There are many controller brackets now on the market for gamers. From light-weight wired options at an accessible price point to luxury monsters designed for master-class gamers, there truly is something for everyone. However, the elite Esports tier of controllers has a new competitor that hits hard with a sleek design, excellent customization, and a quality build that feels thoughtful and reserved. The ROG Raikiri II doesn’t come cheap, but it offers the premium specs to hit the price.
The Raikiri II is a wireless Xbox controller built for Esports. It offers three connection types, low-latency Bluetooth and Wireless modes, 1000Hz polling rates with PC, and noticeable anti-drift technology. It also has one of the best battery lifespans of any Xbox controller we have tested. It is a beast of a controller that offers most of what a professional gamer needs, though there are a few quirks in the design.
Key Details
- Developer: ASUS ROG
- Compatibility: PC and Xbox
- RGB: Yes, minimal
- Battery Life: 30-50 hours, depending on settings
- Connection: USB, 2.4GHz RF, Bluetooth
- Price: $189.99
- Sample Provided: Yes
The Raikiri II Controller is a Custom Experience
When you first take the Raikiri II out of the box, it leaves an immediate impression. The interface of this Xbox controller has been designed in a way that lacks the typical, bulky heft of similar options. The faceplate is a matte black with artfully placed geometric keys. The controller also boasts anti-slip handles that don’t feel sticky and aren’t over-textured. When held to the light, “ROG” is neatly emblazoned on the faceplate in a black band behind the buttons. It’s a sleek and discreet look.
The Raikiri II includes a slim RGB strip between the handles and the faceplate, and four programmable buttons under the controller body. It also has one of my favorite features of modern controls – the trigger adjustment locks. You can set the controller to the standard deep trigger, or flip the switch to greatly reduce how much pressure is needed to use the button. I like this for comfort, but many Esports gamers enjoy it for the way it activates specific abilities or weapons during a match.
The Raikiri II has the best trigger settings of any controller we have tested. They are secure, lock well, and make a substantial difference during use.
Unfortunately, the ASUS ROG Raikiri II does have two of my biggest pet peeves with controller designs. The directional pad is a circle instead of a “plus” design, and there is no backlight behind the buttons on the right-hand side of the controller. While this might not be a problem for those familiar with Xbox controllers, it is an accessibility issue that many overlook and would benefit from addressing. As someone who needs to see the letters on the keys, I find these particularly light on the buttons and impossible to make out in dark rooms.
Additionally, the Raikiri II analog sticks can be changed out. There are standard height sticks that come already installed, and they can be switched for a set of tall analogue sticks by gently tugging the options that are in use from the joints.
This is the first controller I have used that allows you to remove the sticks instead of adjusting the height by twisting the analogue stick to raise and lower it. I’m not sure I love that they come out. While the sticks that aren’t in use have a slot in the included case for the controller, the plastic feels fragile, and the way they snap into the controller doesn’t feel secure or sturdy. I worry that regularly switching between the two could lead to problems like broken connection points, wear on the joint, or breaks in the mechanism that holds the stick in the controller. I’d prefer to have no customization here, or for the sticks to be screwed in and made of a more durable material.
The Raikiri II is Fantastic For Travel
The Raikri II is made for travel. As an Esports controller, this Xbox accessory needs to be ready to travel to tournaments or competitions at a moment’s notice. ROG has done an incredible job of making the Raikiri II a great on-the-go option.
The controller comes with a case that holds all extra parts, as well as a dock that can be removed and set up on a desk or kept in the case. When in the case, players can connect a USB-C charging cable through a port in the back. When the controller is placed on the dock inside the case, it will charge up, allowing you to charge without having to open the case while on the go.
We tested these functions on a week-long trip, and it was very nice to have a top-quality controller for trying games, doing reviews, and relaxing while on the road. The case takes up little space, is nice and durable, and does a great job of protecting the controller.
The big comparison for me when looking at the Raikiri II was whether it could beat the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless controller. Both are Xbox accessories with a focus on pro gaming. They offer similar functions, connectivity, and versatility. However, the Fusion Pro is a bit cheaper and is regularly on sale for much less.
While I prefer the Fushion Pro’s analog adjustments and RGB button backlights much more than the Raikiri II, ROG’s Xbox option has a quality to the overall build that is superior to PowerA’s. The Raikiri 2 feels more durable and has a better faceplate layout. It also has a faster response time while in Bluetooth and Wireless modes. It is a real shame that the D-pad and letter buttons don’t quite match the rest of the build.
Final Score – 8/10
The ASUS ROG Raikiri II controller is a beautiful, premium controller for Xbox and PC that will fit right into the arsenal of a professional gamer. However, it is very expensive and does have a few design elements that could be a make-or-break, depending on player preferences.
If you like a sleek design, good handfeel, and don’t mind a connected D-pad, it won’t disappoint. Additionally, the controller boasts connectivity and battery life that few other Xbox options can offer at this time. The portability and usability make this investment one that can go the distance. Just be sure the lack of RGB buttons and the quirky analog stick connections aren’t going to be a deal-breaker before grabbing it for your tournaments.
**Bonus Action was provided with a sample of the ASUS ROG Raikiri II Controller for the purpose of this review**
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