Razer Blackshark V2 Review
A wide variety of gaming headset options are available from Razer. The Kraken series is for you if you want huge, powerful, wired over-ear headphones. The Nari line is for those who require mobile connectivity without wires. The Blackshark V2 is a sleek, lightweight, competitive headset.
This $99.99 headset offers superb surround sound via a 7.1-channel USB sound card, software-based THX Spatial Audio, and a great microphone, but it lacks the size of the Krakens.
It’s competitive with the Razer Kraken Tournament Edition ($99.99) and the Kraken Ultimate ($129.99), but it looks nicer and performs better. For this reason, we have chosen the Blackshark V2 as our preferred wired headset for gaming.
Razer Blackshark V2 Headset Specs
| Type | Circumaural (over-ear) |
| Wireless | NO |
| Connection Type | Stereo 3.5mm, USB |
| Active Noise Cancellation | NO |
| Release Date | July 30, 2020 |
| Dimensions | 1.3m (cable) |
| Weight | 240g |
| Price | Original: $99 USD |
| Water/Sweat-Resistant | NO |
| True Wireless | NO |
PROS:
- Comfortable isolation of sound
- Not as flashy as a lot of game headsets.
CONS:
- Average microphone
- Bulky Synapse software
Design
Compared to Razer’s Kraken and Nari headsets, the Blackshark V2 is more compact and has a smaller weight. Traditional oval earcups with matte black plastic shells have replaced the recognizable large round ones. There are neon green Razer emblems on the back of each earcup, and neon green fabric-covered wires go from each earcup to the black headband.
Each earcup is attached to the headband by two cylindrical struts that may be adjusted for height and fit by sliding up and down on thin metal arms. The ear cushions and the headband’s underside (the top of the headband is faux leather) are padded with memory foam and wrapped in breathable fabric. The headset is light and airy, perfect for long gaming sessions and even those with larger skulls.
Technology and Programmes
The Blackshark V2’s 3.5mm connection is compatible with virtually all desktop and portable gaming systems, computers, and mobile devices. However, the bundled sound card is optimized for PC usage, so you’ll need to utilize it to take advantage of the headset’s features like THX Spatial Audio simulated surround sound and a variety of audio and microphone tweaks available through the Razer Synapse app.
Control
The headset’s actual operation is simple. The only controls are a volume knob and a mic mute button on the left earpiece. The volume dial protrudes somewhat from the side of the headphones, but it has sufficient resistance that a casual bump won’t alter the level, and it feels very pleasurable to turn, thanks to a built-in catch at the knob’s midpoint.
Is it a good gaming platform?
The Razer BlackShark V2 makes it simple to play games for hours on end. Even after hours of use, I didn’t experience any strain or overheating because of the mesh ear pads and how light the headset is. If you don’t want to use the USB sound card, connect the headset directly to your PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, or Xbox One through the 3.5mm audio jack. The Razer BlackShark V2 on PC can experience THX Spatial Audio through Razer Synapse. Although surround sound won’t truly improve your gaming experience, it does so here.
How To Use?
Razer Synapse 3, the company’s (kind of) global companion app, is in charge of the headset’s more detailed settings and extra features, like surround sound. Synapse works well enough. The latest version of the app is better organised than most game headset apps, but it’s still a bit clunky, just like most other apps in this category. The software lets you change your EQ and mic settings, and it will soon come with a set of THX-tuned game setups for games like Apex Legends, Valorant, and others. Even if you don’t play games that use surround sound, you won’t miss much if you don’t get Synapse.
Conclusion
The Razer Blackshark V2 is an affordable, high-quality wired headset for gamers. For $100, you get excellent sound quality with virtual surround sound, a high-quality microphone, and a lightweight, ergonomic design. The USB sound card and 3.5mm jack make it convenient, and the software functions are extensive. The headset’s only major flaw is the cable that is hardwired into it.
The Astro Gaming A40 and Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2, each retailing for $250, are larger (and heavier), more powerful headsets with actual mixing amps. Still, they also lack the subtleties that make them stand out as luxury products. The Razer Nari Essential is an excellent wireless option that costs the same as the Blackshark V2.
