Test Report on the Innovative Gamepad "Raiju V3 Pro" Designed for PS Layout and E-Sports. Expensive, but a Satisfying Product
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/023/G002318/20251024033/
Writer: Hayashi Yuki Cameraman: Hayashi Yuki | 2025/10/24 08:00 (UTC)
As previously reported, Razer has announced its new gamepad, the Razer Raiju V3 Pro.
This wired/wireless controller supports both PC and PlayStation 5 platforms, with a retail price (including tax) of 32,980 yen.
Raiju V3 Pro
Manufacturer: Razer
Direct sales price starting from 32,980 yen (tax included; as of October 24, 2025) Thumbnail image for Gallery No.039 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
While positioned in the high-end market segment for gamepads, once you handle it, you’ll find that the additional back buttons resembling mouse clicks and the analog stick’s satisfying responsiveness are truly impressive. This is a controller strongly recommended for gamers who prefer PlayStation layout and play competitive esports titles. The fact that it doesn’t feature flashy lighting is also an appealing point. Let’s now take a look at the actual unit.
The product box of the Raiju V3 Pro (left). Upon opening, the contents were stored inside a carrying case (right) Thumbnail image for Gallery No.003 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.004 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Opened carrying case (left). Includes spare stick tops and a USB wireless adapter for 2.4GHz connection. Also included are the provided USB cable (approx. 2m) and decorative covers for the back buttons (right). Note: The USB cable has a proprietary connector shape specific to the Raiju V3 Pro. Be careful—pulling it out casually from the packaging often causes the cover to fall off, so avoid ending up like me searching for “one missing decorative cover…”
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.005 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.006 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Check the Layout of the Raiju V3 Pro
Gamepads are generally categorized into two main types based on stick placement: symmetrical PS layout and asymmetrical Xbox layout.
When choosing a gamepad, most gamers likely start by checking the stick layout. The finger positions formed through years of gameplay aren’t easily changed.
Since it holds official PlayStation licensing, naturally, the Raiju V3 Pro adopts the PS layout. Its positioning seems targeted specifically as an esports-focused controller for the PS5.
The de facto sister model: “Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC” Thumbnail image for Gallery No.007 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Apart from differing target platforms, the Raiju V3 Pro follows the same design direction as already released models such as the “Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC” and “Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition 8K PC” (hereafter referred to as Wolverine V3TE 8K) (related article). It can be considered a PS5-tuned version of those models.
Let’s first take an overview of the various parts using photos.
The layout is nearly identical to that of the official PlayStation 5 “DualSense Wireless Controller” (hereafter DualSense).
Top view of the Raiju V3 Pro Thumbnail image for Gallery No.008 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Backside. Additional buttons are located at the base of each grip Thumbnail image for Gallery No.009 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Upper side (bumpers). There are additional buttons here too, making six in total. The USB port is recessed to prevent accidental disconnection, and the included USB cable’s connector shape matches this design. It’s unclear whether standalone USB cables will be available for purchase later.
Bottom side. Features a 3.5mm mini-pin jack for headsets Thumbnail image for Gallery No.011 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Left side (left) and right side (right). Grip areas have anti-slip treatment, and the front surface has a slightly matte finish Thumbnail image for Gallery No.012 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.013 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The overall size of the unit is nearly identical to that of the DualSense, but there are differences in grip thickness and back panel depth. This appears intentional—prioritizing ease of pressing the rear-mounted mouse-click-style back buttons (hereafter “back buttons”) over just body hold.
Let’s compare side-by-side for clarity.
On the Raiju V3 Pro, the Create button and Option button are slightly spaced away from the touchpad. This subtle adjustment helps minimize accidental taps on the touchpad Thumbnail image for Gallery No.014 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Be sure to check the subtle thickness differences in the grip during testing Thumbnail image for Gallery No.016 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.017 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.018 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Check the Sticks and Buttons of the Raiju V3 Pro
The Raiju V3 Pro’s analog stick, called the “TMR Thumb Stick,” is marketed as having a “precision design allowing pixel-level aiming.” It uses Tunnel Magneto Resistance (TMR) effect sensors to detect movement.
This TMR technology has become standard on many high-end third-party controllers because it reduces drift errors from unintended movements. Additionally, its high input resolution is another key feature—commonplace among esports-oriented gamepads.
The feel when pushing the stick is slightly lighter at first, similar to the DualSense. When switching from a DualSense to the Raiju V3 Pro, you likely won’t notice much difference in pressure sensitivity. However, once you start playing games, you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to make fine adjustments in movement.
Additionally, using the settings app “Synapse 4,” you can adjust dead zones and sensing tendencies.
