MSI Raider 16 Max HX: Two-minute review

MSI has something of a mixed history with gaming laptops. I've reviewed quite a few products from the Taiwanese computer hardware brand, and in the past, I've championed MSI for its ability to provide high-performance products with very competitive price tags.

Unfortunately, it seems that the ongoing RAM crisis has caused MSI's latest high-end gaming laptop, the Raider 16 Max HX, to take a hit in this department. Needless to say, this laptop is very far from cheap, with my review configuration clocking in at a steep $4,299 / £3,999 (around AU$6,235).

I'll dig more into the pricing details further down in this review, but the days of wallet-friendly gaming laptops are truly over. That's not a pure criticism of MSI, but I'll admit I balk a bit less at a sky-high price tag on something like Razer's Blade 18; at least Razer gear has always cost a premium, while MSI has frequently offered comparable specs at more reasonable prices.

Setting aside the price tag for a moment, though: is this a good gaming laptop? Well, for the most part, I'd say yes. Performance is strong across the board, with an Intel Core Ultra processor and Nvidia RTX 5000 GPU combined with 32GB of RAM to deliver high framerates in games and power through creative workloads. It's well-equipped for AI-focused workloads too, if you're looking for a device that can pull double duty for both work and play.

The VESA-validated QHD+ screen is bright and colorful, with optional OLED models available in some regions. The chassis is pretty chunky – I certainly wouldn't recommend the Raider 16 Max HX to anyone looking for a laptop they can easily take on the go – but it makes good use of that size, with a full-scale keyboard that doesn't feel cramped in use and a great selection of ports for physical connectivity.

Pricing aside, my main criticism of the MSI Raider 16 Max HX is the overall build quality. The plastic outer casing and screen hinge feel sturdy enough, but the keyboard housing has far too much flex on firm keypresses, and the touchpad is frankly abysmal, feeling like it might break if I pressed down too hard.

I'll delve more into these issues in the design section of this review, but I will say this here: they're not absolute dealbreakers. For starters, you should really be using one of the best gaming mice with any gaming laptop anyway, so the weak touchpad shouldn't actually be a huge problem for actual gaming. Overall, I did quite like the Raider 16 Max HX – it's simply difficult to recommend such a high-end laptop in the current hardware climate.

MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Price & availability

• Starts from $2,999 / £2,249 (around AU$4,350)
• Available now in the US and UK
• Higher-end configurations get expensive fast

Even the base configuration of the MSI Raider 16 Max HX isn't cheap, starting out at $2,999 / £2,249 (around AU$4,350) for a version with the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and a less powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU.

The review unit I received from MSI is a high-spec model, packing an RTX 5090 and Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor along with 32GB of RAM. This configuration will set you back a rather eye-watering $4,299 / £3,999 (around AU$6,235). There's also a middle-ground model, which uses the RTX 5080, and a few interstitial configurations that swap out the CPU, RAM, or display for slightly different components (including the aforementioned optional OLED display).

In short, it ain't cheap. Sure, you can find more expensive laptops out there, but not many of them. I can't comment on it with absolute confidence since I was sent an RTX 5090 version, but my past experiences with laptop RTX 5070 Ti GPUs lead me to suspect that the lower-end models might actually provide slightly more bang for your buck than the top-spec configurations.

MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Specs

MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Design

• Large, bulky 'gamer' design
• Bright, colorful display
• Plenty of ports and good cooling

Make no mistake, this is a gaming laptop through and through. From the translucent WASD keys to the patterned lid and RGB lightbar across the front of the chassis, the MSI Raider 16 Max HX absolutely screams 'gaming aesthetics' – so it might not be the laptop for you if you want something you can take into a serious office environment as well as gaming at home.

This advice goes double, in fact, because the Raider 16 Max HX is a bit of a chunky device, which hurts its portability. Weighing more than two and a half kilos and measuring over an inch thick with the lid closed, it's far from a lightweight laptop.

That being said, I won't knock the score down for the bulky chassis. MSI has made good use of the extra size, squeezing in a full-size RGB-backlit keyboard with a numpad, yet the main key spread doesn't feel cramped – I found it pretty good for typing, with decent spacing and a reasonable amount of travel. Unfortunately, the aforementioned flex in the keyboard housing gives a slightly spongy feel on firm presses, which may turn some users off.

The large chassis has some other bonuses, too; you get a rich selection of physical ports here, which I'm always pleased to see. In addition to multiple USB-A and USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) ports, you also get HDMI for connecting a second display and an SD card reader – potentially excellent for digital photographers or filmmakers who want to use their laptop both for gaming and editing work.

A bulkier design also allows for superior cooling. I'll dig into this more in the performance section, but long story short: this Raider has a pretty solid cooling solution, utilizing a triple-fan design with five large exhaust vents that help keep the laptop from getting too warm even during lengthy gaming binges. Considering that some gaming laptops can get pretty toasty when running graphically demanding titles, this is a good inclusion.

There's also a degree of upgrade flexibility here, with a removable underside panel that lets you swap in a new SSD (with an empty slot) or upgrade the RAM should you so desire. This isn't an uncommon sight in modern gaming laptops, but I always appreciate the option to boost my system a little.

Moving over to the display, it certainly feels like it belongs on a high-end laptop, delivering good maximum brightness and color reproduction even on the default IPS panel in my review unit (certain high-spec configurations swap this out for an even more vivid OLED panel instead). The QHD+ (1600p) resolution and 240Hz refresh rate are ideal for gaming – especially if you're into fast-paced esports games that demand a high framerate, like Counter-Strike or Valorant.

Above the display sits a 1080p webcam, which also includes a physical privacy shutter. In my opinion, physical shutters or camera killswitches should be mandatory in laptops, so I'm glad to see one included here.

I really do need to address the touchpad. This might be one of the worst-feeling touchpads I've ever seen on a 'premium' laptop; in fact, I've legitimately seen better pads on budget-friendly Chromebooks. Clicks feel wobbly and unsatisfying, the whole housing flexes far too much even on less forceful presses, and right-clicks sometimes fail to register unless your finger is in the extreme bottom-right corner of the pad.

It's just... bad. I acknowledge that in practice, this won't be a massive issue since all but the most unhinged PC gamers will always use a mouse over a touchpad, but considering that my review model costs in excess of four thousand US dollars, it feels egregiously poor quality.

Lastly, the speakers and microphone are decent but unspectacular. You could find a gaming laptop with superior audio features, but I won't mark the Raider 16 Max HX down for that, because much like the touchpad situation, any sensible PC gamer will be using a gaming headset anyway.

MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Performance

• Powerful AAA gaming performance
• Also good for creative and AI workloads
• Fans do get noisy

Shocking nobody, my RTX 5090-toting review unit of the MSI Raider 16 Max HX blasted through our benchmarking tests with aplomb, delivering top-notch performance throughout.

Naturally, that meant excellent framerates in a range of triple-A games; in addition to the ones visible in that boxout, I also tested Marathon, Elden Ring, Warframe, and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, and they all looked fantastic on the QHD+ display.

It was even able to average exactly 60 frames per second in Cyberpunk 2077 with the Ray Tracing Overdrive preset at the Raider's native 1600p resolution, using only Balanced DLSS upscaling with no frame generation – a notoriously demanding benchmark that batters many of the best gaming laptops.

So, both synthetic and real-world gaming tests went smoothly – but what about creative workloads? Well, the Raider 16 Max HX delivers on that front too, handily matching (and even exceeding, in some tests) the scores achieved by Razer's most recent Blade 18 with the same GPU. 3D rendering, video editing, statistical modelling, LLM training... you name it, the Raider can handle it.

The Intel Core Ultra 290HX Plus in my review unit is also a beast, delivering solid performance across both single- and multi-core workloads. For anyone looking to play CPU-bound games like large-scale management sims, strategy, and 4X titles, this ensures you won't encounter CPU bottlenecks that hamper performance.

I would note that during intensive workloads (predominantly games and creative software), the fans do get fairly loud. They're not the noisiest I've ever heard in a gaming laptop, but it's something potential buyers may want to bear in mind if they're planning to use the Raider in shared spaces, because they do have quite a noticeable whine that almost completely drowned out the fans of my nearby desktop PC during benchmarking. A good headset should insulate your ears from this noise, at least.

It also offers pleasingly fast SSD read and write speeds – which, in fairness, is something I would fully expect from a laptop in this price range, but is good to see nonetheless. Creative professionals who regularly work with large file sizes will appreciate how quickly you can transfer your files around.

Since this is an Nvidia RTX 5000 laptop, regardless of which configuration you purchase, you're also getting the full suite of performance-boosting software tools inside the newly redesigned (and hugely improved) Nvidia App. That naturally includes DLSS resolution upscaling, but also up to 4x frame generation – though I'd personally recommend sticking to 2x for now, for better visual fidelity – as well as features like Nvidia Reflex, in-depth system monitoring, and AI-powered filters like RTX HDR.

Unfortunately, it seems MSI couldn't resist cramming in a load of their own software as well, and to be brutally honest, this is mostly bloatware. The default MSI Center tool is... fine, I guess, letting you customize the RGB lighting as well as tweak system performance presets, but it's hardly groundbreaking stuff. Add in Norton 360 antivirus, Nahimic audio, the Intel Killer network tool, SteelSeries GG, MSI True Color, MSI App Player, and all the Windows Store nonsense Microsoft insists on pre-installing with Windows 11, and it all becomes quite annoying.

Mercifully, you can uninstall the majority of this garbage, or simply do a clean Windows install when you first set it up. But I'm never going to stop being mildly irritated by laptop manufacturers cramming as much software as possible into their devices – especially when some of them are literally mirrored by base functionality within Windows itself.

MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Battery life

• Great for a gaming laptop
• Good at auto-switching to the iGPU
• Can be charged via USB-C or bundled adapter

MSI has evidently pulled some funky witchcraft with the Raider 16 Max HX, because it cleared the 8-hour mark in our video playback test – an exceedingly rare sight for a gaming laptop.

Okay, there aren't actually any magic spells involved here; the trick is in the new Intel Core Ultra chip that powers this Raider, which offers stellar power efficiency compared to older CPUs from the likes of Intel and AMD. Of course, the GPU will guzzle power when you're gaming (in my online gaming test playing Marathon on the Raider 16 Max HX, it drained from full charge to 10% in just over two hours, which is still decent), but the laptop will automatically switch to the Intel chip's integrated graphics when not running graphically-intensive software in order to conserve battery life.

I also found that it held charge very well, still packing more than 50% after sitting on my desk for several days following my initial unboxing and photography. You can charge it via the (very chunky) bundled adapter, or use any appropriate USB-C charger for slower but more portable charging if you ever opt to take it out of its usual desktop-replacement environment.

Should I buy the MSI Raider 16 Max HX?

Razer Blade 18 (2026): Scorecard

Buy the MSI Raider 16 Max HX if…

Don't buy it if…

MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Also consider

How I tested the MSI Raider 16 Max HX

• Replaced my usual system for 10 days
• Used for gaming and other tasks
• 8+ years of experience reviewing dozens of laptops

As usual for my laptop review process, I used the MSI Raider 16 Max HX as a replacement for my usual laptop and desktop PC, putting it through its paces in everything from gaming to my everyday work at TechRadar.

Naturally, I also ran the Raider through our synthetic and gaming benchmark testing suite as seen in the Performance section of this review, as well as playing several other games (just for fun!) which included Marathon, Warframe, Elden Ring, and my long-running obsession Slay the Spire 2 – though of course, that last one is hardly a hardware stress test, since it can literally run on my phone.

I've been a PC gamer since my tender pre-teen years, starting out on my dad's boxy beige home office desktop, and I've been a professional tech journalist reviewing all kinds of laptops and PC tech for nearly a decade now, starting out at Maximum PC magazine before making the jump to digital journalism and joining the TechRadar team. I've personally reviewed more than seventy laptops, so you can trust that my knowledge and experience give you reliable insights into the quality of the products I write about.

• First reviewed: July 2026
• Read more about how we test

One-minute review

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen is a premium gaming chair which Razer cut no corners on when it comes to design.

If you've got the Razer Iskur V2 gaming chair, it might feel like no significant upgrades have been made to the base model, despite the significant price increase, but when you start to look below the surface there's some impressive new features tucked in its build to make it feel like a worthy investment.

It's got all the features you'd expect to see in a premium chair, such as in-built lumbar support, breathable material, 4D armrests, and quite an impressive seat tilt and recline function. You'll also find Gen-2 EPU leather with "CoolTouch" technology which is a game changer, especially for anyone who finds themselves uncomfortable with the standard faux leather so many gaming chairs are built from. All of these elements come together to create a chair that certainly puts comfort first.

However, due to its plethora of features, you are also expected to pay a premium for it. As a result, the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen is not a budget-friendly chair, which is enough to put first time buyers off unless they've already committed to a Razer setup.

That said, I've spent over seven weeks with this chair as my primary seat, and can happily say that it does offer some premium comfort, even when closely compared to my faithful Corsair TC500 Luxe gaming chair.

There's a lot to love about the Iskur V2 NewGen, and no matter how you're using it, it always offers high-quality comfort. This is massively supported by the sheer amount you can tailor to your preferences, but the actual chair itself shows that a lot of care has gone into its design. Particularly in the materials used which help to justify its rather steep price tag.

Price and availability

• Costs $649.99 / £649.99 / AU$999.95
• Available through Razer
• 5-year extended warranty

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen launched on February 13, 2026, and is by no means a budget-friendly gaming chair with its $650 price tag. Its price point certainly gives the impression that it's more like an investment than a casual purchase, and is bound to get any potential buyers questioning what sets it above the rest of chairs available at the same sort of point.

For this price, you are getting a very sleek, well-built chair that is bound to suit anyone with a Razer-oriented setup already, but there's definitely some comparison to take into account.

Especially when you've got chairs like the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition retailing at a similarly high $799 / £669 and the Corsair TC500 Luxe coming in cheaper at $499.99/£499.99. Two fantastic chairs offering the same level of features for a far more reasonable price.

But that's not to say that the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen doesn't feature anything to justify its rather generous price point. It's certainly built to be a more premium gaming chair, offering features like extra durable armrests, new technology lumbar support, an ultra wide seat base, and a breathable fabric that means you never have to awkwardly peel yourself off the chair, so it's the sort of seat you can use all day without feeling it after a few hours.

Specs

Design and features

• A sleek, comfortable chair
• Available in four colourways
• Razer embellishments are embroidered rather than printed

Razer always tends to nail their branding when it comes to hardware, so obviously the Iskur V2 NewGen follows suit. With a sleek black design, and iconic Razer green piping along the edge of both the seat and backrest of the chair, it certainly looks the part. You've also got the addition of embroidered embellishments on the front of the chair with the Razer logo behind where the memory foam cushion sits, and the text Razer logo on the back in the same green.

The main talking point of the chairs design is the snakeskin embroidered backrest and seat, which I really found myself admiring. I'm usually pretty impartial to additional flourishes like this, but had to appreciate the fact it wasn't your standard diamond or crosshatch embroidery we often see on gaming chairs. The Razer Gen-2 EPU leather the entire seat is made out of is worth praising too.

Not only does it feel like a high-quality product rather than the cheap, rustling pleather found on more budget friendly chairs like , but it's surprisingly cooling. Which was fantastic given a week of my testing with this chair was during a heatwave in the UK, so I really put this feature to the test.

This, paired with the dual-density, cold-cured foam seat cushion the product is quick to highlight on its store page, means that you're never stuck feeling a little sweaty in your seat.

To coincide with the high-quality material the chair is made out of, the armrests need to be highlighted too. My faithful Corsair TC500 Luxe has 4D omni-directional armsets, much like the Iskur, but my biggest pet peeve is that they don't lock into place. So, if you lean at an awkward angle, they'll move.

However, the Iskur V2 NewGen features the same style of armrest with the ability to lock them into place with the handy use of buttons found on the sides of each rest. Plus, the extra durable build means you don't have to worry about peeling or cracking, unlike something I faced with the Secretlab Titan Evo many moons ago.

You also benefit from the first addition of the Razer Hyperflex Lumbar Support system, which gives you a huge range of back support and is perfect for anyone like me who often finds themselves sat with shrimp-like posture when tethered to a desk for hours on end. This can be fully customised to your preferences too, courtesy of its 360 degrees swivel design.

The sculpted memory foam cushion is a nice touch for extra support, but I would've preferred if this was magnetic rather than relying on an elastic strap around the headrest of the chair. For $699, it would've definitely felt more luxurious to have a magnetic cushion, especially as that's what's included in the Corsair chair. It's also a shame to cover the embroidered embellishments on the chair with both the cushion itself and the elastic strap.

The Iskur V2 NewGen is also currently available in four different colourways: white, black, black and green, and a rather attractive Quartz. So, there is some level of flexibility to get a chair that perfectly fits your existing aesthetic. It's not as customisable as the covers you can get for the Secretlab chairs, but at least you don't have to pay any extra to get a colour.

Comfort and performance

• Lots of customisation options to suit how you sit
• Ultra wide seat base lets you sit however you like
• Breathable, cooling fabric actually makes a difference

When it comes to a gaming chair, the main factors that go into deciding whether it's good or not are: how comfortable it is to use for extended periods of time, and how much you can customise it to suit your sitting style and position.

Fortunately, the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen excels in customization. There are so many buttons and dials to make the most of, which is great for someone who constantly fidgets like I do. The back support also encouraged me to sit with generally better posture during all of my testing, which is something most people who work at a desk could benefit from.

One downside to its performance is that the back cushion, where the Razer Hyperflex Lumbar Support System is stored, moves around when you shift in your seat. It's not like those head or neck cushions that conveniently shift themselves into an uncomfortable position the second you decide to adjust how you're sat, but it does move with you when you move in the seat.

I'd rather have a solid backrest, like the Secretlab Evo NanoGen or even the Boulies Master Series gaming chair, but this feels like a pretty insignificant gripe in the grand scheme of things. At least it's not one of those lumbar cushions you just have to hope and pray stays in the same place.

The fabric really deserves a special shoutout too. During my testing, the UK was hit with a sweltering heatwave, so I really could put the breathable and cooling material of the chair to the test while I sat and worked away.

It's safe to say that there is actually a noticeable difference too, and I didn't find myself feeling uncomfortably clammy while sitting. Previously, I'd tested the Boulies Master series gaming chair in a rather hot flat, and definitely didn't find the same level of comfort when the temperature began to increase.

This meant I could quite happily spend hours sitting without feeling it or having to get up and walk around a bit. There's enough cushioning to make the chair comfortable, while still being firm enough to support you in all the right places.

This is definitely supported by the ultra-wide seat base which gives you enough room to sit with either your feet on the floor, or your feet on the chair if you want to embrace the terrible posture which I always tend to. But, I'd say it's safe to assume that you'd expect that level of comfort given the premium price tag.

Assembly

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen is easy to put together too. It's suggested as a two-person job on the instructions, but you really only need another set of hands to help position the seat base on the piston - the rest is quite easy to achieve solo.

All the tools you need are packaged delightfully, alongside a pair of gloves (or, Gamer Gauntlets as they're labelled in the box) to make sure you don't get any potentially nasty chemicals on your hands while building.

Not that I did. Again, because of its price tag, I'd expected there to be quite a few additional flourishes that would make assembly that little bit more challenging, but it was remarkably straightforward.

Should I buy the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen Gaming Chair?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

If you're not quite convinced by the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen, we've got some alternatives you might want to check out.

How I tested the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen gaming chair

• Spent a month and a half testing the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen
• Tested as my primary office chair for those two months
• Used when working, gaming, and watching films to test comfort

I tested the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen gaming chair over a month and a half-long period, keeping it as my only chair for work, gaming, and basically anything that required me to sit at my PC. During my testing period, I made use of all its features like the inbuilt lumbar support and adjustable armrests to keep a comfortable position while working, and then a more relaxed position when watching a film.

Regardless of what I was doing at my PC and how I was sitting, whether that was with my legs and feet on the base of the chair, cross-legged, or with my feet on the floor, I never found myself uncomfortable or struggled to sit for long periods of time. I was also able to closely compare it to my standard office chair, the Corsair TC500 Luxe, and it performed incredibly well. I've been struggling to find a competitor for my trusty Corsair TC500 Luxe, but the Iskur V2 NewGen certainly comes close.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed June 2026.

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: two-minute review

Ergonomic keyboards have long been Logitech's territory, but the Pro Type Ergo is Razer's most convincing argument yet that it belongs in the productivity conversation, and not dismissed as just a gaming brand.

It's the brand's first split ergonomic keyboard, and it arrives with a full-size layout, clever software and a mild enough learning curve to make ergo peripherals feel genuinely accessible. There's a lot to like here — the software depth is impressive, the wireless connectivity is versatile, and the adjustment period is shorter than you might fear. But at its higher price tag, the lack of mechanical switches is hard to ignore, and that one compromise colors the whole package.

In practice, the Pro Type Ergo impresses in several key areas. The adjustment period is impressively short — I was largely up to speed within a couple of days, even with some stubborn old typing habits to shake. The fixed vegan leather wristrest is plush, the sculpted keycaps keep your fingers where they should be, and the duplicated 'B' key is a small but smart touch.

Software is a genuine highlight too, with Razer Synapse 4 offering up to 100 mappable functions for the twin command dials, deep macro key customisation, and an AI Prompt Builder that pipes queries into ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot if you want it to. Connectivity is equally versatile, covering three-channel Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz USB-A receiver and USB-C wired, with a claimed three months of battery life per charge and an ideal set of outputs for power users.

However, there are limits that stop the Pro Type Ergo from being an easy recommendation at this price. The most glaring is the switch choice — scissor-actuated membrane keys on a £179.99 keyboard feel like a bit of a compromise, however comfortable and snappy they might be in use.

The Keychron Q13 Max lands at a similar price and is properly mechanical, while the Logitech Ergo K860 covers the core ergonomic brief for roughly half the cost. The Pro Type Ergo's full-size layout and non-removable wristrest also means it takes up a significant amount of desk space, which rules it out for anyone working in tighter quarters – it even made my 120cm desk seem tiny.

