Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL Review: The Dream Mobile Gaming Setup
Unboxing the Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Connectivity | USB Type-C |
| Charging | Pass-through charging |
| Battery Life | None |
| Clickable Thumbstick | Yes |
| Thumbstick Sensitivity Adjustment | None |
| Multi-Function Buttons | 4 |
| Mecha-Tactile Action Buttons | Yes |
| Trigger Stops | None |
| System Requirements | Android 14 or higher, iOS 18 |
| Supported Phone Dimensions | Compatible with iPad Pro (11-in, 13-in), iPad Air (11-in, 13-in), iPad (10.9-in with USB-C), and other 10–13-inch USB-C tablets |
| Approximate Size | 110.8 mm × 327.9 mm × 64.6 mm |
| Approximate Weight | 311 g |
| Mobile App | Yes, Razer Nexus |
| Unboxing | Click right here |
Pros
Full-sized ergonomic design offers excellent comfort and control
The Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL adopts a full-sized controller design that significantly enhances comfort during extended gameplay sessions. With its thick, rounded grips and weighty build, it closely mimics the feel of a premium home console controller. This larger form factor is a welcome departure from the cramped, minimalist designs of many mobile gamepads. While it sacrifices portability, the ergonomic benefits it brings, particularly for players with larger hands, make a strong case for prioritizing long-term comfort over compactness.
TMR thumbsticks are accurate, fast, and immune to drift
One of the standout upgrades in the Kishi V3 Pro is the introduction of TMR (Tunneling Magnetoresistance) thumbsticks. These next-generation sticks outperform even Hall effect sensors in accuracy and responsiveness. The result is pinpoint precision with near-zero latency, crucial for aim-heavy games like Call of Duty Mobile or Hunt: Showdown. Add to that immunity to stick drift, and you get a future-proof input system that easily rivals full-size pro controllers. The inclusion of swappable thumbstick caps also provides a layer of customization that’s rare in the mobile controller space.
Razer Nexus app adds powerful functionality without extra cost
Razer’s Nexus app plays a crucial role in enhancing the Kishi V3 Pro’s value. Unlike competitors that lock features behind subscriptions, Nexus is completely free and packed with features. It allows players to remap buttons, activate a unique Virtual Controller mode for touch-only games, and even use PC Remote Play. For those unfamiliar, Virtual Controller mode lets you overlay physical inputs onto touchscreen interfaces, a game-changer for titles that don’t support native controller input. Altogether, Nexus turns the V3 Pro from a simple accessory into a well-integrated part of a mobile gaming ecosystem.
Four extra programmable buttons for pro-level gameplay customization
The V3 Pro adds two back buttons to the existing additional bumpers found on previous models, giving players a total of four extra programmable buttons. This level of customization is a huge asset for competitive gamers who rely on complex input combinations or quick access to key actions without taking their thumbs off the sticks. Best of all, button remapping can be done directly on the controller using the Nexus button, no app required. It’s a small but thoughtful detail that streamlines usability for serious players on the move.
Great performance across both mobile and PC gaming
Beyond its mobile focus, the Kishi V3 Pro excels as a wired PC controller as well. With plug-and-play support via USB-C, it functions seamlessly on desktops and laptops, making it a versatile option for gamers who split time between devices. On mobile, performance is just as strong, with low input latency, precise controls, and satisfying tactile feedback, enhanced further by Razer’s Sensa HD haptics. Whether playing indie titles like Celeste or high-stakes multiplayer matches, the V3 Pro delivers a smooth and responsive experience across platforms.
Cons
High price at RM1,039 offers only modest improvements over Kishi Ultra
The biggest stumbling block for the Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL is its price. At RM1,039, it lands firmly in premium territory, but the upgrades over the already-solid Kishi Ultra are minimal. Yes, the TMR thumbsticks and additional buttons are great, but they don’t fundamentally change the gameplay experience.
This feels more like a minor iteration than a generational leap, and that makes the cost hard to justify, especially when the Kishi Ultra has frequently seen significant discounts since launch. If you don’t need it for large tablets but still prefer something newer than the Kishi Ultra, the Kishi V3 Pro retails at RM769 and can fit practically any smartphone and an iPad Mini.
Awkward button layout may lead to discomfort in longer sessions
While the controller’s size and shape improve grip, Razer missed the opportunity to redesign the face button and thumbstick layout. The vertically aligned positioning forces users to overextend their thumbs when reaching from the sticks to the buttons, a design quirk common in many mobile gamepads. Over time, this can lead to discomfort, particularly in genres requiring rapid, repetitive button presses. For a controller that otherwise embraces full-sized ergonomics, this flaw is both surprising and disappointing.
Bulkier size reduces portability
The V3 Pro’s full-size form factor, while great for comfort, comes with a trade-off: it’s not very portable. The fixed spine and bulky grips make it less travel-friendly than foldable or compact alternatives. If you’re someone who values a controller that easily slips into a bag or pocket, this might not be the ideal option. For home or stationary use, it’s excellent, but as a “mobile” controller, it may feel ironically less mobile.
Occasional connectivity hiccups after standby
A minor but noticeable issue carried over from the Kishi Ultra is the controller’s tendency to not reconnect after a long period of inactivity. This doesn’t happen frequently, but when it does, the only fix is to unplug and reattach the device, an annoying hiccup, especially for users who rely on a dedicated gaming phone or tablet that stays docked most of the time. It’s not a deal-breaker, but still detracts from an otherwise polished experience.
Entry-level Kishi V3 offers similar experience for much less
Perhaps the most critical blow to the V3 Pro XL’s value proposition comes from within its own product line. The standard Kishi V3, priced at just RM499, delivers much of the same experience, ergonomic design, full-sized inputs, Nexus app integration, minus the haptics and two additional buttons. For most users, the base model will be more than enough, and unless you’re a competitive player seeking every edge possible, the Pro models don’t quite justify paying more than half of this price.
Should You Buy the Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL?
The Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL is, without a doubt, one of the best mobile gaming controllers you can buy today. Its TMR thumbsticks, full-sized comfort, and competitive-level features make it a top-tier performer. The integration with the Razer Nexus app adds meaningful value, and its flexibility across both mobile and PC platforms makes it more than a one-trick pony. If you’ve always wanted to game on a bigger screen with a convenience while on the move, this peripheral will let you do that.
That said, the controller’s high price, limited ergonomic improvements, and tough internal competition from the standard Kishi V3 hold it back from universal appeal. For serious mobile gamers or those who want the very best, the V3 Pro XL is a worthy investment, just know that you’re paying a premium for incremental gains. For everyone else, the base Kishi V3 may offer a better balance of features and value, especially if you don’t need to play games on a tablet.
PriceShop Rating
Not Bad Leh!
✅ Comfortable, full-sized controller experience for tablet.
✅ TMR thumbsticks ensure accurate, long-term use.
✅ Versatile as it works for mobile and PC platforms.
❌ Quite pricey.
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