Table of Contents

Razor vs. Kaeya: A Comprehensive DPS Showdown in Genshin Impact

The burning question: Is Razor better than Kaeya? The straightforward answer is: it depends. Both Razor and Kaeya occupy different niches within Genshin Impact, making a direct, universal “better” declaration impossible. Razor excels as a hypercarry Physical DPS, a character built to stay on the field and relentlessly dish out damage. Kaeya, while capable of DPS, shines more as a versatile Cryo Sub-DPS and support, providing consistent Cryo application for reactions and offering valuable utility. Your team composition, playstyle, and the specific challenges you face will determine which character provides more value. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

Razor: The Electro Wolf Unleashed

Razor is a 4-star Electro Claymore user. His primary strength lies in his ability to deal massive Physical damage, amplified by his Electro abilities. His Elemental Burst, Lightning Fang, summons a spectral wolf that attacks alongside him, significantly boosting his attack speed, damage, and Electro resistance. This burst transforms him into a whirlwind of damage, shredding enemies with ease.

Razor’s Strengths:

High Physical DPS: Razor’s kit is geared towards maximizing Physical damage output.
Easy to Play: His straightforward gameplay makes him accessible to new and veteran players alike.
Self-Sufficient: Razor can generate his own energy, reducing his reliance on energy recharge supports.
Superconduct Synergy: His Electro element readily triggers Superconduct with Cryo characters, further reducing enemy Physical resistance.
Strong Early to Mid-Game Carry: Razor is an excellent choice for players progressing through the game.

Razor’s Weaknesses:

Burst Dependent: Razor’s damage significantly drops when his Elemental Burst is down.
Limited Support Capabilities: He offers little utility beyond damage dealing.
Physical Damage Vulnerability: Highly resistant Physical Enemies can nullify his damage output.
Electro Damage Reliance: If fighting Electro immune enemies, Razor will be less effective.

Kaeya: The Cool-Headed Cavalry Captain

Kaeya is a free 4-star Cryo Sword user, obtainable early in the game. While he can be built as a DPS, his true value lies in his versatility. His Elemental Skill, Frostgnaw, deals Cryo damage in a small area and generates Energy Particles. His Elemental Burst, Glacial Waltz, creates orbiting icicles that deal Cryo damage to enemies, providing consistent Cryo application.

Kaeya’s Strengths:

Versatile Role: Kaeya can function as a Sub-DPS, Cryo applicator, or even a main DPS with the right build.
Easy to Obtain: Being a free character makes him accessible to everyone.
Consistent Cryo Application: His Elemental Burst is excellent for triggering reactions like Melt and Superconduct.
Energy Generation: His Elemental Skill generates a significant amount of Energy Particles, benefiting the team.
Mobile: Kaeya’s sprint is faster than other characters.

Kaeya’s Weaknesses:

Lower DPS Ceiling: Compared to dedicated DPS characters like Razor, Kaeya’s damage potential is lower.
Constellation Dependent: Some of his constellations significantly improve his performance.
Limited AoE: His Elemental Skill has a small area of effect.
Cryo Damage reliance: If fighting Cryo immune enemies, Kaeya will be less effective.

Team Compositions and Synergies

The effectiveness of Razor and Kaeya hinges heavily on team composition.

Razor Teams: Razor thrives in Physical DPS teams that focus on maximizing his damage output. Ideal teammates include:
- Cryo characters (Kaeya, Rosaria, Diona): To trigger Superconduct and reduce enemy Physical resistance.
- Electro Battery (Fischl, Raiden Shogun): To help Razor recharge his Elemental Burst quickly.
- Support (Bennett, Zhongli): To provide damage buffs and protection.
Kaeya Teams: Kaeya is a flexible team member and can fit into various team compositions, including:
- Permafrost Teams (with Hydro characters like Xingqiu, Mona, or Ayaka): To freeze enemies consistently.
- Melt Teams (with Pyro characters like Hu Tao, Xiangling, or Bennett): To amplify Pyro damage.
- Superconduct Teams (with Razor or other Physical DPS): To reduce enemy Physical resistance.

Weapon and Artifact Choices

Razor: For Razor, prioritizing Physical Damage is key. Good weapon options include:
- Wolf’s Gravestone: His best-in-slot weapon, providing a massive ATK boost.
- Serpent Spine: A strong Battle Pass weapon that increases damage dealt while on the field.
- Prototype Archaic: A craftable weapon that provides a solid ATK boost.
- Artifacts: The Pale Flame artifact set is his best option, maximizing Physical damage. A 2-piece Bloodstained Chivalry and 2-piece Pale Flame is also a viable alternative.
Kaeya: Weapon and artifact choices for Kaeya depend on his role.
- DPS Kaeya:
  - Weapons: Aquila Favonia, Blackcliff Longsword, or The Flute.
  - Artifacts: Gladiator’s Finale or Blizzard Strayer.
- Sub-DPS Kaeya:
  - Weapons: Sacrificial Sword or Favonius Sword (for Energy Recharge).
  - Artifacts: Emblem of Severed Fate or Noblesse Oblige.

