Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini Compact Gaming Keyboard Review. The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, a 60% compact gaming keyboard, is equipped with innovative technology, making it a top choice for competitive FPS gaming. This keyboard features advanced analog optical switches, which are customizable to suit a variety of gaming and typing needs.
After the success of their first Huntsman V2 Pro Analog models, Razer has introduced the Huntsman V3 Pro, an updated version of their high-end keyboards. Available in full-size, TKL (tenkeyless), and Mini formats, the Huntsman V3 Pro series integrates the 2nd generation Razer Optical Analog switches. These switches provide even more advanced customization options for users.
Key features include the ability to adjust the activation distance from 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm and a highly comprehensive “Rapid Trigger” mode. One of the standout aspects of the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini is the convenience of adjusting these settings directly from the keyboard itself, eliminating the need to use the Razer Synapse software for these adjustments. This level of on-the-fly customization is particularly beneficial for gamers who need to adapt quickly to different gaming scenarios.
This Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini offered at the price of $179.99.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | CONS |
|---|---|
| Effective 60 % compact format | No acoustic treatment |
| Quality Design & Construction | Wired option only |
| Performance analog switches | |
| Complete software |
Table of Contents
Box Includes
Inside, the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini comes with the bare minimum with a removable 2.0m USB-C to USB-A braided cable and a user guide. No wrist rest or additional keyaps in the program.
Specifications
| Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Razer |
| Released | Sept 21, 2023 |
| Dimensions | 14.25 x 6.38 x 1.81 inches |
| Weight | 1.8 pounds |
| Type | Compact keyboard (60%) |
| Wireless | No |
| Color | Black (black) |
| Switch | Analog Optical Switch Gen-2 |
| Keycap | Double shot pbt keycaps |
| Number of keys | 61 |
| Hot swap | incompatible |
| Onboard memory | Up to 6 profiles |
| Media key | secondary media key |
| Backlight | Mounted |
| LED color | RGB (Razer Chroma RGB) |
| Connection I/F | USB |
| Polling rate | 1000Hz |
| Wrist Rest | None |
| Connectivity | Detachable Type C Cable |
Design & Ergonomics
The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, a 60% compact gaming keyboard, omits the numeric keypad, directional arrows, and F1 to F12 function keys. It’s also available in TKL and Full-Size formats for those who prefer larger models.
This keyboard sports a simple, minimalist design with a slim plastic chassis and a brushed aluminum plate on top. Its borderless, “airy” style around the keys adds to its sleek look.
The dark tones of the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, along with its fully customizable backlighting, blend well into most setups. Its compact size, lacking a wrist rest, allows it to sit unobtrusively on a desk.
However, the absence of a magnetic wrist rest, a feature in the TKL and Full-Size models, is noticeable. Its sturdy construction withstands regular use, and it connects via a detachable USB-C cable on the back left edge.
The V3 Pro Mini comes in AZERTY layout without extra buttons. A unique aspect is the inverted FN and Alt Gr keys, which may initially feel awkward.
This model lacks dedicated media keys and volume dials found in larger versions. Although this is common in 60% keyboards, some offer side buttons for easier control. The V3 Pro Mini still provides shortcuts for volume, lighting intensity, and music track navigation. It even has shortcuts for adjusting key activation distance.
The keyboard’s PBT Double-Shot keycaps promise durability and reduced fingerprint visibility. However, the styling of the lowercase fonts, especially on the ESC key, could be better.
At the back, the keyboard has 4 rubber pads improving its stability on a desk or mouse pad. Retractable feet allow you to adjust its inclination to 6° or 9° according to your preferences.
Overall, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini is a solid choice for those seeking a compact, durable, and sleek gaming keyboard, despite some minor drawbacks.
Connectivity
The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini differs from the Blackwidow V3 Pro Mini HyperSpeed as it only operates with a wired connection. Given its price tag of over $200, it’s disappointing that it doesn’t offer a 2.4 GHz wireless connection or even a Bluetooth mode. These wireless options would have significantly enhanced its versatility, especially for office use.
Performance
Indeed, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini’s array of features contributes to its outstanding performance in gaming. By customizing the activation distance and utilizing the “Rapid Trigger” mode to suit your preferences, you can achieve exceptional responsiveness. This level of customization allows for a gaming experience that is noticeably more responsive and efficient compared to traditional mechanical keyboards. The ability to tailor the keyboard’s behavior not only enhances gameplay but also provides a more personalized and immersive gaming experience.
In practical use, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini competes well with the Wooting 60HE and even outperforms the SteelSeries Apex Pro models by offering more comprehensive settings. This makes the Razer model a strong contender in the market, especially for users who value detailed customization.
The keystroke experience on the Razer keyboard is impressive, featuring a linear activation with a force requirement of 40 grams. This provides a smooth and consistent typing experience. Additionally, each switch is equipped with individual stabilizers, enhancing the stability and reliability of each keypress. While the difference these stabilizers make might not be profoundly noticeable compared to traditional models, they contribute to the overall precision and quality of the keyboard. This combination of features ensures that the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini delivers a satisfying and responsive experience for both gaming and general use.
Regarding noise, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini is fairly typical for a mechanical keyboard. It doesn’t come equipped with acoustic foam, which means it can be relatively noisy during use. This level of sound is common in mechanical keyboards, especially those without noise-dampening materials.
Typing Sound
Razer Synapse Software
The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini is compatible with Razer Synapse software. Through this software, users can create various configuration profiles that automatically load based on specific games or applications. It’s also easy to switch between these profiles using the FN + $ or FN + ^ shortcuts, which activate the default configuration.
