and PS5 versions drive up the MSRP - which is worth looking out for.

• View all Razer gaming earbuds at Amazon

If you prefer traditional cups to earbuds, I've also rounded up the best PS5 headsets, the best Xbox Series X headsets, and the best PC headsets for gaming available today.

Razer has dropped the third of its Pokemon collaborations, this time giving Eevee evolution fans something to get excited about with the new Espeon & Umbreon Collection.

Launching in partnership with The Pokemon Company and coincidentally a few months before the Pokemon 30th Anniversary, the Espeon and Umbreon line-up is made up of a stunning Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless gaming keyboard, Razer Cobra gaming mouse, Razer Gigantus V2 mouse mat, and a wired Razer Kraken V4 X gaming headset, all decked out with art of the two Gen two Pokemon. However, unlike Pokemon Gold and Silver, there's no special requirements to grab them besides logging onto the official Razer store and parting with your hard-earned cash.

Where to order the Razer Espeon & Umbreon Collection

Just like the Razer Gengar Collection, purple is the color of choice for the entire collection, which is actually a clever decision on Razer's part. Not just because Espeon is known for its pretty purple color palette, but grabbing any of these new PC gaming accessories would tie in nicely with the Gengar ones, should you already have them in your setup.

In fact, the Gengar Collection doesn't have a keyboard, which makes this new Espeon and Umbreon Edition Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless ($119.99 at Razer) even more intriguing. It's the same gaming keyboard that you can buy without the Pokemon branding, sporting low-profile keys and the brand's Mecha-Membrane switches, but the board is coated in this stunning dark purple colorway, which shines when the Razer Chroma-powered RGB lighting is set to a matching light purple-pink, as seen in the official marketing images.

The two Eevee evolutions can be spotted hiding around the directional keys and are hard to ignore as they sit dead center on the accompanying wrist rest. While the Pokémon theming is a bit more subtle than I personally prefer, the little star designs and the UV-painted keycaps should help this keyboard shine amongst your setup, as would the matching Razer Cobra gaming mouse.

At $59.99 it's one of the cheapest additions to this new collection, yet it's also one of the cutest. Espeon and Umbreon can be found on the left and right keys, and Razer has gone for a slightly different design this time around. Instead of just re-using the same depiction of the sitting Pokemon as the keyboard, Espeon is giving a cheeky wink as Umbreon stands guard. The palm rest of this Razer Optical Mouse with Gen 3 switches also plays host to a swarm of stars that surrounds an RGB Chroma-powered Razer logo, which is a nice touch.

I would have preferred to see a glowing Pokeball instead, but it makes sense that Razer would want to keep its branding intact. Especially as it mirrors that of the Gengar Edition Razer Cobra gaming mouse. At least the Razer branding is minimal on the matching Espeon and Umbreon Razer Gigantus V2 mouse mat ($29.99). The medium model remains the cheapest item in the set, and features a textured micro-weave cloth surface that showcases the two Pokemon as they appear on the gaming keyboard.

Last but not least, the Razer Espeon and Umbreon Collection is rounded off with a new version of the Razer Kraken V4 X headset. As the hardware team's best gaming headset connoisseur, this is the accessory that has most caught my eye, though I'm disappointed to see that Razer played it a little safe with this new Pokemon release.

While the Gengar Kraken Kitty V2 headset went all out by replicating the Pokemon's ears and hair tufts with a pair of cups that I'd easily incorporate into a cosplay if I still made costumes, this new Kraken V4 X headset has none of that. Don't get me wrong, it still looks great with its light and dark purple color palette, and the Espeon and Umbreon illustrations that are peeking from inside the earcushions, but I was hoping for a design that felt a bit more elaborate.

I was also hoping that Razer would take an existing wireless headset like the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro and use it as the basis for its next Pokemon collection, as the Kraken V4 X is limited by its wired connectivity. However, at least it's a pair that's got the brand's TriForce 40 mm audio drivers in tow, so while you won't have Bluetooth or 2.4GHz to play around with, it should still sound pretty grand.

The entirety of this new Razer Espeon and Umbreon Collection is available now from the official Razer online store. However, if you aren't a fan of these old-school Eevee evolutions, you could always grab the Gengar Collection starting from $59.99 at Razer instead.

Check out our guides to the best PC gaming headset, the best gaming keyboard, and the best gaming chair if you want to catch all the best accessories for your PC gaming setup.