Conclusion: Choose Based on Your Needs

Ultimately, deciding whether Razor is “better” than Kaeya depends on your specific needs. Razor excels as a hypercarry Physical DPS, while Kaeya provides versatile Cryo support and can function as a decent DPS himself. Consider your team composition, available resources, and playstyle when making your decision. Both characters can be valuable assets to your roster, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial.

Remember, the world of Genshin Impact is ever-evolving, and new strategies and team compositions are constantly being discovered. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you!

For more insights into the evolving landscape of gaming and learning, be sure to explore resources from the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. They offer invaluable information and analysis on the intersection of games and education. Also, be sure to visit GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can Kaeya be a main DPS?

Yes, Kaeya can be built as a main DPS. While he might not reach the damage ceiling of dedicated DPS characters, he can still perform well with the right weapon, artifacts, and team composition. Focus on Physical DMG or Cryo DMG depending on your build.

2. Is Razor good for beginners?

Yes, Razor is excellent for beginners. His straightforward gameplay and high Physical damage make him easy to pick up and play, allowing new players to progress through the game effectively.

3. What is Superconduct, and how does it benefit Razor and Kaeya?

Superconduct is an elemental reaction triggered by combining Cryo and Electro. It reduces the enemy’s Physical resistance by 40% for 12 seconds, significantly boosting Physical damage dealers like Razor. Kaeya’s Cryo application makes him an ideal partner for triggering Superconduct with Razor.

4. What are the best constellations for Razor?

Razor’s constellations improve his damage output and Energy Recharge. His C4 (Hunger) is particularly valuable, decreasing DEF of enemies hit by his Elemental Skill.

5. What are the best constellations for Kaeya?

Kaeya’s constellations enhance his utility. His C1 (Excellent Blood) increases his Crit Rate against frozen enemies. His C2 (Never-Ending Performance) extends the duration of Glacial Waltz after defeating an enemy.

6. What is the best team comp for Razor?

A strong Razor team comp includes: Razor (Main DPS), Kaeya or Rosaria (Cryo for Superconduct), Fischl or Raiden Shogun (Electro Battery), and Bennett or Zhongli (Support).

7. What is the best team comp for Kaeya?

Kaeya can fit into various team comps, including: Kaeya (Sub-DPS/Cryo Applicator), Xingqiu or Mona (Hydro for Permafrost), Chongyun (Cryo Resonance/Cryo Infusion), and a flex slot (Healer/Support).

8. Is Razor better than Noelle?

Razor and Noelle fill different roles. Razor is a Physical DPS focused on dealing damage, while Noelle is a Geo character who can heal and provide shielding. Razor generally deals more damage, while Noelle provides more utility.

9. What weapon should I give Kaeya?

For a DPS Kaeya, the Blackcliff Longsword or Aquila Favonia are excellent choices. For a Sub-DPS Kaeya, the Sacrificial Sword or Favonius Sword can provide Energy Recharge.

10. Should I upgrade Razor’s talents?

Yes, upgrading Razor’s talents is crucial for maximizing his damage output. Prioritize his Normal Attack, followed by his Elemental Burst, and then his Elemental Skill.

11. Should I upgrade Kaeya’s talents?

Upgrading Kaeya’s talents depends on his role. If using him as a Sub-DPS, prioritize his Elemental Burst and Skill. If using him as a main DPS, upgrade his Normal Attack as well.

12. Is Razor good in the Spiral Abyss?

Yes, Razor can be effective in the Spiral Abyss, especially in floors where Physical damage is favored. However, his single-target focus might make him less effective against large groups of enemies.

13. Is Kaeya good in the Spiral Abyss?

Kaeya’s versatility and Cryo application make him valuable in the Spiral Abyss, particularly for dealing with enemies weak to Cryo or for enabling reactions like Melt and Superconduct.

14. What artifact stats should I prioritize for Razor?

Prioritize Physical DMG Bonus, Crit Rate, Crit DMG, ATK%, and Energy Recharge on Razor’s artifacts.

15. What artifact stats should I prioritize for Kaeya?

For a DPS Kaeya, prioritize Crit Rate, Crit DMG, ATK%, and Cryo DMG Bonus. For a Sub-DPS Kaeya, prioritize Energy Recharge, Crit Rate, Crit DMG, and ATK%.