Razer rolls out BlackWidow Chroma V2 mechanical keyboard

Razer today starting selling an update to its BlackWidow Chroma mechanical gaming keyboard.

The BlackWidow Chroma V2 adds an included detachable wristpad and the option to get the keyboard with a new linear, silent Yellow mechanical switch. The Yellow, Orange and Green versions of the board will sell for $169.99 each.

The V2 still includes Razer Chroma customizable backlighting with 16.8 million color options, 10 key roll-over anti-ghosting, USB port and audio jack pass-throughs as well as a braided fiber cable.

Razer

I spent a bit of time with the V2 using the Orange switches and found it to be a fairly solid mechanical keyboard. The Orange switches, which like the Yellow require a relatively light 45 grams of force to activate, are relatively quiet when you use them. That can be disconcerting to fans of mechanical switches at first, but I did find the silence of the board helpful during phone interviews.

The included wristpad is the same one found with Razer’s hybrid Ornata keyboard. The low-profile design still offered plenty of support for those looking for a bit of wrist rest. The magnetic system for holding it in place did a good job of maintaining its connect with the board while still making it easy to remove and re-add it.

If you’re a fan of the BlackWidow boards but don’t yet own one, this is a nice option. If you’re not someone who appreciates this particular design, Razer hasn’t done enough to V2 to change your mind.