Razer's recent esports keyboard, the Blackwidow V4, adopts a sleek, low-profile design.
In the realm of gaming keyboards, two standout models have recently emerged: the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-profile HyperSpeed and the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless. Let's delve into their features, performance, and user experience to help you make an informed decision.
Features Comparison
| Feature | Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-profile HyperSpeed | Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless | Other Top Keyboards | |--------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Layout | Full-size and Tenkeyless (TKL) | 65% layout (compact, fewer keys) | Varies (full-size, TKL, 75%, 65%) | | Switches | Low-profile mechanical (tactile, linear, clicky options) | Mechanical switches, also wireless | Wide range (mechanical, optical, low-profile) | | Connectivity | 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C wired | Wireless (likely Bluetooth & 2.4 GHz), wired options | USB wired, wireless options vary | | Battery Life | Up to 980 hours (Power Saving Mode) | Usually lower than Razer’s extreme battery life | Varies, often less than Razer’s flagship | | Build Quality | Premium aluminum top, stainless steel plate, sound dampening foam | Solid build but usually plastic-heavy for weight | Premium materials vary by model | | Keycaps | Textured doubleshot PBT keycaps (durable) | Usually ABS or PBT, depends on model | Depends on keyboard (PBT common in premium) | | RGB Lighting | Razer Chroma RGB, game-integrated lighting | Usually RGB, Asus Aura Sync | RGB broadly common, varying integration | | Additional Features | Multi-function roller, 11 dedicated control buttons, AI tool integration, Razer Snap Tap for key prioritization | More compact design for portability | Macro keys, media controls, software suites | | Price | $229.99 (full), $199.99 (TKL) | Around €122 (~$130) | Wide range, usually $100–$250 depending on features |
Performance and User Experience
The BlackWidow V4 Low-profile excels with excellent typing feel, highly responsive and precise switches, and outstanding battery longevity. However, it is notably louder than some competitors due to less sound dampening from its slim design and is priced on the higher side.
The Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless appeals to users seeking a more compact, portable 65% keyboard with wireless capabilities at a more affordable price but sacrifices some dedicated keys and a larger footprint, which could impact productivity for some users.
Other top gaming keyboards like the Corsair K70, Logitech G915, or SteelSeries Apex Pro vary widely in layout, switch type, price, and wireless options, often focusing on full-size or TKL layouts with premium build and customizable features but rarely offering a low-profile mechanical design as refined as Razer’s new BlackWidow V4.
Summary
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-profile HyperSpeed stands out for premium material quality, very long battery life, low-profile mechanical switches, and wireless versatility, suitable for users prioritizing high-performance gaming with a sleek low-profile design but accepting a higher price.
The Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is a more compact, budget-friendly option focused on portability and wireless convenience, with fewer keys and possibly less premium materials.
Choosing between them depends primarily on preferred size/layout, budget, and whether premium build and advanced features justify the extra cost. This comparison shows the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-profile as a top-tier choice if performance and premium features justify its cost, while the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless offers compactness and affordability, with trade-offs on features and size.
The new Razer BlackWidow V4 line of keyboards features low profile keys. The new BlackWidow V4 keyboards use Razer's HyperSpeed wireless connectivity with a 2.4 GHz dongle, delivering up to a 1,000 Hz polling rate. The new BlackWidow V4 keyboards work with Razer's Snap Tap technology, which allows for super speedy movement changes in FPS and other games. The new BlackWidow V4 keyboards allow users to choose between Razer's lineup of clicky, linear, and orange mechanical switches, now in a low profile format. The new BlackWidow V4 keyboards come in both full size and tenkeyless variants. The Roccat Magma is the best membrane gaming keyboard.
- In the world of gaming keyboards, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-profile HyperSpeed stands out due to its long battery life, premium build quality, and low-profile mechanical switches.
- If you are on a budget, the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless could be a suitable choice, featuring a more compact design and affordable price, albeit with compromises on a few dedicated keys and potentially less premium materials.
- Compared to these models, the Roccat Magma is the best option for individuals seeking a membrane gaming keyboard, offering a comfortable typing experience and impressive performance for gamers who prefer this type of switch.
