Viper vs Falcon: Which Is Better?

Introduction

Overview of Viper and Falcon Dartboards

When selecting an electronic dartboard, two brands consistently rise to the top: Viper and Falcon. Both have established reputations in the dartboard market, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Understanding these differences is crucial to making an informed purchase that will serve you well for years.

Viper, a brand under the Arachnid Gaming umbrella, has been a dominant force in the dartboard industry for decades. Known for their industrial-grade construction and advanced features, Viper dartboards are favored by serious players and tournament professionals. Their products often feature robust casings, high-density wiring systems to minimize bounce-outs, and extensive game libraries that cater to every skill level.

Falcon, on the other hand, represents a slightly different approach to electronic dartboards. While still maintaining high quality standards, Falcon products tend to focus more on user experience, portability, and value for money. The brand is particularly popular among casual players and those new to electronic dartboards, thanks to their intuitive interfaces and more accessible price points.

This comparison will dive deep into both brands, examining their features, performance, and real-world performance to help you determine which is the better fit for your specific needs. Whether you're looking for tournament-grade durability or a beginner-friendly board for home entertainment, understanding the Viper vs Falcon debate is essential.

Both brands offer electronic dartboards that eliminate the need for manual scoring and reduce wear on traditional bristle boards. The choice between them ultimately comes down to your specific requirements, playing style, and budget.

For those considering other options, our best Viper dartboards for beginners guide provides recommendations based on skill level and budget.

Features Comparison

Design and Build Quality

The physical design and construction quality of a dartboard significantly impact its longevity, gameplay experience, and suitability for different environments. When comparing Viper and Falcon dartboards, these aspects show the most significant differences between the two brands.

Viper (left) features heavier, more robust construction compared to Falcon's sleek, lightweight design (right)

Viper Dartboard Build Quality

Viper dartboards are engineered with professional play in mind. They feature:

• Heavy-duty plastic casing: Typically 20-25% thicker than competitors, designed to withstand impacts and frequent use
• High-density wiring: Uses premium wiring that reduces bounce-outs by up to 30% compared to standard electronic boards
• Dimensions: Most models measure 20 x 20 x 2 inches and weigh between 10-12 pounds
• Target area: Standard 15.5-inch diameter with 180 segments for precise scoring

The construction quality is immediately apparent upon handling. Viper boards feel substantial and well-built, with tight seams and reinforced corners that prevent damage from drops or bumps. The plastic has a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges better than glossy alternatives.

Falcon Dartboard Build Quality

Falcon takes a different approach with their build quality, focusing on portability and sleek aesthetics:

• Lightweight plastic construction: Approximately 20% lighter than comparable Viper models, weighing around 8 pounds
• Dimensions: Slightly smaller at 19 x 19 x 1.5 inches, making them more suitable for smaller spaces
• Target area: 15-inch diameter with 170 segments
• Display protection: Integrated transparent cover protects the display from darts and dust

While Falcon boards are still well-constructed, the materials feel slightly thinner than Viper's offerings. However, they maintain excellent durability for casual to moderate play. The compact size makes them ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or recreational spaces where space is at a premium.

For players who prioritize portability, Falcon's lighter construction might be preferable. However, if you're setting up a dedicated dart space or plan to use the board frequently, Viper's more robust construction will likely provide better long-term value.

Game Modes and Options

The variety and quality of game modes available on an electronic dartboard can significantly enhance your playing experience. Both Viper and Falcon offer extensive libraries of games, but there are important differences in quantity, variety, and complexity.

Viper Dartboard Game Modes

Viper dartboards consistently offer more game modes than their competitors, catering to both casual players and serious enthusiasts:

• Standard Cricket: Multiple variations including 301, 501, and 701
• American Cricket: Specialized rules popular in the US
Baseball: Multiple innings and difficulty levels
• Golf: 9-hole and 18-hole courses
• Football: American football-themed scoring
• Rugby: Specialized scoring rules
• Dart Golf: Strategic target-based gameplay
• Killer: Player elimination game mode
• Around the Clock: Timed and untimed versions
• Blind Killer: Randomized target elimination

Most Viper models feature 30-36 game modes, with higher-end models offering up to 40+ variations. This extensive library ensures that players won't quickly grow bored, and the variety caters to different skill levels and preferences.

Additionally, Viper boards often include:

• Custom game creation features
• Handicap settings for balanced play
• Tournament mode with strict timing
• Practice modes with score tracking
• Multiplayer support (typically up to 8 players)

Falcon Dartboard Game Modes

Falcon dartboards offer a solid selection of game modes, though not as extensive as Viper's offerings:

• Standard Cricket: 301, 501, and 701 variations
• American Cricket: US-specific rules
• Baseball:
• Golf: 9-hole course
• Football: Basic scoring
• Killer: Player elimination
• Around the Clock: Basic version