As a dedicated gamer with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that the Razer Wolverine V3 is a game-changer for competitive gaming. This controller has redefined what it means to be wireless, responsive, and customizable on the Xbox Series X. With its innovative mouse-click technology and top-notch Hyperspeed Wireless system, I can tell you firsthand that there’s no latency or lag to slow me down during those intense gaming moments.
1. Razer is widely recognized for manufacturing highly responsive gaming accessories, particularly their top-tier range of gaming mice. However, most of their technology has mainly been linked to this specific product line. So far, Xbox hasn’t shown much openness to third-party controllers, leaving gamers with limited wireless controller options that are primarily Microsoft-made. The Elite Series 2 is a decent controller, but it’s only slightly more responsive than the standard Xbox controller, doesn’t feature Hall effect sensors, and is quite pricey. This high cost might be due to being the only viable competitor in the market for the console.
In a time when quality controllers are scarce, Razer has entered the fray with a revamped edition of their best-selling controller: the Wolverine V3. This development is somewhat unexpected, not just due to Microsoft’s limitations, but because Razer has been intensely engaged in the ongoing competition among gaming mice. While controllers might not be Razer’s traditional domain, can they emerge triumphant in the console realm with the Wolverine V3 wireless controller?
Prior to its official launch on August 28th, we at Game Rant were given an opportunity to extensively try out the brand-new gamepad for several weeks. This means you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to purchase the latest controller update right away.
What’s in the Box
The Razer Wolverine V3 arrives equipped with an array of additional items, such as:
- Razer Wolverine V3 wireless controller
- HyperSpeed wireless 2.4GHz USB dongle
- USB cable (10ft)
- Tall, concave replacement thumbstick
- Short, convex replacement thumbstick
- Protective carrying case
Design & Comfort
As a gamer, I can tell you that when Razer designed this controller, they clearly aimed to satisfy as many competitive gamers as they could. And while trying to please everybody often leads nowhere, the Wolverine V3 comes pretty darn close for everyone. The design is well thought out and manages to incorporate a lot of desirable features without compromising on quality.
As you might expect, the controller is very heavy compared to wired alternatives. It is also heavier than the core Xbox wireless controller, but not by as much as you’d expect. The grip is made more comfortable with the addition of rubberized handles, which are soft and smooth, yet still very grippy and breathable. The texture changes to a smooth hex pattern for the back paddles, making it easy to quickly tap out a function.
Razer’s placement of the four paddles is intuitive, though they are raised a bit higher than similar programmable controllers. This is perfect for most competitive gamers though, as they want to keep their fingers over their remapped functions as much as possible. This controller grip style is also more ergonomic, as your hands are essentially floating over the controller, rather than gripping it tightly. The Wolverine V3 also accommodates the much less popular claw grip for controllers by offering two more remappable buttons on the top of the controller, nestled next to the triggers and bumpers.
One downside to this more ergonomic design is that it’s fairly uncomfortable for less stimulating gameplay, such as Minecraft or Stardew Valley. Even when the back buttons are deactivated, it’s not comfortable to firmly grasp the controller. In general, when it comes to slower-paced games, you aren’t moving your hands enough to get a good, comfortable balance with the V3. Additionally, it should be noted that the V3 gets dirty easily, not only because it attracts dust with its metal and electronic parts, but also because the matte finish on the face is perfect for dust to stick to and leave marks, rather than be wiped away easily.
Apart from a few standard features, the design holds limited unexpected elements, with the exception of the vividly illuminated Razer emblem. This illumination is extremely bright, portrays true-to-life colors, and is visually appealing, comparable to any other RGB accessory from Razer.
Customizability & Software
The customization options for lighting on the Wolverine V3 aren’t extensive compared to other aspects, but Razer’s lighting is always a standout feature. The compact LED logo glows vividly in one of eight standard colors, which can also be set to cycle through all hues at three different speeds. If you prefer, you can disable the lighting to save battery or minimize distractions.
Apart from adjusting the lighting, you can also customize the buttons and triggers. The extra six buttons can be reassigned to perform any of the other controller’s functions, except for the share and function keys. Furthermore, there are back trigger stops that allow for quick activation of hair triggers when needed.
Without needing an app for connection, you can adjust lighting and inputs, but it’s not always consistent. The most successful outcomes occurred when the controller was linked to Xbox, although even then, almost half of the customizations required several attempts before they held. On PC, the situation was less favorable; physical remapping functioned reliably only when the app was active.
Although the app is simple and user-friendly, avoiding the complexity of physical customization isn’t too big a downside. A more significant oversight, however, lies in the lack of programming functions. It appears that it wouldn’t be too challenging to enable the app to store entire sequences for each additional button, but given its focus on competitive gaming, this feature may not be added to the Wolverine V3 model. This decision aligns with the product’s primary purpose, but it’s unlikely that such a function would ever be incorporated into this particular version of the V3.
1. The Razer Wolverine V3 continues to utilize the Xbox Controller app for support, which can be found on Windows systems too. Consequently, it is incompatible with Synapse, although an update has been made for its latest version. Now, when you connect a Wolverine V3, you’ll find a user-friendly tutorial that makes the detailed instruction manual somewhat unnecessary, but in the best sense of the word.
The software allows users to manage Wolverine directly, showing battery status and providing three initial slots for customization. Each slot is tailored to suit different games based on preferences. Features like joystick sensitivity, tactile feedback, reassigning controls, and even power settings adjustments can be easily modified in the app. Plus, you can extend your gaming time by tweaking the power options.