The analog stick head has a conventional shape Thumbnail image for Gallery No.019 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Replacement sticks included: different lengths and head shapes Thumbnail image for Gallery No.020 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Left analog stick replaced Thumbnail image for Gallery No.021 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.022 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The D-pad has a moderate concavity. There is sufficient clearance so that the left analog stick doesn’t contact it when tilted in D-pad direction Thumbnail image for Gallery No.023 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The D-pad (cross key) is a single floating unit designed to account for diagonal inputs, not four independent buttons. The actuation point remains undisclosed but feels similar to the action buttons discussed next.
Also, using Synapse 4, you can restrict input from eight directions down to just four.
Action buttons: so well-designed that it’s hard to find words beyond “just good” Thumbnail image for Gallery No.024 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The action buttons (△○×□) are known as “Mechanical Tactile PBT Action Buttons.”
A standout feature of the Raiju V3 Pro’s action buttons is their actuation point at 0.65mm and durability rated for 3 million presses. Compared to DualSense, they offer immediate input response with a mechanical feel—satisfyingly tactile upon pressing.
Additionally, the press resistance is just right; using the small amount of play to anticipate timing makes it easier over time. You might find it helpful to press the edge of the button with your fingertip for better feedback acquisition.
On the Raiju V3 Pro, every button—including action, create, and option buttons—provides clear tactile feedback.
Now let’s examine the shoulder (bumper) button group.
Typically, you place your index fingers on [L2/R2] buttons, then press [L1/R1] or additional buttons [M1/M2]. For example, pressing [L1/R1] simply requires sliding your index finger upward from [L2/R2].
The [L2/R2] buttons prioritize ease of gripping. The surface is matte with minimal anti-slip treatment—adjustable if needed using grip tape.
The [M1/M2] buttons are designed for lateral pressing. This enables the ability to use the [L2/R2] buttons in a mouse-click-like mode and supports rapid trigger functionality—key features.
For first-person shooter (FPS) or third-person shooter (TPS) games, R2 is usually the shooting button. Thus, this design makes perfect sense.
The rear switch lets you reduce the travel distance of [L2/R2] buttons—but with a deliberate amount of play built in. In analog mode, it functions as an TMR trigger and can be switched to digital mode via Synapse 4 Thumbnail image for Gallery No.026 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Incidentally, the Wolverine V3TE 8K shares the same shoulder button shape as the Raiju V3 Pro—but feels quite different when pressed. If you prioritize shoulder buttons over stick layout, consider checking out the Wolverine V3TE 8K too.
The back buttons consist of four: [M3] through [M6]. Anyone familiar with Razer mice will recognize this same tactile feedback—the lightness and response speed are identical.
These aren’t just auxiliary buttons; they’re designed to serve as main inputs, making it enjoyable to customize your setup based on your personal habits.
Back button—designed to be pressed with the fingertip rather than the base of the finger Thumbnail image for Gallery No.027 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Included dedicated driver—T4 Torx screwdriver Thumbnail image for Gallery No.028 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The back buttons are removable.
When a gamepad has rear-mounted buttons, some users find it hard to hold or press them during gameplay—leading to feelings of “can’t actively use these inputs.” The ability to remove the buttons is therefore appreciated.
After removal, you can cover the hole with the included decorative covers, allowing you to continue using just your preferred back buttons while keeping a clean grip area. For example, if [M5/M6] are more accessible for your ring finger, it’s perfectly fine to remove [M3/M4].
Back button removed and decorative cover installed. If you notice slight indentation in the cover, consider adding filler or applying grip tape.
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.028 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product Thumbnail image for Gallery No.029 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The stated body weight is approximately 250g. Despite being wireless with an integrated battery, it remains lightweight—a welcome feature for gamers who worry about heavy controllers.
Battery life is undisclosed; during testing, around 30 hours were observed. Under 500Hz polling rate, over six hours of playtime was confirmed.
The reason the Raiju V3 Pro feels so light? It lacks haptic feedback mechanisms. Depending on the game, actions or FPS titles often rely heavily on haptic feedback for charge completion cues. If you value tactile feedback, this model may not be ideal.
Customize with Synapse 4—But Only Additional Buttons Can Be Customized
Settings for the Raiju V3 Pro are managed through Razer’s integrated software, “Synapse 4.” You can register up to four profiles directly on the controller itself and switch between them in-game.
When you connect the Raiju V3 Pro to your PC and open Synapse 4, a dedicated tab appears—either wired or wireless connection works.