While many options of the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini can be controlled directly from the keyboard, installing the Razer Synapse software is recommended for easier operation and access to more advanced features.
The “Customize” tab in the Razer Synapse software for the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini lets users change the mapping of most keys. This feature is standard with many Razer keyboards, allowing for the creation of custom macros and various actions.
An important feature on this compact keyboard is the “HyperShift” mode, which provides a secondary mapping accessible when the FN key is pressed. This is especially useful given the keyboard’s smaller size.
Additionally, under the section for modifying key mapping, users can now directly adjust the activation point of each key. This capability is a significant highlight of the Huntsman V3 Pro range, thanks to the new second-generation Razer analog optical switches. These switches enhance the keyboard’s performance and customization options.
The key feature of the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini is its ability to adjust the activation distance of the keys. This means you can set how far you need to press the keys based on your personal preference. This functionality, which allows for a more tailored typing experience, has been popularized by keyboards like the Wooting 60HE and the Apex Pro models from SteelSeries.
In addition to this, the first “Personalize” tab in the software offers several other useful options. One notable feature is the “Game” mode, which lets you lock certain keys to prevent accidental presses during gameplay. Another convenient option is the ability to transform the Alt, Option, Ctrl, and Shift keys into directional arrows with a simple press. This adds to the keyboard’s versatility and user-friendliness, especially in compact keyboard layouts where every key’s functionality counts.
The “Activation” tab in the Razer Synapse software is particularly significant for the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, as it’s here that you can fine-tune the settings of the keyboard’s analog switches.
At the top of this tab, there’s a diagram of the keyboard. This visual representation allows you to individually select and adjust the settings for each key. If you prefer, you also have the option to modify the settings for all the keys at once. This feature is particularly useful for customizing the keyboard to match your specific typing or gaming needs, ensuring that each key responds exactly as you want it to.
On the left side of the “Activation” tab, you’ll find the adjustment for the activation distance of the keys. This feature allows you to set the distance at which a keypress is registered, with values ranging from 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm. The ideal setting depends on your personal preference and how you use the keyboard. For instance, you might choose a very short distance for the ZQSD keys for competitive FPS gaming, or set all keys to a longer distance of 3.0 mm to minimize typing errors during office work.
Another innovative feature in this tab is the “Rapid Trigger” functionality. This option lets you configure the reset distance for a key. On a traditional keyboard, a key must return to its initial activation point before it can register a new keystroke. For example, if a key activates at 2.0 mm and you press it down to 4.0 mm, it needs to come back up 2.0 mm to be ready for the next press. The “Rapid Trigger” allows for quicker resets, enhancing the responsiveness and efficiency of keystrokes, which can be particularly beneficial in fast-paced gaming or intensive typing scenarios.
The principle behind the “Rapid Trigger” functionality is to optimize the responsiveness of key actions. If you set a very short activation distance, like 0.1 mm, but press the key all the way down to 4.0 mm, you’d normally have to wait for the key to travel back up 3.9 mm before it can be activated again. This could negate the benefits of having such a short initial activation distance.
With “Rapid Trigger,” you can customize the reset distance for each key. For example, if you set the reset distance at 0.5 mm and press a key down to 4.0 mm, the key only needs to come up to 3.5 mm to be ready for the next action. This greatly improves the keyboard’s responsiveness, allowing for quicker and more efficient actions.
Razer’s new switches enable you to configure the “Rapid Trigger” distance between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm. A particularly useful feature is the ability to asynchronously configure different distances for the key’s upstroke and downstroke. For instance, you might set the key to reset at an upstroke of 0.2 mm, but require a downstroke of 0.6 mm for activation.
Razer’s software enhances this functionality with a gauge that provides visual feedback based on your selected activation distances and “Rapid Trigger” settings. This feature is not only practical but also makes it easier to fine-tune your keyboard for optimal performance.
In addition to the primary features like customizable activation distance and “Rapid Trigger,” Razer’s optical switches offer another significant advantage in gaming: the ability to assign two different actions to the same key based on their activation distance.
For instance, you could set up the A key so that a light press equips a grenade, while a full press throws it. This dual-action feature adds a new layer of strategy and efficiency to gaming. However, it requires some time to get used to and, importantly, precise control over the force applied to the keys.
This functionality showcases the versatility of Razer’s optical switches, allowing gamers to tailor their keyboard to their unique play style and preferences, potentially giving them an edge in competitive gaming scenarios.
The versatility of the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini extends to its capability to use keyboard keys in a way similar to joysticks or controller triggers. This feature is particularly useful for gaming. For instance, the ZQSD keys (commonly used for movement in games) can function like an analog stick. This means you can control your character’s movements with greater precision by varying the activation distance of these keys.
Conclusion
The Razer Huntsman V3 Mini Pro establishes itself as one of the top contenders in the gaming keyboard market. Its wide range of features and impressive performance put it in direct competition with analog models from Wooting and SteelSeries.
The ability to adjust activation distance and the inclusion of the “Rapid Trigger” mode are particularly beneficial for FPS gaming, offering a potential competitive edge. These features also contribute to the keyboard’s versatility, allowing it to be tailored to various gaming and typing scenarios.
However, the pricing is a significant factor to consider. Under $180, the Razer Huntsman V3 Mini Pro is priced higher than its competitors, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini and the Wooting 60HE, which are available in the $150 range. This price difference makes it essential for potential buyers to weigh the keyboard’s advanced features and performance against its cost to determine if it offers the best value for their needs.
