The PowerA Overpowered series are PC and cloud gaming controllers compatible with Windows PCs, smart TVs with gaming features, and Android mobile/tablet devices, as well as compatible devices like the Steam Deck.
The OPS V1 is the standard model, priced at A$89, providing solid features like adjustable trigger locks and mappable buttons. On the other hand, the OPS V3 is the more premium option, priced at A$179, packed with extra features like a larger battery, customizable RGB lighting, and a charging dock. I had the chance to try both controllers, along with the special Fortnite edition of the V1, and I’m excited to share my experience.
I’ll give a brief overview of the contents and features of the V1 first, then the V3, and wrap up with my thoughts and experiences on both at the end.
OPS V1
Packaging and Contents
The V1 controller comes with two removable analog caps, a 2.4GHz wireless USB adaptor, a 1.5m USB-C to USB-A cable, and a quick-start guide.
Design and Features
- Dimensions: (L) 15.6 cm, (W) 10.8 cm, (H) 6.3 cm
- Weight: 274 g
The OPS V1 offers three connection options: low-latency 2.4GHz USB adaptor, Bluetooth, or wired via USB-C cable. It has a 550mAh rechargeable battery that’s reported to last up to 20 hours per charge. The controller also includes adjustable trigger locks, four mappable advanced gaming buttons, and Hall effect thumbsticks and triggers. I particularly liked the dual rumble motors—they give nice vibrations that don’t feel cheap or plasticky.
The Fortnite edition is essentially the same V1 controller, but with Fortnite-themed branding and graphics—perfect for all you Fortnite fans out there. It also includes a code for a bonus in-game item: the Assault Bomber.
OPS V3
The V3 is the more premium model, priced at $179 on JB HiFi, and you can immediately sense where the extra cost goes, with noticeable upgrades starting from the packaging and design, and extending through its many additional features.
Packaging and Contents
The V3 comes in a nicer box with cool graphics. Inside, you get a charging dock, a 2.4GHz wireless USB adaptor, a 1.5m USB-C to USB-A cable, and a quick-start guide.
Design and Features
- Dimensions: (L) 15.6 cm, (W) 10.8 cm, (H) 7 cm
- Weight: 366 g
Like the V1, the V3 has three connection options: low-latency 2.4GHz USB adaptor, Bluetooth, or wired via USB-C cable. While it keeps the adjustable trigger locks, the V3 upgrades to six mappable buttons (compared to four on the V1). It also packs a larger 1200mAh battery, which gives up to 30 hours of playtime per charge.
A standout feature on the V3 is the charging dock, which fully charges the controller in 3–4 hours. There are also some other notable features that you won’t find on the V1, including:
- Customizable multi-zone RGB lighting
- Height-adjustable thumbsticks with three levels of adjustment for both right and left analog sticks
- Tactile, clicky buttons that give great audible and tactile feedback
- Rubber-injected grips for better handling
My Experience
Overall, my experience with both the V1 and V3 has been outstanding. They each deliver an excellent gaming experience for their respective price points.
The V1 is solid, with everything I need for smooth, responsive gameplay. The XYAB buttons and D-pad are satisfying to press, while the triggers and bumpers (LB and RB) are smooth and comfortable. The build feels sturdy, and even during longer gaming sessions, it holds up well without feeling cheap. The weight is also spot on—light enough for comfort but with a nice balance in hand.
The V3, which I’ve been using more regularly over the past few weeks, elevates this experience even more. It has a more premium feel and heft (about 100g more, and slightly taller), which matches its higher price. The clicky, tactile buttons give great feedback with every press, and the ergonomic design with rubber grips provides a secure, comfortable hold. I also found the charging dock to be a great convenience, as it allows me to easily leave the controller to charge after a session, so it’s always ready for the next one.
That said, I did run into some connectivity issues with both the V1 and V3 when using Bluetooth (though this could be an issue with my PC’s adapter). I mostly stick to the low-latency USB adaptor now, and with that, I haven’t noticed any latency issues—the gameplay has been consistently smooth.
Summary
In the end, whichever controller you go for, you’ll be getting great value. The OPS V1, at A$89, covers all the essentials with 4 mappable buttons, adjustable thumb-stick heights, a 550 mAh battery, and smooth hall effect triggers.
But if you’re after a more premium experience, the OPS V3, priced at A$179, takes it up a notch. It includes everything the V1 offers, plus tactile clicky buttons, rubber grips, two extra mappable buttons, a larger 1200 mAh battery with a charging dock, customizable RGB lighting, and a more substantial feel in-hand. 2 more mappable advanced gaming buttons, larger 1200 mAh battery and charging dock, multi zone RGB-lighting, and a more weighted feel in your hands.
Ultimately, both controllers deliver a fantastic gaming experience tailored to different budgets, making either a solid choice for gamers. Check them out at PowerA website. They are available for purchase also at Amazon, JB HiFi, and other major retailers around the world.
Disclosure: PowerA OPS V1 and V3 controllers were supplied for reviewing
PowerA OPS V1 and V3 Controllers Review
Overall
Summary
The PowerA Overpowered series offers versatile gaming controllers with the OPS V1 providing solid features at a budget-friendly A$89, while the OPS V3 delivers a premium experience with additional upgrades like RGB lighting, a charging dock, and extra mappable buttons for A$179, both delivering excellent value for different gaming needs.