Synapse 4 customization screen for the Raiju V3 Pro Thumbnail image for Gallery No.031 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
First, the disappointing news: only additional buttons can be customized in terms of function assignment. You cannot reassign or disable standard action buttons like △○×□—or even disable [L3/R3] buttons, which would have been a welcome feature.
Back to customization: under the “Customize” tab, you can register additional buttons, set polling rate during wired connection, configure SOCD (Simultaneous Opposite Command Direction), and switch between 4-way or 8-way D-pad modes.
Button registration supports not only assigning inputs to physical controller buttons but also registering arbitrary key presses or functions.
While standard action buttons aren’t customizable, the ability to assign function keys or shortcut actions allows you to reduce reliance on keyboard use during gameplay—especially helpful when using your pinky finger for occasional typing-like input.
Assigning a function key Thumbnail image for Gallery No.032 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
SOCD settings accommodate various playstyles Thumbnail image for Gallery No.033 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
Polling rate settings: 250Hz or 500Hz when wireless; up to 2000Hz wired on PC. When connected via USB to PS5, it’s set at 250Hz.
However, the included USB wireless adapter supports “Razer 8K Hz Hyperpolling,” so there’s a chance firmware updates may enable 1000Hz or 2000Hz options. Still, given that higher polling rates reduce battery life, this seems unlikely.
Wired polling rate can be selected from 250, 500, 1000, and 2000Hz; wireless on PC only offers 250 or 500Hz Thumbnail image for Gallery No.034 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
System-wide latency means that changes in gameplay feel are extremely perceptual. After testing both 60fps and 120fps games on PS5, inputs felt responsive exactly when intended—same result observed on PC.
When setting polling rate to 1000Hz or 2000Hz on PC, the difference becomes even more noticeable. Try it in a fighting game’s training mode—it’s very clear.
Having used the Wolverine V3TE 8K for recent months and grown accustomed to its 8000Hz polling rate, I found no perceptible difference when using Raiju V3 Pro at 2000Hz—provided the game ran at 120fps.
Only when pushing frame rates above 165fps did it feel like “the input seemed slightly delayed.” As with gaming mice, the advice remains: try starting from 1000Hz first—it applies equally to gamepads.
The “Trigger” tab lets you configure trigger buttons—not just actuation point adjustments, but also switching between analog and digital modes or enabling rapid trigger mode.
Trigger button adjustment screen Thumbnail image for Gallery No.035 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
For FPS or TPS games, setting the rear button switch to adjust trigger travel and switching to digital mode lets you shoot with a feel nearly identical to a mouse click.
Alternatively, keeping the full travel while in digital mode allows input only when reaching your specified actuation point—possibly ideal for rapid triggers.
Personally, I find that adjusting these settings takes longer than tuning stick sensitivity.
The “Thumb Stick” tab under analog stick configuration lets you adjust dead zones and how diagonal inputs are handled.
Dead zones can be adjusted from 0% to 15%. However, setting it to 0% may cause unintended input even when not touching the stick—so a warning appears stating this is for professional gamers only.
Analog stick settings screen Thumbnail image for Gallery No.036 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
For the left analog stick primarily used for movement, set around 5–7%. For camera control where you want quick response, aim for about 3%.
The “Sensitivity Clutch” setting changes input strength only while a designated additional button is held down. When enabled, it allows finer aiming or even zero input—depending on your preference.
“Circularity Mode” lets you choose between prioritizing diagonal inputs or smooth circular motion when rotating the analog stick. This is subjective, so try it in person—the difference becomes clear when moving in zigzag patterns.
The “Power” tab handles wireless settings: you can set how long to wait before automatically powering off after no operation Thumbnail image for Gallery No.037 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
The “Calibration” tab contains settings for analog stick adjustment. Just perform the required actions, and calibration completes automatically Thumbnail image for Gallery No.038 / Test report on the “Raiju V3 Pro” gamepad with PS layout and esports focus. Although expensive, it’s a satisfying product
A Product That Clearly Understands Gamepad Gamers
The Raiju V3 Pro, a PlayStation-layout esports-oriented gamepad, delivers precisely the sharp features one would expect. It feels like it was designed solely with FPS, TPS, and action game enthusiasts in mind.
As we’ve seen, not only are materials well-chosen, but software-level customization options are also finely tuned—giving the strong impression that Razer truly understands what gamepad-focused gamers want. That’s genuinely exciting.
Still, since this is an expensive product, we recommend checking the fit at a physical store before purchasing. There are no buttons that change behavior when powered off—so focus your attention on testing the feel of action buttons, [L2/R2] buttons, and the back buttons—which should feel just like mouse clicks.
While it may be heavier than expected, it’d also be great to see an upcoming haptic feedback version of the Raiju.