Razer has been in the microphone market for just over a decade now, but the latest entry in the Seiren product range is taking a slightly different approach than the USB options that came before it. The Sieren V3 Pro taps into one of the best trends in the microphones for streaming and gaming market of late: hybrid connectivity.

The Sieren V3 Pro features both XLR and USB-C audio connections, which makes a clear statement that Razer wants to compete with the best. There still aren't many of these mics around; there's the Shure MV7+, the Rode PodMic USB, and the Maono PD200W. Razer says with this mic it wants to bridge the gap between entry-level gear for streaming and content creation that may not be the type of quality folks need in the long term, and the overly pricey but equally limited XLR options aimed at "pro" users.

The Sieren V3 certainly looks like it's taking a different approach to things. Gone is the loud RGB of the Sieren V3 Chroma, as it's relegated to a smaller (much classier) ring around the mic's body. The all-black aesthetic and cylindrical shape are a solid entry into a Shure SM7dB lookalike contest - which undoubtedly makes people associate it with a pro-level microphone.

It's got 32-bit float support for a wider dynamic range, with a view to streamlining post-production work. It comes with a built-in noise gate, compressor, limiter, and AI-noise remover, which may help to match it up against the Elgato Wave3 Mk2.

A 30mm dynamic capsule resides inside, protected by a built-in shock absorber and a removable pop filter. Unlike a lot of XLR mics, the V3 Pro also has some on-board controls, like a small gain control dial on its bottom, and a tap-to-mute sensor button. If you're not quite at the stage where you're thinking about one of the best streaming mixers yet, the Sieren V3 Pro has a 3.5mm headphone jack so you can channel all your other PC audio through it and still benefit from live monitoring.

The Zinc unibody design means you can mount it to a boom arm, but it comes with a standard desk stand.

Of course, any Razer peripheral is going to lean on Synapse to help you manage it. The lighting, audio enhancements, and the initial setup of the mic will all rely on Synapse software. I'm not a huge fan of this since Synapse is a fairly heavy peripheral application that tends to compete with any and all other applications you run through your gaming PC. It also has a hefty install size and has proven near impossible to uninstall for me in the past without the use of a third-party storage software that can get by Razer's background trickery.

As you might guess, I'm not super eager to use Synapse again to test this mic out, but I'm hoping if it's plugged in through a RodeCaster Duo or other audio interface through XLR, Synapse won't force itself into play as a middleman. Either way, to get the full benefits, you might be beholden to team Sneki's app.

In terms of value, the Seiren V3 Pro does sit in an interesting place. At $249, it's definitely pricey at first glance, especially if you're used to Razer's previous USB-only mics. Compared to Shure's MV7+, the V3 Pro is $50 cheaper, but that's really about it in terms of other hybrid mics that are more expensive than this in 2026. The Rode PodMic USB has a full price of $209 but is frequently discounted down below that (right now it's grabbable for $180 at Amazon). The SteelSeries Alias Pro, which comes with an XLR/USB interface, comes in at $369 at full price, but is again frequently discounted, with a lowest-ever price at Amazon of $159 (average price of $259).

Then things get even worse, because the Maono PD200W comes in below them all at $119.99 (currently available for $99.99 at Amazon). The Razer Seiren V3 Pro has a lot going for it, and I'm looking forward to testing it out for sure, but the mic market has a problem competing with the PD200W because it offers such insane value with not only XLR/USB connections, but also wireless connectivity as well.

I'd have thought that an XLR mic from Razer might mean we finally see a new audio mixer from the brand, since its one and only so far has been quietly aging and might even be unavailable in some territories now. Razer tells me that there are no plans for a new mixer or audio interface at this time, which feels like a missed opportunity to squeeze in some bundles and further upgrade paths for pro-level creators.

Razer has been in the gaming chair market for a while now, but at the time of writing, it finds itself in a tough spot. Yes, it's facing the same old competition as it always has from the mainstay brands like Secretlab and Herman Miller, but it's the newer, emergent brands and "smaller" names on its flanks that are starting to eat into its market share. Desk chairs, including the best gaming chairs, are in an innovative renaissance right now, and the worst thing a brand can be at a time like that is stagnant.

