A few months ago, we were particularly impressed by the quality of the Razer Blackshark V2 Hyperspeed headset. Last year the brand also released the Razer Blackshark V2 Pro version 2023, an update of the 2020 version of the helmet which was already a leader in its field. Still aimed at “pros”, in other words competitive players, Razer is this time targeting console players with models dedicated to the PS5 and Xbox. Unsurprisingly, after several weeks of use, we are once again faced with a high-end gaming headset, even if a few drawbacks should be noted.
Advertisement
Design
In addition to being available in two models (Xbox and PlayStation), the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro offers two colors to choose from: white or black. We imagine that PlayStation 5 players will opt for the white color in order to harmonize with the console's ecosystem. Although its design remains classic, it will appeal to people looking for a sober aesthetic. The headphones are made of matte black plastic, pleasant to the touch, and discreetly feature the brand logo on the speakers.
Visually, Razer has opted for simplicity, but the comfort offered is exceptional. Weighing only 330 grams (a little less without the detachable microphone), it incorporates memory foam both on the headphones and on the headband padding. We are neither more nor less in front of one of the most comfortable helmets we have tested. Like the V2 Hyperspeed, the foam is breathable; you can therefore wear the helmet for a whole day without the risk of being bothered.
Note also that the structure of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is particularly robust, thanks to its metal branches and a headband covered in imitation leather. We also appreciate the detachable microphone which allows us not to get in the way when we simply want to play a single-player game quietly. The headset is also equipped with very practical controls: on the right earcup, a volume wheel, a power button, a microphone mute button, and a USB-C port. The left earpiece includes a button to activate Bluetooth and another to change profiles.
Advertisement
In the box, in addition to the headset and microphone, there is a USB-C dongle and a very short USB-A to USB-C cable for charging. Razer has clearly favored wireless connectivity, which is consistent for use mainly on consoles. However, it is a shame not to take advantage of a USB connection for the PC.
Performance
Unsurprisingly, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro benefits from incomparable sound quality since we find the brand's 50mm titanium speakers already present on the BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed. It thus offers clear sound, well-calibrated treble and distortion-free bass. Even without the support of Razer Synapse software, the sound quality remains impeccable on console. Although the software is not available on PC, it is possible to connect the headset to the Razer Audio app on smartphone via Bluetooth to adjust the audio equalizer to your preferences.
If you don't want to go through this type of manipulation, Razer's default audio profiles are very well balanced, including profiles dedicated to music, video games and movies. A notable asset of this headset is its eSports tab, which offers an equalizer specially designed for Apex Legends, Call of Duty and Fortnite. Having mainly played Fortnite And Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on PS5 during this test, the headset offered total immersion, excellent sound quality and effective reduction of ambient noise.
We would still recommend it mainly to competitive players mainly playing shooting games where the precise localization of sounds is crucial to detecting enemies. If you are mainly a fan of single-player games on PS5, we would rather recommend the Razer Kaira Pro Hyperspeed and its haptic feedback.
Microphone and autonomy
As with the BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed, we regret the absence of a simultaneous connection via Bluetooth and via the USB dongle. On the other hand, it retains the same qualities in terms of autonomy. So, you can use it for up to 70 hours on full charge depending on the brand. In practice, we see that the battery lasts much longer when the headset is connected to the PC or via Bluetooth. It is when you play on console that it is more energy intensive, however it maintains an extremely solid lifespan (approximately 50 hours).
The quality of Razer's ultra-wideband Hyperclear microphone is also impeccable. It transcribes the voice clearly and precisely. Whether on consoles or via Discord, the feedback is unanimous: it gives the impression of speaking right next to the person you are talking to. However, it is necessary to correctly adjust the position of the microphone in relation to your mouth to optimize this clarity. Additionally, the audio app gives you the option to choose multiple profiles to change the mic equalizer (Default, Mic Boost, Conference, Broadcast, and Individual).