Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro vs Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro: The DeathAdder line of gaming mice is probably the one thing that defines Razer as a company that makes gaming accessories. This ergonomic mouse family has been around since 2006, and a Razer support release from earlier this year says that it is still “the world’s best-selling gaming mouse.”
So, it must have been a big deal when Razer decided to change the way the DeathAdder worked, since it had been working well for longer than most gaming mice can remember.
Table of Contents
Pros and Cons
| DeathAdder V3 Pro | DeathAdder V2 Pro |
|---|---|
| Perfect for palm grip | Perfect for claw grip |
| Highly customizable | Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless |
| 4,000Hz polling rate, Hyperpolling dongle | Optical switches with 90M lifetime |
| Impressive battery life | Impressive battery life |
| 30K Focus Pro optical sensor | Focus+ optical sensor |
| Hyperpolling wireless dongle not included | Expensive compared to wired model |
| No Bluetooth | Not for left handed users |
Specification
| DeathAdder V3 Pro | DeathAdder V2 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| $ | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| Brand | Razer | Razer |
| Released | ‎Aug 11, 2022 | ‎Sep 22, 2020 |
| Sensor | Focus Pro 30K Optical | Focus+ Optical |
| Sensitivity (DPI) | 30,000 | 20,000 |
| Max Speed (IPS) | 750 | 650 |
| Max Acceleration (G) | 70 | 50 |
| Programmable Buttons | 5 (+1 DPI) | 8 |
| Razer Chroma RGB | ✘ | ✔ |
| Switches | Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 | Optical Mouse Switches Gen-2 |
| Click Lifecycle | 90 million clicks | 70 million clicks |
| Approx. Weight | 63 g | 88 g |
| Connectivity | Wireless 2.4GHz / Wired Type C | Wireless (2.4GHz, BLE) |
Design
Both the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro and the Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro have slimmed down compared to their predecessors, making them some of the lightest flagship wireless options on the market. The Viper V2 Pro weighs just 58 grams, while the DeathAdder V3 Pro weighs 63 grams.
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro: Razer has done everything it can to make the DeathAdder lineup better. The new Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro is the biggest change to one of the best-selling and most successful mice in history. Since 2006, the DeathAdder line has sold more than 15 million units all over the world and has stayed mostly the same.
When you take it out of the box, the first thing you might notice is that it is a very light wireless mouse. Razer says it only weighs 63 grams, which is 28.5% less than its predecessor, the DeathAdder V2 Pro, which was 88 grams.
Razer has made a lot of changes to the design to make it lighter:
One of the most noticeable changes is that the DeathAdder V3 Pro now has separate buttons. This is different from previous DeathAdders, which had buttons built into the case. Razer has been able to save weight and improve the feel of the clicks this way.
On the sides, the rubber grips have also been taken away.
The power button and the CPI button have been put into one button.
There is no more chroma RGB lighting.
In addition to that, the V3 Pro features a smoother and more refined shape. It is a medium-large-sized mouse with dimensions of 128 mm in length, 68 mm in width, and 44 mm in height. Of course, it still has an ergonomically shaped design for the right hand.
Among the changes to the shape, we can point out that many of the curves have been made smoother, and others have been tweaked to better support the natural curves of the hand. The scroll wheel has also been moved up a few millimetres to make it feel more natural.
Palm-grip gamers have loved the DeathAdder line of mice for a long time. Even though the new design doesn’t change that, finger-grip gamers will now be able to play it too.
The whole case has a matte finish that feels good to touch and makes it easy to hold. On top of that, finger grease doesn’t make it dirty.
Also, the mouse comes in both white and black. For such a light mouse, the case is also very stiff, and there is no noticeable give when you push on it. When the mouse is moved quickly, neither the inside nor the buttons rattle. The quality of construction is very good.
Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro: With dimensions of 127 x 62 x 43 mm, this is a pretty big mouse that is best used with the palm, but can also be used with the claw. If you have a big hand, you might be able to use a finger grip. If your hands are less than 16 cm long, it might be a bit big.