Razer now has to contend with the likes of LiberNovo and its viral dynamic backrest; it has to deal with AutoFull offering a floating backrest, heating and ventilation, Shiatsu massage features, and 720-degree armrests. Razer has to go up against a million and one ergonomic "office" style chairs that dip into the gaming market, and scrappy brands like Eureka Ergonomic and AndaSeat that try to offer as many features as possible for a more affordable price than you'll find elsewhere. And Razer's answer? Doubling down on the Iskur V2 it came out with over two years ago.

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen commits the sin of not feeling "new" at all, because while all the other brands duke it out with impressive attributes and innovations, Razer is sticking its hand in the air and shouting, "Hey, remember our chair though?" I certainly do remember the original Iskur V2, as well as its full price tag of $649.99/£649.99, and I'm not sure slapping that sticker back on the "NewGen" version is going to do Razer any favors.

Price

Floating backrests and dynamic lumbar systems are becoming a common theme in the gaming and desk chair market at the moment, and for good reason. It feels as though designers are finally waking up to the fact that adjustability is one thing, but human beings move frequently when they sit down all day, so we need something that can keep up without needing loads of manual adjustments. Razer was one of the first big brands to offer this with the original Razer Iskur V2, which had one of the best lumbar support systems we had come across at the time.

It had an issue, though. It was $649.99/£649.99, which put it at a more expensive cost than the likes of Secretlab (before adding any extras onto the Titan Evo). Even worse, $649 then became a price point to avoid for any smaller brand, so it looked expensive versus newer rivals like the Corsair TC500 Luxe. Eventually, as more innovations started emerging and floating backrests became more commonplace, the Iskur V2 started to look limited compared to something like the AutoFull G7, or indeed the AutoFull M6 Ultra.

I got the impression from covering the gaming chair market in the years following the Iskur V2's release that, while it offered quality, it suffered because of its high price. When a chair starts drifting further and further away from its launch price and into discount aisles more often than not, you get the impression it's struggling to keep up with the competition. Soon enough, I started seeing the Iskur V2 in the discount aisle during Prime Day, Black Friday, and pretty much every other seasonal sale on the calendar. Then, all of a sudden, it was nowhere to be seen - I could barely find stock to recommend it at most of the big e-tailers.

Its cheaper alternative, the Razer Iskur V2 X, meanwhile, seemed to show that the brand was prepared to offer a simpler, more affordable gaming chair than usual, and I had hoped this was a sign of things to come for the inevitable Iskur V3. Lo and behold, the Iskur V2 NewGen was announced at CES 2026. Truth be told, it had Benjamin, our incomparable Tabletop and Merch Editor (who reviewed the original Iskur V2 for us), and me scratching our heads. Costing the same $649 as its predecessor did, its big selling point was a new, more breathable leatherette upholstery and... not much else?

I remember asking Benjamin if he's ever had an issue with the leatherette on the Iskur V2 not being breathable enough. He said no, and he's sat in it since reviewing it. I looked online to see if folks on Reddit had been complaining about temperature control issues in the Iskur V2. I couldn't see anything, so I'm a tad perplexed at this refresh.

Thankfully, Razer isn't charging more for this new model than it did previously. But I can't help but look at this as a way to discontinue the frequently-discounted Iskur V2, bring back the original price, and sell again with the premise of "New".

Design & Features

Because there's no avoiding it, the Iskur V2 NewGen is essentially the exact same chair as the original. In many ways, it feels like an answer to the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition. It's essentially the same product, but the emphasis on refreshing it has been through using a new upholstery, a more breathable cushioning setup, and slightly widening the dimensions.

To actually determine what is different about the NewGen model, I've scoured the product pages for both versions of the Iskur V2. The original's hyperflex backrest was called the "World's First 6D adaptive & adjustable lumbar support", while the NewGen model rebrands it to the "World's First Razer Hyperflex Lumbar Support System" - from the descriptions, both do the same thing. Similarly, both chairs are said by Razer to use "Dual-Density, Cold-Cured Foam Seat Cushions", but the new model has a breathable, perforated design. By the looks of it, the seat on the NewGen edition has also been widened slightly both in its shoulder curvature and seatbase.

Of course, the Razer Gen-2 EPU Leather with Cooltouch Technology is the biggest departure, and is apparently 13x more durable than regular PU leather. Elsewhere, all the listed designs and features of both seats are identical.

I do think only adding a new upholstery and some color options (the NewGen edition is available in Black and Green, Black, Quartz, and Light Grey) is a bit of a copout, even if there are other minor changes. But I don't misunderstand that new upholstery can make a big difference to any chair. People don't realize it, but one upholstery versus another can fundamentally alter the comfort and plushness of a seat.

