If your gaming headset needs replacing, it’s just as well the Razer BlackShark V3 family launched recently. It is Razer’s latest range of high-end gaming cans, and is meant to improve upon the BlackShark V2 that launched in 2021 (and again in 2023).
The BlackShark V3 Pro heads up the new range. It features what Razer calls ‘hybrid active noise cancellation’, which uses the four mics on each earcup to filter out background noise, like yapping pets or nagging kids.
These have ‘Pro’ in the name, after all. They’re marketed heavily towards gamers with esports aspirations. Whether those aspirations are of becoming a pro or just using the same gear as one doesn’t really matter.
The BlackShark V3 Pro of the family
With the V3 Pro, users can toggle between ANC on, ANC off, and an ambient mode with one of the several physical buttons on the headset. Some of the others will mute the mic and cycle between the eight EQ presets saved on-device. There’s also a dedicated volume roller, and a second roller whose purpose is left up to you.
For the doef doef bits, Razer is using the second generation of its 50mm Triforce Bio-cellulose drivers. It might sound like a menu item at a fancy restaurant, but Razer says they have a frequency response of 12 – 28,000Hz. It also claims the internals have been revamped with a 75% larger magnet, for what that’s worth. The HyperClear Full Band 12mm detachable microphone now supports a lower range of 12 – 10,000 kHz.
For connectivity, you get four options: Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz dongle for wireless, and USB and 3.5mm wired connections. The dongle uses Razer’s latest HyperSpeed Wireless Gen 2 tech, which is supposed to mean low latency — Razer says 10ms. They’ll also support a dual wireless connection over Bluetooth and with the dongle, thanks to each connection having a dedicated chip.
Other features include support for spatial audio via a virtual 7.1.4 THX mix if you’re playing on PC, Windows Sonic on Xbox, or 3D Tempest Audio on PlayStation, and pre-tuned audio profiles within Razer Synapse for specific games. Battery is supposed to last up to 70 hours — we’re assuming that’s with ANC off.
Along with the BlackShark V3 Pro, Razer is also releasing the BlackShark V3 and BlackShark V3 X. These are slightly more affordable versions with fewer features than the flagship ‘Pro’ model.
While we don’t have a specific local release date yet, Razer’s local distributor, Apex Interactive, says the first shipment could arrive as soon as next month. The BlackShark V3 Pro is expected to carry a recommended retail price of R6,500. The others will likely be cheaper.