The first thing that surprised me about the mouse was how light it felt in my hand. The new packaging, which was better for the environment, was also a surprise. Most wireless models are a bit heavier than wired ones because of the battery and other parts. The DeathAdder V2 Pro, on the other hand, only weighs 86 grams, which is only 4 grams more than the DeathAdder V2.
As usual, the case and buttons are made from a single piece of plastic, but this one feels much more solid than previous DeathAdder models. The housing is much harder, everything feels solid, the fit is great, and there are no parts that creak or rattle when you use the mouse.
The housing has a rough surface, which makes it easier to hold. On the sides, there are rubber grips with designs to make them easier to hold.
Shape
The biggest difference between the DeathAdder V3 Pro and the Viper V2 Pro is their shape. The DeathAdder V3 Pro has a larger ergonomic shape, while the Viper V2 Pro has a more streamlined ambidextrous shape. The DeathAdder is better suited for palm and claw grip styles, while the Viper is ideal for claw and fingertip grip styles. Consider your hand size and preferred grip style when choosing between the two.
Buttons
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro: The two main buttons on the DeathAdder V3 Pro are Razer optical switches from the third generation. Optical switches are faster and don’t have double clicks, which is a plus.
Also, these switches can be used up to 90 million times. That’s so cool. The longest switches in mice up until now have been between 50 M and 70 M, and many models still use 20 M switches. This means that the V3 Pro will last more than 4 times as long as other mice. Yes, 4 times longer than the Logitech G Pro X Superlight, which uses a 20M Omron.
The feel of the buttons has also changed for the better. They are solid and not wet. I think they are a bit heavier and harder to move than the old ones, but I like how dry they are. The sound has also changed a bit. They used to sound a bit more clicky, but now they sound a bit more clacky.
As we’ve seen, the scroll wheel is now a few millimetres higher. This way, it will be in a more natural place and be easier to use. It works very well in terms of how it works. There are clear signs for each step, and the behaviour is very clear. It also doesn’t make a lot of noise. Also, the scroll click is great. It’s warm and dry, and the wheel doesn’t turn at all.
The side buttons are now a little higher and are in a slightly different place. The position is comfortable, and the side buttons are easy to use. They feel nice to the touch and don’t sink in too much.
At the bottom of the mouse is a button that can be held down for a long time to turn the mouse on or off or pressed briefly to change the CPI. Also, a coloured LED on the top, just in front of the scroll wheel, lets us know which CPI profile we’ve chosen.
Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro: Razer’s second generation of optomechanical switches are used in the main buttons. These switches are faster (0.2 ms), don’t have double “phantom clicks,” and last longer (70 million keystrokes).
That’s all well and good, but in reality, no one can tell the difference between 0.2 ms and 1 ms, and many people don’t like switch clicks. It looks like Razer is slowly changing the feel of the switches so that users will like them.
The clicks on the DeathAdder V2 Pro are drier than on other Razer models, which is close to what the community wants. However, the travel is a bit bigger because the button is part of the housing and can’t be moved as much as if it were a separate button. Still, so far, the click is pretty good.
The scroll wheel is made of rubber and has a nice tread that makes it easy to move. The click is also good, and even though the steps are clear, the spin is pretty smooth. But my mouse doesn’t spin quite evenly, and the wheel seems to lock up more when spinning forward than when spinning backward. Also, when it turns up, it rolls around a lot.
At the top, there are two more buttons that, by default, control the CPI but can be changed to do something else. They should have had a much worse click.
On the left side, there are two more buttons that are well-placed, the right size, and have a good click, making them very comfortable.
At the bottom of the mouse is a button that controls the states of the mouse:
- Off
- 2.4 GHz dongle operation (gaming)
- Operation via Bluetooth (office automation) consumes less energy.
We also have a second button and an LED light to choose the profile we want to use with the mouse.
