Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Review: Versatile Keyboard for Productivity & Gaming

February 20, 2023 By Raulf Hernes

(Image Credit Google)

Razer's BlackWidow V4 Pro wired mechanical keyboard expands the traditional keyboard layout with a column of macro keys and three non-mechanical buttons on the keyboard's left edge. The keyboard also has a volume roller and a Command Dial that allows users to twist inputs to control zoom, scroll through a long spreadsheet, or adjust the size of a Photoshop brush. While Razer is known for its gaming focus, the BlackWidow V4 Pro also fits well in work settings due to its extreme programmability, strong typing experience, and USB-A passthrough port. The BlackWidow V4 Pro is marketed as a gaming keyboard, but its extra programmable keys make it a great productivity tool as well. The 5-key macro bank may not compare to the 18-key one on the 2014 Corsair K95, but it still has all the necessary keys for productivity, including the numpad. The keyboard's layout holds great potential for power users. The extra keys provide ample opportunities for customization, from launching commonly used programs to quickly entering long text strings or controlling Photoshop layers. Onboard memory and the ability to link keybindings with certain apps provide plenty of options for customizing the board to specific types of work. [caption id="attachment_94833" align="alignnone" width="1200"]

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro | Image: Amazon[/caption] The three side macro keys, however, did not receive as much use. They are not visible from a typical seated position, so users have to take their hands off the keyboard's main rows and feel up and down to find the button they want. Additionally, users are prone to accidentally pressing the side buttons, which can be frustrating. A possible solution would be to program the side keys to do nothing, but that would waste keys. An "M6" key in the macro column, like Corsair's K100 and K95 and Logitech's G613 have, would be a more useful addition. The keyboard's full set of programmable media keys completes the layout, but the legends are hard to read due to their shiny designs and dark-gray-on-black styling. The dedicated mute buttons, in particular, are unnecessary when there's a volume roller in play. A volume wheel that can adjust and mute sound (such as by pressing it in) feels more intuitive and saves space. One of the main drawbacks of the BlackWidow V4 Pro is that many of its best features require users to keep Razer's Synapse app open. While this is not a new issue, the introduction of the multi-function dial puts a harsh spotlight on this limitation. It is important to note, however, that the extreme programmability of the keyboard requires a degree of software management. Overall, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is a versatile keyboard that can be used for work and play. It provides users with a strong typing experience, ample programmability, and a USB-A passthrough port. While the side macro keys could be better positioned and the media key legends could be more readable, the extra programmable keys provide a wealth of customization options.

By Raulf Hernes

If you ask me raulf means ALL ABOUT TECH!!

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Review: Versatile Keyboard for Productivity & Gaming

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