🥇 Viper 797 Electronic Dartboard Review: A Perfect Fusion of Value, Function, and Fun
If you’re a darts enthusiast looking to elevate your game nights or want to bring the arcade experience into your home, the Viper 797 Electronic Dartboard by GLD Products is an option you shouldn’t overlook. Built with a regulation-size target area, dozens of games, and user-friendly features, this model delivers both performance and entertainment value—without draining your wallet.
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything from the build quality and features to setup tips and how it stacks up against competitors. Whether you’re a beginner or a regular player, read on to see if the Viper 797 belongs on your wall.
🧾 Viper 797: At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Viper by GLD Products |
| Material | High-quality nylon with 100% plastic frame |
| Color | Black |
| Target Size | 15.5” regulation size |
| Games | 43 pre-installed games |
| Scoring Options | 241 variations |
| Players | Up to 16 |
| Display | 11 sq. inch LED scoreboard |
| Controls | Quick-access buttons (301 & Count-Up) |
| Dimensions | 3″ W x 20″ H |
| Weight | 4.4 pounds |
| Included | 6 soft tip darts, extra dart tips |
| Warranty | 30 Days (manufacturer defect coverage) |
👉 Click here to check latest price & availability on Amazon
🎯 Build Quality & Durability: Engineered to Last
The Viper 797 uses precision-engineered NylonTough segments in its 15.5-inch diameter target area. These segments are concave-shaped to better grip the darts and drastically reduce bounce-outs—a common problem with lower-end electronic dartboards.
Its ultra-thin spider dividers minimize barriers between segments, increasing your chances of scoring and ensuring that your darts land and stay in place. The board’s extended catch ring also helps capture stray throws and protect your wall.
The casing is built from 100% durable plastic, lightweight yet sturdy enough for regular use.
🧩 Game Selection: Versatility for Every Player
The Viper 797 comes loaded with 43 exciting games and 241 scoring options, ensuring long-term variety. From the classics to some lesser-known modes, there’s something for everyone:
🎮 Popular Game Modes:
301, 501, 701 (and other ‘01 games)
Cricket
Count-Up
Round the Clock
Double Down
Shanghai
Baseball
Golf Darts
Killer
Many more…
Each game can be customized further using the included variations, allowing you to set up different rules, difficulties, and styles of play.
🧠 Pro Tip: Use the quick-access buttons for instant access to 301 and Count-Up games—perfect for fast-paced sessions or teaching beginners.
👥 Multiplayer & Social Play: Fun for Everyone
The Viper 797 can host up to 16 players, making it a fantastic addition for group gatherings, family nights, or party events. Whether you’re playing with friends, family, or hosting a local tournament, this dartboard makes it simple.
It also features automatic scoring, eliminating arguments and guesswork. The large, easy-to-read 11-square-inch LED display makes it easy to track scores across the room.
🔊 While the board doesn’t have voice prompts or sound effects like more expensive models, its display clarity makes up for it.
🧱 Setup & Installation Tips
Setting up the Viper 797 is straightforward and quick. It comes with mounting hardware and a simple user guide.
📐 Regulation Measurements:
Bullseye Height: 5 feet 8 inches from floor
Throwing Distance: 7 feet 9 ¼ inches from the face of the board
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
A solid wall or backboard
A power outlet nearby (this unit does not run on batteries)
A leveler (optional, but helps with perfect vertical alignment)
✅ Included accessories: 6 soft tip darts and a set of extra tips to get you started immediately.
🧪 Real-World Performance & User Experience
With over 590+ customer reviews and a 4.2 out of 5-star rating, the Viper 797 consistently earns praise for being:
Easy to use
Durable and accurate
A great entry-to-intermediate level board
💬 What Customers Say:
⭐ “Great for family night—my kids love it!”
⭐ “Easy to install, fun to play, and looks great in the game room.”
⭐ “Love the large display and quick-start buttons.”
⭐ “Only wish it had voice prompts and better dart storage.”
While it doesn’t have Bluetooth or app connectivity like premium boards, it nails the essentials—and does so affordably.
🔁 Viper 797 vs Other Dartboards
| Feature | Viper 797 | Viper 800 | Arachnid Cricket Pro 650 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Size | 15.5” | 15.5” | 15.5” |
| Games | 43 | 57 | 33 |
| Players | 16 | 16 | 8 |
| Display | LED (11”) | Backlit LCD | Jumbo LED |
| Material | NylonTough | NylonTough | NylonTough |
| Bounce-Out Reduction | Ultra-Thin Spider | Ultra-Thin Spider | Micro-Thin Segment Dividers |
| Price | $$ | $$$ | $$$ |
➡️ Looking for advanced features like voice prompts and tournament-grade displays? Explore our Viper 800 Review or Arachnid 650 vs 800 Comparison.
✅ Pros & Cons Recap
✅ Pros:
Excellent value-for-money
Regulation-size target for realistic gameplay
Wide variety of games (43) and 241 scoring options
Quick-start buttons for ease of use
Wall-mounted design saves space
Durable segments reduce bounce-outs
Includes darts and spare tips
❌ Cons:
No cabinet or integrated dart holder
Lacks voice prompts or sound volume control
Needs to be plugged in—no battery option
Warranty limited to 30 days
🏁 Final Verdict: Is the Viper 797 Right for You?
The Viper 797 Electronic Dartboard is a fantastic mid-range dartboard for families, casual players, and even semi-competitive dart fans. It’s easy to use, affordable, well-built, and loaded with games. While it doesn’t offer smart features like Bluetooth or advanced sound effects, it delivers where it counts—performance, usability, and value.
If you want a reliable, feature-rich board without breaking the bank, the Viper 797 is an excellent investment.
🛒 Where to Buy the Viper 797
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