Razer Peripherals Lifespans.

[SeismicAltop]

I have heard many different things about Razer. I have heard they crap out right after warranty, and I have also heard that they last for a really long time. I actually have had the Naga for 5 months and it has been fine. My question is, has anyone else had bad experiences with Razer? Also, I have been thinking about getting the Blackwidow expert 2013. I just dont think I can justify getting an $85 dollar keyboard for clicky keys. I have heard they can help you become a better typist, but whatever. CONVINCE ME.

 

[manofchalk]

I'v had two extreme ends of lifespan with Razer products.
Got a Deathadder 2013 that died fairly soon after I bought it, its replacement is still going though.
Then I have a Razer Carcharias headset that has lasted me.... at least three years (not even sure how long anymore :lol and is still being used.
As with any product, its luck of the draw whether you receive a good or bad unit.

Mechanical keyboards just feel better than membrane, and the tactile (and audio) feedback is just satisfying.
If you decide to go mechanical, actually dont get a Razer keyboard. Their good at mice, mousepads and headsets, keyboards are not their strong suit. Go for a Ducky, Daas, WASD, Filco or Coolermaster keyboard. The Quickfire Rapids by Coolermaster occasionally have deals on them and can go quite cheap (around $60 usually).
Check out this guide on mechanical keyboards and their switches.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHnMcFGkGcA

 

[BoltHead513]

ive had the blackwidow ultimate for about 5 months now and have absolutely no problems. i will and cannot ever go back to membrane keyboards. just keep in mind if you remove the key caps it voids the warranty

 

[ssddx]

my deathadder is at least 3 year old now with zero issues.

i agree, i wouldnt buy a razer keyboard.i'll add to the list and say deck or maxkeyboard as well.

i personally own a wasdkeyboard and for $110 it is a good buy.

i have no desire to convince you on the perks of mechanical keyboards, that is for you to decide for yourself. i know firsthand that i type faster, with more accuracy and with less misspelled words on a mechanical keyboard. i also do not have as many physical issues such as cramping, fatigue or pain compared with cheap stiff membrane keyboards. as far as longevity i was using a 1985 ibm model m which worked great until someone spilled a glass of 40 proof into it. that is 28 years old. amazing longevity. unicomp makes clone keyboards like this ancient monster but some of the newer keyboards have features you may like instead (such as nkro).

purchase one and see for yourself. its only about $100 and buying a rubber dome keyboard can cost you 3/4 of that depending on brand.

i would suggest researching keyswitch type to find one ideal for you. for most people cherry mx blue are the best choice. if you dont like clicking sounds then mx brown. if you play games and do not type much then mx black. overclock.net has a nice guide on the switch types (google: overclock.net mechanical keyboard guide).

@bolthead

wasdkeyboards includes a key cap puller. the keycaps are meant to be removed and razer should get this through their thick skull. honestly razer is such a second rate company trying to compete with the big boys on the block....

 

[SeismicAltop]

Thanks for the responses. I have since gotten the blackwidow, and it is working great so far. I also want to get as model M for the heck of it. I also really like the cherry blues. They just feel so good!

 

[ssddx]

the unicomp customizer is 90% like what the original model m is. they do not use a detatchable cable and i believe they do not use keycaps but one piece (but still removable) keys but you would need to check to be sure. i should have a complete set of keystems and keycaps from the original model m laying around which will fit the unicomp copies. the keycaps are nice since you can take them off and pop them in the dishwasher without detatching the stems which will wear if you do this too often. if you are interested let me know and i could check for you.

i have two keyboards with busted pcb boards which i disassembled. i plan on rebuilding one and perhaps selling the other one off for parts since i do not really need two of them taking up space. great keyboard.

i personally have a wasdkeyboard with cherry m blues and it works good but definitely subpar to the original buckling spring mechanism in my own opinion anyways. since you intend to purchase one you can report back on what you think the difference is and which you prefer.