Given we have readily removable switches here, I wanted to begin the disassembly page by taking one of the new Razer Low Profile Linear Optical switches apart. It is built similar to any other optical switch, which in itself shares a lot with the typical cross-point mechanical switch design from the Cherry MX platform. There is a tiny spring in the middle which is extremely easy to lose so I don't encourage disassembly of the switches unless you wish to lube the stem slider. What is interesting to me is the use of silicone pads on the underside of the stem where it meets the base, which effectively dampens and quietens the downstrokes. Actuation happens when the slider interrupts the light signal going through the switch socket itself, as seen above. Show  Disassembly of the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro is simple enough given the aluminium frame also acts as the keyboard plate and is held in place by 16 Phillips head screws. You need to remove certain specific keycaps to access them and a precision screwdriver comes in handy here. Once done, there are small interlocking plastic tabs in the ABS case at the corners that you need to press inward slightly to release. At this point the top piece comes off enough to access the internal USB cable and electrical isolating cable. Dislodge both to fully separate the two pieces, and then you will see a mostly empty but thin ABS case that hosts the 4200 mAh battery for wireless connectivity. This is a good-sized battery here and should make for a long battery life. There is a thin foam sheet underneath the PCB itself, and a daughter PCB is on the other side of the sheet that hosts the connectivity port and buttons from earlier. The volume wheel and media button are connected directly to the primary PCB, and both are black in color with excellent solder quality throughout. The aluminium alloy plate can be removed from the PCB by removing all the switches, and this is useful should you wish to lube the stabilizers. Razer is also using first-party branded controllers here making it hard to identify the actual hardware in play, but we know there's a USB microcontroller, a dedicated Chroma LED hardware driver, and a combo RF/Bluetooth transceiver too. As is the norm, all the components are soldered onto a multi-layered PCB. Before we move on, be advised that disassembly may void the warranty and that TechPowerUp is not liable for any damages incurred if you decide to go ahead and do so anyway. The Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro gaming keyboard line evolves with the Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL, featuring a sleek low-profile design and a smaller footprint. This keyboard excels in gaming and offers a remarkable typing experience due to its swift performance and quick actuation. However, its steep price is a drawback. Advantages:
Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TK: A Brief ReviewThe Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL encounters the ‘mini tax,’ sporting a high price despite its small size. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this trend – the Logitech G915 Lightspeed TKL held a similar cost three years ago. Yet, it’s time manufacturers offered compact tech without the premium price. QualityPaying a premium for top quality is worth it, and the Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL proves that. It continues the legacy of the original Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro, a top gaming keyboard known for its low profile, short actuation, and impeccable wireless connection. PerformanceFurthermore, it not only meets the original’s performance standard but exceeds it due to its compactness, being 80mm smaller than the Numpad. It secures a spot in our best wireless and best keyboard lists. Bear in mind, the Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL is tenkeyless, maintaining dedicated arrow keys crucial for productivity. It’s lighter too, shedding 32.5g from the full version, enhancing portability. DesignWhile there are more compact mini keyboards available, if you’re gaming or working during your travels, this is your choice. The low-profile floating keycap design allows customizable RGB lighting to shine, along with additional keys like media buttons. Secondary key functions are accessible with FN + End. Razer chose ABS keycaps instead of PBT for cost-effectiveness. Regular cleaning is necessary due to oil buildup susceptibility. An aluminum top plate and Hyperguard coating enhance durability. Multiple connectivity options exist, including Razer’s 2.4GHz HyperSpeed Wireless and three Bluetooth 5.0 connections. The USB-C cable connection also works, even while charging. Use Razer Synapse for key remapping and Hypershift functions. Razer Chroma controls RGB lighting. Beyond that, the Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL requires no extra adjustments. It’s comfortable despite slightly mushy keys. Lightning-fast optical switches are responsive with 1.2mm actuation and 45g force. Testing in games like Battlefield 2042 and Cyberpunk 2077, proved fast and accurate. Its battery life is rated at 50 hours per charge, lasting around a week with daily 6-8 hours of use. Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL: Price & AvailabilityValue: 4 / 5 Price: $219.99 / £219.99 / AU$349 Availability: Now available Where to Buy: US, UK, Australia As mentioned earlier, the Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro TKL’s cost matches the Logitech G915 Lightspeed TKL’s from three years ago, considering inflation, it’s relatively better value. Yet, it remains a costly investment for a gaming accessory. At $219.99 / £219.99 / AU$349, it’s not just expensive, but luxurious, with more budget-friendly alternatives available. However, if you seek fast performance, short actuation, and portability, the splurge might be justified. If budget constraints apply, consider the cheaper Logitech option or the wired Corsair K70 RGB TKL, over $100 / £100 less. |
