How To Update Razer Headset

To update a Razer headset, you need to follow one of two paths depending on your specific model: either the Razer Audio app on your phone or a dedicated PC firmware updater. There is no universal method, so identifying your headset is the first step in troubleshooting gaming headsets and ensuring you get the correct update.

How to update a Razer headset: two paths

Razer headset updates are documented for specific models, and the exact path depends on whether the headset uses the Razer Audio app on iPhone or Android or a PC firmware updater on Windows. The Razer Audio app is used for mobile-friendly models like the Razer Barracuda, while models such as the BlackShark V2, Kraken V3 X, Kraken V3 Pro, Barracuda Pro, and Hammerhead HyperSpeed for Xbox require a PC firmware updater.

Update via the Razer Audio app (mobile)

This method is documented only for supported products. After opening the app, you must select your device from the list of supported products. The following models use this path: Razer Barracuda (not the Pro variant).

1. Power on the supported device.
2. Put it in pairing mode using the device manual.
3. Install the Razer Audio app for iOS or Android.
4. Open the app and select the device.
5. Allow and enable location access so the app can find the device for pairing.
6. Tap the update notification in the main menu.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Update via a PC firmware updater

The general PC updater pattern involves downloading the firmware, closing Razer applications, running the updater, plugging in the headset, and clicking UPDATE. Model-specific steps are required for the following headsets.

Razer Barracuda Pro

1. Ensure Razer Synapse 3.7.0731.072516 or later is installed. The specific minimum Synapse version required is 3.7.0731.072516 or later.
2. Plug the dongle into the PC.
3. Go to Razer Synapse > Settings > About > Check for Updates.
4. Wait for the Razer Barracuda Pro firmware updater to appear, then follow the on-screen instructions.

Razer BlackShark V2

1. Download the latest firmware.
2. Close Razer Synapse and all other running applications.
3. Run the firmware updater and click NEXT before plugging the headset into the PC.
4. Plug the headset into the PC.
5. Click UPDATE and wait for completion.
6. Unplug and replug the headset.

Razer Kraken V3 X (2024)

1. Plug a laptop into wall power if applicable. Save open documents and close other programs before running the updater.
2. Download the latest firmware and run the updater.
3. Click Yes if the User Account Control window appears, then click NEXT.
4. Plug in the headset to the PC and power it on before clicking UPDATE.
5. Click UPDATE, wait, then unplug and replug the headset and power it on.

Razer Kraken V3 Pro

1. Close other programs, download the latest driver, and run the updater.
2. Click Yes if a User Account Control window appears, then click NEXT.
3. Plug in the wireless USB dongle and click UPDATE.
4. Unplug and replug the dongle.
5. Connect the headset directly to the PC with the charging cable and continue through additional NEXT and UPDATE steps, including holding Power and HyperSense buttons for nine seconds when instructed.

Razer Hammerhead HyperSpeed for Xbox

1. Switch the USB-C dongle to USB mode before plugging it into the PC.
2. Plug the dongle into the PC and open the charging case before clicking UPDATE.
3. Click UPDATE, wait, then unplug and replug the dongle.
4. Close and reopen the charging case, then click CLOSE.

Important rules for a smooth update

• For laptop-based updating, keep the laptop plugged into a wall outlet and not on battery alone.
• Close all running Razer applications or all other programs before running a PC firmware updater.
• Never interrupt the update process. Do not disconnect the headset or dongle, and do not close the updater until it completes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I update my Razer headset?

Check for firmware updates periodically, especially when you encounter issues or want new features. The frequency depends on Razer’s release schedule for your specific model.

What should I do if the firmware update fails?

Ensure your headset is properly connected and that your laptop is plugged into wall power. Restart your computer and try again. If the problem persists, try updating on a different computer to rule out compatibility issues.

Can I update my Razer headset on a Mac?

Razer provides firmware update tools compatible with both Windows and macOS for some models. Check the support page for your specific headset to confirm Mac compatibility.

Do I need the Razer Audio app for all Razer headsets?

No. Only supported products that list the Razer Audio app as their update method require it. Other models use a dedicated PC firmware updater.

Will updating my headset erase my settings?

Firmware updates typically preserve your saved settings, but it is a good practice to note your custom configurations before updating, as some updates may reset them to defaults.