The Razer Cynosa V2 is the second iteration of the Cynosa Chroma, Razer’s budget gaming keyboard, with new features and functions.
Like its predecessor, The Cynosa C2 is still a membrane keyboard with the new highlights being fully customizable per-key RGB lighting, dedicated media controls and a new 3-way cable routing option.
This keyboard can also sync lighting effects with an ever-growing collection of popular games such as Fortnite, Overwatch, Warframe and more, using the profiles built into Razer Chroma software.
Design & Packaging
The Razer Cynosa V2 comes in a Razer’s usual black and green matte box.
On the front is the photo of the product along with description, features and specifications on back. Inside the packaging is the keyboard, instruction manual and 2 brand stickers.
The Razer Cynosa V2 is a full-sized keyboard at 463 x 167 x 30 mm in size and weighs about 850 grams. The frame has a grainy texture and comes with a matte black finish on both the chassis and the keycaps.
The frame is made of top quality ABS plastic and is slightly inclined upwards even without the adjustable stands. The key mechanism is hidden under the box-like chassis, while the keycaps protrude slightly.
On the upper right-hand side of the keyboard are the dedicated multimedia keys to control pause, play, skip and adjust brightness to volume.
One the bottom center of the frame is the Razer logo in black with a reflective and discreet finish.
At the base, the Razer Cynosa V2 has four non-slip rubber surfaces to prevent the keyboard from slipping on flat surfaces along with two height-adjustable stands for a more inclined position. There is also a 3-way routing option here for better cable management.
Overall, the build quality is top notch although it’s easy to leave fingerprint marks. There is no wrist rest included and no USB-passthroughs on this keyboard.
Features & Software
The Razer Cynosa V2 boasts a frequency response of 1000 Hz and N-key roll over, which means the keyboard is extremely responsive with minimal delay and captures all keystrokes, no matter how many are pressed simultaneously. In addition, it has anti-splash protection, programmable keys and macro functions using the Razer Synapse 3 software.
The keyboard features individual RGB backlighting, allowing you to customize each key lighting using Razer Synapse or Razer Chroma software. The lighting is bright and clear and the intensity can be adjusted by holding the Fn key and pressing F9 or F10 keys.
While the membrane keys are not as tactile as mechanical ones; they are smooth, responsive and quiet during usage which is great for office environments.
The keyboard also includes all the benefits of the Razer Chroma ecosystem, including the ability to create your own lighting effects, integrations with a wide collection of games and syncing with other Razer peripherals.
Conclusion
The Cynosa V2 is an affordable entry-level gaming keyboard with excellent build quality. It really is “the essential RGB gaming keyboard” as Razer calls it.
While this is a membrane keyboard, it offers features that are normally found in higher-end keyboards like individual backlighting, macro functions, anti-splash protection, and customization options via the Razer Synapse software for personalization.
