There is no question that the Razer Huntsman is currently one of the best gaming keyboards on the market. With the Razer Huntsman Mini Analog, there is now another offshoot of the series, which not only impresses with its compact format but also takes an innovative approach to the switches and promises a lot of flexibility. However, this takes getting used to.
Miniature keyboards have their appeal, especially for gamers with limited desk space or who like to travel with their gear. The Razer Huntsman Mini Analog, with its slim dimensions of 293.3 x 103.3 x 36.8 mm and a weight of well under 500 grams, fits exactly into this profile, especially since it is connected to a detachable USB-C to USB-A cable was thought.
As far as processing is concerned, you don't have to accept any compromises despite the 60 percent format. A robust aluminum cover plate is available as well as three-stage height adjustment and Razer has not dispensed with high-quality double-shot PBT keycaps. They are also wonderfully handy thanks to a rough texture and the lettering is perfectly legible. Nothing rattles and the integrated insulation also ensures that the Huntsman Mini doesn't get overly loud.
Naturally, you have to make do with 71 keys - there is neither a numeric keypad nor a function block with direction keys. The keyboard should be less interesting for prolific writers. Due to the dimensions, the key spacing is relatively small and invites frequent typing errors. But well, it's a miniature gaming keyboard, so it's hard to fault the Huntsman Mini for that.
In addition to the format of the keyboard, which costs 159.99 euros, the inner workings play a decisive role. The Razer Huntsman Mini Analog relies on the manufacturer's in-house analog optical switches. In other words: Mechanics play no role, it is scanned by means of a light barrier and pressure sensitivity also plays a role.
The trigger point of each key can be freely determined within a range of 1.5 mm to 3.6 mm via Razer Synapse. For example, if you play fast shooters, you will use the short trigger distance, while the longer distance is advantageous for writing. In addition, it is even possible to have two functions on different trigger points of a button. For example, you can equip a grenade at 1.5mm and throw it at 2.5mm with the same button. The slightly higher resistance of the keys when hit helps a lot to find these points and to fully utilize the analog typing behavior.
During the practical test, of course, this required some familiarization and sensitivity. The typing behavior differs massively from that of normal keys. But once you get the hang of it, it's really an exciting affair. We noticed more flexibility, especially when moving with WASD, which goes far beyond the normal 8-way behavior of the four keys and allows for more precision.
Trigger points and button assignments can be made in the Razer Synapse software as usual, and it's not as complicated as it sounds. Razer has managed to present the whole thing quite clearly and the more you look at it, the more you understand what is possible with the keyboard. If you like it a little faster, you will even find a quick setting for a gamepad assignment, with the analog stick functions being set to WASD and the triggers to Q and E.
You can also use the software to configure the Razer Chroma RGB lighting. Incidentally, up to five profiles can also be stored on the keyboard, but be careful: double assignments of the keys only work when the Synapse software is running. The fact that the analogue switches also have N-key rollover and anti-ghosting as well as a 1,000 Hz polling rate hardly needs to be mentioned.
CONCLUSION
A breath of fresh air in the keyboard jungle
I have to admit that I'm not one of those gamers who can grow fond of mini-keyboards. This is mainly due to the fact that I not only have to gamble with the keyboards but also have to work with them. And that's where the distance between the keys and the missing number pad bothers me on the Mini. But if you like it small and compact, the Razer Huntsman Mini Analog is a real gem that can shine in all areas.
This starts with the high-quality workmanship and continues with the easy-to-use software and the analogue switches. They turn out to be a real hit, even if they take some getting used to. The higher flexibility in movement alone, if you are not just reduced to the eight ways of WASD, is already a poem and the possible double assignments also have their charm. Gamers who like to experiment will have a blast with the Huntsman Mini.
PROS
- very good workmanship
- a lot of flexibility thanks to the analogue switches
- relatively easy to use, extensive setting options
- great key feedback
CONS
- analog keys take some getting used to
Comments
Post a Comment