At $189.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.95, Razer is asking you to pay a premium for style, software depth and ergonomic approachability — and on the whole, it delivers with a product that's comfortable, likeable, and especially versatile.

Just bear in mind the trade-off by going for a non-mechanical choice at this price. The Pro Type Ergo justifies much of its premium price tag with its versatility, clever software and a learning curve that won't upend your entire working week. If you want to take the plunge into ergo peripherals without sacrificing style or features, this is a very good place to start.

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Price & release date

• $189.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.95
• Released April 1, 2026
• Towards the top end of the market

Razer launched the Pro Type Ergo in April 2026, and it's available for $189.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.95, which puts it towards the top end of this non-mechanical market, not least for a more niche product such as an ergonomic keyboard. It's available from Razer's own website and secondary retailers such as Amazon.

For reference, it's possible to get more office-oriented ergo keyboards with a similar split layout for more affordable prices, such as the Logitech Ergo K860. It's about half the cost of the Pro Type Ergo with similar fundamentals, although it misses out on Razer's clever software trickery and the oodles of customisation it comes with.

For a more affordable choice, there's also the Logitech Wave Keys, which isn't quite as drastic with some of its ergo sensibilities, although it lacks the snappiness of scissor-actuated keys with more standard rubber domes.

Outside of the usual mainstream brands, the Keychron Q13 Max is a similar price to the Pro Type Ergo and comes with a full-size layout, a machined aluminium chassis, a command dial and macro keys, plus QMK software powers, and it is also properly mechanical. For a different take on ergonomics, the HHKB Studio is a fellow premium choice, but instead of offering split keys and such, it moves some keys around for a more comfortable layout and is fully mechanical.

• Value score: 3.5/5

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Specs

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Design

• Large profile on desk
• Lots of convenient creature comforts
• Mild ergonomic layout optimisations

The Pro Type Ultra is Razer's first split ergonomic keyboard, and it blends several of the brand's key design hallmarks into a brand new form factor. For instance, it comes with its usual modern and understated design language that has characterised a lot of its more recent releases.

The fact that it's a full-size layout keyboard with a number pad, nav cluster and function row alongside a big wristrest and function dials means it takes up an awful lot of desk space. That vegan leather wristrest is a large part of the bulkiness of this keyboard, and it isn't removable.

Nonetheless, Razer has designed this keyboard to be functional and comfortable with that full-size layout in mind, and the fact that this is a milder form of ergonomic keyboard than some of the weirder options from Kinesis and ZSA that can take even more getting used to.

What I mean by this is that this keyboard has a mild split down the middle that's designed to align your hands directly with your shoulders to help reduce the risk of getting RSI or carpal tunnel syndrome.

To Razer's credit, even though the angle of the split is fixed, the keyboard has a natural rise and fall across its chassis to help reduce pronation, or forearm strain. The fixed wristrest is also decently plush in the middle, and you get some excellent two-stage feet in all four corners on the underside of the keyboard to raise the angle up or down as you'd prefer.

This split layout forces you to learn how to touch-type properly, which can take some getting used to if you have an odd technique, as I do, where I rarely use my ring and pinky fingers to type, and usually use my fore and middle fingers to do most of the work, sometimes on either side of the keyboard.

Razer has made some small, but noticeable, changes to a standard full-size layout, making some keys slightly elongated, with the 7, T, G, H and B keys. Weirdly, the B key has been duplicated to improve speed and comfort, and the space between the two Space Bars on the bottom row. The keycaps are also slightly sculpted, similarly to the Logitech MX Keys range of products to help keep your fingers where they should be.

Outside of the ergonomic benefits of the Pro Type Ergo, Razer has also made sure to give this keyboard other accoutrements, such as programmable macro keys down the left side and a couple of command dials in each corner. There are also three silver shortcut keys in the top right corner for opening Razer's own AI Prompt Master software, checking battery status and a custom button, plus there are dedicated buttons for wireless pairing over Bluetooth and the bundled 2.4GHz receiver.

The front interface is quite simple, with a convenient toggle switch for wired or wireless use and a USB-C port for charging and wired use.

• Design score: 4/5

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Performance

• Less of a learning curve than expected
• Comfortable feel, although not mechanical
• Extensive software and connectivity options

Usually I take a couple of weeks to review a keyboard to best understand its quirks and features, but took a little longer with the Pro Type Ergo, owing to its ergonomic credentials. In my experience, it can take a good week or so to get fully used to using an ergonomic keyboard or mouse, so I thought it best to take my time to give Razer's keyboard a fair shot.

To be truthful, the adjustment period of moving to this ergo keyboard wasn't as long as I was expecting it to be, and I found myself mostly up to speed within a couple of days. It took longer to try to get out of some of the habits I've picked up over decades of typing in a funny way. For instance, I found myself usually reaching over to press the Y key with my left forefinger out of habit, which I had to train myself not to do during the review period. It might be useful if Razer put two Y keys to help out with this habit, especially as they've already done it for the B key on the bottom row, but your mileage may vary, of course.

Nonetheless, I found the Pro Type Ergo to be a comfortable device to use, especially after the smaller adjustment period. It makes a product like this a more compelling purchase against ones that force you to make more wholesale changes to your routine, which can be quite upending in some instances.

Under finger, this Razer product isn't mechanical, which surprised me considering its high price tag. Instead, it's using a scissor-actuated mechanism that's similar to what you'll find on the smaller Razer Joro or any of the brand's Blade laptops. This means it's a short and snappy keypress, but one that lacks the precision or tactility of a mechanical option.

There are ergonomic keyboards that are also mechanical, but owing to the bigger size of full-height mechanical switches, they are likely to be bulkier than the Razer Pro Type Ergo – I can understand why this isn't a mechanical product, but it's still a shame it isn't.

Connectivity is versatile, with three-channel Bluetooth and 2.4GHz with the bundled USB-A receiver on the menu, and pairing is simple, too. Simply hold the button down on the keyboard until the button flashes blue and the Pro Type Ergo shows up in the pairing menu of your device. You can also use the bundled USB-C cable for wired connectivity.

As for battery life, Razer also promises three months of use from a single charge, though I imagine you'll have to cut RGB lighting to reach that. You can check the keyboard's battery level with the dedicated button in the top-right corner, which is neat. The Pro Type Ergo takes five and a half hours to recharge, but if the charge lasts up to three months, that's a small price to pay in my book.

Software duties are handled by Razer Synapse 4, and the Pro Type Ergo, unfortunately, isn't compatible with the new web-based variant of Synapse. It's an improvement on the older and clunkier forms of Synapse that came before it, and provides a lot of customisation opportunities for the keyboard, with up to 100 different functions available for the keyboard's command dials, custom key bindings for the macro keys (or you can use built-in ones for apps such as Photoshop or MS Word), and even remapping every other key on the keyboard.

The dedicated AI Prompt button on the keyboard works in a similar way to Logitech's Logi Prompt Builder, allowing you to build a prompt in software, which is then answered by your choice of either ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot in a browser window.

• Performance score: 4/5

Should I buy the Razer Pro Type Ergo?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Razer Pro Type Ergo

• Tested for around three weeks
• Used for gaming and productivity across Windows and macOS
• A decade of experience as a journalist and mechanical keyboard hobbyist

I tested the Pro Type Ergo for around three weeks, using it as my main keyboard for work and play during this time with both Windows and macOS.

I used it for typing up thousands of words a day with my PC and hooked up to my MacBook Pro over Bluetooth as my primary keyboard for work, too, to judge its performance. I also used the Razer Synapse 4 software on Windows to remap keys, program the macros and see what else it had to offer.

I've been a tech journalist for the best part of a decade, and have reviewed plenty of keyboards in that time from brands big and small. I'm also a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, so I have a keen eye for peripherals and have been involved with the hobby before it hit the mainstream.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Finally, Rockstar Games has announced GTA 6's price, which retails at $79.99 (likely £75 / AU$114.40), and the excitement has unsurprisingly reached an all-time high among gamers.

With the game now locked in for a November 19 launch, there are plenty of ways to get prepared for gaming's biggest event in decades. Whether that's via buying a PS5, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X, or Xbox Series S console, or acquiring necessary accessories, this announcement comes at a perfect time.

It's Prime Day, and if you're a PS5 owner, you're in luck, as several deals on headsets and controllers will certainly come in handy once the long-awaited day finally arrives later this November.

First and foremost, the Razer Raiju V3 Pro is available on Amazon for $144 (was $219.99), with a strong 35% discount, making this top-of-the-line controller much more affordable.

You can find the Razer Raiju V3 Pro available in the UK on Amazon for £142.08 (was £199.99), at a slightly lower price.

If you're all set on your controller setup already, and you need a gaming headset to enjoy GTA 6's immersive audio, look no further.

The Logitech G Pro X 2 wireless gaming headset is available on Amazon for $199 (was $279.99), thanks to a 29% discount. This is a gaming headset that will keep you locked into your games for hours, only requiring 5 minutes of charging for 1 hour of playtime, compatible with PC, PS5, PS4, and the Nintendo Switch 2.

Another big highlight is the Razer BlackShark V3, which is available for $85.49 (was $149.99), a wireless gaming headset that prioritizes great surround sound audio, long battery life, and ultra-low latency.

Effectively, there's something for everyone this Prime Day — and it's one of the best times to prepare for one of the biggest games of all-time and celebrate your GTA 6 pre-order.

Today's best Prime Day controller & headset deals in the US

Today's best Prime Day controller & headset deals in the UK

More Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire Sticks & Echo from $18
• Amazon Haul: viral gadgets, tech & appliances from $1.99
• Apple: MacBooks, AirPods & AirTags from $29
• Beauty: 50% off toothbrushes & hair tools
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs from $69.99
• Garden: tools, mowers, planters from $24.99
• Headphones: 50% off Beats, Bose & Samsung
• Laptops: Apple, HP & Dell from $199
• Mattresses: Sealy, Serta & more from $186
• Patio: outdoor furniture, rugs & decor from $19.99
• Sports: 50% off fitness gear, treadmills & clothing
• Vacuums: Dyson, Shark & Bissell from $34

More Prime Day deals in the UK

• Amazon Prime: get a 30-day free trial
• Amazon Devices: Fire, Ring & Blink from £13.99
• Amazon Haul: up to 30% off
• Apple: up to 33% off AirPods & Apple Watch
• Appliances: up to 45% off Ninja & Tefal
• Beauty: up to 60% off Philips & Oral-B
• Essentials: household goods from £5
• Fans: from £20
• Fashion: up to 50% off
• Gaming: £90 off PlayStation 5
• Headphones: up to 50% off Beats & Sony
• Laptops: from £149
• Tablets: Samsung & Lenovo from £79.99
• Toys: up to 25% off Lego and Tonies
• TVs: from £129.99
• Vacuums: up to 40% off Shark & Roborock
• Wearables: up to 30% off Garmin & Oura

It's been a long three years since I last found myself in the market for a new office or gaming chair. Since gambling on the Noblewell NWOC6 ergonomic office chair, I've had few to no issues with its comfort or functionality, especially with its mesh design aiding breathability during hot summer days.

That all came crashing down recently when attempting a normal recline, with the mechanism failing and nearly sending me and my desk into the abyss. Now, the chair no longer locks in recline at the initial or, in other words, 'standard' level.

It's hard to pinpoint whether the failure is a simple case of wear and tear due to long-term use, or if I had put way too much pressure on the tilt and recline mechanism — but it seems there's no going back now.

Essentially, all desktop activities, which include working, gaming, or watching movies, are so much more difficult, as there's practically no resistance from the NWOC6 to keep me locked in position.

That's exactly why these three options, some of which are in our rankings of the most comfortable gaming chairs, have been on my radar for days. With Prime Day here, I'm primed to buy.

1. Razer Iskur V2 X

The Razer Iskur V2 X is one of the most affordable and comfy gaming chairs any gamer (or casual desktop user) could opt for, with a fairly simple but comfortable design that seemingly prioritizes lumbar support with the additional memory foam lumbar cushion.

Fortunately, the Razer Iskur V2 X is available on Amazon for $269.99 (was $299.99), thanks to a reasonable 10% discount.

While this is a step away from my preferred mesh material design, which makes gaming and PC usage easier on hotter days, it's still worth a shot considering its push for comfort — and hopefully, this one doesn't try to end me.

2. Secretlab Titan Evo 2022

The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is my dream gaming chair upgrade. Again, it's not using a mesh design, but the SoftWeave Plus Fabric promises a breathable design that will help keep gamers cool in the summer.

Fortunately, the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is available on Amazon for $535.20 (was $669). Still, it's best to keep your eyes peeled for any more Prime Day discounts.

It's ranked among our best office chairs, best gaming chairs, and the most comfortable chairs, and that's no surprise considering its fantastic top-of-the-line build quality and features, so it's one I'll be looking to buy.

3. ThundrX3 Flex Pro

Perhaps the strongest contender in the list is the ThunderX3 Flex Pro, an ergonomic office chair, also designed for gamers, but with a mesh design, making it a fantastic option for summer comfort.

It's a chair that is frustratingly not on sale just yet, but Prime Day can throw surprises with heavy discounts when least expected, so keeping tabs open for this one is the right move.

The Flex Pro features fully retractable armrests, 5D flip-up support (providing support for handheld gaming), and adjustable height and seat depth. It's effectively the ideal option for a user who may need to adjust almost every part of the chair to their liking, and I'm hoping it's one I can land this Prime Day.

More Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire Sticks & Echo from $18
• Amazon Haul: viral gadgets, tech & appliances from $1.99
• Apple: MacBooks, AirPods & AirTags from $29
• Beauty: 50% off toothbrushes & hair tools
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs from $69.99
• Garden: tools, mowers, planters from $24.99
• Headphones: 50% off Beats, Bose & Samsung
• Laptops: Apple, HP & Dell from $199
• Mattresses: Sealy, Serta & more from $186
• Patio: outdoor furniture, rugs & decor from $19.99
• Sports: 50% off fitness gear, treadmills & clothing
• Vacuums: Dyson, Shark & Bissell from $34

Razer Blade 18 (2026): Two-minute review

Another year, another Razer Blade laptop lineup. At this point, these reviews have become something of a foregone conclusion for me; if there are three things I can reliably expect from each new Blade release, it's great gaming performance, a sleek and robust design, and a sky-high price tag.

Sure enough, the latest Blade 18 (2026) delivers on all three fronts – but I can't just say 'yep, buy it if you can afford it'. This new Blade is superior to its predecessors in several ways, and it's quite possibly the best large-screen gaming laptop (or portable workstation) you can buy right now.

Having seen the dawn of Nvidia RTX 5000 GPUs in Razer's laptops when I reviewed the Razer Blade 16 (2025) last year, I had some idea of what to expect in terms of performance. The new Blade 18 did not disappoint in this regard, delivering top-notch gaming quality across everything I tested.

Those games look better than ever on the new display as well, since this Blade doesn't eschew 4K display options as the 16-inch model does. That's not all I have to say about the screen, though. This Blade has an ace up its sleeve; a dual-mode display that can be switched between UHD+ 240Hz and FHD+ 440Hz modes.

I'll dig more into the specifics of this later, but it's a feature that will appeal specifically to esports-oriented gamers. In the upper echelons of competitive gaming, resolution takes a back seat to framerate in terms of importance, so being able to nearly double the maximum refresh rate of your screen at the cost of locking your resolution to 1200p becomes a very attractive tradeoff.

Still, even if you're not a hardcore esports gamer, there's little doubt that the Razer Blade 18 is worthy of standing among the best gaming laptops on the market right now. The updated design and premium build quality of the CNC-milled metal chassis, combined with the powerful gaming and creative performance (and great functionality for AI workloads, if you're so inclined), make this an easy winner – just as long as you can afford the steep price of the higher-spec configurations.

Razer Blade 18 (2026) review: Price & availability

• Starts from $3,499.99 / £3,299.99 (around AU$4,870)
• Available now in the US and UK
• No Australian release yet

Yeah, it's pretty bloody expensive. Just the starting configuration of the Razer Blade 18 will set you back a hefty $3,499.99 / £3,299.99 (around AU$4,870), though even the base specs are fairly impressive: an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti GPU, 32GB of RAM (no wonder it's so pricey, with RAM prices spiralling out of control due to AI datacenter demand), and a 1TB SSD.

You can also get RTX 5080 and 5090 models, with my review configuration sporting the latter GPU along with an upgraded Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus CPU and double the SSD storage.

The absolute top-spec model, which also bumps the RAM up to 128GB, will cost you an eye-watering $6,999.99 - and this configuration is only available in the US, with UK models topping out at 64GB and no availability whatsoever in Australia – sorry to our readers on the other side of the globe, but you're stuck with the Blade 14 and 16 unless you want to spend extra to import the 18-inch model.

Razer Blade 18 (2026) review: Specs

Razer Blade 18 (2026) review: Design

• Thin for a large gaming laptop, but heavy
• Premium precision-milled aluminum chassis
• Plenty of ports

Long gone are the days when Razer couldn't resist the urge to cram RGB lighting into every nook and cranny of a product. Like its most recent predecessors, the 2026 Blade 18 is a clean, minimalist piece of hardware, with a pleasingly large keyboard and a chassis crafted from a single block of tempered aluminum.

As you might expect, the large display and all-metal body mean that the Blade 18 is rather heavy, weighing more than 3 kilograms. It's not exactly a device you'd want to regularly take with you on the go, but I will note that it's surprisingly slender for such a powerhouse laptop, measuring barely more than an inch thick with the lid closed.

The wide touchpad and well-spaced, comfortable backlit keyboard are excellent, making longer typing or gaming sessions very comfortable – though of course, I used a USB mouse for gaming. No, I'm not one of those terrifying Valorant players who only use the touchpad.

Speaking of plugging in peripherals, there's a fine selection of physical ports here, with the 18-inch Blade giving you three USB-As and two USB-Cs (one of which is a high-speed Thunderbolt 5 port) as well as an HDMI port, RJ-45 Ethernet, and an SD card reader – great for professional creatives who work with cameras. With regard to wireless connectivity, you get Bluetooth 5.4 and high-speed Wi-Fi 7.

The webcam is also surprisingly decent, capable of capturing 1440p video at 30Hz, which comfortably outdoes any webcam you'll find on the average office laptop. Considering that the webcam is frequently an afterthought on gaming laptops, this was nice to see. It features an IR camera for Windows Hello logins, and a physical privacy shutter (the latter of which should frankly be a feature on every webcam in this day and age).

As is usually the case for modern gaming laptops, there's not much in the way of upgradability here, but you can add in more storage if you're so inclined. There are two PCIe M.2 slots, one of which is occupied by the existing SSD, and the system supports up to 8TB of additonal storage per slot, meaning you can have up to 16TB of storage – assuming you have very deep pockets, given the current price of SSDs.

Now, let's discuss this display. In its default mode, it's a particularly nice 4K (3840 x 2400p) panel with a 240Hz refresh rate, 3ms response time, and an impressive 600 nits of maximum brightness. It's also Calman verified for color accuracy, with a 100% DCI-P3 gamut, meaning that games look bright and vibrant, and pro-level photo or video editing is a very realistic proposition.

But if you swap it into high refresh rate mode, the maximum resolution drops to FHD+ (1920 x 1200p) and the refresh rate leaps to a blindingly fast 440Hz. It's geared towards hardcore esports players who want their framerates to be as high as possible, for games like Counter-Strike 2 and Valorant where every millisecond matters.

Now, I'll be honest here; the beefy gaming performance of my RTX 5090-equipped review unit meant that I was comfortably getting high framerates at native UHD+ resolution, so I never really felt the need to use the 440Hz mode. I accept that I'm not the target audience for a feature like this (yes, I kind of suck at Valorant), but I'm not in a small crowd there. The majority of PC gamers won't really be able to eke any significant benefit from the high refresh rate mode, and switching to it is a bit of a fiddly process too: you have to use Razer's Synapse software to change the display mode, then restart the whole laptop.

This might seem like a bit of an unfair criticism, but I have to assume that including this dual-mode display functionality added to the overall cost of the Razer Blade 18, and considering that most users won't need or use it, it's a bit difficult to justify its presence here. It's certainly a neat feature that isn't offered by Razer's competitors, though, so I can't knock Razer too much for it.

Razer Blade 18 (2026) review: Performance

• Silky-smooth AAA gaming
• Powerful creative performance
• Gets a bit hot under load

Unsurprisingly, the RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 290HX Plus in my Razer Blade 18 review unit absolutely chewed through our selection benchmarking tests, as well as everything else I threw at it.

Razer has long been the brand of 'performance at any cost', and this laptop is no exception to that rule. In 4K gaming benchmarks, it delivered solid performance further boosted by Nvidia's DLSS upscaling, but I didn't need to turn on the still-controversial frame-generation features to ensure a high and stable FPS.

In terms of gaming performance, I was comfortably getting a stable 60+ frames per second at 4K resolution with maximum graphical settings in almost every game I tested, both within our usual suite of benchmarking games and in a handful of other titles I played during my general testing process, which included Marathon and Alan Wake 2. The fans got a little noisy in the process, but I've heard far worse from other gaming laptops, and

The notable exception here was Total War: Warhammer III, which is historically more reliant on the CPU than the GPU; it appears that the 2nd-gen Intel Core Ultra processor inside the Razer Blade 18 still struggled a little with the 4K Ultra preset here, though I would note that it still managed to maintain an average above 60 FPS at maximum graphical settings, and it's also very power efficient (more on that in the next section).

The only other part of my game testing that gave me pause was a relatively low average at 4K Ultra settings in Marvel Rivals. Although the game ran stably, my average FPS sat at a little over 70 in the built-in benchmark – yet in actual matches, I found that the FPS counter very rarely dropped below 100, so I'm a little unclear on what caused this. Driver and OS updates, multiple tweaks to the in-game and display settings, and even running the game via an external 4K monitor did not seem to remedy this. I won't mark the Blade 18 down for this, though, as it appeared to be an anomaly with Rivals rather than the laptop itself.

Turn on Nvidia's frame-gen tech, and you'll see those numbers skyrocket across almost every game I tested. I was getting 40% stable gains on average with 2x mode across four different games, with no noticeable impact on visual fidelity.

