It features an ultra-portable design, spectacular performance, fast linear optical switches and fun RGB lighting.
Though expensive, its a worthwhile investment for serious fighting game enthusiasts.
The Razer Kitsune ($299) is the gold standard for leverless controllers.
Though it takes some getting used to, the controls are super precise.
Even if youre just using it at home, youll appreciate how light the controller feels on your lap.
The Kitsunes all-black aluminum chassis gives the controller a premium appearance that lets people know you mean business.
That said, the Razer Chroma RGB lighting is quite nice and complements the black peripheral well.
Slim and elegant design
The Razer Kitsune is many things, but bulky isnt one of them.
Its low-profile design also makes it easy to travel with.
The all-black look and RGB lighting around the edges instantly denote this as a Razer product.
Though the top plate smudges easily, its aluminum build feels good to rest your hands on.
This is a smart design choice that ensures you dont accidentally yank the cable out during a match.
Because of that, I can forgive the lack of wireless connectivity options.
Youll find all the PS5-specific buttons along the top.
This includes buttons for Share, Options, Home, L3 and R3.
These buttons are fairly rigid and produce a satisfying click when pressed.
Theres also a relatively small touchpad thats virtually identical to the touchpad on thePS5 DualSense controller.
The buttons slightly textured caps also feel great on your fingers.
That generous spacing between buttons and the ergonomic layout makes using the controller all the more enjoyable.
Removing the button caps isnt difficult, though youll want a keycap puller for the switches.
Like some of thebest mechanical keyboards, the buttons produce a deep sound when pressed.
The sound is fuller than the Victrix Pro KO controller, which also uses key switches.
I commend Razer for introducing thock to arcade controllers.
Smooth performance
The low-profile linear switches deliver phenomenal performance for almost every fighting game youre playing.
Thanks to the leverless design, you might perform certain actions much faster than on an arcade stick.
Using the Razer Kitsune is almost like playing in god mode, once you get used to the controller.
Even though you have to put in extra effort, youll find a controller that delivers stellar performance.
Tasty RGB lighting
The Kitsune wouldnt be a proper Razer product without that sweet RGB lighting.
The thin lighting strip surrounding the controllers sides produces a gentle glow that contrasts nicely with the all-black design.
However, theres a steep learning curve and an even steeper asking price.
Wallet-busting price
Arcade sticks generally arent cheap, and the Razer Kitsune is no exception.
This is a premium product that commands an equally premium price.
For comparison, the Victrix Pro KO retails for $250.
Thats not cheap either, but its $50 less and offers a similar experience to the Kitsune.
If youre looking for an entry-level leverless controller, Haute42 has devices starting below $50.
Anyone curious to try a leverless controller might want to reconsider starting with the Kitsune.
The last thing you want is to spend $300 on something youll barely use.
Due to that, the steep asking price might be harder to stomach.
Yes, moving back and forth and pressing attack buttons comes intuitively enough.
You might also need to strengthen your left ring and pinky fingers to use the controller optimally.
In all fairness to the Kitsune and other leverless controllers, cases like mine arent ubiquitous.
Leverless controllers are also now more popular than arcade sticks at events like EVO.
I fully acknowledge Im in the minority here.
But if youre like me, learning leverless wont be a cakewalk.
Do yourself a favor and get the Razer Kitsune.
It comes with my highest recommendation.