If a leather or a fabric material is put together with too tight a weave, then it won't have the stretch it needs to really bend into the cushioning under your weight. Similarly, if the fabric is too loose, the hard work a brand has done finding the exact cushioning firmness they want will be compromised. Don't use a premium material, or don't use the right amount over each chair section, and it'll fray and damage over time. There's a lot to think about with gaming chair upholstery, so I don't mistake how big a change it can make.

From my experience with the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen, I don't feel upholstery alone can make a big enough difference on its own, though. For its NanoGen model, Secretlab went back to the foundations and added a whole new level of cushioning at the same time - and even then, it didn't make a massive difference for me personally. From all the marketing and press material I can see, it doesn't seem as though Razer has added new cushioning to this seat, just made it more breathable.

Carrying over from the original, you get 4D armrests, reactive seat tilt, and 152 degrees of recline.

Assembly

One thing I do have to applaud is Razer's assembly process, not because it's any more streamlined than your average gaming chair, but mainly because of the consolidation of packaging and the unique charm and personality given to the process. Upon first opening the box, you'll be met with a whimsical placard and a pair of nylon gloves. Razer is clearly catering to its audience here with nerdy Thanos references as well as some excellent sitting position warnings. A+ for humour - it's not something I've seen in any other gaming chair assembly process.

Jokes aside, the addition of a pair of gloves actually comes in really handy during the build. They're not going to save your fingers from being crushed, but I have broken skin a couple of times while putting one of these things together. Not only that, they help to keep the chair clean, and your hands free of any oils that might be put on the metalwork for lubrication purposes. Maybe this is something brands like Secretlab should add to their included toolkits.

Assembly was fairly easy, the standard steps of how to build a gaming chair, so not anything to really report here. I did manage to build it myself, but then again, I am a professional, so if you struggle lifting heavy parts, a co-op partner can come in handy.

Performance

In a general sense, the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen is a really decent gaming chair with good build quality and a reasonable level of cushioning. Some chairs struggle to strike a balance between support and comfort, and the jury's still well and truly out on what is too firm and too soft - because every brand in the market has different ideas.

The Iskur V2 NewGen feels comfortable to fall into, and in the three or so weeks I tested it, I didn't notice myself with a numb rear end that made me shuffle into new positions often.

In a similar way, I really like the armrests. They have quite a plush surface to them and a really great shape that means your forearms have a flat surface to glide across while using mouse movements. There aren't infinite height adjustments, but I felt I had loads of scope to match up the exact level I needed for my desktop. I'd also like to applaud Razer for sticking to a more traditional 4D armrest system. Each dimension is controlled by a release catch, none of this clicky rotation nonsense, which never fails to fall out of position and infuriate me.

Overall, there's a lot to like about this chair, which is why, for all my reservations about its price and its lack of innovations, I would still recommend it. On the other hand, I do think this is a chair for gamer that's above my height.

There's a bit too much seat depth here for people under 6ft to really benefit from the ergonomics it offers. Don't get me wrong, I love having lots of seat depth and a bit more width to the seatbase, so I have the ability to cross my legs over or shuffle my weight onto one side if need be. But too much depth will start to encourage you outward from the back of the chair, moving your lower back away from where it's supposed to be, and sneakily introducing a slouching position as you sink deeper into it. That then makes the lumbar support less effective, and the chair's ergonomics as a whole suffer a bit.

Again, this is a problem I had as a 5'10 man, so your mileage may vary, but it completely threw the ergonomics Razer was clearly going for out of whack. I couldn't, for the life of me, find a lumbar adjustment that suited my back. Even at its lowest setting, I felt like my spine was being hyperextended. This Iskur V2 NewGen just feels to me like an XL chair that would suit larger frames a bit better.

This is where the price really starts to bother me, because I've tested more affordable gaming chairs, like the Eureka Ergonomic Python II, that offer almost an identical experience to the Iskur V2 (albeit without adjustable lumbar support) and do the entire ergonomic setup better. That chair comes in at half the price of the Iskur V2 NewGen, and has an even more substantial seat cushion, so there's very little excuse to be made for Razer charging as much as it does.

