The further up the “Pro” ladder Razer climbs (we’re on V3 now), the more it has to upgrade and revamp its headset hardware. That’s the case for the latest version of the BlackShark line, the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro. If Razer hadn’t implemented software-based usability, this Pro headset would be cluttered with buttons. Luckily for fans, it sports a familiar design, much like previous BlackShark models, and it functions better than ever thanks to Razer-developed software that makes it feel more like a refined revision than a full next-gen leap.
The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro makes a first impression that would impress your parents. Right out of the box, the headset features stylish green border stitching to say “I’m for Xbox!” and has a frame that weighs less than one pound. Included in the package are a USB 2.0 to USB Type-C cable, a USB Type-C to 3.5mm audio jack, a high-tech wireless transmitter for low-latency feedback, and, of course, the star of the show: the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro headset itself.
Out of every headset I’ve tested so far, the BlackShark V3 Pro offers the best comfort options, hands down. From its sub-1 lb weight to the wide range of sizing adjustments, I was able to strap this bad boy onto heads ranging from small to large—mine being shaped like a small watermelon with the texture of a potato—with surprising ease.
“Out of every headset I’ve tested so far, the BlackShark V3 Pro offers the best comfort options, hands down.”
The reinforced yoke tag-teams with the earcup swivels to ensure a fit that feels almost tailor-made. Unlike the Alienware Pro Headset, this Pro headset eschews the “pure” leatherette earcup cushions in favour of memory foam leatherette hybrids. It’s a smart choice—leather can get hot during summer months, while memory foam does a solid job of keeping ears dry during sweaty sessions.
The reinforced yoke moves surprisingly easily when adjusting for head size, but stays rigid once the headset is secured. That’s a godsend for glasses wearers. The headset doesn’t slip or shift to press against the arms of glasses, and even gives an extra layer of support. The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro leaves no players out of the pod.
The BlackShark’s great looks are matched with gaming functionality that borders on extraterrestrial. With the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro for Xbox, users can connect via Bluetooth to both their phone and console at the same time. So if your wife calls for help bringing up the groceries, the headset patches the call through without skipping a beat in-game. I even listened to Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park while grinding to level Chasca in Genshin Impact. Travelling through Natlan and Linkin Park just works, okay?
I was surprised by how much attention went into making the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro sound great for ambient listening. With a removable mic and lightweight build, I was able to run errands outside while listening to Billy Talent II (not recommended in rainy weather). Every musical break felt beautifully isolated, with bass that came through clearly even on older tracks like Tennessee Ernie Ford’s Sixteen Tons. Musical compositions feel right at home on Razer’s 50mm TriForce drivers. Funny enough, using the dual connectivity to stream music while playing a title like Fallout 76 sounded better to me than using the in-game soundtrack.
The Razer Audio app is a valuable addition to the BlackShark V3 Pro. It allows users to adjust sliders and choose from audio presets, including the staple “Gaming” mode that’s always included. For audiophiles, each slider is designed to be tinkered with until the sound feels perfectly tailored. Razer and Xbox provide users with a convenient shortcut, allowing fans to bypass the Razer Audio mobile app and Razer Synapse 4 PC software in favour of accessing the features directly from Xbox. But where the BlackShark V3 Pro really shines is during gameplay.
The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro has earned its crown when it comes to in-game audio. All the sound sensitivity mentioned outside of gaming gets cranked up when you’re playing. The original Razer BlackShark was built with Battlefield in mind, and with Battlefield 6 on the way, I’m happy to say the BlackShark V3 Pro still holds its own in competitive waters.
“The BlackShark V3 Pro has earned its crown when it comes to in-game audio.”
It deploys an almost sonar-like surround sound using Windows Sonic, right out of the box—no extra setup needed. When I jumped into a round of Mecha BREAK, the screen was full of chaos, but I could still detect the Light Sniper Narukami just by the direction of its sniper fire. Huge Stego units launched a flurry of missiles, and when swarmed by multiple enemies at once, the audio cues became the most reliable weapon I had to dodge the barrage.
In a particularly intense Halo Infinite Oddball match, I picked up on enemies closing in just by the sound of their footsteps—it was as if my ear was pressed to the ground. For players who are hard of hearing, these settings can also be tweaked to amplify background sounds. Turning around to blast a Spartan who thought they were about to land a clean assassination is always satisfying.
Xbox and Razer have also added what Razer claims is a strong background noise-cancelling feature. According to the company, most competing microphones can’t match the BlackShark V3 Pro’s HyperClear mic, which boasts a sampling rate of up to 48 kHz. That means whatever’s going on in the background won’t bother your teammates—the mic zeroes in on your voice and filters out the rest. I cracked open a can of Diet Coke mid-match and no one noticed.
Fans of esports are also in luck. The BlackShark V3 Pro includes pro-tuned audio profiles, developed with help from top competitive players. Ever wanted to play Fortnite like PodaSai? While most of us won’t match his skills, you can at least mimic his audio setup with the headset’s onboard presets. There are 12 profiles in total, all tuned by high-level players. Halo Infinite champion Snip3down even lent his EQ settings to the mix.
To push customization further, Razer gives players the option to swap out their headset’s side plates—just like changing the faceplate on a championship belt. I was sent a pair of Snip3down magnetic plates to test, which pop on easily after removing the standard earcup covers. It’s a small feature, but it adds a personal touch and makes it easy to tell your BlackShark V3 Pro apart from your friends’ headsets.
Battery life also deserves a mention—it’s been excellent so far. I haven’t charged the headset since unboxing it, and it’s still showing 43 percent. For someone who regularly forgets to plug things in (guilty), that kind of longevity is a game-changer. I don’t have a firm number on total hours, but after 10 straight days of use, it’s still going strong.
Whether you’re sitting in a menu just to soak in the soundtrack of a game like Metal: Hellsinger, or catching the sound of footsteps charging up the stairs in PUBG, the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro has your six. This headset delivers excellent sound, outstanding comfort and a battery life that just won’t quit. The only drawback is the premium price, which may be a hurdle for some—but for those looking for a top-tier gaming headset, the BlackShark V3 Pro is more than worth it. No matter your platform, it’s built to keep you safe in deep waters.
