PolychromaticLinux
vs
Razer SynapseWindows
Polychromatic as a Linux alternative to Razer Synapse
Updated
Our verdict
Polychromatic is a solid replacement for Razer Synapse on Linux, but with clear limits. It handles core functions like RGB lighting, DPI, polling rate, and profile management reliably if you're using supported devices and OpenRazer. Button remapping and macros are not supported—this is the biggest gap. If you mainly want lighting effects and hardware settings without macros, Polychromatic works well. It's best for users who prioritize visual customization and basic device tuning over advanced input programming. Requires some setup, but once running, it's stable and persistent.
- License
- GPL-3.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 0.9.8 (August 8, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Controls RGB lighting effects and colors on Razer devices
- Adjusts DPI settings and polling rate per device
- Supports saving and loading per-device profiles
- Displays device info like firmware version and battery
- Applies settings locally and persists across reboots
What is different
- No button remapping or macro support
- No cloud profile sync—profiles are local only
- No mobile app or cross-platform sync
- Limited to devices supported by OpenRazer
- No automatic firmware updates
Opening your Razer Synapse files
Polychromatic cannot import or export Razer Synapse profile files (.rzsyn). The two apps use incompatible formats and ecosystems. You cannot transfer lighting or DPI settings directly from Synapse to Polychromatic. Profiles must be recreated manually. There is no converter tool available, and Synapse's cloud profiles are not accessible on Linux.
Switching from Razer Synapse to Polychromatic, step by step
- Install OpenRazer from your distribution's repository or the official site
- Install Polychromatic via Flatpak or native package
- Connect your Razer device and verify it appears in Polychromatic
- Recreate lighting effects and DPI settings manually
- Save profiles and enable hardware-saving for persistence
Key features of Polychromatic
- Control RGB lighting on Razer keyboards, mice, and headsets
- Adjust DPI, polling rate, and Game Mode settings
- Test individual LED positions on supported devices
- Create and edit custom lighting effects and animations
- View device info: firmware version, serial, battery
- Supports per-device profiles and hardware-saving
- Works with OpenRazer’s kernel-level driver support
- Available as Flatpak or native package
How to install Polychromatic on Linux
flatpak install flathub app.polychromatic.controllerFrequently asked questions
Does Polychromatic support all Razer devices?
No. Support depends on OpenRazer. Most wired devices are supported, but newer or wireless models may have limited or no support. Check the OpenRazer device list before relying on it.
Can I assign macros to buttons with Polychromatic?
No. Polychromatic does not support button remapping or macros. It only configures lighting, DPI, polling rate, and Game Mode. For input remapping, use xbindkeys or udev rules with custom scripts.
Why isn’t my Razer device showing up in Polychromatic?
First, confirm OpenRazer is installed and running. Check that your device is listed in the OpenRazer compatibility table. If it’s supported, try reconnecting the device or restarting the OpenRazer service.
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