It’s hard to imagine a better time to be in the market for a gaming keyboard than now. We’re at the tail-end of both the ‘make-it-RGB’ and ‘make-it-mechanical’ trends, with consumers poised to reap the benefits. When it comes to software, almost all of the major brands offer comprehensive RGB customizability. When we’re talking hardware, things like full N-key rollover and 30-million keystroke durability are pretty much the norm.

Time will have to tell whether opto-mechanicals are the next gold rush for the gaming accessories space. However, for now, the products like Razer Huntsman are great - but not quite a gaming necessity.

Top-notch design and build quality; Opto-mechanical switches are hyper-tactile;

Expensive; Key innovations aren't quite a game-changer;

Mechanical gaming keyboards have soared in popularity, and with a vast number of players looking to secure their slice of this lucrative pie, manufacturers are having to think outside the box in order to stand out from the burgeoning crowd.

Excellent clicky key switch; Leatherette wrist rest; Best-in-class RGB lighting; Solid build and stylish looks; Mature software utility

No USB passthrough; Media controls could be better; Costs £200

Razer's Huntsman Elite needs another pass, particularly the awkward media keys, but its RGB-enabled wrist rest is eye-catching and the new...

Opto-Mechanical switch is speedy and clean feeling; RGB-enabled wrist rest is gaudy but cool; Finally; dedicated media keys on a Razer keyboard

Opto-Mechanical switch is deafeningly loud; Volume wheel is hard to use without looking; Wrist-rest illumination requires both USB cables to be...

It's been a while since we last saw a new keyboard from Razer – but the wait is over, as today we are reviewing the £200 Huntsman Elite. This keyboard boasts an aluminium top-plate, new dedicated multimedia keys, as well as Opto-Mechanical switches.

Opto-Mechanical switches feel great and are objectively faster than traditional mechanical switches; New aluminium top-plate; We finally have dedicated media keys on a Razer keyboard; Top-class RGB lighting; Wrist-rest is plush and very comfortable

I couldn't tell the difference in speed between an Opto-Mechanical and a Cherry MX Brown; Opto-Mechanical switches are currently only available in one style – tactile and clicky; Costs £200

Razer's Huntsman Elite is the company's first keyboard to use optical switches instead of the traditional mechanical switches it has been using for years. The idea is that by using light sensors inside each switch, as opposed to physical connections, the switches can be more responsive and faster.

Razer has continued to establish itself as a major player in the PC and peripherals space, turning out high quality, attractive product...

Opto-mechanical switches are some of the best I've ever tested; Tasteful and attractive lighting; Extremely comfortable magnetic wrist rest

Lacks USB passthrough or macros; Requires two USB ports for full lighting

Having used Cherry MX Blue's for years, my initial impression was that I hated the keys. They make a much more annoying high-pitched click, and are much lighter to actuate. However, having gotten used to it, the Opto-Mechanical switches really are a dream to use.

Razer's Blackwidow might be the most iconic mechanical gaming keyboard ever made. It's dominated electronics store displays since it was first introduced and, as a result, few gamers don't know the Blackwidow by name alone.

This keyboard is beautiful. The media controls are perfect. The wrist rest feels luxurious. The laser keys are a neat addition to mechanical keyboards. So where does this product go wrong I have had several issues where the laser keys were sticking (!!!

If you love to game this keyboard can take you to places seen by Greek gods. I really like this keyboards feature and if you are like me and love your pc to also look great this is the keyboard for you.