For most Windows users, Razer Synapse 4 is the place to start—but check your exact device model against Razer’s compatibility list before installing. Support varies by model and software version. Synapse 4 supports Windows 10 64-bit and Windows 11; Razer also advertises a Mac preview, but that does not establish full Mac support or feature parity.
Choose the right Razer software for your device
Synapse is Razer’s software for configuring compatible devices: depending on the model, you can remap controls, create macros, adjust performance settings, and change Chroma lighting. Not every device offers every setting, so use the compatibility list for your exact model and intended software before you begin.
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- Windows desktop: Synapse 4 is the current starting point. Razer lists Windows 10 64-bit and Windows 11 as supported, and says Synapse 4 supports devices previously supported by Synapse 3.
- Mac: Razer’s Synapse 4 product page advertises a preview. The support FAQ reviewed for this guide specifies Windows requirements, so check Razer’s current Mac-specific device and feature information before relying on the preview.
- Quick browser adjustments: Synapse Web may suit a compatible device if you need simpler controls without installing the full desktop application. It has separate browser, operating-system, firmware, and device requirements.
For example, Razer identifies the BlackWidow V4 as a keyboard whose macros and lighting can be configured with Synapse. It is only an example: an existing compatible Razer device is enough; you do not need to buy new hardware.
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Razer lists a Razer ID and internet connection among Synapse 4 requirements or activation and update prerequisites. You’ll also need to download the software and accept its license terms.
#1 Best Overall
- ICONIC ERGONOMIC DESIGN WITH THUMB REST — PC gaming mouse favored by millions worldwide with a form factor that perfectly supports the hand while its buttons are optimally positioned for quick and easy access
- 11 PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS — Assign macros and secondary functions across 11 programmable buttons to execute essential actions like push-to-talk, ping, and more
- HYPERSCROLL TILT WHEEL — Speed through content with a scroll wheel that free-spins until its stopped or switch to tactile mode for more precision and satisfying feedback that’s ideal for cycling through weapons or skills
- 11 RAZER CHROMA RGB LIGHTING ZONES — Customize each zone from over 16.8 million colors and countless lighting effects, all while it reacts dynamically with over 150 Chroma integrated games
- OPTICAL MOUSE SWITCHES GEN 2 — With zero unintended misclicks these switches provide crisp, responsive execution at a blistering 0.2ms actuation speed for up to 70 million clicks
- Open Razer’s Synapse 4 download page and download the installer.
- Run the installer, accept the license agreement, and choose the install option presented.
- Follow the on-screen prompts until installation is complete. Restart the computer if the installer requests it.
- Launch Synapse and log in with your Razer ID when prompted.
- Connect your device, then check whether it appears on the Synapse dashboard. If it does not, use the troubleshooting checks below before reinstalling.
Make a first device change
Start with one small, reversible change. The exact controls depend on your device, and the interface may offer an explicit save or apply action.
- Connect the device and open Synapse 4.
- Select the device from the dashboard.
- Choose a low-risk setting, such as a permitted button assignment or a lighting effect, and change just that setting.
- Save or apply the change if Synapse presents that option.
- Check the result in the app or game where you intend to use the device.
Create a macro when you need a sequence of actions
Razer’s Synapse 4 support workflow is to open Macro, create and name a macro, record keystrokes or mouse functions, then select a device control and assign the macro. Some keys—including Windows and FN—cannot be remapped or assigned a macro. Check the device’s available controls and the current instructions if the menus differ.
Rank #2
- HIGH-PRECISION 6,400 DPI OPTICAL SENSOR — Offers on-the-fly sensitivity adjustment through dedicated DPI buttons (reprogrammable) for gaming and creative work
- DURABLE MECHANICAL SWITCHES — Supports up to 10 million clicks
- RIDGED, RUBBERIZED SCROLL WHEEL FOR MAXIMUM ACCURACY — Small, tactile bumps increases grip and allows for more controlled scrolling in high-stakes gaming situations
- 5 PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS — Allows for button remapping and assignment of complex macro functions through Razer Synapse
- PC GAMING PERIPHERALS BRAND IN THE U.S. — Source — Circana, Retail Tracking Service, U.S., Dollar Sales, Gaming Designed Mice, Keyboards, and PC Headsets, Jan. 2019- Dec. 2023 combined
When Synapse Web is enough
Synapse Web is a browser-based option for quick adjustments, not a full substitute for Synapse 4. Razer says it is verified with Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera, and lists Windows 11 and macOS 26 for the web tool. It requires an updated browser with WebHID, compatible hardware, and current device firmware. Check Razer’s Synapse Web supported-device information for your model before expecting it to connect.
- You need an internet connection to load the tool. After it loads, it can continue offline until you close the browser session.
- It offers a simplified interface and does not support cloud profile sync.
- It supports switching among Chroma quick effects; Razer directs users to the Chroma App for advanced effects.