3x and 4x modes push the framerate higher, but do start to degrade the visual quality of gameplay; I found that 4x mode was prone to tearing and artifacting in all games tested except Alan Wake 2, to the point where it wasn't worth the trade-off in improved framerate.

Outside of gaming benchmarks, the Blade 18 excelled in virtually every area; 2D and 3D rendering, productivity workloads, transfer speeds, single- and multi-core CPU workloads... you name it, this laptop can power through it. For users who want a gaming laptop that can also pull double duty for high-end professional creative or scientific workloads, this Blade has got the goods.

Razer Blade 18 (2026) review: Battery life

• Fantastic for a gaming laptop
• Outlasts many rivals
• Bundled charger is proprietary, not USB-C

I'll make no bones about this: for a high-powered gaming laptop, the battery life on the Razer Blade 18 is nothing short of phenomenal.

The average gaming laptop tends to peter out before the 6-hour mark in regular use, with powerful internal components that draw a lot of juice; if you're actively gaming on it, you'll usually be lucky to get more than two hours of play time before needing to seek out a wall socket.

But the Blade 18 mustered an impressive amount of longevity in my testing, reaching nearly eight and a half hours of continuous video playback and more than three and a half hours of continuous gaming in Marathon – a distinctly superior showing to the vast majority of gaming laptops we test at TechRadar, and is most likely down to the excellent power efficiency of the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor.

The only downside I can possibly pick out here is that you need to use the bundled proprietary adapter for power delivery, and it's a pretty chunky brick that hurts the laptop's portability. But considering that it's already a great big 18-inch slab of machined aluminum, you shouldn't be buying the Blade 18 if you want a super-portable gaming laptop anyway!

Should I buy the Razer Blade 18 (2026)?

Razer Blade 18 (2026): Scorecard

Buy the Razer Blade 18 (2026) if…

Don't buy it if…

Razer Blade 18 (2026) review: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Blade 18 (2026)

• Tested for one work week
• Used for gaming and other tasks
• 8+ years of experience reviewing dozens of laptops

I swapped out my usual desktop workstation rig for the Razer Blade 18 for five days (one work week), during which I used it for all my usual activities. This included day-to-day work in the Google software suite, online research, playing videos, and of course a lot of after-hours gaming.

In terms of the games tested, I ran out entire synthetic and gaming benchmark lineup (listed in the 'performance' section of this review, as well as playing some other games that are in my current rotation: Marathon, Warframe, Alan Wake 2, Borderlands 4, and of course my current addition Slay the Spire 2 (though let's be honest, that last one isn't exactly a performance stress-test).

I've been a PC gamer since my tender pre-teen years, starting out on my dad's boxy beige home office desktop, and I've been a professional tech journalist reviewing all kinds of laptops and PC tech for nearly a decade now, starting out at Maximum PC magazine before making the jump to digital journalism and joining the TechRadar team. I've personally reviewed more than seventy laptops, so you can trust that my knowledge and experience give you reliable insights into the quality of the products I write about.

• First reviewed: June 2026
• Read more about how we test

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz: One-minute review

The Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz is one of the brand’s new flagship gaming keyboards. It features analog switches with huge customization potential, designed to meet the exacting requirements of esport professionals.

It has a simple and basic form, although there are few touches that add a little flair. The shiny, brushed top plate and high floating keycaps are sleek, while the bright but subtle RGB lighting adds some much needed color.

It’s also light and compact, but very solid at the same time. The materials feel premium, with the Doubleshot PBT keycaps being the highlight. Some might not like their prominent graining, but to me they’re among the best gaming keyboard caps around in terms of texture.

Razer’s Synapse software has a smorgasbord of options to play around with. There are plenty of rebinding options and performance-related settings, including in-depth Rapid Trigger, Snap Tap, and controller emulation features, to name a few. The app is clear and easy to use, although I did experience a few minor issues with settings failing to take hold at certain points, although these are ultimately fixable.

The optical switches in the Huntsman V3 lack the dampening or clickiness of other boards, and can feel a little harsh at times. This is especially evident when typing, which is also made difficult by the sheer height of the keycaps themselves. Overall, though, they’re still pleasant to use, and the smooth and easy travel of the keys makes them effective when gaming.

The analog performance is also smooth and precise. However, there’s a lack of feel and feedback at the top of each key’s travel. Press further down, though, and you’re met with more resistance, which provides more control when attempting to hit certain actuation points, or when emulating controller sticks and triggers.

With its sub-$200 price point, the Huntsman V3 represents good value considering all that it offers. There are very strong contenders in the analog gaming keyboard space, but the Huntsman V3 acquits itself just well enough to justify its place among them.

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Price and availability

• $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.95
• Available now in one color
• Decent price for an analog board

The Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz costs $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.95 and is available now in black only. The keycaps are removable, but the switches aren’t.

This is a decent price for an analog keyboard, especially one with as many software tweaks as the Huntsman V3 features. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, for instance, has a considerably higher list price, although we have seen it with significant discounts lately, bringing it closer in line with the Huntsman V3. The Apex Pro is a truly phenomenal board, with a superior build and performance to that of the Huntsman V3. It doesn’t have as many analog tweaks, though.

For a more budget option, there’s the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. Like the Huntsman V3, this also has plenty of analog adjustments and features, including controller emulation. However, I found its analog performance inferior, lacking the same levels of precision and control as the Huntsman V3.

• Value score: 4 / 5

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Specs

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Design and features

• Light and compact board
• Tall floating keycaps
• Wealth of settings in Synapse

The Huntsman V3 has a basic appearance, although a few touches set it apart. The aluminum faceplate has a shiny finish with a brushed effect, which is subtle but may still prove divisive. The prominent floating keycaps lend it a healthy dose of sleek minimalism.

The RGB lighting is reasonably subtle, only shining through the keycap characters, although a small amount does leak between the gaps. It’s quite bright, and there are numerous options for customizing patterns.

It’s quite a light and compact board, but it feels surprisingly solid at the same time. There’s very little flex and all materials feel premium. This includes the Doubleshot PBT keycaps; their prominent graining is satisfying to touch and also helps with traction. Again, though, this mightn’t be to every gamer’s taste, given that many keycaps are super smooth.

While the board itself is quite thin, it actually feels a lot thicker, thanks to the height at which the keycaps float above it, as well as the tallness of the keycaps themselves.

However, the tilt angle provided by the feet does help to make it more comfortable to reach the keys. There are two sets of feet which offer meaningful differences in angle.

You’ll find the USB-C port on the back left of the unit. It’s deeply recessed, which makes it a little more difficult to connect and disconnect, but this small inconvenience is a fair trade-off for the security it provides.

To customize the Huntsman V3, you’ll need to download Razer’s Synapse software. This has an impressive gamut of adjustments. There are plenty of remapping options, including a wealth of Windows and media controls you can assign to keys. You can also assign up to four inputs to a single key, each triggering depending on how far down you press.

Like many modern gaming keyboards, there’s a Snap Tap function, letting you assign priority to a single key when two are pressed simultaneously. There are various options here, with different types of priority to choose from. There’s also a Snap Flex feature, which allows you to bind a second input to a key that triggers when you release it. This can be assigned on up to four different keys.

Then there are the analog settings, which again are very extensive. Aside from being able to adjust the actuation point for each key between 0.1mm and 4mm, there’s also a Rapid Trigger function with independent upstroke and downstroke sliders, each with ranges between 0.1mm and 1mm. You can even enable Continuous Rapid Trigger.

There’s a controller emulation mode, too, allowing you to assign gamepad inputs to your keys. This includes trigger and stick inputs, where you can also adjust their curve profile to set their response and sensitivity to your liking.

Controller inputs are easy to assign, in part thanks to the ability to assign multiple common mappings with a single click. For instance, there’s an option to assign the left stick to the WASD keys. A simple but useful visualizer attends the controller section, showing trigger and stick behaviours in real time with your presses.

Aside from being able to create your own profiles, Synapse features some useful preset profiles, including those designed for certain games. For example, the Racing profile binds gamepad triggers and joysticks to the WASD keys. These profiles can be selected via Fn shortcuts, and there are hotkeys for other performance-related functions, too.

Synapse is clearly laid out and features helpful explanations and tutorials. It’s fast and smooth, although I did experience a few minor bugs. For instance, the keyboard passthrough feature for controller emulation, which allows keys not bound to controller inputs to work as normal, failed to work on occasion. However, a simple replug of the USB cable seemed to remedy the issue.

• Design and features score: 4 / 5

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Performance

• Precise analog response
• Slight harsh and numb keys
• Not great for typing

The keys in the Huntsman V3 are more clicky than thocky, although they feel less sharp than the clickiest switches out there. Their sound is both lower in pitch and quieter than many mechanical models, too.

They don’t have much dampening, which can make the board feel a little harsh at times. This is especially evident when typing — and the act isn’t made any easier by the thick keycaps, their elevated height, and the absence of a dip in the middle row. This combination makes gliding around the keys tricky, and it also causes some discomfort, owing to the angle at which you have to bend your wrists to reach them.

Thankfully, I was more comfortable when gaming in the WASD position. The keys are comfortably spaced, while the space bar and other peripheral keys are easy to reach.

The standout aspect of the Huntsman V3’s performance, though, is its analog response. It’s very precise and sensitive, reacting very well to different levels of pressure, which in turn gives you a broad range of control.

However, this precision is somewhat undermined by the lack of feel in the keys themselves. They don’t provide as much feedback as I would've liked, which can make it a little tricky to dial in the exact amount of pressure to hit certain actuation points or make smooth adjustments when emulating triggers and sticks.

What's more, there’s a small but noticeable amount of wobble to the keys, which means presses don’t feel particularly secure. Thankfully, though, most of the analog issues I’ve outlined only pertain to the top of presses; once you press further down, more resistance is generated from the springs, which allows for much smoother and more granular control.

• Performance score: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz

• Tested for several days
• Used many features
• Extensive gaming keyboard experience

I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general use.

I played games such as Subnautica 2, which makes use of the typical first-person keys, from WASD and the number keys to the space bar and control and shift keys. I also played games that allowed me to make use of the Huntsman V3’s controller emulation, such as Assetto Corsa, by using W and S to emulate triggers and A and D in place of the left stick.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and have used a number of keyboards in that time. I’ve also reviewed a large number of them, including other Razer models.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Razer Viper V4 Pro: Two-minute review

Razer is a good brand for PC gaming hardware, but I have noticed a tendency over the years to make its generational hardware upgrades... iterative might be the kind way to put it, but if I were feeling uncharitable, I might call them rudimentary – improving something, but sometimes not to a sufficient degree that an entirely new product release feels worthwhile.

I feared this might be the case with the Razer Viper V4 Pro. That wouldn't have been a disaster by any means; we gave the previous Viper V3 Pro a four-star score when we reviewed it back in 2024, which is perfectly respectable. But when I saw the V4 Pro for the first time, my first thought was that it didn't look any different from the V3 Pro whatsoever, and my heart sank.

Once I got my hands on the new model, though, I was pleased to be proven wrong. Despite looking virtually identical to the previous model, the Viper V4 Pro has undergone extensive improvements where it counts – on the inside.

For starters, Razer has managed to shave off another five grams from the already-low package weight, bringing this mouse down to a staggeringly lightweight 49g. The battery life has been almost doubled, and the buttons (and scroll wheel) have been updated with new optical switches, which provide better durability without compromising on tactile feedback.

The sensor has been upgraded, too, with the Viper V4 Pro packing Razer's third-generation Focus Pro 50K optical sensor. 50,000 DPI is far more than 99% of people will ever need, but it helps cement this as a peripheral for serious, hardcore competitive gamers. The 8K polling rate (returning from the V3 Pro) also aligns with this; the average gamer won't need it, but for pros, it's a must-have.

Really, it's genuinely difficult for me to find anything I don't like about this mouse. It's comfortable in the hand and feels supremely responsive even in high-stakes virtual shootouts. The lack of a left-handed version is a shame (although I imagine many of my fellow southpaws have adapted to life in a right-handed world and use their mouse on the right out of habit), and it's admittedly pretty expensive, but these feel like minor issues – bugs on the windshield of an extremely nice car. From my time with it, I'm very confident in saying that the Razer Viper V4 Pro deserves a place among the best gaming mice on the market.

Razer Viper V4 Pro: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $159.99 / £159.99 / AU$279.95
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available globally

Anyone familiar with Razer's hardware will be aware of the 'gamer tax' on the brand's products, but even taking Razer's often-steep pricing, this is one very expensive mouse.

At $159.99 / £159.99 / AU$279.95, it's very slightly cheaper than the Razer Deathadder V4 Pro, which we featured in our list of the best mice, and is fundamentally very similar to the Viper V4 Pro beyond its right-handed grip shape.

Don't get me wrong: this is an extremely high-quality mouse, but there's no getting around the fact that it'll simply be out of reach for many PC gamers at this price point. It's arguably also quite feature-light for such an expensive mouse; some potential buyers might feel shortchanged here, especially if they're looking for a mouse with more customization options.

Razer Viper V4 Pro: Design

• Incredibly lightweight design
• Sturdy, tactile optical switches
• No version for left-handed users

Compared to the Logitech G502 Lightspeed I use daily for work and gaming, the Razer Viper V4 Pro feels like I'm holding nothing at all (nothing at all...)

Seriously, I almost can't believe the Viper V4 Pro even weighs the 49g listed on the spec sheet; this thing is phenomenally lightweight, to the point where I actually busted out the kitchen scales to make sure I wasn't going crazy. Sure enough, it weighed exactly the listed 49g.

It's also just a generally very comfortable mouse to use. The exterior casing is almost entirely symmetrical and lacks a thumbrest, which would generally mean that it's best suited for claw and fingertip mouse grippers, but as someone who tends to shift between claw and palm grip styles, I can attest that the latter feels comfortable with the Viper V4 Pro as well. As I noted further up in this review, despite the mostly symmetrical design, the Viper only comes in one right-handed model, so lefties are out of luck.

The buttons and scroll wheel have a pleasing amount of tactile feedback, updated to shiny new optical switches underneath the matte plastic buttons. They feel robust, with the main two mouse buttons rated for 100 million clicks, though I would note that they have a fairly loud 'click' to them – something to bear in mind if you prefer a quieter mouse.

The underside of the mouse features only the sensor, a DPI/power button, and two wide PTFE feet that offer a good amount of smoothness on a variety of surfaces (more on that down in the performance section). I'm personally not a huge fan of DPI buttons being inaccessible during use, but it's unlikely to bother the majority of users.

Overall, it's a pleasingly straightforward design; considering that the Razer name is sometimes considered synonymous with bright RGB lighting, I like how stripped-back and purpose-built the Viper V4 Pro feels.

In fact, the only LEDs to be found here are a single white power indicator above the scroll wheel, and three RGB LEDs on the wireless dongle – which rather helpfully display the mouse's connection status, battery life, and polling rate mode via color-coding.

This dongle was recently redesigned from a rather blocky shape to a far more aesthetically pleasing mini dome with the Razer logo emblazoned on the top, and it connects to your PC via an included USB-C to USB-A cable. This cable can also be used to charge the mouse itself or connect it for fully wired play, but there's no Bluetooth support here, so laptop gamers with limited ports should bear that in mind.

Razer Viper V4 Pro: Performance

• Snappy, satisfying performance in shooters
• Razer Synapse is better than ever
• 8K polling rate is probably unnecessary for most PC gamers

Simply put, this is one hell of a gaming mouse for first-person shooters. I used the Viper V4 Pro to play Valorant, Marathon, Overwatch, and Counter-Strike 2 – and while I'm not sure if it actually made me better at clicking heads, I certainly felt like it was a better fit for fast-paced, twitchy shooting than my usual Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless.

Razer was kind enough to send me some mouse mats to test the Viper V4 Pro on, and I found that it offered a good amount of glide on practically any surface. From the moderate friction of the Razer Gigantus V2 Pro (featured in the photography for this review) to the silky-smooth tempered glass Atlas Pro mat, the Viper felt swift and easy to use regardless of surface. In fact (sorry Razer), I'd even say that you barely need a fancy mouse mat for this mouse; it worked perfectly even just on the bare wooden surface of my desk.

The Razer Synapse app has come a long way – no longer the annoying bloatware I used to heckle in every Razer product review, but now a sleeker and more effective (and, importantly, less intrusive) piece of tweaking software. Even better, it's now available as a web app, letting you tweak settings in your browser without needing to download the main app itself.

There isn't a vast amount of customization options here, which is unsurprising given the minimalist nature of the Viper V4 Pro, but the options you do get come with a great amount of granularity. Most importantly, the mouse sensitivity can be adjusted right down to 1-DPI increments to get you the exact right amount, and you can also adjust the sensor's tracking angle to ensure that the mouse input from fast horizontal movements stays level, which I actually did find helped with landing repeated shots on strafing targets. As you'd expect from a premium gaming mouse, you can also set up macros, but you'll need to download the full-fat version of Synapse for that.

One feature that didn't actually help at all was the 8,000Hz polling rate mode. This feature is becoming increasingly common as a selling point for both mice and keyboards, but I remain dubious; in my recent review of the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K gaming keyboard, I called it a gimmick – and I stand by that assessment.

See, an 8K polling rate helps minimize input latency from your peripherals (the standard is usually 1K, which the Viper V4 Pro is set to by default unless you turn on the 8K mode in Razer Synapse), which is undeniably a good thing, but 1K polling is frankly already good enough for the vast majority of users in the vast majority of use cases. The average gamer likely won't even notice the difference – I feel like there was a very slight, almost imperceptible increase in reactivity, but not enough to actually make me hit my shots more consistently.

Still, I won't knock the Viper V4 Pro down a point for this, because it's something every gaming mouse manufacturer is also doing, and because this is a mouse marketed towards esports gamers. I'm sure the Valorant and League of Legends masters Razer quotes on its website actually can tell the difference in a high-stakes tournament match, I'm just too much of a filthy casual to really reap the benefits. It also doesn't make me any better at Slay the Spire 2. Seriously, the Waterfall Giant can sod off.

One nifty feature that I did appreciate was an adaptive polling mode, which can be toggled on with Synapse (though it's not yet available in the web app version). This switches on the 8K polling rate for gaming, but automatically returns to 1K mode for other activities on your PC, which helps preserve the battery life of the mouse. And on that topic: the battery life is great. Razer advertises up to 180 hours, almost double the 95-hour battery of the last-gen Viper V3 Pro, and I can confirm that I didn't need to charge the mouse even once during the week I spent testing it.

Should you buy the Razer Viper V4 Pro?

Buy the Razer Viper V4 Pro if…

Don’t buy it if…

Razer Viper V4 Pro: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Viper V4 Pro

As is standard for my mouse reviews, I swapped out my ever-reliable Logitech G502 Lightspeed for the Razer Viper V4 Pro for one week, using it for both my day-to-day tasks and gaming during my off hours.

I downloaded the Razer Synapse app and spent a while tweaking the mouse settings to my liking, then dived straight into my current addiction (Marathon, which truly does not deserve the hate it's been getting online). I also played a selection of other games, mostly online shooters like Valorant and Apex Legends, plus a spot of solo RPG gaming in the rather excellent Esoteric Ebb.

First reviewed May 2026

• Decentralized GPUs enabled large-scale AI generation without cloud providers
• Peer-to-peer computing significantly reduced image generation costs
• System scaled automatically during peak demand without manual intervention

During April Fools' Day 2026, Razer asked users to upload pet photographs and receive personalized 3D AI companion characters through a campaign called AVA Mini.

The initiative generated over 11,000 unique images between March 31 and April 4 without relying on any hyperscale cloud providers.

Razer partnered instead with Akash Network, a peer-to-peer compute marketplace where GPU owners compete on price in real time.

Abandoning cloud subscriptions for competitive bidding

Generalist inference APIs typically charge between $0.03 and $0.15 per image for equivalent Flux-family generation workloads.

Those rates would have made a free consumer-facing campaign financially impossible to sustain at any meaningful scale.

AkashML sourced compute from individual providers operating RTX 4090 and RTX 5090 cards across a decentralized marketplace, driving per-image costs down to $0.01.

Multiple Razer AIKit containers ran on separate machines behind a single OpenAI-compatible endpoint that AkashML managed automatically.

The service handled load balancing, enforced a configurable rate limit of 500 requests per minute, and maintained graceful degradation under heavy traffic conditions.

As campaign traffic climbed toward its April 1 peak, additional AIKit instances spun up across the provider pool without any manual intervention.

Throughput reached 30 images per minute, while average response time held at 3.24 seconds end to end, a measurement that includes each user's photo upload and transfer.

The 4-billion-parameter Flux model from Black Forest Labs operated entirely within the memory limits of a single consumer GPU throughout the campaign.

No capacity ceilings appeared at any stage, and no on-call engineers received emergency alerts during those five days.

Scaling decentralized infrastructure for production environments

“We’re thrilled about leveraging Razer’s AIKit on Akash’s distributed compute network and seeing it in action during the April Fools’ campaign,” said Greg Osuri, founder of Akash Network.

“The unit economics couldn’t work out better. I’m excited about collaborating further on Akash Homenode and deploying on Razer products to expand Akash’s compute landscape.”

Sustained high-concurrency production environments still demand engineering coordination beyond what typical local-first toolchains can provide.

However, while this specific marketing event succeeded, industrial applications require consistent performance across volatile hardware nodes that lack centralized oversight.

Decentralized marketplaces introduce a layer of uncertainty that could affect time-sensitive enterprise workflows requiring absolute stability.

However, this campaign proved that peer-to-peer GPU networks can deliver personalized AI at costs no hyperscaler currently approaches.

“The future of AI isn’t just better models — it’s efficient infrastructure. With Razer AIKit, many use cases already run locally,” said Quyen Quach, Vice President, Software, Razer.

“With Akash Network, it extends that into a decentralized cloud to scale efficiently.”

Such results suggest that decentralized compute models might eventually overcome the reliance on massive, expensive data centers.

Amazon's running a surprise Gaming Week sale from now until May 4 2026 - and as TechRadar Pro's resident office chair tester, I wanted to find the best savings on hybrid gaming and office chairs.

