Razer has released the Huntsman V3 HE, its first keyboard line to utilize Hall effect switches. The company positions the new series as a more affordable alternative to existing magnetic switch competitors.
The Razer Huntsman V3 HE Magnetic Mini is priced at $120, while the Tenkeyless model costs $140. These figures undercut Wooting’s 80HE and 60HE v2 models by approximately $60. In contrast, Razer’s optical Huntsman V3 Pro boards start at $220.
Performance and features
The Huntsman V3 HE supports an 8,000 hertz (8KHz) polling rate. The linear switches have an average latency of 0.6ms, whereas the optical Huntsman V3 Pro boards achieve an average latency of 0.48ms. The new keyboards include features such as Snap Tap, Snap Flex, and Dual-Keypress Priority. Snap Tap has been banned by Valve due to concerns it provides an unfair advantage.
Despite releasing magnetic boards, Razer maintains that optical switches offer greater accuracy and are less susceptible to interference from electromagnetic fields or metal desks. The company stated it introduced the Huntsman V3 HE in response to customer demand.
Build and design trade-offs
The Huntsman V3 HE features a plastic base with an aluminum top case and uses a tray-mount system. The board is wired-only and lacks conveniences found on higher-end models, such as a volume knob, wrist rest, or status screen. Keycaps are doubleshot PBT with a textured feel, and the lettering is oddly proportioned.
According to testing, the keyboard exhibits issues with input consistency, including key repetition with the N key and missed inputs during typing. Testing also reported that the spacebar foam collides with the switch housing, creating a squishy feel at the end of the keystroke. While the stabilizers are described as smooth and quiet, the overall typing sound is characterized as clacky.