Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

1. Introduction2. Packaging and Bundle3. The BlackWidow Ultimate Keyboard4. Performance5. Software6. Closing Thoughts7. View All Pages

The Razer BlackWidow Ultimate is one of the finest keyboards that we have ever tested, Razer's design team have created the most stylish mechanical keyboard on the market. It also brings numerous features to the table such as LED backlighting and macro buttons, never before seen with a mechanical keyboard implementation.

Build quality is one of the most impressive aspects of the BlackWidow although this isn't really surprising considering it's a Razer product.  The use of mechanical switches will also extend the life of the keyboard significantly thanks to the superior durability when compared to membrane technology.

Performance is the main area of interest with mechanical keyboards however as the differences are noticeable. Additionally they offer a superior typing experience and will significantly improve overall speed.

A specific portion of the user base might want to audition this board before buying as the key operation is very loud and easily heard within a room environment. Due to the Cherry MX Blue switches it is noticeably louder than the Steelseries 7G. In gaming, the performance benefits are minor, but will make a big difference to people who take their gaming seriously, such as clan members or semi professionals.

Many casual gamers are likely to base the decision on whether to buy the BlackWidow Ultimate or not, based on price – right now it can be yours for £110 at Ebuyer. While it costs more than the SteelSeries 7G it is much better featured as it boasts LED lighting, customisable keys and macro buttons.

For people with a tighter budget, the standard BlackWidow keyboard can be purchased for £74 at Overclockers UK.  As far as we can tell, this is almost identical to the Ultimate version but doesn't feature LED backlighting.  So you'll have to decide whether the extra bling is worth paying a price premium of £35.  Even at £35 over the standard version, we still believe that this keyboard offers very good value for money!

Pros:

• Mechanical Switches
• Impressive Build Quality
• LED-Backlighting
• Macro Buttons
• Configuration Utility

Cons:

• Lack of dedicated multimedia buttons

KitGuru says: Without doubt the best featured mechanical keyboard we've seen to date!

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