My top choice is the Corsair TC100 Relaxed, now down to $230 (was $270). This remains one of my favorite budget office chairs for gaming. It's got that understated black design that won't look out of place when you're on a video call with your team, while being perfectly suited for gaming. I suggest opting for the fabric model for an airy, breathable sit, but there is a leatherette version if you prefer.

If you're looking for a little extra comfort and control, I'd strongly recommend the Eureka Ergonomic Typhon that's now $340 (was $395). I've always liked the thoughtful designs from this company, and this one is about as good as it gets when it comes to a gaming and office chair hybrid that's balanced for work and play.

For more top picks, we've rounded up the best office chairs and the best gaming chairs we've tested.

• Shop the full Amazon Gaming Week sale

Today's top hybrid gaming & office chair deals

• Shop all office chairs at Amazon
• Shop all gaming chairs at Amazon

Back in my prime Counter Strike and MOBA days, I refused to use anything but a wired mouse. Sure, I was never going to win any esports tournaments, but a boy can dream. Now that gaming habits are far more casual and I spend more time working on my PC rather than playing, I swapped to a wireless mouse for convenience. With the Razer DeathAdder Essential down to £16.09 at Amazon, though, I'm strongly tempted to return to my go-to mouse for years.

Sure, it is the most basic gaming mouse out there, but it has all the crucial features you might need at a bargain price. You get a precise 6400 DPI sensor for smooth and responsive movement, five reprogrammable buttons with macro support, including some handy side buttons, and an understated design with tasteful RGB.

I always found my Razer mouse was good for longevity, too, both in terms of how comfortable it was to hold and it would survive extended use thanks to some durable mechanical switches.

Now, there are clearly better and more advanced gaming mice out there if you want something even more precise or with extra features. However, for under £20, I think the Razer DeathAdder Essential is extremely hard to beat. That's especially true if you're someone like me who enjoys competitive gaming but is fully aware they're unlikely to hit the pro leagues any time soon.

Buy the Razer DeathAdder at Amazon

This Razer DeathAdder Essential deal is part of the current Amazon Tech Week sale, which features dozens of other offers on laptops, smartwatches, appliances, and more gaming gear.

I've had a look through the event and picked out some of the best deals that are currently live. You can find record-low prices on some top-rated tech, such as one of our favourite Garmin running watches, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming PC, and a portable fan from Shark.

Deals on this gaming mouse and everything mentioned end on Sunday, though, so do check them out before it's too late to see if anything grabs you.

• Goddess of Victory: Nikke is getting a Razer collaboration
• It includes the ability to unlock a new character skin featuring the brand's Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT headset
• There will also be pop-up events at some Razer stores

Goddess of Victory: Nikke publisher Level Infinite has revealed a new collaboration with gaming hardware giant Razer that brings one of the brand's cutest headsets to the mobile game.

Starting on March 26, 2026, players will be able to unlock the new Punky Street skin for the character Viper by working their way through the limited-time Punky Street Pass. The skin decks out Viper in trendy streetwear and a white Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT wireless gaming headset, complete with cat ears and some custom pink decals.

In addition to the unique look, the skin includes some exclusive voice lines.

The Punky Street Pass will also contain a few limited title and avatar frame cosmetic items that players can obtain for free.

For those living in China, Japan, and South Korea, a cool Nikke x Razer collab will be put up for sale. It includes a white Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT headset (plus a set of stickers you can use to make it match the in-game skin), as well as a custom Razer Orochi V2 Wireless Mouse with an exclusive Viper design on its shell.

This is on top of an enduring anime merch staple: the acrylic standee. This depicts Viper in her new outfit. There are also two brightly-colored badges, both with Viper on them. What's more, you can even get a code for immediate access to the in-game skin.

Although that box won't be available outside of Asia, players in the West can look forward to some real-world events. This includes pop-ups at Razer's flagship stores in Los Angeles and London, England with Nikke themed decor, prizes, and professional cosplay experiences.

If you're not already familiar, Goddess of Victory: Nikke is a mobile shooter game by Stellar Blade developer Shift Up. Set in a post-apocalyptic future dominated by android characters called Nikkes, it's one of the most popular gacha role-playing games to date, and is known for its bombastic character designs.

It's available as a free-to-play title for mobile and PC.

Amazon UK is nearing the end of its Big Spring Sale, and — in a surprise move — has actually increased the discounts on a number of Razer gaming peripherals. Headsets and mice that started the week with a decent price-drop are ending it with a much bigger one.

Certain deals seem almost too good to be true. For example, the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro gaming mouse has a list price of £159.99, dropped to £101 at the start of the week and is now £72. We awarded this mouse a near-perfect 4.5 stars in our Basilisk V3 Pro review, calling it an "absolute ace" and shouting out the "great ergonomics, fast performance and long battery life."

• View the full Amazon Spring Deal Days sale

Another standout is the BlackShark V2 Pro headset, which was down to £165.96 and is now £120.28. That one also scored 4.5 stars in our Razer BlackShark V2 Pro review, with our tester most impressed by the "immersive sound, amazing mic and great battery life".

Scroll down for more of the biggest and best discounts on Razer gaming gadgets, or head to TechRadar's Amazon Spring Deal Days live hub for a guide to all the top deals across a range of tech and gadgets.

Razer gaming deals — ranked by biggest discount

More of today's best Amazon Spring Deal Days deals

• Amazon Devices: Fire TV, Blink & Echo from £13.99
• Apple: AirPods & Apple Watch from £139
• Appliances: up to 30% off Ninja & De'Longhi
• Clothing: up to 50% off Sketchers & Crocs
• Essentials: from £5
• Gaming: up to 50% off PS5 & Switch games
• Headphones: Sony & Shokz from £59
• Health & Beauty: up to 60% off Philips & Oral-B
• Laptops: from £149.99
• Smart home: up to 50% off cameras & doorbells
• Smartwatches: Apple, Samsung & Huawei from £99
• Tablets: Fire & Galaxy Tabs from £59.99
• Toys: up to 30% off Lego
• TVs: from £139.99
• Vacuums: up to 30% off Shark & Vax

Look, I love my Nintendo Switch 2 - but its high asking price means that it's not going to be worth buying for everyone. If you already own a powerful phone, why not turn it into a capable gaming machine with a compatible mobile controller like the Razer Kishi V3 Pro, which is now on sale for £127.49 (was £149.99) at Amazon.

• View the full Amazon Spring Deal Days sale

It's compatible with both iOS and Android, and is one of the few properly full-size mobile controllers on the market. I took it for a spin before giving it to our reviewer (editor's privilege, sorry Jamie) and found it to be extremely comfortable and easy to use.

It's a blessing for games like Zenless Zone Zero or full-on console to mobile ports like the recent Tomb Raider release. While the UK offer is part of the Amazon Spring Deal Days sale, if you're in the US, you can still score a decent discount with the controller on offer for just $199.99 (was $149.99).

Today's best mobile controller deal

More of today's best Amazon Spring Deal Days deals

• Amazon Devices: Fire TV, Blink & Echo from £13.99
• Apple: AirPods & Apple Watch from £139
• Appliances: up to 30% off Ninja & De'Longhi
• Clothing: up to 50% off Sketchers & Crocs
• Essentials: from £5
• Gaming: up to 50% off PS5 & Switch games
• Headphones: Sony & Shokz from £59
• Health & Beauty: up to 60% off Philips & Oral-B
• Laptops: from £149.99
• Smart home: up to 50% off cameras & doorbells
• Smartwatches: Apple, Samsung & Huawei from £99
• Tablets: Fire & Galaxy Tabs from £59.99
• Toys: up to 30% off Lego
• TVs: from £139.99
• Vacuums: up to 30% off Shark & Vax

Razer Enki Pro: One-minute review

The Razer Enki Pro is a premium, high-end gaming chair that provides you with immense comfort, to the point I would consider it one of the most comfortable gaming chairs I have ever sat in.

It offers exceptional lumbar support, even for those who enjoy sitting in weird positions in their chair - myself included. You get 4D armrests, which are a joy if you’re someone who prefers a certain position for typing and then another for gaming.

However, one of the major downsides here is the fact that it will set you back $999 / £999, which is double the cost of even some of the best gaming chairs on the market, like the Secretlab Titan Evo, which comes in at just $500 / £469.

At this hefty price point, you would expect a feature-packed seat with close to perfect ergonomics, but the Razer Enki Pro falls a tad short here. The Herman Miller x Logitech Embody gaming chair is another top-end premium seat, which comes with ergonomics designed to support your entire back and a 12-year warranty in comparison.

Another qualm I’ve got with the Razer Enki Pro, which is almost definitely more of a personal one, is the lack of style on offer from the chair here. It looks like a bog-standard gaming chair when it comes to colour, design and silhouette, which is a bit disappointing coming from Razer - whose products are typically very stylish.

Of course, this will be down to personal preference, but the hardback shell of the seat is just not for me.

Razer Enki Pro: Price and availability

• Costs $999 / £999 / AU$1799
• Pricey when compared to similar gaming chairs
• Only one colorway available

At just under $1000, the Razer Enki Pro is a pricey chair considering what’s on offer. Chairs that offer a similar feature set include the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 and the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL, which both come in closer to the $500 mark.

You can pick up the Razer Enki Pro in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Stock is limited in other regions thanks to how large and heavy the chair is, which can make shipping difficult.

You can grab a couple of special editions for the Razer Enki Pro, including the Lamborghini, Williams Esports, or Koenigsegg editions, which come in at a higher price point of $1,299 / £1,299, but the base chair only comes in a black and green colourway.

The chair often goes on sale over at the Razer website, where you can typically grab the seat at $100 / £100 off making the value proposition a little better.

Razer Enki Pro: Specs

Razer Enki Pro: Design and aesthetics

• Extremely heavy
• 4D armrests
• Alcantara seat

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Razer Enki Pro, before even unboxing the chair, is the weight.

At around 30kg, this chair is extremely heavy, to the point that it feels weighty even when just moving it around or swivelling. While the weight does make the chair seem very heavy-duty, it can get annoying to constantly have to work hard to swivel the chair while you’re sitting in it, just because of how heavy it is.

A lot of this weight is likely down to the hard shell exterior of the seat, that isn’t my cup of tea in terms of style. It makes the chair appear bulky rather than sleek and slender, which is what I would prefer.

You have the benefit of 4D armrests, which is almost expected when spending this much on a gaming chair. These allow you to move the armrests completely so they can sit exactly as you like. They can be adjusted up and down, left and right, forwards and backwards, which makes this perfect for those who want their armrests a certain way for gaming and then another way for typing.

The Razer Enki Pro also comes with a 152-degree seat recline, which is pretty common in many gaming chairs. It also has weight-adjusted tilting, meaning you can lean back in the chair and it will adjust accordingly without the need for any manual adjustments.

I didn't use this feature very often because I’m currently trying my best to repair my absolutely awful posture by sitting up exceptionally straight all the time, but when I did decide to sit cross-legged in the seat, it was great to be able to comfortably lean back.

Something that sets the chair apart from alternatives on the market is the Alcantara leather, which feels like suede.

This is much harder wearing and moisture resistant when compared to typical leather, but still doesn’t absorb all of your sweat that some felt or cotton chairs do. Personally, I wasn’t a fan of the feel of the Alcantara, but again, this will be down to personal preference and taste.

In terms of the silhouette, you get 110-degree extended shoulder arches and a 21” base to allow for optimal weight distribution for long-lasting comfort and all-day gaming.

These wider shoulder arches make the chair suited to those who may have a wider frame, but it's worth noting that it has a maximum user weight of 136kg. You get built-in lumbar support - which isn’t adjustable - that encourages you to sit upright.

Razer Enki Pro: Comfort and adjustability

• Adjustable headrest
• Extremely comfortable
• Able to sit for long periods without strain

After constructing the chair, it was very quick and easy for me to determine that the Razer Enki Pro was one of the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat in. I typically find myself fidgeting a lot throughout the day, changing positions and trying to sit in weird ways just to feel comfortable, but this was an issue of the past - for the most part - with the Razer Enki Pro.

The lumbar support is pretty good; it would be nice to be able to adjust it to suit my back, but it still feels very comfortable even when I’m sitting at my desk all day long.

I feel content sitting in this chair for long periods of time without any strain. I often find myself getting up and stretching, and walking around every so often in my other chairs just because I feel achy and strained, but I didn’t need to do this in the Razer Enki Pro.

Of course, it's recommended to get up and move around at least once an hour if you’re sitting at a desk for long periods of time.

The one downside when it came to comfort was the headrest. It isn’t as well cushioned as I was expecting, so I ended up just removing it altogether. The headrest is magnetic, meaning that removing it or adjusting it is super simple, so no matter what your preference is, you’re able to get the headrest where you like it.

Razer Enki Pro: Assembly

• All tools in the box including a pair of gloves
• Very heavy box
• I’d recommend two people for assembly

When first unboxing and constructing the chair, I struggled a tad. I’ve built countless gaming chairs in my time, thanks to the never-ending stream of review seats, but the Razer Enki Pro takes the crown for being one of the heaviest chairs I’ve ever built.

However, it was very easy to put together in spite of that, with everything just sliding into place. It only needed eight screws to attach the back to the base of the seat, which was very simple, but lifting the actual base up and trying to slide it onto the guide rail was so difficult to do alone, and I needed to call in some help in order to do this.

While it could be done solo, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Should I buy the Razer Enki Pro?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Razer Enki Pro or you just want to weigh up some other options then here’s how it compares to two other alternatives that we’ve reviewed.

How I tested the Razer Enki Pro

• Sat in all day for work and all evening for gaming
• Used for a month in total
• Compared to other gaming chairs

I spent all day, every day, using the Razer Enki Pro for a month, including working all day and gaming all evening.

I would sit in it for multiple hours at a time, including full working days. I would adjust the armrests and recline often to change seat positions or to relax in the evenings when I was gaming.

I compared my experience to multiple other gaming chairs I have reviewed over the years, right down to the build experience and design, to the features on offer and the comfort.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2026

Razer BlackShark V3 X review: One-minute review

The bells-and-whistles version of Razer’s latest BlackShark V3, the V3 Pro, is one of the best wireless gaming headsets on the market. This model might share the name and the basic chassis design, but it’s available at a very different price, and that means the feature spec sheet looks wildly different too.

Razer’s positioning this as an esports model, based on the low-latency wireless connection its Hyperspeed 2.4GHz wireless dongle offers, and the impressively svelte 9.6oz / 270g weight. In reality, as welcome as those attributes are, they’re probably more relevant to a non-professional gamer who wants to save some cash, stay comfortable while they play, and avoid connection dropouts more than a professional player in a stadium.

One thing that translates very well all the way down the BlackShark range is the comfort and adjustability of the headband and earcup design. There’s a brilliant balance of clamping force and headband weight distribution that makes this headset immediately comfy, and it stays that way into the last moments of your 40-player World of Warcraft raid.

The microphone isn’t especially standout, but it offers decent clarity and noise cancellation, and it’s detachable, which means if you opt to connect the headset to your smartphone via Bluetooth, you can wear these on the train or bus without looking like you’re organizing air traffic.

Your mileage of the 7.1 virtual surround may vary, but to this reviewer’s ears, it sounds thin and artificial, inevitably detracting from the original audio source rather than widening it. These aren’t the same titanium drivers as you’ll find in the standard Razer BlackShark V3, and they’re not quite as precise or authoritative in their sound production, which means there’s less leeway for affecting audio sources with virtual surround.

But if you can live with merely good audio and mic quality, the huge 70-hour battery, lightweight, comfortable feel, and clean look are a pretty considerable upside.

Razer BlackShark V3 X review: Price and availability

• Costs $99.99 / £99.99 / around AU$141
• Comparable to Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless headset
• Considerably cheaper than the V3 and V3 Pro, so don’t expect a similar experience

This version of the Blackshark is really all about the price. A lot of the V3 and V3 Pro’s luxury trimmings have been jettisoned in order to meet a sub-$100 price point, but Razer’s decades of experience mean it knows which bits are essential: comfort, reliability, and usability. Those have stayed, of course.

The specs compare favorably to rivals at this price point, like the official Xbox Wireless headset and RIG R5 Spear Pro HS, a wired model that we’ve been digging lately in the sub-$100 pool.

Razer BlackShark V3 X: Specs

Razer BlackShark V3 X: Design and features

• Similar design to the flagship BlackShark V3
• Hyperspeed and Bluetooth, but not simultaneously
• Simple control layout

The basic headband, earcup, and hinge design will be familiar to anyone who’s familiar with previous versions of the BlackShark, or indeed the pricier variations of this current V3 generation. The wireframe hinge allows for plenty of adjustability, and there’s a near-perfect balance between the weight carried by the wide, well-cushioned headband and the clamping force generated by the earcups against your temples.

Around those earcups, there’s a generous slice of memory foam to keep that horizontal force from digging in too much and becoming uncomfortable, and there’s a good amount of extension in the wireframe to allow for larger heads.

The control layout is simple and effective. On the left earcup, just above the USB-C cable input, there’s a textured power button, volume scroll wheel, and a mic mute button, while on the right-hand side, you’ll find the holy grail for gaming headsets, particularly more affordable models: a game/chat balance scroll wheel. Having grown accustomed to having this luxury through years of use with Arctis 7 headsets, I always miss it when it doesn’t feature, and I’m seriously grateful to find one on a cheaper headset like this one.

While one probably wouldn’t expect simultaneous 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity at this price, it should still be noted that, unlike the V3 and V3 Pro, it isn’t available on this model.

The Hyperspeed wireless connection is very stable in my experience, though, suffering no dropouts over the several years I’ve been connecting wirelessly with Razer devices. It does invite some very infrequent audio artefacting in my experience, but that only manifests as a glitchy half-second of audio here and there when connecting to a PC.

Overall, the combo of comfort and looks of this model makes for a powerful one-two punch. Material choices and finish quality are both fantastic at this price range, and really distinguish this headset from rivals priced similarly.

Razer BlackShark V3 X review: Performance

• Decent sound but lacking that spark
• Capacious battery
• Mic does the job

The drivers within this V3 X’s earcups are a similar design to the V3 and V3 Pro’s drivers, with some important differences. All feature a 50mm size, but while the V3 Pro uses a bio-cellulose construction for its flagship version of the Tri-Force driver and the V3 uses titanium, this cheaper version uses… something else. It’s not stated in Razer’s materials.

That’s all academic until you get into road-testing the sound, and I’m bringing up the materials of various driver variations because those materials allow for faster and more supple articulation, which in turn gives you more sparkly high frequencies and more convincing, visceral lows. It’s in the raw sound quality category where I felt the V3 X’s pricing most obviously, and that certainly doesn’t mean they sound bad.

They’re clearly tuned for a balanced sound reproduction instead of wow factor, and that’s the right call. While at the extreme ends of the frequency response range, they sound a little dull, the overall quality is nice and neutral, and that speaks to the esports positioning of this headset. Pro players would probably use a more expensive model, of course, but if they did use this, they wouldn’t have to contend with vital audio cues being drowned out by over-emphasised bass.

Elsewhere, the battery deserves some serious acclaim. All the BlackShark V3s boast a 70-hour battery life, and while that’s boosted in part by the absence of RGB, it’s still an insane number. And it holds up in reality. I found I was even able to eke out a bit more than 70 hours from one charge, and charging is very quick via USB-C.

More muted praise – if you’ll excuse the excellent pun – for the microphone, which is simply serviceable. The audio reproduction lacks a little body, but it’s certainly crisp enough to cut through the mix and ensure your callouts are heard.

Should I buy the Razer BlackShark V3 X?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

Still not sold on the Razer BlackShark V3 X? Here's how it compares to two similar sets.

How I tested the Razer BlackShark V3 X

• Weeks of daily use on PC and Xbox Series S
• Both connection types tested
• Compared to the flagship Razer BlackShark V3 Pro

I swam the waters of low-budget gaming headsets for two weeks with the V3 X Hyperspeed, which meant the usual mix of gaming, Discord, and work calls to get a feel for the driver and mic performance alike.

The meditative, ambient soundscapes of Cairn comprised a lot of that time, along with some callout-heavy Counter-Strike 2 sessions, a few co-op Minecraft adventures, and some long drives in Assetto Corsa Evo.

Both compatible devices were tested, and I kept track of each charge’s duration to check Razer’s stated 70 hours checks out in reality.

First reviewed January 2026

Read more about how we test

Razer BlackShark V3: One-minute review

The Razer BlackShark V3 wireless gaming headset is a truly fantastic piece of kit, which has finally convinced me to move on from the same headset I've been using for years. The sleek black design strays from the tacky-looking appearance of a lot of gaming headsets without losing the iconic branding of Razer products, but it never feels garish.

Controls on both earcups are straightforward and easy to use, too, giving you all the power you need in one convenient place rather than having to mess around with additional software. Plus, with 70 hours of battery life when fully charged, you're able to sink into all your favourite games with no threat of interruption.

Its crystal clear audio when gaming, paired with the outstanding microphone quality, makes it the only headset you need for your gaming setup too rather than needing platform-specific products.

The detachable microphone also makes it adaptable to suit your style, whether you're playing with friends over Discord or roaming around in-game while listening to some tunes. It's hard to want to use another headset once you've spent time with the BlackShark V3, which is high praise coming from a creature of comfort who doesn't like to change their peripherals often.

Razer BlackShark V3: Price and availability

• List price: $149.99 / £149.99 / AU$350
• Not exactly a budget-friendly headset, but quality makes it worth investing
• Has almost identical features to the (more expensive) BlackShark V3 Pro

The Razer BlackShark V3 wireless headset launched in July 2025, so a reasonable two years after the previous version: the BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed. Having also used the V2 HyperSpeed in the past, I can safely say those two years of extra baking time definitely paid off, and there are some noticeable differences to make the additional $20/£20 cost worthwhile. Such as a new set of Razer Triforce Titanium 50mm Drivers, a lightweight ergonomic design which really feels as if it's putting comfort first, and a shiny new HyperClear Super Wideband 9.9mm Mic to make sure none of your audio gets missed.

