If you ever wished your keyboard could offer the same degree of control as the analog sticks on a game pad, the newly announced Huntsman V2 Analog from Razer may be the right keyboard for you. It is the next evolution of its optics-based Huntsman keyboard that was launched a few years ago, except that it has Razer’s new analog optical switches, which Razer says can mimic the feel of an analog joystick input. This allows for “true” 360 degree movement, according to Razer, and removes the limitations of being stuck with the old 8 degrees of movement that we get used to with our WASD keys. Intrigued? Here’s what you need to know.
Much like Razer’s regular optical switches, these new analog optical switches use beams of light to record each keystroke. This makes them very fast compared to your typical mechanical keyboard and more durable as well, as there are fewer moving parts. To replicate the feel of an analog stick, however, Razer’s analog optical switches can now measure the amount of light that passes through the switch to know how much is being pressed, allowing you to move forward instead of running completely, for example. Watch the video below to get a better idea of how it all works.
In terms of design, the Huntsman V2 Analog shares a design similar to Razer’s sophisticated Huntsman Elite keyboard, maintaining the same compact shape, media keys and volume dial, but adding dual PBT keycaps for extra durability and a more standardized bottom line. keys for easier customization. Razer also added a single twisted cable to the mix, as well as a USB 3.0 port for USB passthrough. There’s even a Type C USB adapter included in the box, too, if you want to connect something other than a mouse to it.
The Huntsman V2 Analog will be available in several regional layouts, including the UK, German, French, Nordic, Russian, Spanish and Japanese, according to Razer, and will also be compatible with Razer’s Keycap PBT upgrade kits if you want to change the colors. Naturally, its special keys make it quite expensive, with UK and US models costing £ 250 / $ 250. I will soon be testing the Huntsman V2 Analog to find out more, but if you are already convinced and don’t want to wait, it is available now at the Razer online store and will reach other online retailers on February 9.