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HyperX vs Razer | Which Brand has Better Gaming Peripherals?
Today is Dilemma Time! I gotta admit that this title is a little bit deceptive because there can never be a real winner in my book. Both HyperX and Razer do excellent work. However, you might prefer one brand over the other, and that’s completely fine.
We all want the latest and greatest peripherals at a respectable price with good quality. It’s a given, right? And we’re gamers, so it needs to look good at the same time!
This usually translates into brand confusion and painstaking reviews to figure out which gaming peripheral brand is better.
This guide will go through the main features of both brands and hopefully help you decide which one is better for you.
Gaming Mice
HyperX
If you do some research, the first thing you notice is that HyperX has a very limited selection of gaming mice(less than 10), but they do have some nice ones.
If you’re looking for something basic and simple, the HyperX Pulsefire Core RGB will do just fine. It’s got a good and responsive sensor, it’s comfortable in your hand, and it’s pretty affordable.
At the time of this writing, their pricing, in general, is quite friendly to people on a tight budget since you can get an entry-level model from a retailer for about $20. Additionally, their finest mouse costs less than $100 which is very unusual for a company that’s known for its quality.
In terms of design, HyperX gaming mice have a simple design that’s pretty much exactly what you’d expect from a gaming mouse. The vast majority come in 2 colors, black, and white. However, some models have something slightly different: a honeycomb design.
Keep in mind that this pattern might be bothering you, especially if you spend a lot of time gaming. This is supposed to help reduce weight and increase airflow through the mouse, but I’m not sure how much difference it actually makes so I’ll leave that to you to decide.
Razer
Razer has over 50 gaming mice to choose from, so whether you’re looking for a mouse that fits your budget or one that gives you total control over your gaming experience, the brand has options for every type of gamer.
There are models with simple and practical designs without much variety in colors(they are mostly black like HyperX mice), as well as options like the Razer Naga Pro that have multiple side buttons—perfect for RPG games. Their price tags are higher than what you would get from other premium brands.
Verdict
HyperX and Razer both make high-quality and reliable gaming mice. For people that want an entry-level mouse, either brand will give them equally great options at almost identical pricing.
However, as the pricing increases, Razer becomes a better choice since they have a wider variety to choose from.
Gaming Keyboards
HyperX
HyperX makes gaming keyboards that are durable and spill-resistant. Just like with mice, there is not an enormous collection of items to choose from.
The most popular switches they use are the HyperX Red linear switches, which are a good fit for gamers looking for fast response times and durability.
However, if you’re interested in trying out a different type of switch, you have to make sure you know how specific key switches feel before you buy them.
Perhaps their most noticeable disadvantage is the fact that they don’t include a wrist rest in any of their keyboards.
This makes them more portable and easier to store than other options on the market but if you do need one in order to type more comfortably, then you’ll have to purchase a separate one for about $15.
Razer
Let’s say that razer is a company that does not shy away from innovation. You can probably guess where I am going with this. Razer’s optical switches are an alternative to the traditional mechanical switches in keyboards.
Razer Optical Switch allows for light-based actuation in place of the several moving components and metallic contact used in conventional mechanical switches.
So, when you press a key, a light beam quickly travels through the switch stem, signaling your computer to carry out the desired operation. As a result, you get zero debounce delay. No matter how good a mechanical switch is, it will never reach the responsiveness of the optical ones, in my opinion.
Just like with HyperX, their keyboards are water resistant, and the wireless ones really stand out for their ultra-long battery life but they are quite extravagant.
Luckily, there are over 50 different options available at almost every price point, so if you’re looking for something specific, you’ll definitely be able to find it!
Verdict
Razer has a clear advantage over HyperX when it comes to gaming keyboards. They have a bigger collection of different designs that range between $20 and $270.
In addition, they have premium options that use optical switches to completely eliminate the debounce delay that the mechanical ones have.
Gaming Headsets
HyperX
HyperX began as a headset company but has since expanded into other areas of gaming accessories, including the mice and keyboards I just mentioned. So you can guess that they’re known for having a great sound and build quality with audio equipment like headsets.
This is the most important thing but the perfect headset should also be ergonomic and comfortable, right? Luckily, HyperX uses high-end memory foam and soft, flexible leatherette in the ear cushions so you can do some serious gaming for many hours.
I only have the Cloud II wireless so I can’t say if this is true for all of their products. Also, they have an aluminum frame so they are pretty durable against “accidental” falls but that also increases their overall weight.
Now, in terms of pricing, they have a headset for everyone. I might sound biased but even if you only have $10 to spend, they got you covered. Contrary to what they offer on gaming mice and keyboards, they also have premium headsets that cost up to $350 for those who can only settle for the best product in its category.
Razer
Overall, Razer headsets are more compact and lightweight than HyperX. Their quality is excellent, I mean this is Razer we’re talking about. They have all the latest technologies and the sound-dampening of the earcups is sublime. However, this highly depends on the pricing of the headset.
In terms of variety and pricing, they have a cheap option(Razer Tetra) you can consider, but keep in mind that this is an “on-ear” headset, so it’s not going to be the most comfortable no matter what the company tells you.
This headset is a great choice for gamers who are looking for an affordable option that still delivers high-quality performance. Nevertheless, for something better, you’ll have to pay extra, and, in general, Razer offers great value, but its high-end products are overpriced.
Verdict
When it comes to headsets, both Razer and HyperX are very close in terms of audio and built-in microphone quality.
The latter tends to make headsets that feel heavier while the former prefers to keep them more compact and lightweight. In addition, HyperX has better options for low-budget gamers.
Software
Both brands have their own software which helps you control all of your peripherals. These are the Razer Synapse and HyperX NGENUITY.
They have the standard things like controlling the RGB lighting, changing the mouse DPI, and setting up custom key mapping. However, Synapse is much older and therefore packs a lot more features.
In addition, Razer has many more software applications for all kinds of things. For instance, the 7.1 Surround Sound is kind of emulating the 7.1 sound but it’s not “real 7.1”. It’s all very confusing but it’s included with some headsets so you essentially get it for free. And free is always good!
The Bottom Line
In the end, both companies focus on gaming and producing high-quality products. You can’t go wrong with either one. The main difference between the two is in their focus on certain products and audiences.
HyperX lacks the innovation and brand image that Razer holds, but it makes up for this in lower prices and a more niche appeal.
For example, if you’re looking for a cheaper headset or mouse, HyperX has a great offering that you’ll love – but if you’re looking for a more premium product, Razer will have that extra something to suit your needs.
In a close contest like this, the final decision is ultimately down to personal preference since I may like a specific design that you don’t and vice-versa. If you have further questions or just wanna share your own experience with these brands, let me know in the comments down below. Have a nice day!