Sensors and software
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro: Razer’s most advanced sensor, the Focus Pro+, which was first used in the Viper V2 Pro a few months ago, is in the DeathAdder V3 Pro. This Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor is the best in the market because:
- Up to 30,000 CPI of sensitivity.
- Up to 750 inches per second is the maximum speed (IPS).
- Up to 70 G is the fastest it can go.
As an example, Razer’s previous top model, the Focus+, had 20K CPI, 650 IPS, and 50G. The Superlight Hero 25K has a CPI of 25K and a 400 IPS.
On top of that, it is probably the most accurate sensor on the market right now (99.80% vs. 99.40% of the competition).
On top of that, even though it is an optical (non-laser) sensor, it works on more surfaces and can work on glass that is thicker than 2mm.
It also has the smart tracking, motion sync, and asymmetric cutoff features of artificial intelligence. These are functions that make movements more accurate and consistent in different situations and on different surfaces.
One of them is the distance adjustment for takeoff and landing. The V3 Pro’s asymmetric cutoff function has been improved, which gives it more precision. It means keeping the take-off distance the same no matter what the surface is (even on clear glass), which gives you more control and accuracy. Also, you can change the height at 26 different levels instead of just 3 in the old version.
The accuracy of the sensor is great, of course. You can’t make it go crazy by flicking it quickly. It always responds the same way and can’t act any better. Anyway, all high-end sensors are already very good, and it’s hard to tell one from another.
Using Razer’s Synapse software, we can set all the parameters, such as takeoff distance (which can be different for takeoff and landing), CPI between 100 and 30,000 in steps of 50, polling rate between 125, 500, and 1000 Hz, battery saving, etc. The mouse has built-in memory for CPI, LoD, and other things, so we can use it on any computer without having to install Synapse and set it up.
Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro: The Focus+ sensor, which is probably the best on the market, is attached to it. It is based on the PixArt PMW3399 and can be changed in steps of 50 between 100 and 20,000 CPI. It can go as fast as 650 inches per second (IPS) and can move as fast as 50G. All of this was done when the sensor was set to high performance. It also has a low power mode that is slightly less good.
Actually, all good gaming mouse sensors are so good that, at least for me, there isn’t much difference between them.
The Razer Focus+ sensor also has some smart features that are interesting:
- The Viper Ultimate’s Smart Tracking functionality eliminates the need to calibrate the sensor every time you change surfaces (mouse pads, hard desks, etc.), as the Viper Ultimate detects the type of surface to ensure launch distance and accuracy remain consistent.
- Asymmetric Lift-Off allows users to set different takeoff and landing distances between 1 and 3 mm.
- Motion-Sync ensures that information from the sensor to the PC is sent at exact intervals for better sensor tracking response and consistency.
With Synapse 3, we can customize the buttons, configure macros, HyperShift function, CPI, polling rate (125-500-1000 Hz), lighting, calibration, liftoff distance, and power saving modes.
In addition, we have an internal memory in which we can save up to five different profiles.
Connectivity
The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro: The mouse can be used with or without a wire. The cable is very good and is 1.8 metres long. It is light, bendable, and not too sticky. The cable also connects to the mouse through a standard USB-C port, so we can switch out the cable. Of course, while the mouse is plugged in, it is also getting charged.
The Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro: The mouse can be operated via Bluetooth, via the 2.4 GHz adapter, or via the cable. The Bluetooth mode is designed for compatibility with other devices and is perfect for use with a laptop or tablet without having to use the adapter.
Battery
Even though it’s a lightweight mouse, the battery lasts for 90 hours of use. I use it for a long time every day, and it costs me just under 10%. It lasts me about 10 days before it tells me that it only has 20% of its battery left and that I need to charge it.
The good thing is that it can be used for up to 120 hours with Bluetooth turned on. The only bad thing about HyperSpeed mode is that we will only be able to use it for 70 hours. Even so, it’s more than enough, and once a week is more than enough for charging the mouse.
