A newly introduced element or factor that changes an existing situation or activity in a significant way. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro is a PlayStation 5 game changer. It’s remarkable what a few small tweaks on an already great controller can do. Razer’s Wolverine controller series has been the gold standard for Xbox Gamers for a while now, but their PlayStation controllers have always been missing one key element: symmetrical thumbsticks. Most tournament controllers feature the asymmetrical design, but PlayStation gamers have never quite felt at home with that layout. Finally, the controller to rule them all is here, available in two sleek designs.
Customize Your Way
The namesake “Pro Controller” has been overused in the gaming industry. A true Pro Controller is made to suit the gamer using it. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro can be tailored to anyone. It features removable TMR Thumbsticks, Claw grip buttons on the top, four removable back paddles, and a eight way D pad. Compared to the standard DualSense layout, this controller has a ton of buttons.
The coolest part of this controller is that it’s customizable on the fly. I went from playing Battlefield 6 to Street Fighter 6 and changed my control scheme without logging into an app. It’s all very easy and can be done in-game. I found that I really didn’t need to tinker with this controller much at all. It should be noted, though, that this controller does not have any motion controls or haptic feedback. This might sound like a dealbreaker, but I’m not playing Astro Bot with the Razer Raiju V3 Pro. I’m playing fighting, racing, and shooter games. Games that demand precision and lend themselves well to custom controls.
The Razer App itself is fantastic for going deeper into the controller’s customization. Like all Razer products, it’s not just a controller for one device. Players can use this controller on PC as well. On the back, it has two settings for the 2.4 GHz USB stick. Simply change the switch between PS5 and PC to get started. I am not a tinkerer when it comes to gaming. I was jumping in right out of the box and able to tailor this controller to my playstyle.
Cut the Cord
Razer Raiju V3 Pro customization doesn’t stop at the buttons. Players can decide to play wired or wireless. The flexibility here is great and the battery life on the controller is up to 36 hours.
The 2.4 GHz USB-A connection is very precise—if you aren’t sitting too far away from the console. This was the one thing that surprised me about the device. I constantly noticed connection issues when I was sitting on my couch. I found that when I turned my PS5 around and sat a bit closer, the problems stopped entirely, though.
Due to the PS5 not having a USB A input in the front of the console, the dongle has to be plugged into the back of the console. It makes sense that a USB-A dongle is more compatible for PC Play. However, hiding the dongle behind the console actually caused me problems for playing on my couch. If you are playing on a monitor or your seat is close to your console, this won’t be a problem. But it’s worth noting here and is a shame, as your mileage may vary depending on your preferred gaming setup.
When It Works…
All and all, this controller really works. It’s so lightweight and feels very comfortable in the hand. The DualSense is one of my favourite controllers, but this takes gameplay to a new level. I have minor carpel tunnel symptoms when I game too long. I found I rarely felt numbness while holding the Razer Raiju V3 Pro. The back paddles are situated ideally, and if anything, add to the comfort. They rest well in hand and are very easy to click when needed. Assigning a jump or reload to these gave me a definite edge during matches – the fraction of a second saved matters. I can see why E-Sports players trust Razer to get the most precise gameplay.
Costly Conclusion
The Razer Raiju V3 Pro costs $279.99 CAD. This is $10 more than the DualSense Edge. It purposefully does not have haptic feedback or motion controls and also cannot wake up the PS5. But despite these omissions, this controller is truly “for the pros.” Every feature I just named won’t make the controller work better for FPS or Fighting Games. If players are looking for precision and longevity, the lighter weight of the controller is definitely worth it. Everything feels tight on the controller. After a few sessions and retooling the sensitivities to fit my play style, the customization level is worth the cost.
The connectivity can be a bit finicky if you plan to sit far away from your TV. Being closer to the action helps gameplay feel more immersive anyway. It’s nitpicky, but I wish this controller came with a Type-C connector so I could use it for other devices without a different dongle.
I love my Razer Kishi V3 Pro for mobile gaming so much that I actually choose it as my primary way to play. Now that I have the option for pro-level controlling, it’s going to be challenging to go back to a standard DualSense. If you’re in the market for the truest Pro Controller on PS5, then the Razer Raiju V3 Pro is definitely worth putting on your Christmas list this year.
Razer Raiju V3 Pro Review
Summary
The Razer Raiju V3 Pro continues the trend of quality products being made by pro gamers, for pro gamers. Everything a pro could want is here, but while Razer intentionally skips over having haptic feedback and motion controls, it can occasionally feel like an incomplete controller. Coupled with connection issues from sitting a bit far away, this controller leaves something to desire for the steep asking price. That being said, if you’re looking for a controller specifically for FPS and Fighting titles, this is the best controller on the market. Just make sure you sit close to your PS5.
As always, remember to follow us on our social media platforms (e.g., Threads, X (Twitter), Bluesky, YouTube, and Facebook) to stay up-to-date with the latest news. This website contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission when you click on these links and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. We are an independent site, and the opinions expressed here are our own. For a quick highlight of this controller, take a look at this video on YouTube!
