Review - Razer Onza Tournament Edition

The Onza is an improved version of the traditional Xbox 360 controller built with a single purpose – pwnage. The controller has backlit ABXY buttons, adjustable analog sticks, a 4 buttoned D-pad, and comes with a 15 ft braided USB cable – which is compatible for PC and the Xbox 360. Microsoft's wired and the Onza cost the same (USD 39.99 - BestBuy).

It is slightly larger than Microsoft’s controller. In terms of design and build quality the Onza is far superior. The rubberized surface coating allows you to grip the controller easily and play for hours without getting sweaty palms.

The analog sticks in Microsoft's controller are considerably more rigid and flat-headed than the Onza. However, the Onza’s analog sticks can be mechanically loosened to provide quicker movement (FPS and TPS) or fastened for racing simulation.

 The triggers have a curved shape which allows a more relaxed grip.

The D-pad is made of four separate buttons, which have a great solid feel. However, the traditional Microsoft controller is much better than the Onza for games like NBA 2K12, Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Tom Clancy’s HAWX, etc. where the D-pad is used to quickly switch between various modes. The Onza needs a lot more input pressure than Microsoft’s D-pad. The start and select buttons have been placed horribly towards the rear end. Razer could have stuck with the traditional placement.

The Onza is a tad bit more accurate and more responsive to input (except for the D-pad). It has two buttons on the bottom surface to remap the keys. This is useful to remap the additional LB and RB buttons on the front end of the controller.

Most gamers are used to the ergonomics of the Microsoft controller, and it may take a while to adjust to the  larger and more versatile Onza.