Compared to other premium wireless gaming headsets on the market, like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro 7P Gen 2 or Astro A20 X, the BlackShark V3 isn't an extortionately priced product. In fact, the $149.99 price tag is a reasonable ask for what you're getting, considering how many premium wireless gaming headsets fall closer to the $200 mark.

It's not an eyewatering asking price compared to something like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite, yet it still feels like a worthy upgrade if you're used to rocking budget-friendly gaming headsets. Having launched alongside the Razer BlackShark V3 X Hyperspeed, a tempting $99/£99/AU$179.95 headset, you may be convinced to cut costs and go for something that sounds almost identical in name. But you'd be doing yourself a complete disservice in doing so, which I need you to trust me on.

Razer BlackShark V3: Specs

Razer BlackShark V3: Design and features

• Black design is more elegant than RGB-intense gaming headsets
• Super lightweight design for long-term comfort
• Despite its middle-ground price tag, it definitely feels like a high-end product

The Razer BlackShark V3 wireless gaming headset looks practically identical to the other Razer BlackShark V3 sets: the V3 Pro and the V3 X HyperSpeed. It's got a sleek black design with subtle Razer branding on the earcups and headband, which I appreciate since so many gaming headsets would take any opportunity to shove colours and logos in your face, which is somewhere I found the Astro A20 X fell short, since its design verged on slightly too in-your-face. But it doesn't need an interesting or quirky design to be a good product. In fact, it's a perfect example of something being so simple yet so incredibly satisfying.

Both the headband and the earcups have firm cushioning and padding, and aren't made of that horrible glossy material a lot of cheaper headsets use, similar to a headset like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, which boasts a similar build quality and black design. The headband used a breathable, almost netted fabric, and each earcup is made from breathable Sportsweave memory foam. Since the headset almost prides itself on being for esports, these elements have clearly been carefully designed to cater to being comfortable for competitive players. But for more casual gamers like me, they just feel like a nice treat.

Despite the firmness of the cushioning on both the headband and earcups, I was surprised at how comfortable they were in use. Usually, firmer earcups make wearing glasses when gaming uncomfortable as they push the arms into the side of your head, so I was shocked when I never experienced this discomfort.

All the controls you need are located on the ear cups too, which reduces the need for external software if you don't fancy downloading, with the left featuring all the important buttons like a textured power button alongside a smooth mic mute, so there's no chance of pressing the wrong thing when wearing the set.

In addition, a dial on the front of the ear cup is where you control your audio level, which is far easier to use than a scroll wheel on the bottom - something that most of the headsets I've used in the past specialise in. Now that I've had the convenience of a larger dial, I never want to go back to relying on these wheels, which are so easily knocked and altered.

The left cup is specifically for optimising your audio setup to suit what you're playing. Here, you've got a configurable roller which you can use for footsteps scaling in games like Battlefield 6 or Arc Raiders, game-chat balancing so you can sort out your game audio and Discord audio without having to open your audio mixer, and mic monitoring. This convenient wheel is accompanied by a smart switch button, too, in case you need to change your connection in an instant. Basically, the entire headset has been designed to make your life a lot easier and give you more game time rather than wasting precious minutes on sorting your peripherals.

The mic plugs into the right ear cup, too, which in itself boasts a sturdy build quality and matches the same sleek black design of the rest of the headset. If I had one complaint, it would be that the size of the foam cover is quite large, and it does feel pretty invasive given the short length of the mic as a whole.

That, and you can't conveniently store the microphone on or around the headset if you don't want to use the mic - you're at the mercy of your own ability to keep it safe when unplugged. Again, if you're used to the convenience of a compact headset like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, then this may be a frustration. But these are such minor inconveniences that were almost instantly outweighed by the joy of using the headset.

Razer BlackShark V3: Performance

• Seamless setup, which means you can jump straight into use
• Might as well be noise-cancelling
• Customisable to suit whatever sort of gamer you are, competitive or not

Given I'd been using the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset until now, which I really praised as my holy grail, I thought the audio quality of a cheaper headset wouldn't be as impressive, and I couldn't be more mistaken. In fact, it's hard to express how impressive the sound quality of this mid-range headset really is without you hearing it for yourself.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset is by no means of bad quality. In fact, I was amazed by it when I first tested it and kept using it long after. However, I often found myself frustrated by all the wires that accompany it. After meeting the BlackShark V3, I feel as though I've got all the same sound quality as the Arctis Nova Pro with the satisfaction of a wireless headset.

From the second you set it up and start using the BlackShark V3, you're met with rich, deep audio, whether that's in-game or if you're just listening to some tunes while you do something else. For music-oriented games like Sword of the Sea and Herdling, two games I played during my testing of the BlackShark V3, the clear audio and almost noise-cancelling capabilities (though not actually part of the design) helped me to really sink into the game and experience each and every note in their soundtracks.

Even just watching YouTube videos or listening to in-game dialogue feels more intense, especially given the headset's ability to block out external audio without being completely noise-cancelling. The memory foam earcups really help in this regard, and they really help you from getting distracted by any noise around you.

This is also helped by the almost 70-hour battery life when fully charged, since you're rarely interrupted by those tedious beeps that remind you to plug it in. Battery life is a huge selling point with wireless headsets, which is another place the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, or any SteelSeries headset for that matter, becomes a close competitor with the BlackShark V3. If you do find yourself listening to these obnoxious reminders, what makes the Razer BlackShark V3 wireless headset worth investing in alone is the fact that a 15-minute charge provides you with an additional 6 hours of battery life.

You don't need to do any sort of additional setup to get an incredibly solid performance from the headset, though the option is there if you want it, courtesy of the additional Razer Audio software you can download. I don't usually bother with messing around with many settings, especially since I don't often find myself needing to enhance my audio to hear things like footsteps or distant gunshots, but it felt rude not to at least try it out in a game of Arc Raiders.

So, I downloaded the Razer Audio app and started playing around, and was once again pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to take your audio customisation that one step further. Paired with the configurable wheel, it feels as if the Razer BlackShark V3 headset really has been designed to enhance your gaming. Even though the packaging blatantly says it's an esports headset, all these details and ways to make your gaming experience that little bit easier by utilising all the audio cues of other players certainly reinforce that factor.

Although you can use Razer Synapse to customise things like your EQ settings and play around with THX Spatial Audio, the dedicated audio app definitely feels easier to use. Plus, having it conveniently on your phone rather than a desktop means you can more seamlessly customise your settings across platforms rather than having one setup on PC, and then others programmed in the app for console.

The buttons are incredibly well-positioned on both earcups, too. Unless you're a frequent connection switcher or a competitive gamer, you rarely need to use the left cup. And, the added texture on the power button makes using the buttons a breeze rather than having to go through that awkward fiddly phase of hitting the wrong thing when you change your headset, and you're not quite used to where everything is. Yes, I'm definitely projecting, but it's one of those little things that you don't really appreciate until you experience it.

Its impressive performance doesn't stop at its stellar button placement and crystal clear audio either. The 9.9mm HyperClear Super Wideband detachable mic offers astounding quality given its mid-range price tag, so much so that I actually received compliments on the "noticeable upgrade" compared to my old headset when jumping into a Discord call with my friends.

Should I buy the Razer BlackShark V3?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

Still not sold on the Razer BlackShark V3 wireless gaming headset? Here's how it compares to two similar sets.

How I tested the Razer BlackShark V3

• Compared with my beloved SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset
• Used every day for gaming and other media
• Mic tested in Discord calls and Google meets

As soon as I realised just how quality the BlackShark V3 was, I ditched my old SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset. So, for two weeks, I've relied on this bit of kit to carry me through all sorts of adventures in games like Sword of the Sea, Once Upon a Katamari, and even made the most of its customization in a couple of rounds in Arc Raiders. Outside of gaming, it's also accompanied me for hours upon hours of Spotify sessions and the odd evening watching Netflix. If anything, these almost all-nighters definitely put the battery life to the test, too.

I also spent around 10 hours testing the BlackShark V3 with the PS5 in a decent session of Red Dead Redemption 2. I will admit, I wasn't jumping in for the fast, gunslinging combat, so I can't comment on how immersive that is. But, I must say the BlackShark V3 is phenomenal when it comes to showing off the natural sound design. Birdsong is clear as day with this headset, and I could've quite happily spent a lot longer riding around on my horse and tracking down every bird I could hear - something that I'd missed out on entirely when just relying on my TV's default speakers.

To test the microphone, I used the BlackShark V3 for meetings, voice calls, and multiplayer games like Peak, R.E.P.O., Outlast Trials, and shouting at my friends over Discord. Although I'd already put my old SteelSeries headset to one side, I did dust it off for a quick comparison, alongside my wireless Razer Kraken Hello Kitty and Friends edition Bluetooth headset, and they just don't compare.

First reviewed December 2025-January 2026.

Read more about how we test

• Razer showcased an upgraded Project AVA animated holographic AI assistant at CES this year
• Project AVA has a selection of avatars with their own simulated personalities that can engage in conversation, see your screen, and track your gaze
• Razer is widening Project Ava's role beyond gaming coach to everyday tasks like scheduling and organizing your life

AI assistants right now mostly take the form of a wall of text or a disembodied voice, but Razer thinks people would prefer to talk to a small, animated hologram with a matching personality sitting on their desk.

It brought its Project AVA to CES this year to showcase exactly that. AVA first debuted at CES last year as an esports coach inside a gaming rig, but the glowing, 5-inch holographic avatar can now live on your desk, conversing with you and offering help on everything from your daily schedule to the perfect outfit of the day.

AVA's cylindrical home sits next to your keyboard, appearing to house a lively hologram looking like one of a handful (so far) of assistant forms, such as original Razer characters, AVA, Kira and Zane, or recognizable esports figures.

The holograms have facial expressions, lip-synced speech, and personalities that Razer says go "from bold and sassy, to calm and friendly."

The built-in camera, far-field microphone array, and “PC Vision Mode” enable AVA to see your screen, hear your voice, and follow your gaze. According to Razer, the hologram isn’t just for show. The projected avatar mirrors your interactions with subtle head movements, blinking, lip syncing, and expressions designed to feel alive without veering into the uncanny valley. The eye-tracking hardware lets it maintain “eye contact,” giving conversations a surprising sense of reciprocity.

Despite its gaming roots, AVA is designed to be a full-service assistant. Along with analyzing in-game footage and suggesting strategy tweaks in real time, it can organize your schedule, remind you of appointments, and suggest entertainment options based on your browsing.

Hologram AI

AVA is supposed to use what it learns about you, from your speech patterns to your on-screen activity, to adapt to your mood and habits. Razer suggests AVA will leverage that information, and its screen access, to give you ideas to help with making spreadsheets, editing code, or putting together presentations.

The standard concerns about sharing that much information with an AI model apply to AVA, but with an extra dimension of eeriness possible when that AI has a face and voice. Razer has said the data stays local and that privacy protections are a top priority, but the intellectual understanding of an AI collecting information about you might feel more visceral when it has a human or human-like form.

Razer has opened up $20 refundable reservations for AVA in the U.S. ahead of an unrevealed shipping date, likely later this year. While you technically only need a Windows PC and USB-C connection, AVA needs relatively high system performance to support its real-time avatar rendering and analysis, so it's not a casual toy.

Whether power users willing to pony up for AVA find it to be a persistent digital buddy they miss when it’s off might decide AVA's fate in the wider world. The glow of a small animated being quietly watching you from your desk might not appeal to the more tentative AI tool users.

• Razer introduces local AI hardware focused on developers and on premise work
• Tenstorrent accelerator adds portable AI compute via Thunderbolt connected devices
• AI device supports daisy chained units for local multi accelerator workloads

Razer has revealed an expansion beyond gaming hardware with an external AI accelerator and a new workstation platform aimed at developers working locally on advanced models.

Launched at CES 2026, the Razer Forge AI Dev Workstation is a high performance system designed for training, inference, and simulation workloads without relying on cloud services.

The on premises solution is for developers who want direct control over datasets, models, and experiments while avoiding subscription fees.

Tenstorrent external AI accelerator

The Razer Forge AI Dev Workstation supports up to four professional graphics cards from Nvidia or AMD, allowing large pooled VRAM configurations for multi GPU workloads.

Processor options include AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO and Intel Xeon W chips, paired with support for eight DDR5 RDIMM slots for large memory capacity.

Networking is handled through dual 10Gb Ethernet ports, while storage includes up to four PCIe Gen5 M.2 NVMe drives and eight SATA bays.

Cooling is designed for sustained loads, with multiple high pressure fans intended to maintain airflow across dense internal components.

The workstation can operate as a standalone tower or transition into rack environments, allowing it to scale from individual desks to clustered deployments.

Alongside the workstation, Razer has been working with Tenstorrent on a compact external AI accelerator aimed at portable development workflows. Tenstorrent is led by Jim Keller, best known for his work on AMD’s Zen CPU architecture and early self driving silicon at Tesla.

The accelerator connects over Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 and is designed to add local AI compute to laptops and other compatible systems.

It is based on Tenstorrent’s Wormhole architecture and supports the company’s open source software stack for running LLMs, image generation models, and other AI workloads.

Multiple units can be connected together, with up to four devices forming a small local cluster for larger models.

“A device anyone can plug into their laptop unlocks the next generation of developers building on our open platform,” said Christine Blizzard, chief experience officer at Tenstorrent. “Our goal is to make AI more accessible and we trust Razer to deliver products that developers love.”

“AI developers on the edge demand power, flexibility, and mobility – and this collaboration delivers all three,” said Travis Furst, head of notebook and accessories division at Razer. “Our partnership with Tenstorrent combines their cutting-edge AI acceleration technology with Razer’s expertise in high-performance engineering and external enclosure design. Together, we’re advancing edge AI development as part of Razer’s broader vision for AI – bringing portable, uncompromising compute to developers.”

Pricing and availability for the external AI accelerator have yet to be announced.

TechRadar will be extensively covering this year's CES, and will bring you all of the big announcements as they happen. Head over to our CES 2026 news page for the latest stories and our hands-on verdicts on everything from wireless TVs and foldable displays to new phones, laptops, smart home gadgets, and the latest in AI. You can also ask us a question about the show in our CES 2026 live Q&A and we’ll do our best to answer it.

And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok and WhatsApp for the latest from the CES show floor!

• Razer unveiled its Project Motoko AI headset at CES
• Project Motoko can see, hear, and react to your surroundings in real time
• The headset pairs cameras, microphones, and AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini to offer hands-free assistance

Razer offered a glimpse of a world where your headset sees, hears, and thinks while it pipes your music to your ears at CES this year. The company's new Project Motoko AI-native headset is still in the concept stage, but it joined its new remote and gaming chair in Las Vegas. Motoko is a way of seeing how Razer's approach to AI wearable tech might easily catch on.

Razer’s pitch for wearable AI is basically a headset that sees and hears whatever you do and provides proactive help based on context. Project Motoko melds Razer’s design sensibilities with AI chips and extended reality tools. The wireless headset is laden with cameras and microphones that share information with AI models able to recognize and interact with whatever you're looking at, while keeping a digital eye on the world beyond your peripheral vision. Razer claims the headset will respond to visual cues, translate signs, summarize documents, track workouts, and generally act like a low-key, always-on assistant.

The dual forward-facing cameras mounted at eye level give the headset a natural first-person perspective, allowing it to recognize traffic lights, recipes, or anything else in front of you and offer whatever help seems most needed. The multiple microphones let it parse both your voice commands and whatever else it hears around you. They combine to provide what Razer calls “augmented AI awareness.”

Project Motoko is agnostic about which AI tool is helping you out, so you can have a conversation with Gemini, ChatGPT, or even Grok. The headset can process and respond based on whatever system you already use.

Razer hastened to make clear that Motoko is not just for gaming, even if it debuted under Razer’s gaming-forward brand. The company wants people to use the headset every day for more mundane tasks. That might mean organizing your calendar, handling chores, browsing the web, or walking through a foreign city while it quietly translates the signage and helps you avoid construction zones.

The look of the headset compared to smartglasses might be part of the draw. Smart glasses, which have struggled with adoption due to awkward designs and social discomfort, while over-ear headphones are already widely accepted.

Omniscient headset

Of course, since Motoko isn’t shipping yet, a lot of its capabilities are left to demos and speculation. Razer is likely particularly keen to avoid the pitfalls that plagued Humane's AI Pin into extinction and led to so many complaints for the Rabbit’s R1 assistant.

Motoko doesn’t claim to be the first or the only solution. But it does reflect a growing trend for context-aware devices that live in everyday accessories. Razer even sees potential in robotics and machine learning research. The idea is that people could use Motoko’s human-like field of view and depth data to train other AI models to see and understand the world. One way or another, headsets might become a common AI interface sooner than we think.

“Project Motoko is more than a concept, it’s a vision for the future of AI and wearable computing,” said Nick Bourne, Global Head of Mobile Console Division, Razer. “This is the next frontier for immersive experiences.”

• Razer and LG have partnered to announce a new controller at CES 2026
• The Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth is designed with LG Smart TVs in mind
• LG claims it will be the world's fastest controller in terms of wireless response time

Razer and LG have partnered to announce the Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth controller at CES 2026.

The controller is based on the design of the superb Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, one of the best Xbox controllers and best PC controllers you can buy today. The Wolverine V3 Bluetooth controller differs in that it's been designed with Smart TVs in mind - and specifically those from LG.

The Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth will be the first controller to be a part of the 'Designed for LG Gaming Portal' certification program, and will primarily be used to play games via cloud streaming on the LG-developed Smart TV app.

In a press release accompanying the announcement, LG says the Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth is the first controller ever to adopt ultra-low latency Bluetooth connectivity. It also boasts integrated TV controls and claims it's "the world's fastest gaming controller" with a wireless response time of less than 3 milliseconds.

We've had no word on price or a release window for the Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth controller as of yet, but it seems reasonable to expect it to launch sometime this year.

Price is a tricky one. If it has all the bells and whistles of the Wolverine V3 Pro, then we might expect a similarly premium rate, perhaps around $199.99 / £199.99 as we see with the V3 Pro. However, if its compatibility is limited to Bluetooth-enabled devices, we could see a reduced price, a la the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition; a wired-only model that comes in at a cheaper $99.99 / £99.99. Personally, I'd expect something in between the two.

Razer Kishi V3 Pro review: Two-minute review

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is a very capable mobile controller that comes with reliable and remappable inputs, a comfortable form factor, great software, and a very high price tag. It’s a top choice for those who want a console-style experience on the go thanks to its great analog triggers, full-size thumbsticks, and intuitive design, but doesn’t quite feel as sturdy as a dedicated standalone controller.

With that said, the Kishi V3 Pro is reliable enough that it disappears into your hands once you get a game going, either from the home screen or the brilliant Razer Nexus app, which serves as a launcher as well as a home base for settings and calibration. It’s precise enough to give you a real edge in games like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Mobile, and also works well in platformers like Dadish 3D as well as 2D classics like Jetpack Joyride. It also supports a variety of remote play, streaming, and emulation solutions, so however you like to play the Kishi V3 Pro has you covered.

The Kishi V3 Pro costs as much as the outgoing Razer Kishi Ultra did at launch – that is to say more than most mobile gaming controllers and nearly as much as a Nintendo Switch Lite. That said, the Kishi V3 Pro is a way to access a console-like gaming experience for less than a dedicated gaming handheld, so long as your phone is powerful enough to run your favorite titles.

Razer Kishi V3 Pro review: Price & availabiltiy

• $149.99 / £149.99 / AU$269.95
• Available from Razer and third-party retailers
• More expensive than many mobile and standalone controllers

The Razer Kishi V3 is a rather expensive bit of kit. In fact, it’s more expensive than any of the options on our list of the best mobile controllers except the outgoing Razer Kishi Ultra, which comes in at the same RRP. With that said, the Kishi V3 Pro offers more functionality than many of its rivals, with additional shoulder buttons and paddles on the grips.

The Kishi Ultra has been relegated to the ‘Classic Models’ section of Razer’s website, but can still be had at a discounted price in the UK and US as stock is cleared to make way for the new Kishi V3 Pro, and considering that the two controllers offer nearly the exact same functionality, it could be worth checking for deals on the older model before looking for the Kishi V3 Pro.

You should have no issues getting your hands on the Razer Kishi V3 Pro, as Razer is one of the most popular and widely distributed gaming brands - it just depends on how much money you’re willing to spend. As was the case for the Kishi Ultra, the Nintendo Switch Lite comes in at just $50 / £50 / AU$60 more than the Kishi V3 Pro, which offers a more dedicated handheld gaming platform with a large library of exclusive games.

However, I’d argue that the Kishi V3 Pro unlocks handheld-style gaming for the phone you probably already have, for a bit cheaper than a dedicated console. Through this lens, I think the Kishi V3 Pro offers decent value for money.

Razer Kishi V3 Pro review: Specs

Razer Kishi V3 Pro review: Design and features

• Resembles the Razer Kishi Ultra
• Extends up to eight inches
• Can fit small tablets

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is an extending mobile controller that closely resembles a Razer Kishi Ultra, just without the RGB light strips in the handles.

It’s composed of a regular controller that’s been split down the middle by a spring-loaded extending spine with a maximum length of eight inches. That means it can accommodate any phone, so long as it has a USB-C port to connect to the controller, as well as the iPad mini. The controller comes with three pairs of rubber cushions which you can mix and match between to suit your handset, or eschew entirely if your phone is too bulky.

The two controller halves use the asymmetrical design that Xbox and Nintendo Switch fans will be used to, but even as a PS5 player I found the Kishi V3 Pro very comfortable to hold and use. The grips are rounded but substantial, and while the whole thing is made of plastic the textured panels on the grips themselves are a welcome addition and add valuable traction to what is overall a compact control surface – with that said, the Kishi V3 Pro is large enough to need a bag if you’re taking it out and about.

The construction of the Kishi V3 Pro isn’t quite as robust as a standalone controller, though, and the controls themselves are a mixed bag in terms of feel.

I love the resistance in the adaptive shoulder triggers (an impressive feature on its own), but the adjacent bumpers have no travel at all – similarly, I love the dish-like design of the D-pad but not its clicky action. I was, however, impressed with the smoothness of the full-sized thumbsticks and encountered no sticking or drifting in my 10 or so hours with the Kishi V3 Pro. The sticks are reasonably tall and feel very precise during gameplay.

