Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Razer's Blackwidow Chroma keyboard is serious bit of kit, made to take abuse of serious gamers and key-pushers. Solidly built with a nice heavy weight to it, the Blackwidow feels like the premium product Razer intended it to be. The mechanical switches are very satisfying to use, resulting in a pleasing feel that makes typing a joy. When gaming, this feel contributes to a nice sensation that confirms that each individual key press is activated exactly as intended. Having used Cherry MX Blue switches on OEM Cherry keyboards extensively in my professional career, I can report that Razer's "Green" switches do have a shallower activation point as well as a lighter action overall. They're not as loud as Cherry MX Blues, either. Having said this, if your a fan of MX Blues, the Razer switches are different enough that you should definitely try before you buy. The Blackwidow is wonderfully straightforward in terms of key layout and functions. There are only 5 multi-function keys (fully-programmable using Razer's Synapse software) and a full-sized number pad. The media control functions must be activated by pressing and holding down the FN key. This is different than many keyboards where the media controls are either direct access, or usable sans the FN key. My former keyboard, Microsoft's excellent Sidewinder X6, had analog-style knobs to control volume as well as keyboard lighting. For me, this remains the most elegant solution... This being a Chroma version of the Blackwidow, I would be remiss if I didn't mention the RGB lighting effects. Bright, vivid and dramatic, they really make this keyboard stand out from the rest of the premium/gaming category. Both Razer and Corsair have the most powerful RGB features on the market, with both companies lighting each and every individual key. But what sets Razer apart is that they use a white membrane to "back" the keyboard switches, making the lighting effects much more powerful and giving the colors added "pop". The Synapse software may not be as customizable (currently) as Corsair's, but it far easier to use in both customizing the lighting effects, and more importantly, customizing the key functions as well as setting up user and gaming profiles. So, there you have it. The Razer Blackwidow Chroma is an excellent choice as a premium keyboard that can satisfy the PC gaming/enthusiast crowd. The construction and parts used are first-rate and the Chroma RGB lighting is best-in-class, IMHO. If you're looking for a keyboard to compliment that high-end, custom PC rig you've built (and want performance to match it's looks), you should have the Blackwidow Chroma at the top of a very short list...