One thing I cannot understand going unchanged from the original Iskur V2, is the headrest. Back when my colleague Ben reviewed it, we raised the point that even back then, neck pillows with wraparound straps were out of date compared to more efficient magnetic ones. While testing the original, the headrest would continually shift out of position, and the new model suffers the same.

In fact, it pinged off the back of the NewGen model so often during testing that I decided the only way to remedy it was to take it off entirely. Without that neck pillow to encourage me to sit upright though, I felt my head falling forward far too often, again encouraging a slouched position.

It's 2026, and magnetic neck pillows are by far becoming the norm for gaming chairs, especially over $400. I cannot fathom why, if it were coming out with a NewGen model, Razer wouldn't look to make this change.

But instead, Razer focused on breathability, and if I'm totally honest, I'm not sure it shows. The leather material used on the NewGen edition feels premium and certainly cooling to the touch, but it isn't a perforated leatherette, which I would think of as a more breathable alternative.

Testing it in my Scottish flat as the temperature rises gently into the Summer months, a "breathable" option shouldn't have too much trouble staying cool. I still felt the backrest trapping heat, hugging my t-shirt, and I'd still have to peel myself away after a long period sitting in it. It really isn't as cooling as I think the brand intended, and I shudder to think how it would fare in countries that actually get warm during Summer.

If I get really nitpicky, it's also a bit infuriating when this leather material squeaks as you move around in the chair. Floating backrests can have this problem as upholstery needs to stand up to the friction of moving parts, but the leather used here is so much louder and doesn't fill me with confidence about longevity - even if Razer claims it's more durable.

Should you buy the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen?

Not at full price, no. I really do not think this is a chair that's worth $649/£649, and I expect Razer is going to find that out again as we see it start to drop in price. It may take a year, it may take a year and a half, but I don't see this almost identical design to the original Iskur V2 performing too well in a market that's moved on from it in many ways.

Further, I'd personally recommend that if you're under 6ft tall, you look at something else. Your mileage and somatotype may vary from mine, but this feels like a gaming chair designed for larger frames.

If you do manage to get it discounted by $100-200, I'd recommend it. There's a really decent chair here, with solid armrests and good cushioning.

How I tested the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen

I used the latest Razer Iskur as my chair for daily work and play for about three weeks before coming to a final verdict in this review. I usually like to test a chair for a full month, but seeing as we've already done longevity tests with the original model, I feel more confident taking less time with the new one.

I sat in it for around 8 hours a day and beyond when I was gaming at my desk on top of a remote working life. I assembled it alone, I configured the backrest and lumbar support in many different ways to get a feel for how it could serve both my and readers' bodies. I compared it against previous versions of the Iskur on specs and price, and compared it closely with my experience of sitting in loads of different types of gaming chairs over years of reviewing them.

For more on how we test gaming chairs, take a look at our hardware policy.

There's a lot of gaming hardware out there. Take a look at the best gaming desk, the best standing desk, and the best console gaming chair.

Razer and Logitech have been duking it out for generations now, but each brand's 2026 entries couldn't be more different. While Logitech went for reinvention with the X2 Superstrike's haptic switches, Razer went in the other direction.

One rolls the dice on a new way of interacting with your games, the other refines an already-winning formula. One is almost silent, the other is about as loud as you'll find. With both options occupying the high-end price range, the best gaming mouse for you will come down to how you hold your rodent and how you like your clacks.

Competitors

What I loved about the Razer Viper V4 Pro

Speed-focused design...

For particularly competitive players, there's a set of numbers that means more than everything else. The Razer Viper V4 Pro trims its waistline down to a solid 49g (in the black version I'm testing, the white option hits 50g). That's not quite the lightest gaming mouse on the market (check out the Corsair Sabre Pro V2 Ultralight for a reliable 36g option), but it's still pretty effortless in the hands. It's also easier to flick and spin than the Logitech G Pro X 2 Superstrike and its 61g form factor. The Viper range has always lived to become an extension of your arm, and this is the best we've seen so far.

Like its ancestors, the Viper keeps a flatter dome than many of its competitors and siblings. While the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro and Superstrike are by no means uncomfortable and accommodate a good range of grip types, there's a little extra wiggle room in this shape. There's more clearance to pivot the main body between the thumb and pinky during finer aiming moments in a claw grip, while taller mice will often bump into the base of the palm instead.

