We had the opportunity to test the Wolverine V3 Pro White Edition controller from Razer. This white version is brand new, even though it has the same features as the Wolverine V3 Pro launched at the end of last summer. Razer is offering us a top-of-the-range controller with a number of features aimed at advanced gamers. Quite simply, the brand claims that its Wolverine V3 Pro is the best wireless esport controller under official Xbox licence. As you can see, you’ll only be able to use this controller on Xbox and PC. And don’t forget that you’ll need to pay around €230 to enjoy the benefits of this controller.
In the course of this test, we’ll be looking at the performance, features and ergonomics of this controller.
Unpacking and first impressions
Contents of the box
The controller comes with a USB C to USB A cable for wired gaming, as well as a dongle for cable-free gaming for up to 20 hours. The controller also comes with instructions and Razer stickers. The box containing the controller also includes the dongle and changeable joysticks for a different gaming experience. All in all, you end up with :
- Two spare joysticks with different profiles (spherical or flat).
- A 2.4 GHz dongle supporting a 1 GHz polling frequency (PC only).
- A 3-metre USB cable (standard USB-C socket on the joystick side).
- A reinforced textile carrying case, practical for gamers on the move.
Perceived quality
At first glance, the Razer controller doesn’t confuse us, as it has the classic features of an Xbox controller with a very similar design. But when you actually hold it in your hand, you immediately realise the difference in quality. The front panel is made of slightly grainy plastic. It’s pleasant to the touch, and during our test we didn’t notice any degradation of the surface or any tendency for it to get dirty (remember, though, that the controller is…white!)
The rear grips have a textured rubber coating. This reduces perspiration marks and obviously makes it easier to grip.
In this respect, it’s worth noting the excellent comfort of the grip. A profile change button is integrated. There’s also a share button, just like on the standard Xbox pad. The sticks have a travel similar to that of the Xbox controller. They feature Hall-effect technology.
The directional cross is a disc that pivots around a central axis. The feel is more floating, but still precise. Micro-switches provide clicky feedback. The four main buttons also use micro-switches. The click of the micro-switches is relatively strong, which may annoy some users.
General view.
Weight
- The controller weighs in at around 300g, which is heavier than conventional controllers from other manufacturers. However, bear in mind that Microsoft’s top-of-the-range controller weighs in at 320g.
- The balance is excellent, with the weight well distributed. As soon as you hold the controller in your hand, you get a feeling of solidity, without it feeling too heavy for long gaming sessions.
Dimensions
- The Wolverine V3 Pro measures approximately 106 mm (height) x 156.7 mm (width) x 65.3 mm (depth). The controller’s dimensions are therefore very similar to those of the PS5 Dual Sense controller (106x160x66).
- It’s wider than a traditional PlayStation controller, making it easier to hold, with handles that are thick enough to support your palms.
Button layout
- Unlike the symmetrical layout of the sticks found on the DualSense, here we find an ‘offset’ configuration: the left analogue stick is positioned at the top left, while the right stick is lower down on the right.
- The front buttons (cross, round, square, triangle) are mechanical (Razer Mecha-Tactile), promising greater responsiveness and more ‘click’ sound feedback.
- Four triggers (L1, R1, L2, R2) and two additional buttons on the top edge can be reconfigured.
- There are also programmable keys on the back, accessible directly with the middle or ring fingers, for more advanced control.
- The D-pad, also with micro-switch, is designed to encourage precise movements, particularly for combat games or sequences requiring rapid directional actions.
Design and ergonomics
As we mentioned at the start of this article, the Razer Wolverine v3 Pro white edition uses the same button layout as a classic Xbox controller. However, it has a total of six additional switches, which are paddles, and new buttons for the triggers. The joysticks are removable and can be swapped with those supplied in the controller box.
As the name suggests , this edition of the controller is white. The buttons are black. These are very classic colours, but they stand out thanks in part to the anti-slip coating that gives a grainy appearance to the entire white surface.
When the controller is connected via the dongle, the Razer logo lights up, changing colour after a while.
The controller has a ‘tournament’ function that can only be accessed on a PC and is activated when connected by cable, enabling a polling rate of 1000 hz to be achieved, as well as reducing the stress on battery life.
Technical specifications and features
The controller can be used on Xbox and PC (Windows 10 and 11 only).
The controller is equipped with an analogue Hall-effect system with trigger stop and mouse click. There are also Hall-effect anti-drift analogue sticks. There are also mechanical action buttons, paddles and push buttons.
To be able to customise and configure the Wolverine v3 Pro controller, you’ll need to install the Razer Controller Setup for Xbox application …which, frankly, isn’t this controller’s main asset. Unfortunately, the application doesn’t give you any great levels of customisation or configuration. However, if you want to activate the ‘tournament’ mode, you’ll need to use it.
In-game performance
Ergonomics: very comfortable to use
When it comes to gaming, we have to admit that this controller is a real pleasure to use. Thanks to its non-slip coating, the Wolverine v3 pro is extremely comfortable over long sessions, preventing you from sweating too much and ensuring a perfect grip even after several hours. Despite weighing less than a ‘classic’ controller (304g), the Wolverine v3 pro feels very pleasant in the hand, demonstrating the special effort that Razer has put into creating this controller.
The rear paddles are easily accessible. The trigger stop system is clearly very pleasant.
According to Razer, the shape of the Wolverine V3 Pro is more suited to people who use the ‘claw’ grip, where the index finger bends down to press the buttons on the front while keeping the thumb on the right analogue stick. I’m not used to this type of grip and I haven’t changed my habits… without feeling any discomfort.
Queen of FPS
In use, it’s clear that the Razer’s favourite genre is FPS, where it’s really formidable. We were less enthusiastic about its use in fighting games. Mainly because of the design of its directional cross. As we mentioned at the beginning, it’s a disc that pivots around a central axis. The feeling is a bit more floating, and it may upset some people. But it’s a very personal feedback.
Wireless connectivity is provided by Razer’s Hyperspeed 2.4 GHz connection with the included USB-A receiver. This device delivers a 250Hz motion transmission rate. The Hyperspeed connection is the only way to use the controller wirelessly. Unlike the Xbox Elite, the Wolverine V3 Pro does not have a Bluetooth connection option. Bluetooth doesn’t provide as fast a connection as Hyperspeed 2.4 GHz. The downside is that your controller will only work wirelessly with this solution. A choice that Razer has accepted in the name of performance.
By using a wired connection to a PC, you can put the Wolverine V3 Pro into a special PC tournament mode that increases the polling frequency to 1 kHz. A figure that will be hard to beat…
Its battery life is 15 to 20 hours, around half that of the Xbox Elite wireless controller. However, these figures should also be seen in the context of the 5-6 hours offered by a DualSense or the DualSense Edge on the PlayStation 5. In our case, objectively speaking, we had no particular problem with this.
Conclusion
Clearly, the Razer Wolverine v3 Pro white edition controller is a delight in terms of ergonomics and comfort. Its perceived quality and consistency over many hours of use make it a must-have choice for both competitive users and advanced enthusiasts. If we had to mention one drawback, it would be the application, which doesn’t offer the same degree of customisation and configuration as the controller.
RAZER Wolverine V3 Pro White
All in all, it’s hard to be disappointed with this controller if you’re a fan of FPS and/or want to play competitive games. Even if your relationship with a controller is also based on subjective factors, this Wolverine V3 Pro in its white version will stay with you for a long time.
