Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro
Razer has revitalized its DeathStalker line of ultra-slim keyboards with the new DeathStalker V2 and V2 Pro.
Previously, the super-slim, low-profile DeathStalker featured chiclet (think, laptop) keys mounted on a membrane keyboard. Sure, it looked nice, but it was hardly the pro typing experience that Razer has cultivated for its keyboards in the past few years.
That's why they went back to the drawing board with the DeathStalker V2 Pro to ensure that, not only did they retain the refined profile that original DeathStalker buyers were looking for, but they brought a brand new level of precision typing to the party.
What Is It?
The Razer DeathStalker V2 is a full, ultra-slim, low-profile, optical switch keyboard, with RGB effects powered by the (Windows-only) Razer Synapse app and your choice of red linear or purple clicky switches.
The V2 Pro adds wireless and comes in full and tenkeyless configurations. It has a handy switch on the that lets you to switch between up to three devices via Bluetooth. You can also use the included Hyperspeed Wireless dongle to connect the DeathStalker V2 Pro and a compatible Razer mouse at the same time.
Both have a solid aluminum top frame for stability and clicky media wheel for volume control (among other things).
The V2 is $199 while the V2 pro is either $219 or $249, depending on configuration. They're all available on the Razer website.
How Is It Better Than V1?
Razer took everything that they've learned about optical switches and applied it to the DeathStalker V2 line to create its lowest profile switch yet. Instead of a mushy membrane, each key has an actuated switch with an integrated infra-red beam. This allows for a much shorter travel time for each key.
The takeaway? You don't have to press as hard to type quickly or accurately.
Because the switches are so low-profile, they sit lower in the keyboard case, allowing you to maintain a comfortable neutral wrist position (though I do wish they'd released a low-profile wrist rest to go along with the new keyboard).
Instead of chiclet keys (so 2000s), Razer brings its modern keycap technology to a new low-profile form factor. The keys are laser-etched to let all that sweet RGB color bleed through. They've also got a coating that, Razer claims, will outlast even their vaunted doubleshot PBT caps, some of the most durable keycaps on the market.
When connected via Hyperspeed Wireless, the DeathStalker V2 Pro will use adaptive frequency technology to select uncrowded wireless bands, ensuring a connection so solid, it might as well be wired (you can also use the included USB-C cable). When connected with Bluetooth 5.0, you can switch between different devices. Handy for if you're switching between computers or want to bang out your magnum opus on your iPad.
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro
Of course, you have access to all the visual effects that the latest version of the Razer Synapse app provides. Just keep in mind that it's Windows-only. But if you have a PC handy, the DeathStalker V2 will retain its Chroma settings when switched to another device. So you could set it on your PC, then switch to a Mac, no problem.
Is It Worth It?
The DeathStalker V2 Pro is responsive and refined. Each key takes barely a tap to register the keypress, meaning that you can churn through a chunk of text in no time at all. Though if you're used to typing on full-profile keyboards, the hand position can take a bit of getting used to. Though, even with that in mind, I was able to maintain around a mid-80s wpm on Monkeytype. I usually clock about 100 wpm with my split keyboard Dygma Raise. I'm sure with time that score would only improve.
While the full-sized Deathstalker V2 Pro is among the most expensive of Razer's keyboards, with it comes all the refinements those high-end keyboards offer. And, honestly, low profile keyboards that look this good should come at a premium price. They're very much aimed at users that can afford to pay a bit more to maintain a certain aesthetic. Plus, you don't have to pay $249 if you're just looking for a top-of-the-line low-profile keyboard. The wired Deathstalker V2 is $50 less.
The takeaway? This is the nicest low-profile keyboard Razer’s ever produced. If you’re in the market, you should definitely put this at the top of your list.