I do naturally prefer a greater curve on the thumb side than you'll find on either the Viper or the Superstrike, but that's only because I typically use the top of my thumb for a lot of the legwork. Everyone uses different muscles in their unique grip and control styles, so it's fairly subjective - if you find yourself working the thumb a lot more, though, something with a deeper gradient like the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 DEX offers a much more comfortable shape.

I was never cramped or forced into an awkward hold here, though. The softer matte finish isn't to my personal taste, but it's still grippy enough to withstand more frantic gameplay moments and feels luxuriously smooth in the hand.

... with the sensor to back it up

Nobody's expecting to come here and read that the Razer Viper V4 Pro is anything less than blindingly fast, but here we are. Whether or not the upgrade to a 50K DPI sensor, 930 IPS, and 90 G acceleration in the Focus Pro Optical sensor will be worth it for mere mortals is a question in itself. This isn't where Razer keeps its costs low, the Viper line is where it lets its tech rip - whether players need it or not.

The same can be said for its new 2.4GHz receiver, the same dome-shaped plugin we saw in the DeathAdder V4 Pro. It supports polling rates up to 8,000Hz - a speed that only the upper echelons of esports glory will be able to notice, let alone make use of. It's no reason in itself to buy the Razer Viper V4 Pro, but it's there for those who want it.

Sturdy battery life

Razer has historically done pretty well with the battery life of its rodents. While Corsair, SteelSeries, and Logitech tend to skew a little lower (averaging between 70 and 110 hours between them), even older releases like the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K have been punching at 110 to 150 hours. The Razer Viper V4 Pro ups the ante again, coming in at up to 180 hours in base 1,000Hz polling. That's the marketing number, but I've been running for two weeks (and that's been a two weeks of more gameplay than usual, with roughly 110 to 120 hours of work and gaming combined) and I still have 38% left on this charge.

Goodbye Synapse 4.0

Try as it might, Razer never quite managed to make its Synapse program the lightweight, stay-out-of-your-way software it needed to be. Thankfully, the brand is following a number of mainstream gaming hardware brands and taking its customizations to the web. That means no more downloads, crashes, and resource hogging. Synapse Web covers all the basics, including keybinding, DPI settings, sensor calibrations (and the nifty rotation and dynamic sensitivity tricks that come with them), and polling rates.

Unfortunately, it doesn't provide a fix for annoying Razer firmware updates - there are still far too many hoops to jump through in that department, and you'll still need to download the full suite.

Super tight scroll wheel

I do have to make special mention of this scroll wheel. Razer's done a bunch of fancy stuff with its encoder, swapping over to an optical sensor rather than a mechanical one. That makes for finely tuned precision in gameplay, but the actual mechanism behind this wheel is pulling just as much weight. There's a nice sense of heft to each rotation here, but it's a tactility that never gets in the way of speed. Notches clearly defined, comfortable, and easy to hit accurately. It's a small feature, but this is easily my favorite scroll wheel to date.

What to consider about the Razer Viper V4 Pro

The V3 Pro still looks pretty great as well

Unlike Logitech, Razer isn't doing anything revolutionary with this year's flagship. This is still the same shape and feel as you'll find in the Razer Viper V3 Pro. A better sensor, slightly lower weight, that gorgeous scroll wheel, and small tune up on battery life certainly makes it a worthwhile release for the true competitors among us, but there's nothing massive separating the V4 Pro from its predecessor.

Unless you're at the top of your leaderboard, there's nothing in here to pull you away from the older (and now much cheaper) previous generation.

You'll certainly hear it coming

I was taken aback by the sheer audacity of these main clicks when I first got the Viper V4 Pro on the desk - and I'm a fan of a sturdy snap. It's a large, brash, thunky sound profile that raises the decibels over pretty much everything else I've tested in the last year. These clicks are never hollow or pingy, but they're going to be noticed if you're sweeping and tapping in a quieter space. If you need your setup to stay quiet, they're loud enough to turn you away from the Viper entirely, running straight into the Superstrike's whisper-quiet haptic arms.

Should you buy the Razer Viper V4 Pro?

As with all flagship releases, the Razer Viper V4 Pro isn't actually made for the vast majority of players. Its tech, features, and FPS-first mentality just aren't justifiable for the budgets of cross-genre Steam generalists. If, however, you're a competitive player looking to up your game or support your skills with lightweight, super-fast hardware, that value comes into sharper focus.