On that note, the best thing about the Kishi V3 Pro is just how much control it offers. As well as your standard layout, the Kishi V3 Pro sports assignable back and shoulder buttons, which can be mapped to mirror any other button on the controller via the free Razer Nexus app. These buttons are thoughtfully placed and genuinely useful, allowing you to, say, reload without having to stop aiming in Call of Duty: Mobile, or quickly open the map in Fortnite. I never experienced any issues in-game that I’d blame on the controller – it’s very reliable and responsive. There are also some bespoke controls in the small hom escreen, screenshot, and Razer Nexus buttons, all of which are welcome additions.

As mentioned, the Razer Kishi V3 Pro connects via USB-C, and sports a handy LED that lights up when a connection is made. As well as connecting your phone or tablet to the controller, this USB-C connection allows for pass-through charging via another USB-C port and audio via a dedicated 3.5mm jack – a rare sight on any phone accessory and holy grail for headset users. That USB-C port can also be used to connect the Kishi V3 Pro to a PC to use as a standalone wired controller.

And if you’re an Android user, you’ll get to experience Razer’s Sensa HD haptics. The Kishi V3 Pro offers an impressive amount of rumble, with more precision than I expected to feel from a mobile controller – but because the haptics respond to in-game audio, there is a bit of a delay between on-screen action and feeling the aftershock. This feature is unavailable on iOS, but since most of the best gaming phones are Android models anyway, I’m sure this feature will find many fans.

Razer Kishi V3 Pro review: Performance

• Console quality gaming on the go
• Fantastic Nexus software
• Hit and miss virtual controller mode

As someone who has only gamed seriously on dedicated consoles up until this point, I was surprised by just how immersive using the Kishi V3 Pro felt.

The frame holds your phone in place sturdily and lets you focus on the important stuff – the games themselves. Like all the best controllers, the Kishi V3 Pro is so reliable that it disappears into your hands and makes you feel connected to the game – inputs are always accurate and responsive.

That unlocks a lot of potential for mobile games like Red Dead Redemption, which is playable on a touch screen, but offers a much better experience when you can aim accurately and take in the gorgeous visuals with an unobstructed view. Having spent a good amount of time riding through the deserts of New Austin in Red Dead Redemption 2 for PS4, I was surprised at how similar the two experiences felt.

I spent plenty of time with the Kishi V3 Pro in the newly released Fortnite: Chapter 7, running and gunning in Zero Build Battle Royale. I was able to get a competitive edge thanks to the precision of the thumbsticks for moving and aiming, as well as the mappable multi-function buttons (I assigned the map and pickaxe to the shoulder bumpers and slide and weapon select to the back buttons).

Again, I was quite amazed at how close the experience felt to playing on an actual console, and was clocking up Victory Royales like it was nobody’s business. What’s more, I was able to play for hours at a time without so much as a sign of cramp – if you’re looking for a mobile controller that’s comfortable enough for marathon sessions, the Kishi V3 Pro is a great pick. I’d even suggest that it’s more comfortable than my original Nintendo Switch.

The Kishi V3 Pro, like other Razer mobile controllers, supports and is supported by the Razer Nexus app, a launcher and hub for your compatible mobile games. Nexus also lets you toggle XInput and audio haptics before jumping into your game of choice, set favorite games, and browse popular Kishi-compatible titles, with easy links to the Google Play Store or App Store.

The app also offers the inventive Virtual Controller mode, which allows you to overlay controls on unsupported titles, effectively allowing you to play games that don’t support the Kishi V3 Pro natively.

However, Virtual Controller didn't always respond well when I tested the mode on Brawl Stars, despite Razer Nexus highlighting the game as a great candidate, and I couldn't figure out how to get Alto's Adventure (also highlighted) to respond either. TechRadar's Gaming Editor Dashiell Wood had Virtual Controller up and running during testing for our Kishi Ultra review, so I know the potential is there, but I didn't find it too effective.

As someone who typically avoids tacked-on software, I’m happy to report that Nexus is anything but an afterthought – in fact, it’s a thoughtfully laid-out and feature rich companion that helps you get the most out of the Kishi V3 Pro.

I used its settings to remap the multi-function buttons and increase the polling rate of the thumbsticks, but there are also settings for things like the input range for the triggers or setting thumbstick deadzone size. It’s a great app that elevates the Kishi V3 Pro from a peripheral to an experience of its own.

Should I buy the Razer Kishi V3 Pro?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

Consider these alternatives if the Razer Kishi V3 Pro isn't quite the right mobile gaming controller for you.

How I reviewed the Razer Kishi V3 Pro

• Tested for approximately 8 hours of game time
• Tested on Android and iOS with a range of games

• Almost ten hours of game time
• Tested with a variety of games
• Tried a range of devices too

Though I wasn't counting closely, I estimate that I clocked in for approximately 8 hours of game time with the Razer Kishi V3 Pro across a variety of games.

I tested the controller with an iPhone 15 and Oppo Find X9 Pro to ensure it works well across both iOS and Android, as well as with the Xiaomi Pad Mini Android tablet. I played a variety of games, from demanding console ports like Fortnite and Red Dead Redemption to staples like Call of Duty: Mobile and Jetpack Joyride. I also tried out platformer Dadish 3D and horror side-scroller Carrion, and tested the Virtual Controller mode with Brawl Stars.

I focused on first and third-person games to get a good sense of the thumbsticks’ performance, and played competitive online games to test how the controls held up in high-pressure scenarios. I also tested the 15W pass-through charging and headphone jack, and dove deep into the Razer Nexus app to activate features like the multi-function buttons and audio haptics.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December 2025

If you're shopping for the perfect gifts for some mobile gamers, then look no further than these mobile controller deals.

The star of the show is an incredible price on the popular Backbone One mobile controller, which is now just £34.95 at The Game Collection. That's an incredibly low price considering its usual £99.99 going rate, and superb value overall.

If you would rather pick up a Bluetooth option, then the Scuf Nomad is discounted too. You can find it on sale for just £38.99 at Very, down from £69.99.

Read on for more details about each of these offers, plus other top picks.

Today's best mobile controller deals

Two of these mobile controllers appear on my guide to the best mobile controllers right now: the Backbone One and the Razer Kishi Ultra. Both are superb options for mobile gamers, offering compatibility with a wide range of games and an excellent play experience.

Out of the two, the Razer Kishi Ultra is my personal pick. It's more expensive than the Backbone One, but is simply luxurious to use thanks to its increased size. It feels incredibly close to a full-on console controller, which is what most people want when gaming on mobile.

The Backbone One does win when it comes to portability though. It's easy to stash in a pocket or slip into a bag.

You shouldn't discount the Scuf Nomad too, especially not at the price. It scored lower than the other two controllers but my biggest complaint was that it's only compatible with iOS devices, despite not using a physical connector. This is only an issue if you intend to game on Android, so definitely consider it if you're an iPhone user.

Not in the UK? Here are the best prices on each of these models near you.

For many, having the Cyber Monday deals event firmly in the rear view mirror will be a blessing. Now, you can at least do some Christmas shopping at your own pace, and there are plenty of cheap gifts for gamers that'll make ideal stocking fillers for the Holiday season.

I've hunted down a number of gaming controllers and accessories that are both small enough to fit in a stocking, and come comfortably under the $25 / £25 mark. The CRKD Atom, for instance, is always a reliable pick. It's a fully working controller that doubles as a collectible piece for just $19.99 at Amazon.

Meanwhile, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C controller can be had for as little as $22.48 (was $29.99) at Amazon right now. Another gamepad favorite is the GameSir Nova Lite which, while not currently on sale, is one of the best cheap controllers around at just $24.99.

Check out our deal blocks for these products and more, as well as their UK equivalents, below.

Today's best cheap stocking filler gaming deals in the US

Today's best cheap stocking filler gaming deals in the UK

Shop more of today's best post-Cyber Monday sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

Cyber Monday is coming to a close, but there are still plenty of great deals to be had - if you act fast. One of my favorite gaming mice is still being sold at a great price for the next few hours: get the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed for $37.99 (was $69.99) at Best Buy.

• Shop Best Buy's full Cyber Monday sale

This mouse design is clearly Razer's answer to the ever-popular (and in some circles, infamous) Logitech G502 - and it's a good answer. The Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed is incredibly comfortable to use during long gaming sessions, and it has the performance to back up even the full price - so at nearly 50% off, this is an absolute steal. Hurry to Best Buy before this mouse doubles in price.

(Not in the US? See today's best deals in your region below)

Today's best Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed Cyber Monday deal

I used the Logitech G502 Hero for many years. It was one of my all-time favorite gaming mice, but it was always just a little too heavy for my liking (it weighs 121g without any of the optional weights added in).

Switching from the G502 to a lightweight mouse like the Razer Cobra Pro (77g) was night and day for quick sweeping motions (think turning 180 degrees in Counter-Strike), but I found myself missing the cozy embrace of the G502's thumb rest. I also wanted something just a little heavier for everyday use.

That's where the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed comes in. It takes all the best parts of both mouse designs and combines them into one: a slightly lighter design (110g) than the G502 with a texturized thumb rest and fantastic performance for a wireless peripheral.

You can crank the DPI up to 18,000, though I don't think you'll ever realistically get there. I hang out around 800 to 1,600 depending on what I'm doing, and going much higher than that feels overkill. But if you're limited on desk space, or you want the best possible performance you can squeeze out, a higher DPI makes sense.

The Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed also has an unbelievable battery life at up to 535 hours on a single charge. I can use mine for a little over a week without it dying on me, and that's between hours of gaming and everyday browsing usage.

It does use a single AA battery, which doesn't feel quite as premium as something built-in and rechargeable. But for under $50 during Cyber Monday sales, that's far from a bad trade-off.

And of course, if you have to have that shiny RGB, the scroll wheel is Chroma-enabled, so you can add that touch of personalized flair to your setup.

Shop more of today's best Cyber Monday sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

While you might worry that you've missed all the great Black Friday deals, Cyber Monday is here to take over, and it's your last chance to act on some incredible gaming keyboard deals from top brands such as Razer and Corsair.

• Shop Amazon's full Cyber Monday sale

A heavy focus here is on analog and mechanical models, since the best gaming keyboards use these switches. These keyboards and their premium price tags are warranted, and the addition of enticing discounts makes an acquisition much easier.

To highlight this, the Corsair K100 Air Wireless is now $179.99 at Amazon US (was $329.99), with a huge $150 saving. It's a great mechanical board, catering to lightning-fast reflexes, coupled with quality battery life, making it one of our favorite luxury peripherals.

You can also find the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% Wireless now only £199.99 at Amazon UK (was £299.99), with a £100 price drop. Having reviewed this model, I can assure you it's a great option, as I loved its ultra-smooth and tactile mechanical switches.

If you're after analog switches, you'll find the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Tenkeyless is now $147.99 at Amazon (was $219.99), and the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is now $189.99 at Amazon (was $239.99), making for a $72 saving in the former's case and $50 in the latter's.

Amazon's Cyber Monday gaming keyboard deals – quick links

• Corsair K100 Air Wireless: was $329.99 now $179.99 at Amazon US
• Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% Wireless: was £299.99 now £199.99 at Amazon UK
• Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Tenkeyless: was $219.99 now $147.99 at Amazon
• SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3: was $239.99 now $189.99 at Amazon

Today's best US Cyber Monday gaming keyboard deals

Today's best UK Cyber Monday gaming keyboard deals

For more in-depth information on the best gaming keyboards and other peripherals, take a look at our buying guides below, where we've included links to our detailed reviews.

• Best gaming mouse
• Best gaming keyboard
• Best PC controllers
• Best gaming laptop
• Best mouse
• Best keyboard

More Cyber Monday deals in the US

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

More Cyber Monday deals in the UK

• Amazon: up to 66% off tech & essentials
• AO: up to £500 off Dyson, Bosch & Hisense
• Argos: up to 50% off appliances, tech & toys
• Boots: save on 1,000s of beauty products
• Currys: deals on Ninja, Shark & Lenovo
• Dell: laptops from £279
• Dyson: up to £550 off vacuums
• EE: Switch 2 bundles from £20/month
• John Lewis: up to 50% off tech & fashion
• Lego: sets & accessories from £2.99
• Samsung: deals on appliances & phones
• Very: up to 40% off tech, toys & fashion

The biggest sales event of the year is upon us, and I'm definitely not upset about the Black Friday deals on offer as a PC gamer. I've found some seriously tempting discounts on gaming PCs, laptops, handhelds, monitors, and accessories, so you can upgrade your setup for less this year.

If you're looking for a great deal on a prebuilt PC, my top pick is the gorgeous Alienware Aurora ACT1250, thanks to its fantastic price-to-performance value at $465 off.

Gaming laptops more your speed? Check out the Lenovo Legion Pro 5i, which is a ludicrous $810 off for Black Friday and features an RTX 5070, Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX CPU, 32GB RAM (DDR5), and a 1TB SSD.

So keep reading to see the best gaming monitor, mouse, keyboard, chair, and desk deals I found and transform your setup for some of the lowest prices I've ever seen in my years covering Black Friday.

PC Gaming Black Friday deals – US quick links

• Alienware: solid discounts on laptops, PCs, and monitors
• Amazon: deals on everything from standing desks to prebuilt PCs
• Corsair: up to $1,000 off prebuilt PCs and more
• Lenovo: save up to 56% on PCs, laptops, and more
• HP: savings up to 79%
• Razer: big savings on mice, keyboards, mouse pads, and more

Not in the US? Check out these UK Black Friday PC gaming deal quick links

• Alienware: savings up to £450
• Amazon UK: Black Friday deals on all things PC gaming
• Corsair: discounts on Corsair's entire lineup
• HP: save up to £400 on laptops
• Lenovo: up to 57% off PCs and laptops
• Razer: Cyber Weekend event

My top picks as a lifelong PC gamer

Black Friday gaming PC deals

Black Friday gaming laptop deals

Black Friday gaming monitor deals

Black Friday handheld PC deals

Black Friday gaming accessory deals

Many of these picks come straight from our best gaming PC, best gaming monitor, and best gaming laptop buying guides. Be sure to check them out if you want even more options to peruse.

And if you're thinking about building your own PC, Components Editor John Loeffler's comprehensive guide on Black Friday GPU deals is an invaluable asset.

Good luck on your Black Friday deal hunting!

More Black Friday deals in the US

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

As we approach Black Friday, a whole bunch of gaming headsets are on sale, bringing them under $100. Many of these are some of the highest-rated headsets on TechRadar, like the Xbox Wireless Gaming Headset at Amazon for $96 (was $119.99).

• Amazon Black Friday deals

Thanks to these Black Friday gaming deals, it's now possible to get a brilliant gaming headset for under $100, with plenty of features like wireless connectivity and high-quality microphones as standard.

Some of the picks below are even at their lowest ever prices in the US, making now a great time to upgrade your gaming setup before you (hopefully) tackle your 2025 gaming backlog come Holiday break season.

You can check these deals out - as well as a whole lot more - below.

(Not in the US? See today's best deals in your region below.)

Black Friday gaming headset deals under $100 – at a glance

• Xbox Wireless headset - just $96 at Amazon
• Logitech G733 Lightspeed - only $89.99 at Amazon
• Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 - a mere $89 at Amazon
• SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3P - only $89.99 at Amazon
• Razer BlackShark V3 X - just $74.99 at Amazon
• HyperX Cloud Alpha - a bargain at $59.99 at Amazon
• RIG 800 PRO HS - only $99.99 at Walmart
• SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 - just over the mark at $104.99 at Walmart

Today's best gaming headset Black Friday deals under $100

We've reviewed the majority of the headsets featured above on TechRadar. The Xbox Wireless Headset earned a 5 stars out of 5 for its intuitive controls and connectivity in our review. Similarly, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is top-rated on the site, and well worth spending the extra $5 to get access to a headset that's become my daily driver over the last year or so.

Today's best Black Friday deals

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

Not in the US? Check the block below for all the best rates on the best gaming headsets below:

On the hunt for the perfect gift for a gamer? Best Buy has an exclusive sale on some of TechRadar's favorite Razer gaming accessories right now for Black Friday - a perfect opportunity to get a high-end device for less.

For example, the retailer currently has some of the lowest prices we've seen yet on well-reviewed models like the BlackWidow V4 Pro keyboard for $184 (was $249), the Basilisk V3 Optical mouse for $29 (was $69), and the Seiren V3 microphone for $92 (was $129). All of these are fantastic buys if you're looking to upgrade your home gaming setup with some slick RGB gear.

With gorgeous all-white designs, high-end components, and some of the best software support around, you really can't go wrong with these Razer peripherals at Best Buy. They are just one tiny part of the retailer's huge Black Friday sale, but they're definitely a highlight for gamers.

If you're interested, I've included a few more of today's best Black Friday deals from Best Buy just below, including even more models that we've reviewed and loved.

Black Friday Razer deals at Best Buy

More of today's Best Buy Black Friday deals

• Apple: MacBooks & AirPods from $84.99
• Appliances: up to 50% off major appliances
• Cameras: up to $900 off Sony & DJI
• Christmas: up to 50% off holiday decor
• Gaming: up to 60% off PS5, Switch & Xbox
• Headphones: up to $150 off Apple & Sony
• Kitchen: up to $500 off Ninja & De'Longhi
• Laptops: from $119
• Phones: up to $300 off Samsung & iPhone
• Smart home: cameras & speakers from $17.99
• Smartwatches: Garmin & Fitbit from $69.95
• Speakers: up to 50% off Samsung & Sony
• Tablets: from $49.99
• Toys: Lego, Pokémon & Disney from $7.99
• TVs: from $69.99
• Vacuums: up to $400 off Dyson & Shark

Black Friday is upon us, and there are loads of great deals on gaming laptops to be found, like the Razer Blade 14 (2025) for $2,499.99 (was $2,999.99) at Best Buy. That's a $500 discount on one of the best gaming laptops we've ever reviewed.

Plus, if you're keen on the Razer design but don't need the specs on offer with the $2,499 build, you can get an entry-level Blade 14 config for $1,449.99 (was $1,549.99) at Amazon.

• Shop Razer's full Black Friday sale

There are also some fantastic deals on Razer's website, so be sure to read on if you're searching for the best Black Friday laptop deals of the season.

Today's best Razer Blade (2025) Black Friday deal

Black Friday is the best time of year to buy a new gaming laptop, and this Razer Blade 14 deal is an excellent option. It offers outstanding in-game performance, with our review configuration averaging 47 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at Ultra settings with ray tracing enabled (and no upscaling used).

The Blade 14 is also very light and easy to slip into a backpack or laptop bag, weighing in at just 3.59lbs (1.63kg) and measuring 12.23 x 8.83 x 0.64 inches (310.7 x 224.3 x 16.2mm).

And for a gaming laptop, the Blade 14's battery life actually isn't bad. Our Computing Components Editor John Loeffler was able to hit five hours of continuous use in his standard performance test settings.

It doesn't skimp on the little things, either. The 14-inch 3K OLED display is gorgeous and responsive, the six-speaker setup is surprisingly powerful, and it offers USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI ports for your peripherals.

Don't let this deal pass you by - treat yourself to a new gaming laptop at an excellent Black Friday discount.

Read our full Razer Blade 14 review here.

More Black Friday gaming laptop deals

Shop more of today's best Black Friday sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

The Black Friday sales haven't even properly started, and Razer has made me double-take with an utterly unmissable saving on its Quick Charging Stand for PS5. At 58% off, it might just be the best PS5 accessory deal I've seen this week.

• Shop Amazon's full Black Friday sale

Right now, you can buy the Razer Quick Charging Stand for PS5 for just $16.99 (was $39.99) at Amazon. Yeah, I can't believe it, either. That's a record-low price for the DualSense-charging accessory and a deal that I genuinely think is unmissable for any PlayStation 5 owner.

It's just the white color-way on sale for now, with other models unfortunately out of stock at Amazon at present. It also appears to be a US-only deal for now, with the product stuck at retail price in the UK for the time being.

(Not in the US? See today's best deals in your region below.)

Today's best Razer Quick Charging Stand deal

The Razer Quick Charging Stand sits alongside the DualSense Charging Station as one of the best PS5 accessories. Both devices have their pros and cons. The DualSense Charging Station has a cheaper retail price, but is rarely on sale. It does, however, allow for the charging of two DualSense controllers at once.

Razer's accessory is made for a single controller, but its sale prices tend to be more aggressive as we're seeing here. I also prefer the look of it, featuring a smart, compact design. It's a shame its other colorways aren't on sale or in stock at present, because there are some lovely color alternatives to the basic white.

Shop more of today's best Black Friday sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

Razer has consistently produced some of the best gaming laptops for years, and this one is no different. If you're looking for a more compact version of our top pick for the best gaming laptop of all, the Razer Blade 14 is on sale at Amazon for $1,549.99 (was $1,799.99).

We think that the best gaming laptop right now is the Razer Blade 16, and as the name might suggest, the Razer Blade 14 is just the smaller version of it. The 2025 model here comes with an AMD Ryzen 9 processor, RTX 5060 graphics card, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD. Even better, it comes with a 3K 120Hz OLED display. All that for the Razer Blade 14's lowest price yet is hard to pass up, even for someone like me who already has a working gaming laptop.

Amazon also has a couple of other configurations on sale for Black Friday, including the Razer Blade 14 with the RTX 5070 with 32GB RAM in Black or Mercury White for $1,799.99 (was $1999.99). We just happen to think the Razer Blade 15 with the RTX 5060 is the best value of the bunch.

Today's best Razer Blade gaming laptop deal

In our Razer Blade 14 review, our reviewer rated it a 4.5 out of five for "refining an already perfect machine." We highlighted the sleek, portable build, OLED display, and gaming performance as its biggest strengths. It's actually 11% thinner than the past model and only 0.62 inches thick.

The high-resolution OLED display amplifies details and increases brightness and contrast, so you should also be able to enjoy your PC games with more vibrancy than the average screen.

