Introduction
Are you a gaming enthusiast looking for a high-performance mechanical keyboard that saves desk space? If so, the Razer Huntsman Mini might be the perfect fit for you. This compact 60% keyboard combines more prominent keyboards’ functionality and gaming performance with the convenience and aesthetics of a smaller form factor. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the key features, benefits, and downsides of the Razer Huntsman Mini, compare it to some of its competitors, and help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Key Features of the Razer Huntsman Mini
Compact 60% Form Factor
The Razer Huntsman Mini is a 60% keyboard, meaning it only has 60% of the keys found on a standard full-sized keyboard. This compact design omits the number pad, function row, and navigation cluster, resulting in a much smaller footprint that saves desk space and improves portability.
Razer Optical Switches
One of the standout features of the Razer Huntsman Mini is its Razer Optical Switches, which are available in either Linear or Clicky variants. These switches use light-based actuation, registering key presses at the speed of light for a high-speed and responsive gaming experience.
Customizable RGB Lighting
The Huntsman Mini features Razer Chroma RGB backlighting, allowing you to choose from 16.8 million colours and various lighting effects to personalize the keyboard’s appearance. You can also sync the lighting with other Razer Chroma-enabled devices for a cohesive and immersive gaming setup.
PBT Keycaps
The keyboard comes with high-quality PBT keycaps, which are more durable and shine-resistant than standard ABS keycaps. It ensures that your Huntsman Mini will maintain its premium look and feel for longer.
Detachable USB-C Cable
A detachable USB-C cable is included with the Huntsman Mini, making it easy to transport and store. The cable also supports a secure connection, ensuring a reliable and fast data transfer for optimal performance.
Benefits of Using the Razer Huntsman Mini
Enhanced Gaming Performance
The Razer Huntsman Mini is designed with gamers in mind, offering an ultra-fast and responsive gaming experience. The optical switches provide a lightning-fast actuation, allowing for quicker key presses and more accurate input during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the keyboard’s N-key rollover and anti-ghosting features ensure that every key press is registered, even during rapid and simultaneous key presses.
Space-saving Design
The compact 60% form factor of the Huntsman Mini is perfect for gamers with limited desk space or those who prefer a minimalistic setup. Its small footprint allows for more room for your mouse and other peripherals, making transporting the keyboard to gaming events or LAN parties easier.
Personalization and Aesthetics
The Razer Huntsman Mini not only offers excellent performance, but it also looks great on your desk. The customizable RGB lighting and high-quality PBT keycaps provide a visually appealing and personalized aesthetic that complements any gaming setup.
Downsides of the Razer Huntsman Mini
No Dedicated Arrow Keys
One of the trade-offs of the compact 60% design is the need for dedicated arrow keys. While this saves space, it might be inconvenient for some users who rely heavily on arrow keys for navigation. However, the Huntsman Mini does have secondary arrow key functions on other keys, which can be accessed via a combination of key presses.
Price
The Razer Huntsman Mini carries a higher price tag than other 60% mechanical keyboards. Although the premium features and superior performance might justify the expense for some users, budget-minded gamers could consider the cost rather steep.
Comparing the Razer Huntsman Mini to Its Competitors
Razer Huntsman Mini vs Anne Pro 2
The Anne Pro 2 is another popular 60% mechanical keyboard, often compared to the Razer Huntsman Mini. While both keyboards feature a compact design, customizable RGB lighting, and PBT keycaps, the Anne Pro 2 offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity, whereas the Huntsman Mini does not. However, the Huntsman Mini’s optical switches provide a faster and more responsive gaming experience than the Anne Pro 2’s Gateron or Kailh switches.
Firstly, the Razer Huntsman Mini and Anne Pro 2 are both 60% keyboards, which means that they are much smaller than a regular keyboards and do not feature a numeric keypad. Both keyboards come with a detachable USB-C cable and provide a fair amount of flexibility in terms of the keycaps and colour scheme. However, the Huntsman Mini has a more premium build quality thanks to its aluminium frame and matte finish, whereas the Anne Pro 2 is entirely constructed of plastic. Moreover, the Huntsman Mini’s keys are fully stabilized, meaning that the keys are less wobbly and feel more solid than the Anne Pro 2.
Secondly, both the Huntsman Mini and Anne Pro 2 offers a variety of switches to choose from, including Razer Optical, Gateron, and Kailh switches. The Huntsman Mini’s optical switches utilize light to detect key presses, which provides a faster and more responsive typing experience than traditional mechanical switches used by the Anne Pro 2. However, the Anne Pro 2’s Gateron and Kailh switches offer a more comprehensive range of tactile feedback and sound options, which can be a preference for some users. Keep in mind, though, the switch quality can vary within each brand.
Thirdly, both keyboards have customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to add a personal touch to your typing experience. The Razer Huntsman Mini offers Razer Chroma RGB, the company’s advanced lighting technology, allowing you to customize each key individually. In comparison, the Anne Pro 2’s software is more limited, offering fewer lighting effects and customization options.
Fourthly, the Anne Pro 2 stands out in this category, offering wireless Bluetooth connectivity, which makes it easy to switch between devices on the go. The Huntsman Mini, on the other hand, is a wired keyboard, which may be less convenient but offers more reliability and response time for gaming. The Anne Pro 2 also boasts a larger battery, giving it a more extended battery life than the Huntsman Mini.
Lastly, the price is one of the most significant differences between the Razer Huntsman Mini and the Anne Pro 2. The Anne Pro 2 is typically less expensive than the Huntsman Mini. It is worth noting, however, that the Hunstman Mini offers more premium build quality, optical switches, and the legendary Razer Chroma RGB lighting. In comparison, the Anne Pro 2’s Bluetooth functionality, longer battery life, and lower price point make it a more value-oriented choice.