Moving from Synapse 3
Razer says Synapse 3 updates and cloud services ended effective February 3, 2026. Existing installations may still allow local configuration, but Razer’s FAQ says a device that is fully uninstalled needs Synapse 4 for continued customization.
Rank #3
- ICONIC ERGONOMIC FORM WITH 9 CUSTOMIZABLE CONTROLS — Favored by millions worldwide, the mouse’s signature shape perfectly supports different grips, while its numerous easy-access buttons allow for an endless combination of commands and macros
- RAZER HYPERSPEED WIRELESS AND BLUETOOTH — Unleash seamless, low-latency performance that's faster than other wireless tech or switch to Bluetooth for longer hours of gaming. Outfitted with multi-device support for a streamlined setup
- UP TO 285 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — With up to 535 hours on Bluetooth and 285 hours on Razer HyperSpeed Wireless, last longer in the heat of battle with a mouse designed to play the long game. May vary depending on usage conditions
- RAZER 5G ADVANCED 18K OPTICAL SENSOR — Tailor the mouse to the playstyle with a new, robust set of sensitivity settings. Enjoy responsive, pixel-precise aim with an ultra-reliable sensor that tracks movement with zero spinouts
- RAZER MECHANICAL MOUSE SWITCHES GEN-2 — With new gold-plated contact points, the switches are less prone to degrading and have a longer lifespan of up to 60-million clicks, so gamers can enjoy crisp execution that’s just as consistent
Before changing installations, review Razer’s Synapse 3 end-of-support information and current migration instructions. Razer recommends downloading Synapse 4 and using the Profile Migration Tool to retain existing configurations. Preserve or export settings before making changes, and do not assume Synapse 3 cloud sync is still available.
If Synapse does not detect your device
Start with model compatibility and connection checks. Razer lists incompatibility, software or hardware issues, compatibility mode, and—in a cited Windows case—outdated Riot Vanguard among possible causes. These steps are initial checks, not guaranteed fixes.
Rank #4
- 19 PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS — Armed with ergonomically positioned buttons that provide an arsenal of commands at the fingertips for mapping out the essentials or going all out with advanced macros
- RAZER HYPERSPEED WIRELESS (2.4 GHZ) AND BLUETOOTH — Unleash seamless, low-latency performance that's 25% faster than other wireless tech or switch to Bluetooth for longer hours of gaming
- POWERED BY RAZER HYPERSCROLL TECHNOLOGY — Perform repeated commands rapidly or blaze through content in free-spin mode, or activate tactile mode for enhanced precision and satisfying feedback
- LONG BATTERY LIFE — With up to 400 hours on Bluetooth and 250 hours of seamless low-latency gaming on Razer HyperSpeed Wireless (2.4GHz), last longer in the heat of battle with this mouse before having to replace its battery
- FOCUS PRO 30K OPTICAL SENSOR — Razer’s brand-new sensor provides flawless tracking performance on a wider variety of surfaces including glass —supported by intelligent functions for enhanced aim and control
- Confirm that the exact device model is supported by the Synapse version you installed.
- Restart the computer after an initial installation or update, and install any current Synapse updates.
- Connect the device directly to the computer rather than through a USB hub, then try another USB port. For a keyboard with two USB connections, connect both directly.
- For keyboard macro, LED, or Chroma lighting problems, update device drivers and Windows.
- If the issue is in a Windows setup involving Riot Vanguard, check whether Vanguard is out of date. Also check whether Synapse or the device is running in compatibility mode.
- If the device remains missing, consult Razer’s device-detection troubleshooting guide for model-specific steps.
What to expect from Synapse 4’s speed claim
Razer advertises Synapse 4 as “up to 30% faster” than Synapse 3. That is a vendor claim based on Razer’s July 2023 testing on a desktop with an Intel i5 8600K CPU, 8GB RAM, and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 under normal conditions. Razer cautions that actual improvement may be lower and vary with use, software, power settings, and other conditions; it is not an independent benchmark or a promise of a particular result on your PC.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 82G LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN — Featuring a mass centralized design, the Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed ensures seamless, consistent swipes crucial to competitive play so never have to settle for unbalanced battery-powered mice
- FOCUS PRO 30K OPTICAL SENSOR — With a forward sensor placement and intelligent functions, our flagship sensor ensures a finer degree of accuracy, while maintaining flawless tracking on a wider variety of surfaces including glass
- UP TO 280 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Power through most intense scrimming and tournament schedule with up to 280 hours of high-performance gaming on just a single AA battery
- HYPERSPEED WIRELESS — Experience a flawless, low-latency connection that remains smooth and stable even in noisy wireless environments for outfitted with multi-device support for a streamlined esports setup
- MECHANICAL MOUSE SWITCHES GEN-2 — Rated with a 60-million click lifespan, the switches feature gold-plated contact points for greater resistance against wear and tear to enjoy crisp execution that always comes in clutch
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