If you're curious about the larger version, I'd recommend reading our Razer Blade 16 (2025) review to see if it's worth the price hike. Also browse our best gaming keyboards and best gaming mice to complete your setup.

If you're looking for the best gaming chair money can buy right now, then you're in the right place. The TechRadar team and I have been testing gaming chairs for years now, and the seats featured in this guide are among the most comfortable and robust on the market.

I've covered gaming hardware for years and have spent thousands of hours testing a huge variety of gaming chair models. Myself and the wider team know what separates great gaming chairs from good ones, whether money's no object or you're operating within a strict budget.

Between us, we've put an obscene amount of testing and reviewing hours into this list and have whittled the market down to half a dozen we consider the best for their price bracket and/or speciality. Whether you're after a budget wonder, something for the office space, or a reliable seat that excels at pretty much everything, I'm confident there's something for you here.

The best gaming chairs you can buy in 2026

The best gaming chair overall

The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is our pick for the best overall gaming chair available right now. This is because it offers an unparalleled level of comfort, adjustability, and style in its price bracket which means it still stands tall above the rest even a couple of years after its initial introduction. What's more, now there are more options than ever when it comes to sizes, colors, styles, and materials.

Regardless of which material you choose, the constants remain the same. This means you're getting leading adjustability with the four-way lumbar support combined with some of the most ergonomic designs that we've ever seen from a gaming chair's backrest and seat. Assembly is also a breeze, taking about 15 minutes with the clear instructions included in the box. If you're after a premium feeling chair and a fuss-free build then this is the one for you.

We've also been consistently impressed with the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 in our many months of testing with various different versions of the gaming chair. Whether it's the tried-and-tested original leatherette model, the larger XL variant, or the fabric SoftWeave version, this chair has provided support that few others can match.

• Read more: Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 review

The best budget gaming chair

The Corsair TC100 Relaxed easily ranks as the best budget gaming chair that you can get. This model borrows design cues from its pricier siblings but keeps the overall asking price low with only a few minor concessions made to the product. Overall, it's a well-rounded gaming chair that punches far above its weight.

As expected from its modest price point, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed has a relatively no-frills feature set. You're still getting 2D armrests, a recline of up to 160 degrees, and a wider seat base than a standard office chair here, though. One of the real bonuses of this particular model is the included headrest and lumbar pillows, which are both comfortable and conveniently strapped to the backrest.

While the Corsair TC100 Relaxed may not turn many heads, it passes the most important test of being incredibly comfortable. Owing to its "relaxed" nature, you aren't quite as hemmed in by the angular racing-seat style shape that you would find on many of the more aggressively styled models on this list. This, combined with the pillows, and the height and weight accommodation of 188cm/6ft 2in and 120kg/264lbs make it an ideal choice for those who want a super comfortable gaming chair on a budget.

• Read more: Corsair TC100 Relaxed review
• Find the best deals of Corsair products with our Corsair promo codes

The best premium gaming chair

When we think about top-end premium gaming chairs, the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody cannot be ignored - for me, it's probably the most comfortable gaming chair I've ever tested. While it may carry the steepest price tag of all the models in our roundup, its form factor is specifically designed for those who need who value comfort most, and it oozes Herman Miller's ergonomic pedigree. Plus, posture health is worth investing in - and the 12-year warranty adds peace of mind.

If you're someone who doesn't want to struggle with assembling a gaming chair piece by piece then the Embody is for you as it comes pre-assembled in the box and only has to be rolled out. That aside, you're looking at an incredibly modern gaming chair that forgoes the typical design trappings and features lumbar support which traces your spine and can be easily adjusted through its knobs.

While the full suite of adjustability features takes a little getting used to, there's simply nothing else on the market quite like the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody. We found the BackFit backrest to be the best of any gaming chair we've used, and the layered hybrid seat (consisting of both foam and springs) to be in a league of its own.

• Read more: Herman Miller x Logitech Embody review

The best mesh gaming chair

Mesh gaming chairs don't come better than the Razer Fujin Pro. Its breathable mesh, understated design, and superbly high level of comfort make it an excellent choice for both gaming and productivity.

In our hands-on testing, the assembly of the Razer Fujin Pro was completed in approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Although this is quite a long time compared to the setup of a simpler model like the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, it is still blissfully simple with each part clicking into place and being secured easily with the included screws and Allen key. Once built, the chair is incredibly high quality, pairing an aluminum frame with a malleable mesh material that's easily adjustable via the chair's settings.

When it comes to comfort, the Razer Fujin Pro is almost unparalleled. There's no dedicated cushioning or separate lumbar support, but the mesh has a subtle contour that molds to the shape of your back and rear end, ensuring that a seating position and level of comfort that suits you is easy to reach. The one downside here is that its extremely understated aesthetic means that it doesn't boast an exciting finish - but that might also be what you're after.

• Read more: Razer Fujin Pro review
• Get the best deal on Razer products with our Razer coupon codes.

The best gaming chair for big people

The AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL is the best gaming chair for bigger people that we've tested. It achieves this while simultaneously offering a great-value package with a variety of premium features.

All in all, this is a sleek, incredibly comfortable gaming chair, and one that has a robust and larger design perfect for bigger players of up to 395lb / 180kg in weight and 6'8" / 210cm in height. But simply being bigger and stronger with a robust steel chassis and strong castor wheels isn't the only thing that defines the Kaiser 3 XL - it also offers comfort, lumbar support, excellent finishes, an excellent range of adjustability options from the arms to the back, and a well-designed ergonomic seat. It also offers excellent value coming in at the $500 / £500 mark.

Construction is simple with easy-to-follow instructions paving the way for a smooth build process, while particular highlights of the chair's comfort include the integrated lumbar support and impressive cushioning throughout (despite some sub-optimal stitching and logo work). A brilliant chair for those looking for more room.

• Read more: AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL review

The best office chair for gaming

Long has Herman Miller been king of the office chair, but Secretlab certainly knows a thing or two about applying its gaming prowess to more minimal office spaces. Case in point; the Secretlab Atlas. This is a fantastic office-style gaming chair with minimal but sleek looks, allowing it to blend into pretty much any environment you place it in. Be that a home office, bedroom, lounge, or dedicated gaming space.

Like the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, this seat is competitively price, aiming for that mid-range where it's easy for it to make a real splash. While certainly not a budget chair by any means, it falls well below the premium price bracket, making it a fairly affordable seat overall.

Secretlab has done an excellent job ensuring a high comfort level with the Atlas. For one, lumbar support adjusts automatically, so there's very little in the way of fiddling or moment-to-moment fidgety adjustments. The included head pillow is luxurious, with a plush finish that nicely sits around your head during long gaming sessions or work days.

The only major gripe we have with the Atlas is its seat height. Even at maximum, it's oddly low to the ground, which means it's a poor fit for taller users. If you're around 6ft 2in (188cm) or taller, you might feel the hunch even after adjusting for maximum height.

Otherwise, Secretlab has produced a beautiful office-style gaming chair here, and could be a great fit for your home or office space if you want something with sleek looks, minimal fuss, and superb comfort.

• Read more: Secretlab Atlas review

19 more gaming chairs we've also tested

We've reviewed so many gaming chairs at TechRadar over the years that we couldn't possibly fit them all into one guide. The half-dozen we've selected above are, we feel, the current cream of the crop. However, if none quite fit what you're after, you may be interested in the following 18 gaming chairs that we consider to be honorable mentions.

Our latest review

How to choose the best gaming chair

There's no one-size-fits-all answer for the best gaming chair as everyone is different. However, thinking about a few different factors can help you narrow down your options and pick out the best match for you in a crowded field.

Think about size and dimensions
You can start by considering your height and build. If you are taller than 6ft 2in / 1.88m and weigh more than 200lbs / 90kg, you're going to want to look at an XL model to ensure you're comfortable. Then, think about the actual dimensions of the chair - will you have enough room for its width and height, not just on its own, but with you sitting on it?

Consider materials
Next, consider how you prefer your chairs to feel, and what you need the materials to do. Generally speaking, we've found mesh and fabrics to be nicer in the warmer months and more comfortable over time compared to leatherette, but fabrics are a bit harder to keep pet hair off and clean.

Always think about the budget
Sadly, a Herman Miller Embody chair will just be permanently out of reach for most, but that doesn't mean you can find great ways to make your money go further and get more than what you thought. However, always having a budget you want to ideally stick to, and one you're willing to stretch to for the right chair is a good starting point. Then you can throw in some ruthlessness about trading off features for lower prices and also consider waiting for sales events like Prime Day and Black Friday where you can always save money.

Expert opinion

While all of us here at TechRadar, and our wider community of experienced writers, spend hours and hours - days and weeks every year - sitting on and testing the best gaming chairs, we've also got to know quite a few bona fide experts in the industry.

While our own experience means we can offer our own advice on how to choose a gaming chair like the above, and ensures our recommendations on this page are from genuine testing and experience, our friends in the industry can expand upon that and offer advice on ergonomics, how to sit in chairs properly, what to look out for in your next seat, and way more.

I'll be updating this section too as we get more and more input from a wider array of experts.

What do the experts say?

Building on all of our own experience, I put a few key questions to our experts above, and gathered up a bunch of illuminating and brilliant advice from them all.

If you could ensure everyone thinks about a few particular things when buying a gaming chair, what would they be?

Cutting right to it, Dr Jordan Tsai says that "The biggest considerations to look out for when choosing a chair are, 1) whether it gives you the room to shift around and can accommodate a variety of sitting positions, and 2) whether it’s versatile, giving you enough points of adjustment so you get optimal support across different postures".

Echoing this but being more specific, Dr. Ashley Williams says that if she could "narrow it down to three essentials, they’d be: pelvis support – the foundation of good posture and spinal alignment; having a comfortable, supportive cushion – to relieve pressure and keep you comfortable for hours; and adjustability – so the chair adapts to you, not the other way around." She adds that "Adjustability is everything. The best chair adapts to your unique shape and posture — not the other way around."

What are the most important ergonomic features of a gaming chair, and how do they help posture and health?

Modern gaming chairs have a whole host of features, so seeing the wood from the trees in terms of what's most important ergonomically can seem impenetrable at times. Our experts shine a light on the most important features in a gaming chair that you should be aware of when buying one.

"The fundamental design of the chair is important, and here are a few things you can look out for," says Dr Tsai. "The shape of the seat base and how it’s contoured matters. Many chairs have restrictive seat bases, with aggressive curves that lock you into a single position, [so a] wider, and more gently curved seat base, will give you a lot more freedom to move." Additionally, Dr. Tsai says to think carefully about the seat firmness itself: "A common misconception that many people have when shopping for chairs is that 'soft' translates to 'comfortable'. But prolonged sitting on overly soft surfaces can lead to significant problems. One major issue is that it places increased demand on the stabilizer muscles in your trunk area, which can lead to discomfort and subsequently fatigue." As a result, aim for something that's "reasonably firm" in Dr Tsai's words.

Lastly, he recommends avoiding chairs that "have hard ledges or a raised front edge as these create compression points along the sciatic nerve and nearby arteries in the posterior portion of your thighs."

Vincent Sin from Secretlab adds that the adjustability overall of chairs is absolutely key to a good choice, and that this sentiment and shines a light on how central it is to Secretlabs's chairs too: "That’s why we ensure that a Secretlab chair delivers versatile adjustments and responsive support, so our users can quickly and easily get the precise, tailored support that they want."

Dr. Williams puts a lot of stock in the meat of a gaming chair, but also advises folks to "balance support with movement and posture awareness". Picking out specific ergonomic elements of chairs she says that "Cushion comfort is huge — it reduces pressure off your sit bones and promotes healthy circulation." She adds that "An adjustable back support is essential for maintaining spinal alignment during long sessions and if you like to recline while watching streams, a headrest can add comfort, but too much recline can push your body into a flexed posture, which isn’t ideal long-term."

Addie Tan, head of Razer's Lifestyle Division, reaches for ergonomics and adjustability first: "Ergonomics is the foundation, but adjustability is the multiplier. Every human body is different, so the more you can tweak (seat depth, recline angle, lumbar firmness, armrest width,) the better your odds of perfect alignment. Comfort is engineered, not guessed."

How should folks pick a gaming chair that’s right for them? What should they look out for?  

As well as echoing some of our own sentiments and advice in terms of your budget on the matter, Dr. Williams suggests there really should be a few core considerations to focus on in your best gaming chair purchase journey.

"It comes down to how long you sit, and whether you have back or neck pain. If you’re gaming for under four hours a day and are generally pain-free, a good office chair with solid cushioning and lumbar support will do." However, go over these four hours and then things start to get a little more serious: "If you’re logging longer sessions of gaming or work, or already have discomfort, invest in an ergonomic chair that supports your pelvis first (not just your lower back) and adapts to you, and comes with adjustable seat depth, armrests, and tilt. Your chair should fit you, not the other way around."

Addie Tan echoes this sentiment wholeheartedly: "Start with your body, not the brand. A good chair should fit you, not the other way around. Focus first on fit for your body size (height, weight, seat depth, and width) and how long you’ll typically sit." Beyond this, however, it's also worth keeping in mind materials too, according to Tan: "Materials and build quality matter too: high-density foam, sturdy frame, breathable fabric or mesh for hot climates, and a solid warranty ensure long-term use."

How to setup you gaming chair and gaming setup, according to the experts

Lastly, the experts provided step by step guides on how best to setup your chair and setup to ensure you're maximising your ergonomic health, and to highlight how crucial the best gaming chair can be in promoting the best healthy setup going.

Dr, Williams lays it out like this:

• "1. Adjust your chair height so your elbows rest at a 90° angle with relaxed shoulders. Your feet should be flat on the floor or supported by a footrest.
• 2. Set your armrests wide enough to give your hips space, and adjust the height so they support your elbows comfortably at 90°.
• 3. Align your backrest to follow your natural spinal curve — no slouching or over-arching.
• 4. Position your setup: Keep your keyboard, mouse, or controller close to avoid reaching, and place your monitor at eye level, with the top third of the screen in your line of sight, about an arm’s length away."

And Dr. Tsai went for something slightly similar:

• "1. Start by setting your seat height so your feet are touching the ground or supported on a footrest. Your thighs should ideally be level with the ground.
• 2. Adjust your armrest height to match the desk height. Your shoulders should feel relaxed in a neutral position when supported by the armrests.
• 3. Your monitor should sit about an arm’s length away from your face, with the top edge level at eye level. Tilt the monitor upwards slightly, so the screen stays perpendicular to your line of sight.
• 4. Your keyboard should be comfortably in front of you — and close enough so you don’t have to reach forward to use it."

How we test gaming chairs

We take testing gaming chairs very seriously. After all, it's one of the fundamental components of any gamer's setup, and it's crucial that you find the right pick to aid in your gaming efforts and keep your back from hurting.

Testing how comfortable a chair is can take some time. A great gaming chair should feel just as good after sitting in it for four hours as it did when we first sat down. Ergonomics is also a critical aspect of comfort as this is what will allow you to adjust it to your liking. This consideration will include how easy it is to adjust armrests and lumbar pillows, as well as how far back the seat goes and any additional features.

While aesthetics are subjective, it is one of the first things we take a look at. Whether it leans into a gamer aesthetic or is subdued enough for the office is essential for many. This feature also leads to what materials are used and whether they are durable or comfortable.

The crucial elements of what we consider can be boiled down to the materials used, durability, general comfort, ergonomics, aesthetics, price, and any additional features.

The final aspect which we will consider is the price. It's crucial to take a holistic approach to assessing whether a gaming chair is worth its price tag, so we ensure that we're always considering who may use the product and how it will fair.

Best gaming chairs - FAQs

Does the size of a gaming chair matter?

Increasingly, the size of your gaming chair does indeed matter - and the choices from brands and manufacturers in the 2020s reflect that too. Almost all the major brands offer XL chairs that are aimed at the taller or bigger players, and some, like SeceretLab, also offer smaller seats.

It's important for comfort and posture of course as nobody wants to be jabbed by the edges of a chair that's too small or find themselves swimming in too much space as well, struggling to control a seat that's too big. Pay attention to the dimensions, weight capacities, and the targeting of the seat and you should be fine.

• Razer has revealed and released the Raiju V3 Pro controller
• It's compatible with PlayStation 5 and PC
• It's available to buy now for $219.99 / £199.99

Gaming hardware brand Razer has just revealed and released its latest PlayStation 5 controller; the Razer Raiju V3 Pro. This new controller looks to provide serious improvements over predecessor like the Razer Raiju Ultimate and Razer Wolverine V2 Pro - both of which were also PS5 adjacent.

Compatible with PS5 and PC, the Raiju V3 Pro is available right now for $219.99 / £199.99 (around AU$339), and can be picked up either from Razer's website or stocking retailers. Razer has also told TechRadar Gaming that an Amazon listing should go live in the coming days.

So what makes the Raiju V3 Pro worth checking out, especially given its premium price tag that puts it in the same ballpark as the DualSense Edge and Victix Pro BFG Reloaded?

It's among the first PS5 controllers to offer TMR thumbsticks. Similar to Hall effect, these help to eliminate the risk of stick drift, but they retain a feel closer to that of traditional analog sticks. Razer also brings its mouse click tech to bear here; the pad's rear remappable buttons, trigger locks, and bumpers, all provide immediate and responsive presses not dissimilar to the click of a mouse.

Additionally, you can expect a circular d-pad design just like we saw with the Xbox-compatible Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. Definitely handy for when you need extra precision in the best fighting games and similar competitive environments. The controller also supports wireless play via 2.4GHz connection, with an estimated battery life of around 10 hours based on my own testing.

If my tone here sounds positive, it's because I've spent the last two weeks testing the Razer Raiju V3 Pro for review, and I really like it. The Wolverine V3 Pro is among my favorite Xbox pads, and the Raiju achieves much the same for the PS5 platform. Be sure to read our Razer Raiju V3 Pro review to learn more.

Computer mice are pretty simple – you point and click on spreadsheets or pop melons in your favourite game, but the pointer that feels right for work is not always the one that helps you get that headshot.

If gaming is one of your passions, upgrading to a better mouse makes a real difference.

The best gaming mice have the specs needed, whether that's extra buttons to map, programmable RGB lighting, high DPI sensors or even wireless charging. So we were excited when a stack of TechRadar favourites were discounted for Prime Big Deal Days. Even more so when we realised that all of them are cheaper than they were during July’s Prime Day.

But enough delay – check out the deals below.

• Not what you're after? Follow our live coverage of Amazon Prime Big Deal Days where we've got loads of excellent deals to shop

Want to consider more top mice? Give our list of the best gaming mice a look, or if you’re after a more all-purpose pointer, then check out the best mice in Australia.

You might also like...

• Dreading the coming summer heat? Vornado has a range of powerful fans with up to 47% off
• Hurry! The Dyson V8 for just AU$339 is a Prime Day deal that will sell out quick
• Upgraded your NBN plan but not your router? I've found 5 Prime Day deals on mesh Wi-Fi systems that'll unlock those faster internet speeds

After purchasing one of the best handheld gaming PCs on the market, powered by some of the top processors, it's easy to realize that there is only so much that can be done to elevate gaming performance on a small portable.

One of those powerful handhelds, the Lenovo Legion Go S, has been a breath of fresh air for me. This device has met almost all of my portable gaming wishes with its immersive 8-inch display, and, of course, the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor.

My experience with the Legion Go S came after using the Asus ROG Ally with the same AMD chip, and the push up to 32GB of RAM in the Lenovo model did more for performance than I anticipated. However, this still doesn't represent the best performance you can find on a handheld gaming PC. Not when we've seen the likes of the GPD Win 5 using the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 CPU, which replicates gaming laptop levels of performance, and is the current ceiling for these portable devices.

That is until I noticed that external GPU (eGPU) docks can take matters a step further - the case in point being the Razer Core X V2 (revealed back in July 2025), which is suitable for Nvidia's GeForce RTX and AMD's Radeon GPUs (including the newest RTX 5000 and Radeon RX 9000 models).

Given that my former main graphics card, an Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti, is currently shelved, I could spur it back into action with this eGPU dock - and some new benchmarking has indicated this is an impressive solution for supercharging a handheld.

Razer Core X V2 dock in action with MSI Claw A8

While I'm not using an MSI Claw A8, a YouTube video that just popped up from ETA Prime shows this Razer eGPU in action with that handheld - and it gives me a good idea of how the Core X V2 dock should perform with my Lenovo Legion Go S. Although admittedly I'd be looking at using a much lesser Nvidia GPU than the RTX 5090 which is shown off by the YouTuber.

As you can see in the video below, the Razer eGPU packing the RTX 5090 allows Cyberpunk 2077 to run on 'ultra' graphics settings at 1440p resolution with no DLSS, and maintain a frame rate above 70fps.

While that might not sound impressive exactly, since it's an RTX 5090, it's worth noting that performance is limited as the Claw A8 doesn't have Thunderbolt 5 ports, and is instead using USB 4 connectors, so bandwidth and speeds are slowed as a result.

This setup is also running at native 1440p, which isn't exactly a super-easy task in a game as demanding as Cyberpunk 2077 - and the processor's bottleneck also has an impact on performance, holding back the frame rate. So, given those three negative headwinds, and the lack of DLSS here, this performance level is still pretty impressive in my eyes.

Of course, my old RTX 3080 Ti is not going to perform like Nvidia's current flagship GPU - although pairing a handheld with an RTX 5090 is overkill, to say the least.

The results bode well, though, and if, like me, you have a spare GPU lying around, and all you need is an eGPU dock and a cable that plugs into the handheld (just the same as if using a charger) to use it - then this setup could be truly tempting.

It's a simple plug-and-play solution, and I'm almost always using my handheld devices while plugged into a power outlet anyway - so with this eGPU dock, I'd get the benefit of a huge performance boost.

There are also alternatives to this dock, of course, like the Aoostar AG02, which comes with a built-in 800W power supply - a notable drawback of the Razer eGPU is that it doesn't have an integrated PSU (you need one to power the graphics card). However, the Aoostar lacks an enclosure, and I'd rather not leave my GPU exposed to potential hazards - no doubt many of you will share that same sentiment.