So, when it comes down to choosing between the Razer Huntsman Mini and the Anne Pro 2, it ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you’re a gamer who prioritizes fast and responsive switches and don’t mind being wired to your computer, the Huntsman Mini might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more flexible and portable keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity, a broad range of switches to choose from, and a lower price point, the Anne Pro 2 might be the way to go. Either way, both compact keyboards offer excellent quality and performance and are worth considering.
Razer Huntsman Mini vs Ducky One 2 Mini
The Ducky One 2 Mini is another well-regarded 60% mechanical keyboard. Like the Razer Huntsman Mini, it offers a compact design, customizable RGB lighting, and PBT keycaps. However, the Ducky One 2 Mini uses Cherry MX, more traditional mechanical switches. While Cherry MX switches are highly regarded, the Razer Huntsman Mini’s optical switches offer faster actuation and a more responsive gaming experience.
Firstly, the Razer Huntsman Mini features optical switches, which means that it uses infrared light instead of metal contacts to actuate the key switches. This technology enables faster actuation and a much more responsive gaming experience. On the other hand, the Ducky One 2 Mini uses traditional Cherry MX switches that are highly regarded for their reliability and performance. While both switches provide satisfying clicks and feedback, the Huntsman Mini’s optical switches offer a slight advantage for gaming enthusiasts.
Secondly, both keyboards offer customizable RGB lighting, which allows users to personalize and add a touch of flair to their keyboards. The Razer Huntsman Mini uses Razer’s Chroma RGB lighting system that can be synced with other Razer peripherals, offering a unified gaming experience. The Ducky One 2 Mini uses a similar RGB lighting system that allows for colour customization but does not synchronize with other peripherals. Ultimately, both keyboards offer stunningly beautiful RGB lighting, and the choice comes down to personal preference.
Thirdly, the Razer Huntsman Mini and Ducky One 2 Mini come equipped with PBT keycaps that are more durable and long-lasting than standard ABS keycaps. These PBT keycaps have a textured surface that provides a better grip and prevents wear and tear. However, some users might need help finding the texture rough and comfortable. With the added durability and aesthetic appeal, the PBT keycaps of both keyboards are a significant selling point.
Fourthly, the Razer Huntsman Mini and Ducky One 2 Mini are both compact keyboards, making them an excellent option for gamers or typists who frequently move around. However, the Huntsman Mini is slightly smaller than the Ducky One 2 Mini and takes up less desk space. This mini keyboard is perfect for gamers who require a lot of space for their mouse movement or for those who prefer a minimalist setup. The Ducky One 2 Mini has a more extensive physical structure and might be a better option for those who need a more traditional keyboard layout.
Lastly, price is also an essential factor, especially when deciding between high-end mechanical keyboards like the Razer Huntsman Mini and the Ducky One 2 Mini. The Razer Huntsman Mini has a higher price point, reflecting its superior features, such as optical switches and RGB lighting that sync with other Razer peripherals. The Ducky One 2 Mini has a lower price point while offering customizable RGB lighting and PBT keycaps, making it a value-for-money purchase.
So, both the Razer Huntsman Mini and Ducky One 2 Mini offer premium features, providing some tough competition to one another. The Huntsman Mini’s innovative optical switches and compatibility with Razer’s Chroma lighting system are ideal for gamers who want the advantage of faster actuation and an immersive gaming experience. The Ducky One 2 Mini is a better option for those looking for a cheaper alternative that still offers customization, reliability, and an overall excellent gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice comes down to the user’s preference and requirements.
Who Should Buy the Razer Huntsman Mini?
The Razer Huntsman Mini is an outstanding option for gamers who value high performance, visual appeal, and reduced size. It best suits those who value fast, responsive keypresses, customizable RGB lighting, and premium build quality. However, users who rely heavily on arrow keys or have a tighter budget may want to consider other options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Razer Huntsman Mini is a high-performance, visually appealing, compact mechanical keyboard designed with gamers in mind. Its standout features, such as the optical switches and customizable RGB lighting, make it a top choice for gamers seeking an edge in their gaming experience. While it has a higher price tag and lacks dedicated arrow keys, its performance, aesthetics, and space-saving design benefits make it a worthy investment for many gamers.
FAQs
Can the Razer Huntsman Mini be used for typing as well as gaming?
Yes, the Razer Huntsman Mini is suitable for both gaming and typing. Its optical switches provide a responsive and comfortable typing experience, while its compact design helps maintain an ergonomic typing posture.
Does the Razer Huntsman Mini come with any software for customization?
Yes, the Razer Huntsman Mini is compatible with Razer Synapse 3 software, which allows you to customize the RGB lighting, create macros, and rebind keys to your preference.
Is the Razer Huntsman Mini compatible with Mac computers?
Yes, the Razer Huntsman Mini is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. However, some function keys may only work as expected on a Mac with additional software or configuration.
Can the keycaps on the Razer Huntsman Mini be replaced with custom keycaps?
Yes, the keycaps on the Razer Huntsman Mini can be replaced with aftermarket keycaps as long as they are compatible with the keyboard’s optical switches and the standard Cherry MX-style stem.
Are there other Razer Huntsman models available besides the Mini?
Yes, Razer offers a range of Huntsman keyboards, including the full-sized Razer Huntsman and the tenkeyless Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition. These models offer similar features and performance but different form factors to suit various preferences and needs.
