Razer’s New PS5 Controller Rivals DualSense Edge with TMR Sticks
▼ Summary
– Razer’s Raiju V3 Pro is a $219.99 wireless controller for PlayStation 5 and PC, competing with Sony’s DualSense Edge and sharing features like adjustable triggers and swappable paddles.
– The controller lacks adaptive triggers and rumble, and on PS5 it connects via a USB-A dongle instead of directly, with no access to Sony’s software customization.
– It features TMR joysticks that resist stick drift and use less battery, making them more durable and cost-effective than Sony’s replaceable ALPS modules.
– Design elements include bulky grips, an eight-way directional pad, mecha-tactile PBT buttons, and customizable rear paddles that can be swapped with caps.
– The Raiju V3 Pro’s US release is on hold pending regulatory clearance, and it is not currently available for purchase.
Razer has introduced the Raiju V3 Pro, a premium wireless controller designed for PlayStation 5 and PC gaming, priced at $219.99. This new offering stands as a direct competitor to Sony’s $199.99 DualSense Edge, sharing several high-end features such as adjustable trigger pull distances, swappable rear paddles, extra stick nubs, and a durable hard carrying case. A thoughtful inclusion is the 2-meter USB-C cable, which locks securely into the charging port, ideal for competitive tournament settings where reliability is critical.
While the Raiju V3 Pro represents one of the most capable third-party wireless controllers available for the PS5, it does come with a few notable omissions. It lacks both adaptive triggers and haptic rumble, two signature features of Sony’s official gamepad. Additionally, Razer does not have access to the DualSense Edge’s software customization suite on the PS5, and the controller connects using a 2.4GHz USB-A dongle rather than pairing natively with the console.
Where the Raiju V3 Pro truly distinguishes itself is through its TMR (Tunnel Magneto-Resistance) joysticks. These sticks are engineered to resist the common problem of stick drift and draw less power during use, contributing to longer battery life. In contrast, Sony’s DualSense Edge relies on ALPS stick modules, which cost around $20 each to replace once drift inevitably occurs. Factoring in the expense of replacing two modules, the total long-term cost of Sony’s controller can exceed that of Razer’s model.
The overall build quality and finish of the Raiju V3 Pro are on par with the DualSense Edge. Its design includes several thoughtful touches that may appeal to certain players. The controller features bulkier grips that provide a more substantial feel in the hand compared to Sony’s slimmer design. An eight-way directional pad makes executing complex fighting game combos more intuitive than the standard four-way D-pad on Sony’s controller. Face buttons are made from PBT, a material often used in premium mechanical keyboard keycaps, delivering a crisp, tactile response. Another clever feature is the removable rear paddle system; if you prefer not to use the four customizable back buttons, they can be replaced with caps that blend smoothly into the controller’s body.
High-end wireless controller options for the PS5 remain limited, especially when compared to the variety available for Xbox. Razer’s entry into this space with the Raiju V3 Pro is a welcome development for gamers seeking customization and durability. However, availability is currently uncertain. A Razer spokesperson confirmed just before publication that the controller’s US release is on hold pending regulatory clearance, though no specific details were provided regarding the nature of the delay.
(Source: The Verge)