The Razer Core X V2 doesn't come with a power supply, and it's quite costly

So, as noted, the Razer Core X V2 doesn't come with a power supply - though fortunately for me, I also have a spare Corsair 750W power supply lying around (so much spare hardware, I know). So all I'd need to buy is the eGPU dock itself, but that won't be the case for many other people.

Never mind the power supply, not everyone has a spare GPU available to use either, and buying one just for a dock setup like this doesn't make much sense.

Nvidia or AMD GPUs are expensive, and adding a power supply to the bill, and then including the cost of the dock itself, which is priced at $349 / £329 / AU$599 - well, it all mounts up very quickly (especially if you're buying the handheld, too).

The expense is going to be an instant deal-breaker for many people, and ultimately will leave this as a niche product. I'm just lucky enough to have the complementary hardware ready for the Razer Core X V2 dock, but regardless, the price still leaves something of a bitter taste considering the alternatives available.

I mentioned the Aoostar AG02 alternative and how I'm opposed to leaving my hardware exposed with no enclosure, but this solution is still worth considering if it means I can save my spare power supply for a new desktop PC build. All in all, I'm still willing to give Razer's enclosure a shot.

You might also like...

• This is the world's smallest eGPU dock with a built-in 650W PSU - but I'm not sure I'd be comfortable with my $1,999 Geforce RTX 5090 GPU exposed to the elements
• This is the weirdest 'eGPU' setup I've seen so far in 2025: it has a strange mini PC holder and up to 150W Thunderbolt 5 power delivery
• Another vendor launches an AMD Radeon RX7600M XT external GPU - and this one even comes with Thunderbolt 5

Razer's latest sale has several generous price drops on lots of tech, including its new lineup of gaming laptops powered by the RTX 50 series graphics cards. A couple of offers I've spotted right now include the Razer Blade 14 (2025) with an RTX 5060 for $1,699.99 (was $2,299.99) and the Razer Blade 16 (2025) with an RTX 5070 for $2,199.99 (was $2,799.99).

• Browse the full Razer sale

You can customize the specs for these laptops further to a certain degree. For example, you can change from plain black to the silvery Mercury colorway, increase the SSD storage, or upgrade the graphics card if you want more powerful devices or more room for your games.

You can also get the Razer Blade 18 (2025) with an RTX 5070Ti for $2,999.99 (was $3,499.99), but it doesn't have as large a discount, and it isn't as portable as the 14 or 16-inch models.

Today's best Razer gaming laptop deals

With Razer, you're paying for the brand and aesthetic as much as one of the best gaming laptops on the market. Our latest Razer Blade 14 review highlighted the seamless performance and sleek, portable design, among other praises, but still pointed out that it was pricey for what it was. This discount helps with that setback a little.

The Razer Blade 16, featured here, is basically the same but larger and is $500 more expensive. In our Razer Blade 16 review, our reviewer came away with the same positives for the laptop as our Razer Blade 14 reviewer did, in addition to praising the keyboard design.

Our reviews test the highest-end graphics card for both the Razer Blade 14 and 16. We've done that in the past with Nvidia's RTX 30 series, 40 series, and so on, and this is no different. The performance jump with the RTX 50 series is worth looking into, especially for those with older laptops that are seeking an upgrade anyway.

Razer isn't done with deals yet. For more, see our best Razer deals and bookmark it for later if you'd rather wait for further discounts over Black Friday and the rest of the end-of-year sales.

Razer Blade 14 (2025): Two-minute review

The new Razer Blade 14 (2025) really wants to be the ultimate portable gaming laptop, and after spending two weeks with it, I can say it mostly succeeds. In fact, it's our new pick for the best thin and lightweight gaming laptop in 2025.

Packed into a lightweight 14-inch aluminum chassis, the Blade 14 houses the latest specs you can get for a 14-inch form factor, including AMD’s new Ryzen AI 9 365 processor and up to an Nvidia RTX 5070 GPU.

Those updated specs come at a price though, as the model I tested cost $2,699.99 / £2,299.99 / AU$4,144.95 (equipped with an RTX 5070, 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, and a 1TB SSD). Entry-level models start around $2,299.99 / £1,999.99 / AU$3,599.95, while top-end configs climb as high as $2,999.99 / £2,699.99 / AU$4,899.95.

What impressed me most wasn’t just raw gaming power—it was how well this machine stayed cool and quiet under load.

Running Cyberpunk 2077 with ray tracing at 1800p, I averaged around 50 FPS with DLSS and frame generation enabled, though to be honest, you’ll likely want to tone down the RT if you’re gaming at max resolution for best results, regardless of title. For most of the titles tested, you can comfortably get over 60 FPS at 1800p resolution without ray tracing, or about 60 FPS with ray tracing if you use DLSS upscaling.

Equally impressive is the OLED 2.8K 120Hz display. Colors popped, response times were lightning fast, and the DCI-P3 coverage made both games and creative work shine. Add in six surprisingly loud, clear speakers, and I found myself reaching for headphones less often.

The battery life on the Blade 14 isn’t great, lasting about five to six hours in my day-to-day work mix—emails, writing, streaming, light Photoshop—before I needed a charger. While this is pretty decent for a gaming laptop, it’s still not great for day-to-day productivity.

Design-wise, there’s not much to knock here other than the somewhat shallow keyboard and a chassis that picks up fingerprints pretty much instantly. Performance-wise, you’re almost certainly going to get a better value out of Razer’s various rivals, who often offer more raw power for less money. But as a total package, the Razer Blade 14 (2025) easily contends as the best gaming laptop released this year, even if it isn’t spotless.

Razer Blade 14 (2025): Price & availability

• How much does it cost? Starting at $2,299.99 / £1,999.99 / AU$3,599.95
• When is it available? It's available now
• Where can you get it? You can buy it in the US, UK, and Australia through Razer’s website and other retailers.

The Razer Blade 14 (2025) is available now, starting at $2,299.99 / £1,999.99 / AU$3,599.95, coming in with an entry-level RTX 5060 GPU, 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD.

My review unit, which comes with an RTX 5070 GPU, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, comes in at $2,699.99 / £2,399.99 / AU$4,299.95. The top-spec config bumps up the storage to 2TB and the memory up to 64GB for $2,999.99 / £2,699.99 / AU$4,899.95.

It’s available in the US, UK, and Australia directly from Razer’s website, as well as major regional retailers like Best Buy and Currys.

Understandably, the Blade 14 isn’t going to be making any best cheap gaming laptop lists anytime soon, given the laptop's premium pedigree, but it's still very expensive for what you're getting. A laptop like the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, which starts off about $200 cheaper at $2,099.99 in the US (though it is tougher to find in the UK at the moment, and what models are available in Australia end up being more expensive). The US starting configuration for the Zephyrus G14 does get you a better RTX 5070 GPU compared to the Blade 14's RTX 5060 starting GPU. You can also get up to an RTX 5080 on the Zephyrus G14, for some serious portable gaming power that simply isn't available on the Blade 14.

You’re ultimately paying the Razer tax here if you opt for the Blade 14, but if you want a Razer Blade laptop, this is pretty much par for the course, and there's no denying the laptop's other premium qualities that it brings to the table. Just be prepared to pay the higher bill at the end.

Also, in the US and UK, you have the option to select the Mercury colorway rather than the classic Razer Black, though it is only available on the RTX 5070/1TB SSD/32GB RAM configuration.

• Value: 3.5 / 5

Razer Blade 14 (2025): Specs

• Up to RTX 5070 GPU, 2TB SSD, and 64GB RAM
• AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor
• Not upgradeable and not a whole lot of configuration options

The starting configuration of the Razer Blade 14 (2025) gives you the essentials for modern portable gaming: an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365, Nvidia RTX 5060 GPU, 16GB LPDDR5-8000MT/s RAM, and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. That’s more than enough for strong performance in esports and AAA titles at 1080p, high settings, and medium raytracing enabled when using upscaling, but storage will feel tight if you're planning on installing a lot of big games.

The top configuration quadruples the available memory and doubles the storage over the base spec while bumping the GPU up to an RTX 5070 GPU. That makes it a very solid mobile workstation for creatives in addition to being a fantastic 1440p gaming platform in an impressively thin 14-inch form factor.

The one knock I do have on the max spec is that other thin and light gaming laptops, like the Zephyrus G14, do manage to give you options for the RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5080, so those who want even more power do have alternatives to the Blade 14.

My review unit fell somewhere in between, with 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD. Of the available configuration options, it offers what I think is the best balance between cost and performance.

With this setup, I never worried about performance bottlenecks in games or creative workloads, and the 1TB drive gave me enough space for my go-to Steam titles, currently Helldivers 2, Satisfactory, and a heavily modded Baulder's Gate 3. But unless you're loading up on small indie titles, you can expect to have to do some storage juggling for this configuration.

It's also worth noting that this laptop is not easily upgradable, and the RAM here is soldered. There are also a limited number of configuration options to choose from, so it's not a very customizable laptop, opting for the MacBook route rather than a more DIY approach.

• Specs: 4 / 5

Razer Blade 14 (2025): Design

• Thinner and lighter than Blade 14 2024
• OLED Display
• Black finish is a fingerprint magnet

The Blade 14 (2025) doesn't take any real risks with the design of the iconic laptop model, being more of a modest refinement of Razer's aesthetic.

The biggest move here is the display, which is a gorgeous-looking OLED panel rather than the more standard IPS of the Razer Blade 14 (2024). It also comes in thinner and lighter than last year's model, managing to shave off nearly half a pound of weight (about 0.2kg) and shrink its height by just over half an inch (nearly 2mm).

The CNC-machined aluminum chassis feels solid in the hands, with zero flex in the lid or keyboard deck. It carries that understated “MacBook for gamers” vibe that a number of the best thin and light gaming laptops hope to hit but often fall short of reaching.

The matte black colorway on my review model looks sleek, but it attracts fingerprints almost instantly. I didn’t particularly care all that much, but if you do, expect to be wiping this laptop down almost constantly if you're sticking with the Razer Black finish.

Port selection is generous for such a compact laptop: two USB4 (with PD, DP2.1, and data), a pair of USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, an HDMI 2.1 output ports, and a microSD card reader, something creatives will appreciate.

The keyboard offers per-key RGB customization through Razer Synapse, so you have lots of options for customizing the lighting design to your liking. While twinkly, the shallow 1mm key travel left typing feeling somewhat flat compared to a competing MacBook Pro or Lenovo Legion laptop, though the keyboard does feel more comfortable than that of the Dell 14 Premium.

The touchpad, by contrast, is excellent—large, smooth, and every bit as responsive as you’d find on the best MacBook.

The six-speaker setup also deserves mention. I've been on a The Sword kick lately, and their entire catalog sounded fantastic, filling the room with surprising depth. Meanwhile, the chaos of Helldiver 2's recent updates never sounded better, making it one of the few gaming laptops where I felt I didn't need to bother with an external speaker or headphones.

The 1080p IR webcam is great, but the lack of a physical privacy shutter isn't, though you do get the enhanced security of Windows Hello.

Like Razer Blade 14s of the past though, the design of this laptop doesn't lend itself to much upgradability, so if you're hoping to spec-up in the future, you'll need to plan for that at checkout before you buy and configure it for the long-haul.

• Design: 4.5 / 5

Razer Blade 14 (2025): Performance

• Phenomenal gaming performance
• Outstanding creative performance
• Not always an improvement over previous-gen models

Day to day, the Blade 14 felt like a solid desktop PC stuffed into a svelte, lightweight 14-inch frame, making it easy to carry around with me and get things done on the go.

Over the course of about three weeks (including one week of dedicated benchmark testing), I used it for writing, photo editing, and heavy multitasking and didn't experience any real hiccups. Even with my downright abusive Chrome-tab-habits, adding Spotify streaming to the mix and some Photoshop and Lightroom exporting sent to the background, the Blade 14 (2025) stayed fluid and never stuttered.

In my CPU benchmarks, the new Blade 14 generally outclassed its predecessors, and while it doesn't really compete with the performance of the Apple M4 chip for professional workloads, it does generally come in second against Apple's best mobile workstation.

Naturally, the upgraded Nvidia RTX 5070 GPU in the new Blade 14 beats the last two Blade 14 models, both of which we reviewed with an RTX 4070 GPU. There aren't a lot of tests where we can use for an apples-to-razers comparison of the GPU in the MacBook Pro 14 and Blade 14, unfortunately, but at least in the cross-platform 3DMark Steel Nomad, it's not even a contest, as the Blade 14's RTX 5070 GPU scores about 3.6x better in this synthetic GPU test.

In terms of creative performance, the Blade 14 2025 more than holds its own against its predecessors and its main rival amongst the best Windows laptops for creatives, the Dell 14 Premium, falling behind only the MacBook Pro 14 in my Crossmark Creativity testing, and even then, not by much.

When it came to gaming, though, the Blade 14 really impressed me. At its native 2880×1800 resolution, Games like F1 2024 and Helldivers 2 ran well into the high double and even triple digits on ultra settings with balanced DLSS (not counting Frame Generation), while games like Satisfactory (my personal go-to) stayed above 100 FPS constantly.

Cyberpunk 2077 with ray tracing at 1080p pushed the GPU hard, averaging around 50 FPS, but enabling DLSS 4's Transformer model made it silky smooth at 1080p and very playable at 1440p, hovering between 50-80 FPS depending on the DLSS setting used.

Since the base frame rates are north of 50 FPS when using DLSS, you can turn on Frame Generation as well to push that FPS higher to max out the display's 120Hz refresh without having to worry about input latency, which wasn't noticeable in my time gaming on the laptop when I used the feature.

The key standout for me though wasn’t just raw average framerates—it was stability on the low-end. Minimum frame rates on just about every game I tested with balanced upscaling were well north of 50 FPS unless I did something like trying to run Cyberpunk 2077 on its max settings with Ray Tracing Overdrive at native resolution.

This means that for pretty much any title, you're going to get exceptionally smooth gameplay on the go, which is what a laptop like this is really all about.

• Performance: 5 / 5

Razer Blade 14 (2025): Battery Life

• How long does it last on a single charge? It lasted about five hours on my standard 'performance' test settings
• Proprietary charger required to charge it quickly, but you can use USB4 for slower charging

The battery life on the Blade 14 2025 isn't fantastic, but it's pretty solid for a gaming laptop, especially with some power-saving tweaks.

In my normal test settings, with max resolution and frame rate with the laptop set to Windows 11 Performance mode, the Blade 14 2025 fell behind a lot of other competing 14-inch laptops on the market, as well as its two immediate predecessors, with an average battery life of just five hours and one minute in our Web Surfing test.

It manages to do a little bit better on the gaming battery test, though it still lags behind its immediate predecessors. One thing to consider though is that of all the 14-inch laptops I tested here, only the Dell 14 Premium has an OLED panel to match what the Blade 14 is sporting, while the earlier Blade 14s and the MacBook Pro aren't bogged down by the OLED display's higher power consumption.

It is worth noting though that slowing down the refresh rate to 60Hz rather than 120Hz and you turn off the RGB lighting on the keydeck, you can stretch this battery life out to over eight hours.

Also, the Blade 14 2025 comes with a proprietary charging brick and port for the fastest charging and best plugged-in performance while gaming, but the USB4 ports do allow for USB-C charging, just at a slower rate.

• Battery Life: 3.5 / 5

Should you buy the Razer Blade 14 (2025)?

Buy the Razer Blade 14 (2025) if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

How I tested the Razer Blade 14 (2025)

• I spent about three weeks with the Razer Blade 14 (2025)
• I used it for everyday gaming, work, and creative tasks
• I ran it through our standard suite of benchmark tests

I had the chance to test out the Razer Blade 14 2025 for about three weeks, which is about 50% longer than I usually have to devote to a single laptop review, so I really got to know this laptop.

I used it for day-to-day writing tasks (including drafting this review), as well as general productivity and creative work, including Adobe Photoshop for editing the photos shown above.

For gaming, I used it extensively as my primary gaming device, focusing on more demanding titles like Helldivers 2, Satisfactory, as well as more requirement-friendly titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong.

I've reviewed dozens of gaming laptops for TechRadar over the course of half a decade, ranging from the very best desktop replacements to the best budget gaming laptops, so I know what the market has to offer. I leverage that insight and expertise to help readers by offering the best advice I can on what gaming laptops offer the best value, and which are worth the splurge.

• First reviewed September 2025

• Razer's Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC has been released, an evolution of the Wolverine V3 Pro controller
• The controller features Razer’s 8000 Hz HyperPolling tech, which is also offered in Razer's impressive Viper 8K gaming mouse, for the best input response
• A Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition 8K PC is also available for purchase

Razer has announced the launch of its Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC, a next-generation controller built specifically for PC gaming and featuring new improvements.

As the next evolution of the Wolverine V3 Pro controller, this latest model features Razer’s 8000 Hz HyperPolling technology for both wired and wireless gaming, which should offer an impressive "near-instantaneous" input response for first-person shooter (FPS) gaming.

This tech was also present in Razer's excellent Viper 8K gaming mouse, one of the fastest, most responsive gaming mice TechRadar has ever seen.

The Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC also offers TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) Thumbsticks with swappable caps and provides anti-drift performance and long-lasting durability, which is a must for pinpoint accuracy in FPS games.

It's also Razer's lightest wireless esports controller to date, featuring an ergonomic shape that reduces hand fatigue during long gaming sessions, four mouse click back buttons, and two claw grip bumpers that are fully remappable, Razer Pro HyperTriggers, and more.

The controller also comes packaged with a carrying case and a 2m braided cable for portability.

"PC gamers have long demanded a controller that doesn’t compromise on speed, precision, or customization," said Nick Bourne, head of mobile and console division at Razer. "With the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC, we’ve delivered exactly that — a controller built specifically for the PC ecosystem.

"From the industry’s fastest polling rate to our lightest wireless form factor, this is the definitive device for competitive PC players who want every advantage."

Razer is also launching the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition 8K PC, a wired variant offering the aforementioned features "designed for players who demand uncompromising performance and zero-latency input."

"Engineered with the same elite-level features as its wireless counterpart, the Tournament Edition delivers precision and responsiveness through a direct wired connection, making it the ideal choice for competitive gamers," Razer said.

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC is now available for purchase at $199.99 / £179.99 GBP, while the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition 8K PC will cost $119.99 / £99.99 GBP.

You might also like...

• Best PC controllers in 2025: top gamepads from GameSir, Thrustmaster and more
• The Nintendo Switch 2 is the company’s least ambitious console to date, but its improvements are astronomical
• Monster Hunter Wilds patch notes reveal a new endgame expansion, 9-star monsters and additional stability fixes for PC

• Razer has revealed a new line of BlackShark V3 Pro headsets
• There are dedicated versions for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox
• It's part of the brand's wider push into the console space

Gaming hardware brand Razer has unveiled the new Razer BlackShark V3 Pro line, with dedicated options for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox gamers.

A successor to the already excellent Razer BlackShark V2 Pro, a hugely popular headset that we awarded four and a half out of five stars in our review, the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro introduces hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) for the first time in a BlackShark headset.

It features four microphones to detect and help filter out background noise, plus comfortable memory foam ear cups to provide an ideal fit.

It's also the first Razer headset to benefit from the brand's new Gen-2 HyperSpeed Wireless technology, reducing audio latency as low as a claimed 10 milliseconds. That, according to Razer, puts it well ahead of the competition and makes it an ideal choice for professional gamers.

In addition to a slightly revised overall design, there have been substantial changes under the hood. The headset now has Gen-2 Triforce 50mm drivers with bio-cellulose diaphragms, completely redesigned for more precise audio and spatial accuracy.

The microphone has also been upgraded, with a whopping 48kHz sample rate that puts it in competition with some of the best microphones for streaming right now.

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro launches in three variants, each tailored to its distinct platforms. The PC version supports THX Spatial Audio, while the PlayStation variant is fully compatible with Tempest 3D Audio. The Xbox options, then, are designed with Windows Sonic spatial sound in mind.

All three cost $249.99 / £249.99 each, and come in either Black or White colorways. While the Xbox and PC versions are available now, the PlayStation variant will hit shelves at a later date.

They release alongside the more affordable Razer BlackShark V3 and entry-level Razer BlackShark V3 X HyperSpeed. Both of these models also come in distinct PC, PlayStation, and Xbox flavors.

Razer goes all-in on the console space

The launch of these new headsets represents something of a shift for the traditionally very PC-focused hardware brand, which is now aiming to become a major player in the console space.

"So I think in the past, we had really worked as very separate entities as far as PC and console were concerned," explains Razer senior product evangelist Paige Sander.

"We took a step back and realized that, as we have so much credibility and innovation in the PC space, why not take some of those iconic things, like BlackShark V2 Pro or like our mouse click switches, and bring them to our console products?"

In the end, "it's about bringing those innovations to console gamers so that they get the same level of performance and esports-focused features", though Sander admits that there are some special considerations when designing a console product.

"The most important thing is making sure that it's really optimized for the platform that it's built for. That's why we do driver tuning specifically on the platforms, to make sure that the audio is really dialed in," she says. "Also, things like the 3.5mm jack. We know that many console gamers like to plug headsets directly into their controllers, so we made sure that that feature was present."

Razer is also carefully considering feedback from pro players, a formula that has proven successful for its PC products.

"We also worked specifically with pros in the console space 'Snip3down' on Xbox, 'Shotzzy' on PlayStation," Sander reveals.

"These are their preferred platforms when they're gaming, and so we made sure to work directly with them on the development of their FPS profiles, on some of the design elements like the subtle Xbox and PlayStation stitching that you'll see on our headsets."

According to market research firm Circana, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is currently the most popular PC gaming headset in the US.

Will Razer find similar success in the console market? Only time will tell, but I'm certainly looking forward to taking these new models for a spin.

You might also like...

• Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour taught me things I didn’t know about the console, but it’s a novelty that you shouldn’t have to pay for
• The GameSir T7 Pro Floral is another solid controller from the brand, but I’d still recommend other gamepads instead
• 'He's probably pissed off' – Dying Light: The Beast director discusses setting a super-powered Kyle Crane loose and dialing the gore up to 11