Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) review

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) has a lot going for it given the popularity of its previous iteration in the wireless gaming headset space. Armed with a new microphone, among other improvements, these headphones certainly live up to their predecessor’s moniker.

Having spent the last week with it, I can happily say that this updated pair of cans are perfect for gaming, esports, or otherwise. In fact, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) easily ranks among the best wireless gaming headsets on the market today, if you can accept its one drawback.

Design and comfort of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)

The design of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is so similar to the previous model that you may have seen a few Twitch streamers before without realizing it. In truth, it’s hard for me to tell them apart, even now, if I just look at them. Rather than reinvent the headset, Razer decided to make it better. Fortunately, all the changes the company has made to the already strong BlackShark V2 Pro (2020) release are definitely for the better.

The same high-quality plastic found in the original BlackShark V2 Pro returns, giving the headset’s overall construction a strength and relative lightness. Likewise, the felt pads also remain unchanged. There’s nothing wrong with that, but I personally would have preferred the excellent leatherette cushions found on the company’s other headsets, like the Barracuda Pro, to feature here for a greater degree of comfort.

So what has changed? Comparing the two helmets, the most noticeable difference I can feel is the change in clamping force. The BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) feels much more secure on my head, but that comes with added pressure around my ears and on the top of my head. It’s noticeable, but not uncomfortable, as the headband cushion balances things out nicely.

Razer also beefed up the headband sliders, which are still a striking design choice and I’m still not sure what I think of them. I’m a fan of the classic style of headband adjustments, especially ones that provide measurements to help you find the perfect fit. Preferences aside, I can’t find anything factually wrong or problematic about it.

It comes in black and white, and I really like the Stormtrooper-esque appearance of our review unit. However, I think I’d probably prefer a more discreet option when I’m on the go.

Overall, the updated design of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) makes the headset more comfortable and durable than the previous model. I happily use it for hours without any problems and my complaints are purely for good.

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) Features and Software

Of all the features of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023), the one that impressed me the most was the detachable microphone. The old 16kHz cardioid frequency of the previous model is gone, replaced by a much better 32kHz wideband microphone. It’s one of the best I’ve ever heard, conveying the low and high tones of my voice more accurately, while most other examples sound weak by comparison. The arm itself has also been beefed up and I haven’t noticed any looseness or weakness yet, but only time will tell.

With this update, Razer brings back its trusty HyperSpeed ​​wireless technology, but has also added Bluetooth. You’ll want to use the former for most gaming scenarios, but the latter makes it easy to use the BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) as a normal headset for music or to pair with a Steam Deck.

Unfortunately, the BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) does not have wired connections. Gone is the 3.5mm jack on the 2020 model, and there’s no USB data transfer either. So if you lose your wireless adapter, you won’t be able to enjoy low latency gaming. Razer tells PCGamesN that it is developing a receiver replacement program that will be available through customer support. It’s not ready for the headset launch, but we’ll update our review when it is.

New to the BlackShark V2 Pro is the addition of sound profiles designed by eSports professionals. Currently supported games include: Apex Legends, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Fortnite, and Valorant. I’m curious to see if this list grows as there are some obvious omissions like Rainbow Six: Siege and if we’ll see other genres like MOBAs as well.

While this feature ultimately comes down to selecting individual equalizers, they help certain parts of each game. One thing that helps me understand the impact of each profile is the labels under each frequency that show how variables like “pas” or “glide” are highlighted. . You’ll need Razer Synapse to see these and set them up if you want, of course, but the BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) works just fine without the software.

You can switch between profiles in Razer Synapse, but it’s much easier to switch between them using the button on the back of the right ear cup. By holding the button for three seconds, you can switch between the game and general equalizers, such as “music”, “movie”, etc. Just keep in mind that there is no way to switch between stereo and THX Spatial outside of Synapse if you like to play around in virtual surround sound.

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) performance and battery life

I am very satisfied with the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) in terms of performance. It uses the same 50mm TriForce Titanium drivers as the 2020 model, so it’s no surprise these headphones sound so good.

By default, they definitely emphasize low frequencies, making them ideal for games and music that really benefit from bass boost. However, that doesn’t mean they’re overly loud, and what’s more, they provide a fun and playful listening experience that doesn’t affect the mids or treble at all.

During the game, BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) has become a reliable companion. In Counter-Strike: Global Offensive matches, he could easily tell where shots and footsteps were coming from. That same reliability shines through in more story-driven games like Resident Evil 4 Remake, helping me better navigate enemy placement situations and enjoy a satisfying hit from my magnum.

Since getting the BlackShark V2 Pro, I’ve had to charge it very rarely because it’s rated for a staggering 70 hours of playtime at 2.4GHz. It also boosts Bluetooth battery life to 90 hours. While I can’t say with much certainty how true these claims are, in my personal experience it seems to be something like that.

However, if you need to charge your headphones, you won’t have to worry about the outdated micro USB port found on the 2020 model. Yes, the BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) has an upgraded USB Type-C that can give you six hours of battery life. battery with only 15 minutes of charge.

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Price (2023)

The $199.99 / £199.99 price of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) seems more than justified. Compared to more expensive options, these boxes offer more value and often punch above their weight, especially if microphone quality is paramount.

It faces stiff competition from other mid-range wireless headphones like the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, which you can find a bit cheaper and stick with a wired connection.

Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) Verdict

If you’re looking for the best wireless gaming headset for around $200 / £200, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is a great option. While it’s perfect for competitive FPS gamers thanks to its software features, there’s a great pair of cans here and a fantastic mic that any gamer will be more than happy with.

The only really negative thing I can say about the BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) is the lack of a wired connection. I sincerely hope that when V3 comes out, Razer will have the wisdom to enable USB data.

Advantages:

• Comfortable and fun listening experience
• The best microphone in its class
• Incredible battery life

Less :

• No wired connections