Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K – A Feature-packed Gaming Mouse with Amazing Smart Scrolling

The Razer Basilisk line has established itself as a premium gaming mouse series, and I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing several models including the Basilisk Ultimate and Essential. The signature feature of this line has always been its unique paddle design on the side that serves as a DPI/Sensitivity clutch.

Now, Razer has updated the series with the Basilisk V3 Pro 35K, featuring their most advanced sensor yet and an innovative Smart-Reel scrolling system.

PACKAGING CONTENTS AND UNBOXING

DESIGN AND FEATURES

The Basilisk V3 Pro 35K is a right-handed wireless mouse weighing approximately 112 grams. This puts it in the heavier category compared to my current favourite, the Viper V3 Pro (which weighs just 54-55 grams depending on the colour). Due to this weight, the mouse might not suit users with smaller hands who prefer a fingertip or claw grip style, especially when playing with low DPI sensitivity.

While lifting the mouse requires a good amount of effort, palm grip gamers or those with larger hands should love the sturdiness it brings. The added weight also comes with benefits. You get premium features like RGB backlighting, textured side grips, and robust build quality. While lighter mice like the Viper V3 Pro strip everything to the bare minimum, the Basilisk V3 Pro 35K offers a more premium experience worthy as a flagship gaming mouse.

One standout feature is the textured side grips that prevent the mouse from becoming slippery during intense gaming sessions. The overall build quality feels excellent, and the RGB lighting adds a mesmerising touch to your setup. Speaking of lighting, there are 13 RGB zones located underneath the mouse, creating an attractive underglow effect. Each zone can be individually programmed with over 16.8 million colours through Razer Synapse.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The mouse comes with multiple connectivity options. You get a HyperSpeed Wireless Dongle with USB adapter for 2.4GHz wireless connection, Bluetooth capability for additional devices, and a included cable for wired use when charging is needed.

By default, the Basilisk V3 Pro 35K operates at a 1,000Hz polling rate. However, you can upgrade this to 8,000Hz by purchasing the Razer HyperPolling Wireless Dongle and Mouse Dock Pro separately. The dock isn’t just for polling rate enhancement – it also serves as a convenient charging station, reminiscent of earlier Razer wireless mice that normally comes in the packaging.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 140 hours on wireless mode at 1,000Hz with constant motion, or 28 hours when using 8,000Hz polling rate. Bluetooth mode extends this further to 210 hours, though actual duration will vary based on lighting settings and usage patterns.

Smart Scrolling Technology

The highlight feature is undoubtedly the configurable HyperScroll Tilt Wheel, which offers three distinct modes:

1. Tactile Cycling mode provides traditional stepped scrolling with clear feedback (so you’ll feel those scroll steps)
2. Free-Spin mode enables smooth, rapid scrolling ideal for browsing long web pages or code. I really love how it feels and wish every Razer mouse has this option
3. Smart-Reel mode automatically switches between tactile and free-spin based on your scroll speed (i.e the mouse notices the force you apply when scrolling and automatically switch between the two modes), complete with a satisfying click sound during transitions

Through Razer Synapse, you can customise all 13 control points on the mouse, and enabling Razer Hypershift doubles this to 26 possible controls.

Gaming Performance

The Basilisk V3 Pro 35K utilises Razer’s Focus Pro 35K Optical Sensor Gen-2, boasting a 35,000 DPI maximum and 750 IPS tracking speed. After extensive testing in Overwatch 2 over 2-3 weeks, the mouse consistently delivered precise tracking with zero wireless latency issues. The smooth glide and reliable tracking make it a joy to use in competitive gaming scenarios.

Here is a quick Overwatch 2 compilation clips while using the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K:

RAZER BASILISK V3 PRO 35K REVIEW CONCLUSION

The Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K stands as an impressive gaming mouse that excels in features and functionality. It’s an ideal choice for users who want a complete package: extensive programmable buttons, Chroma lighting, ergonomic design, textured grips, smart scrolling, and reliable battery life.

However, the 112-gram weight may not suit everyone, particularly those accustomed to ultralight mice. The default 1,000Hz polling rate, while sufficient for most users, requires additional purchases to reach 8,000Hz. The Sensitivity Clutch paddle’s positioning might be less useful for claw or fingertip grip users.

The mouse particularly shines for palm grip users with larger hands, where the weight adds stability and the ergonomic shape provides excellent comfort during extended gaming sessions. But that doesn’t mean claw or fingertip gamers should stay away. If you are coming from an over-100-grams mouse, then you’ll be fine.

Retailing for A$279.95, the Basilisk V3 Pro 35K is available through Razer’s website and retailers across Australia.

Disclosure: Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K review sample was supplied for reviewing