Razer Synapse does not recognize or detect my Razer device

Updated: 13-May-2026 | Answer ID: 1835
This answer will show you what to do when Razer Synapse does not detect, recognize, or see your Razer device.

If Razer Synapse fails to detect your Razer device, it could be due to one of the following issues:

  • Software or hardware issue
  • The device is not supported by Razer Synapse
  • Outdated Riot Vanguard (version 1.7.0.27) blocking of Razer drivers for Windows PC
  • Razer Synapse running in compatibility mode

Step-by-step process for Razer Synapse to detect your Razer device

Select Razer Synapse version

Note: Check whether your device is supported by Razer Synapse for Mac, Razer Synapse 4, Razer Synapse 3 or Razer Synapse 2.0 before proceeding. If your device is not supported by Razer Synapse, then it is incompatible and does not need Razer Synapse to work.

Razer Synapse for Mac

  1. Ensure your Razer device is properly plugged in and connected to a USB-C hub.

  2. Ensure that you have allowed all the required system permissions for Razer Synapse for Mac.

  3. If the device is still not being detected, force quite Razer Synapse for Mac and relaunch it. See this answer for instructions.

Razer Synapse 4

You can view the video below for instructions or review a copy of the video transcript.

  1. Ensure your Razer device is properly plugged in and connected directly to the computer and not through a USB hub.

  2. Restart your PC if this is your first time installing a Razer device or if you have just completed an update.

  3. Perform a repair of Razer Synapse if the issue persists.

  4. Ensure Razer Synapse is not running in compatibility mode.

Razer Synapse 2.0

  1. Ensure your Windows OS and Razer Synapse 2.0 are updated. See the answers below:

  2. Test the device on another PC with the same Razer Synapse version or try connecting to different ports. If the device is working properly on a different computer, have the USB port on your PC checked by the manufacturer or a reputable technician.

  3. Ensure the device is properly plugged in and connected directly to the computer and not through a USB hub.

  4. Clean reinstall your Razer Synapse 2.0 if the issue persists.

  5. Remove old drivers from the Device Manager.

    1. Right-click on the Start button.
    2. Select “Device Manager”.
    3. Click on "View".
    4. Select "Show hidden devices".

      Device Manager window showing View menu options

    5. Expand the following:
      • Audio inputs and outputs
      • Human Interface Devices
      • Keyboards
      • Mice and other pointing devices
    6. Right-click on the unused drivers then select “Uninstall device”.

      List of devices under Device Manager

    7. Restart your PC to completely uninstall the drivers.

    Razer Products use SHA-2 digital certificates for their drivers. If you are using a Windows 7 version that does not support SHA-2, the drivers for your device will not be installed correctly. Perform either of the two options below to fix the issue:

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