Click Sound
Razer Deathadder V3 Pro Clicking
Razer Deathadder V2 Pro Clicking
Differences
Weight: The DeathAdder V3 Pro weighs 63 grams, while the Viper V2 Pro is lighter at 58 grams. Both mice are among the lightest flagship wireless options on the market.
Shape: The DeathAdder V3 Pro features a larger ergonomic shape, making it suitable for grip styles like palm and claw. On the other hand, the Viper V2 Pro has a more streamlined ambidextrous shape, catering to claw and fingertip grip styles.
Side Buttons: The side buttons on the DeathAdder V3 Pro have a more snappy and crisp feel, while the Viper V2 Pro’s side buttons have slightly more pre and post travel and lack the same level of snappiness.
Battery Life: The DeathAdder V3 Pro offers 90 hours of battery life, while the Viper V2 Pro provides 70 hours. The DeathAdder has a longer battery life.
Scroll Wheel: The DeathAdder V3 Pro has a smoother feeling scroll wheel with stages that are easier to go over. The Viper V2 Pro has a slightly firmer scroll wheel with more noticeable stages and a slight rattle when scrolling up.
Extra Features: Both mice lack extra frills commonly found in other flagship wireless options, such as RGB texture buttons or the ability to use a charging dock. The omission of these features is to maintain a streamlined design and reduce weight.
Price: The DeathAdder V3 Pro and Viper V2 Pro are priced at $150, which is in line with other flagship wireless gaming mice in the market.
Both the DeathAdder V3 Pro and Viper V2 Pro offer similar technology and features, the main differences lie in their weight, shape, side buttons, battery life, scroll wheel feel, and the intended grip styles they cater to. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, play style, and hand size.
Pricing
The DeathAdder V3 Pro and Viper V2 Pro are priced at $138.00 and 119.99, which is in line with other flagship wireless mice on the market. While this may seem expensive, it is a common price range for high-performance gaming mice. Considering the advanced technology and features offered by both mice, the price is justified.
Conclusion!
The DeathAdder V3 Pro has changed in the most important way, but it is still a DeathAdder. This makes it a great mouse for people who like a high mouse that fits in the palm of their hand. It is a perfect palm-grip mouse.
A lot of the changes made to the V3 Pro are also meant to make it a better mouse for eSports and the professional field. The DeathAdder V3 Pro is a DeathAdder that has been made better for competition.
It is one of the lightest wireless mice on the market, and it probably has the best sensor and the fastest, most durable switches. Performance-wise, you can’t ask for much more… Ah, yes, it also has a wireless polling rate of 4,000 Hz, but you’ll need to buy the special adapter we’ve been talking about.
The DeathAdder V3 Pro is expensive, and that’s really the only bad thing about it. Its price is 160 USD. Worth? It depends. I’ve been testing gaming mice for a long time, and you don’t have to spend that much to get a good one, but if you want the best, the price is fair (it’s about the same as the Logitech G Pro X Superlight or the Razer Viper V2 Pro).
The Viper V2 Pro is especially suitable for people with claw and finger grips. The DeathAdder V3 Pro is for palm and palm-finger grip gamers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gaming mouse is better for fingertip grip?
If you prefer a fingertip grip, the Razer Viper V2 Pro is the better option. Its low-profile shape is well-suited for this grip style.
Which gaming mouse is better for claw grip?
For claw grip players, the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro is the recommended choice. Its shape provides excellent support and comfort for claw grip, especially for gamers with larger hands.
Is there a significant difference in weight between the two mice?
The Razer Viper V2 Pro weighs 59 grams, while the DeathAdder V3 Pro weighs 63 grams. The difference in weight is subjective and depends on personal preference.
Are the side buttons and scroll wheels of good quality?
Yes, both mice have high-quality side buttons and scroll wheels. The side buttons are spammable and accessible, while the scroll wheels offer precise scrolling.