Connectivity & Performance
Obviously, staying connected is absolutely vital for controllers, but with Razer that’s hardly a concern. A disconnection will be caused by a dead battery before any latency issues arise, especially considering the battery only lasts about 20 hours with the RGB lighting on, though it’s on par with Xbox wireless controllers when the lighting is turned off. Unfortunately, charging takes forever. Charging through the Xbox for an hour barely increased the battery life at all, while a subsequent hour at an actual outlet only recharged about 30% of the controller’s built-in battery. The controller will flash when it starts running out of juice, and there are battery indicators built into the Xbox and Windows gaming screens, so this is another minor downside to the V3. However, it would be nice if a specific percentage was provided somehow.
In its competitive setup, the USB-connected controller version of the Wolverine V3 doesn’t encounter battery problems. When linked to a computer via a USB cable, it can achieve an impressive polling rate of 1000Hz. The trigger stops offer added utility in this mode as they click firmly into place and deliver quick, yet tactile stops for those who prefer hair-trigger responses. Unlike the other buttons that require a travel distance of 0.65mm to register a press, the triggers utilize microswitches with an actuation range of just 0.15 to 0.3 mm, providing near-instant response times. Interestingly, the triggers mimic the sensation of a mouse click, allowing for deeper pressure compared to other controllers, while still being adjustable in the app for immediate activation.
The reason for that “mousy” feeling is the standout feature on the Wolverine V3, which is also an industry first: the use of mouse-click inputs. The triggers and remappable back buttons are built with Razer’s own top-rated side mouse switches, achieving both durability and unmatched responsiveness. Even the feel of these buttons elicits an immediate recognition that they are far different from any other controller’s inputs.
Hall effect sensors ensure reliable performance of the joysticks, ensuring that deterioration is unlikely to occur for years and eliminating any chances of stick drift. Although Hall effect joysticks are rapidly gaining popularity across industries, Razer is leading the way by introducing a wireless Xbox controller that makes use of this cutting-edge technology. The included interchangeable joysticks offer improved control and comfort, although they can sometimes be tricky to connect securely. Furthermore, the floating 8-way D-pad provides an added touch of durability, designed specifically for accurate input.
All of these features function nearly as well when connected to PC or Xbox using the 2.4GHz wireless dongle. Being Razer’s first wireless Xbox controller, the Wolverine V3 relies on their tried-and-true ultra-low-latency HyperSpeed wireless connection, delivering the maximum polling rate afforded by the Xbox Series X for wireless controllers. The wired mode only guarantees a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, but seeing as how the GameSir G7 has been able to achieve this on Xbox Series X, it’s unlikely that Razer’s controller would perform worse without other extenuating factors.
Spending countless hours playing games such as Fortnite, Minecraft, Turbo Golf Racing, and a few others (some online, some offline), I didn’t encounter any connection or latency problems at all. Every action felt immediate, and the tactile feedback reinforced that accuracy with each shot, suggesting a high level of responsiveness.
Overall Impression
Razer surprises yet again, leading the way with its Wolverine V3 wireless gamepad boasting a series of notable accomplishments. This is the first controller to incorporate advanced mouse sensors, the initial wireless competitive controller for Xbox Series X not developed by Microsoft, and it’s also the inaugural wireless Xbox controller Razer has produced. It stands alone as the only wireless controller for Xbox Series X featuring Hall effect joysticks, one of the most customizable wireless controllers for the Xbox, and among a select few competition-grade contenders with good durability.
As a gamer, I’ve found that this controller isn’t the best for relaxed or comfortable gaming sessions due to its back buttons and limited programmable functions. However, when it comes to competitive games where every split-second counts, those remappable paddles truly shine and offer an ergonomic edge in gameplay.
The innovative addition of mouse-click technology, paired with Razer’s top-of-the-line Hyperspeed Wireless means the Wolverine V3 is far and away from all the competition when it comes to reliably low latency and lightning-fast responsiveness. Plus, the Wolverine V3’s customizability is on par with SCUF and PDP’s Victrix Pro, yet the materials and build quality is much, much better. The use of Hall effect joysticks, snappy trigger stops, input designs from competitive gaming mice, and high-quality plastic and rubber for the external parts ensures a long lifetime of gaming for the V3 controller.
Topping it off, the V3 is one of the only controllers listed at $200 that is actually a fantastic deal; this controller could easily command a $300 price. To be perfectly honest, most $200 controllers aren’t really worth it to non-professional players, but the Wolverine V3 earns every cent with its intuitive design, unmatched sensors and responsiveness, customizability, and, ultimately, the myriad of small details that take every feature and turn it up to 11, with physical durability to match. If you want the best controller on the market, you need to buy the Wolverine V3 Pro wireless from Razer.
Similar Products
If you somehow aren’t sold on the Razer Wolverine V3, you probably just aren’t in the market for a high-end Xbox controller. Here are some similar alternatives that might be a better fit for your gaming setup:
| Main Feature | Controller | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Playstation-Style Alternative | PlayStation DualSense Edge | $200 |
| More Affordable Alternative | GameSir Kaleid | $45 |
| Razer Mouse Alternative | Razer Basilisk V3 Pro | $130 |
FAQ
Q: Is the Wolverine V3 worth it?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an exceptionally competitive gamepad for either Xbox or PC in 2024, the Wolverine V3 would be your top choice.
Q: What software does the Razer Wolverine use?
The character known as The Wolverine employs the Razer’s Controller Support application designed for Xbox, a software that can be found on Windows systems as well. This application enables personalized adjustments to Razer controllers, distinct from the RGB customization app, Synapse, which focuses only on lighting settings.
Q: Can the Razer Wolverine be used on PC?
Yes, the Razer Wolverine V3 can be used on PC via the wireless dongle or the USB cord.
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2024-08-28 18:14