The Viper V4 Pro succeeds in everything it sets out to do. It's supremely fast, effortless to wield, and holds its power for a particularly long time. Whether that's enough when the Logitech G Pro X 2 Superstrike is lumbering onto the battlefield is another matter.

If you're going for a classic FPS experience, where low weight, high reaction times, and fingertip grips rule all, the Viper V4 Pro is your go-to. It's a traditional esports gaming mouse dressed to the nines. If you want a new generation of main clicks, and you're happy to experiment with the possibilities afforded by the Superstrike, though, new technologies could prove more fruitful.

How I tested the Razer Viper V4 Pro

I used the Razer Viper V4 Pro for a period of two weeks, running the mouse for all my daily work, play, streaming, browsing, and everything in between. I tested specifically in Apex Legends and CS2, both on its own and side by side with the Viper V3 Pro and Logitech G Pro X 2 Superstrike, while also using the mouse for Mixtape, Planet Coaster 2, and High on Life 2.

For more information on how we test gaming mice, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

We're also hunting down all the best wireless gaming mouse models as well as more of the best Razer mice and the best Logitech gaming mice on the market.

The detail on display with Razer's Gengar Collection is sublime. From the glowing silhouettes of the ghostly apparition on the headset to the subtle background pattern on the mouse that features iconography of not just Gengar, but tiny little Poke Balls too - it's hard not to be obsessed as an old school Pokemon fan.

If I had to point out an issue however, it'd definitely be the price. At launch, you were mostly paying for the Pokemon aesthetic, as is often the case with any licensed gaming tech. That's why I was grinning ear to ear like Gengar itself when I saw it had all been discounted for Amazon Gaming Week. As of now, you can grab the Razer Gigantus V2 XXL Gaming Mouse Pad for just $39.99 (Amazon) and the matching headset for $111.99 (Amazon), the lowest prices I've seen for them yet. Even the mouse has dropped in price, but if you're after the whole lot, I recommend getting there quickly, as these kind of savings are god-pack level rare.

I'm a sucker for a good set of licensed gaming accessories, and Razer's Gengar Collection is so good that it still haunts my dreams and my PC setup. The official accessories range is not the first of Razer's attempts at launching a wealth of goodies with Pokemon slathered all over them, but it's undoubtedly the best - well, so long as you're a Ghost-Type fan.

f you're questioning grabbing any of these discounted goodies today, I'd recommend being a big fan of Gengar, as it's the star across the whole range. That may sound obvious, but some of the products go so ham into the theming that I can't foresee casual Pokemon fans appreciating their splendour.

Take, for example, the glorious Razer Kraken Kitty V2 USB Wired Headset, which has never been this cheap before. It doesn't just feature some overused artwork, but the headband replicates the ears and spikes of hair on Gengar's head. It's basically a 'what-if a pair like the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro was Gengar themed'. Cosplayers might want to take note.

The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 USB Wired Headset isn't a wireless headset, though, so you are still paying a bit more for style over substance with today's deal. Alternatives like the Razer Barracuda X Chroma, available for $89.99 at Amazon, are plenty more featureful, but won't scratch that Pokemon itch. While you aren't getting the most high-end features here, this headset still sounds fantastic as it's equipped with Razer's iconic 40mm Triforce audio drivers, which are found in a range of my favorite older headsets from the brand.

It's a similar situation with the Razer Cobra Wired Gaming Mouse. If I were to ask the hardware team's resident rodent expert, Tabitha Baker, for the best gaming mouse out there, she'd likely recommend the Razer Deathadder V4 Pro or the Logitech G203 Lightsync and not this bad boy. However, it's still going to be a nice touch to any Pokemon-themed setup. The Razer Chroma-powered RGB lighting can sync up to the Gengar headset too, which is a really nice touch.

Can you find a more featureful range of accessories that match (or are even cheaper) than today's Razer Gengar Collection Amazing Gaming Week savings? Absolutely. Even with these record-low price drops, you're still paying more for the Pokémon-ness of it all, rather than what the tech can do.

Yet if you're after a spooky and cozy look to your gaming space, this range is ideal for Pokemon nerds - so much so that my partner has 'borrowed' the entire range from me, and I don't expect I'll see it returned to me any time soon.

• View all Razer Pokemon gaming accessories at Amazon

Our team has also rounded up the best PC headsets for gaming, the best PC controllers for gaming, and the best gaming chairs if you're looking to give your setup an upgrade.