Hands On: Razer’s $1,337 Boomslang Is Absurd Collector Bait
▼ Summary
– The original Razer Boomslang, released in 1999 and re-released in 2005, was a revolutionary early gaming mouse known for its high 2,000-dpi resolution and distinctive snake-inspired design.
– Razer has launched a 20th Anniversary Edition of the Boomslang, featuring modern upgrades like a high-end optical sensor, wireless charging, and a premium faux leather finish.
– This special edition is priced at $1,337, a cheeky reference to “l33t” gamer culture, and is positioned as a limited-run collector’s item rather than a mainstream product.
– The package includes a unique exploded-view display frame of the mouse, with only 1,337 numbered units produced, emphasizing its exclusivity.
– While updated with current technology, the re-release intentionally retains the original’s iconic, though now dated, ergonomic shape for nostalgic appeal.
The Razer Boomslang 20th Anniversary Edition is a fascinating piece of gaming history reborn, though its staggering $1,337 price tag firmly places it in the realm of high-end collectibles rather than practical peripherals. This limited-run release celebrates the legendary mouse that helped define the gaming gear landscape over two decades ago, now updated with modern technology but wrapped in a package designed for display as much as for use.
That intentionally cheeky price of $1,337 is a direct nod to “l33t” gaming culture, serving as an inside joke for the dedicated enthusiasts who remember the original. It’s a collector’s item first and a mouse second, with only a limited number of units produced. The package is an experience in itself, arriving in a premium round case that mimics a stylish hatbox, lined with black vegan leather.
Digging into its origins, the Boomslang’s story is a bit more complex than a simple 20-year milestone. The very first model, the Kärna Razer Boomslang, actually launched in 1999. It was a groundbreaking product, boasting a then-astounding 2,000 DPI sensor when most mice struggled to reach 400 DPI. The company behind it, Kärna, folded shortly after, but the mouse’s legacy was cemented. Razer’s founders later acquired the rights, re-releasing it in 2005 and establishing the foundation for their now-iconic snake-themed brand. This anniversary edition technically marks the 2005 reboot, not the 1999 original.
Unboxing the new Boomslang reveals a host of modern upgrades beneath its retro skin. The outdated mechanical ball tracking is gone, replaced by Razer’s top-tier Focus Pro 45K Optical Sensor. It now features wireless connectivity with an 8,000Hz polling rate, Razer’s fourth-generation optical switches, and full Razer Chroma RGB lighting. It even includes a dedicated Mouse Dock Pro for wireless charging. The core silhouette remains unmistakable, that wide, low-slung snake-head shape is instantly recognizable, though its ergonomics feel dated compared to contemporary designs.
A significant part of the aesthetic overhaul is the use of faux leather on the main buttons and grip area. It certainly adds a luxurious, tactile feel, though it serves more as a stylistic flourish than a functional gaming advantage. The transparent green shell is a vibrant throwback to early 2000s tech aesthetics.
However, the true centerpiece justifying the cost isn’t just the mouse. Each purchase includes a separate, framed and exploded diagram of the Boomslang. This shadowbox-style display, measuring about 14 by 20 inches, breaks the mouse down into its individual components under glass, complete with LED backlighting. Razer produced only 1,337 of these numbered frames, making it a core part of the collectible appeal.
Ultimately, this isn’t a product meant for the average gamer. It’s a nostalgia-powered trophy for collectors and those who want a tangible piece of gaming history. It’s already sold out, which underscores its status as a conversation piece rather than a daily driver. For the right person, it represents a chance to own a modernized icon, but its value lies more on the shelf than on the mousepad.
(Source: PC Magazine)
