How to choose the perfect gaming mouse? How are they different from normal ones? Why are gaming mice so expensive, and what is their real value? We will try to answer these and other questions in this review, as well as consider and compare the most popular device models.
Esports is developing by leaps and bounds. Perhaps it can be compared with the technological leap of mankind in the 20th century. More recently, competitions were held in smoky computer clubs, and the $50 prize pool was considered huge. Now matches gather huge stadiums, players are becoming more popular than Hollywood stars, and rewards for prizes are in the millions of dollars.
The weapon of professional e-sportsmen is not only an exceptional reaction and the ability to find a way out of the current situation as quickly as possible. It is also technical equipment that allows you to maximize your potential as a player.
World famous brands spend millions of dollars on research and development of eSports devices. We will talk about what it is and how they differ from the usual "office" peripherals in a series of articles on JustGame. And let's start with perhaps the most important device for every gamer - the mouse.
What is a gaming mouseb?
In this section, we will not focus on specific manufacturers and models, but we will try to describe in general terms what a gaming mouse is and how it differs from a regular one.
Standard mice are designed to simplify the work of a person at a computer. These manipulators do not require any features and functionality, because even an inept person will not have difficulty getting into a huge shortcut on the desktop. Moreover, many manufacturers of office mice are trying to simplify even this process, so most devices have built-in "helpers" like interpolation and acceleration.
A modern gaming mouse is a high-tech device that is "stuffed" with electronics and a variety of sensors, but at the same time must remain durable and have amazing ergonomics and comfort for the player's hand.
Razer was the first company to turn its sights on gamers. Thanks to their efforts, in 1998 the world's first gaming mouse, the Razer Boomslang, was released.
This mouse made a splash in the then nascent gaming community, and became the object of desire for every self-respecting gamer. A successful combination of a symmetrical shape and a good optical sensor, as well as 1000 DPI, unprecedented at that time, showed itself at the first professional gaming tournament in the history of the CPL World Championship, where a player under the pseudonym fatal1 ty won $40,000 in the Aliens vs Predator 2 discipline, thanks in large part to Razer Boomslang.
Many computer peripherals companies have recognized the marketing success of Razer, and immediately set about developing their own counterparts, adding new features and technologies to them.
Microsoft and Logitech were the first to enter the competition. Old-school gamers fondly remember mice such as the Microsoft 1.1 and 3.0, as well as the Logitech MX 300, 310, 500 and 518, which were incredibly popular among fans of Counter-Strike and Quake - disciplines that required special sensor accuracy and comfortable shape.
The young company SoftTrading also joined the production of e-sports peripherals, which initially developed the famous IceMat and SteelPad gaming mats. Later it was renamed and became SteelSeries, one of the leading manufacturers of devices for gamers.
The number of gaming mouse manufacturers has grown, but the formula for a quality mouse has remained the same throughout time: a high-tech sensor with perfect tracking on any surface, instant response when pressing the keys, an ergonomic shape for the hand and maximum durability of the device.
How to choose a gaming mouse. Seven steps to successJustGame
If you are suddenly overtaken by the desire to buy a gaming mouse, and you are confused among the huge number of different models, a few steps from JustGame help you make a choice.
Step one :
Decide what you need a gaming mouse for. Whether you are going to train in a certain eSports discipline, or just want to spend time at the computer in comfort. Many manufacturers specifically customize some mouse models for specific games, for example for DotA 2. A good example of this, because you get not only the device itself, but also an in-game item in the kit. Also for DotA, the resource of keystrokes is important. On average, a player can make up to 20,000 clicks per match. With such activity, the keys in cheap mice will quickly become worthless.
Fans of MMO games can take a look at mice with additional keypads for macros and "skills" of your character.
Perhaps the most difficult will be fans of shooters and, in particular, Counter-Strike. Most gamers play with low in-game sensitivity, so they make sharp and sweeping mouse movements on the carpet. A device for CS simply must have a good sensor that reads the surface even at high accelerations, as well as a number of other parameters, which we will discuss below.
Decide which mouse will be more convenient for you: wired or wireless. Despite the beliefs of many players that wireless mice lose in response speed, this statement was true for models of a decade ago. Modern wireless devices are in no way inferior to their classic counterparts, and in many ways even surpass them, for example, but their price is much higher. However, the absence of a wire eliminates the possibility of fraying over time, which means that the need to buy a new mouse due to a breakdown is reduced.
step two :
choose the shape of the mouse that is most comfortable for you. This is perhaps one of the most important decisions, because with a mouse in your hand you will spend many hours of training, often giving your all to the limit.
There are three types of gaming mouse cases: right-handed, left-handed and symmetrical. Symmetric mice are universal and most common among players, however, devices “sharpened” for right-handers or left-handers are as ergonomic as possible and sit in the hand like a glove.
If you have such an opportunity, try several models of mice with your hand at once and choose the one you like. If you order a mouse by mail, then pay attention to the following features:
Do not be disappointed if the shape of the mouse is uncomfortable for you at first. After some time, you will not be able to imagine your work at the computer without it.
Step Three :
decide on the price range for buying a mouse. Having decided for yourself how much you are willing to spend on a brand new device, start looking at suitable ones and comparing their technical characteristics.
It would be useful to study the reviews on the devices you are interested in, but you should not always rely on the opinion of professional players, because they are often bound by contracts with their sponsors and say what the owners of organizations will tell them.
Try to be guided by the opinion of independent resources, as well as your own preferences and feelings. Read the comments and reviews of ordinary users. This will not only help you choose a device, but also learn a lot of interesting facts about it, as well as recommendations for setting up and some characteristic "chips".
Step Four :
filter mice by sensor quality. In this case, you should also read the thematic forums and reviews of the owners.
Many cheap models of gaming mice have sensors of the past generation, which, in general, have proven themselves well, but have a number of drawbacks that you can put up with, but if you want to get into big esports, then it is advisable not to deal with them.
One of these disadvantages are acceleration and interpolation.
Avoiding terms, we can say that acceleration accelerates the movement of the cursor depending on the speed of moving the mouse over the surface. Simply put, the distance that the cursor will travel on the screen does not depend on how many centimeters you move the mouse, but on how quickly you do it.
The interpolation tries to figure out the direction of the cursor movement for you, which is useful for office work and high-resolution monitors, but not for protracted game fights where the player would like to have full control over their cursor. Interpolation can prevent you from getting a nice headshot, which risks causing nervous breakdowns and destruction of nearby objects by especially impressionable gamers.
Despite the ability to disable acceleration in Windows itself, many sensors still suffer from built-in acceleration and interpolation, albeit slightly. This is typical for older models of devices. For example, for the Steelseries Kinzu v1, which, however, does not prevent it from being one of the best gaming mice in the history of eSports.
It is worth noting that the sensors are developed by a separate company, most often Avago or Pixart, and manufacturers only use them in their mouse models. That is why many mice from different manufacturers may have similar characteristics. It can often happen that a lesser-known device can have the same sensor as the expensive flagship from Steelseries.
As a rule, laser sensors are more technologically advanced than optical sensors and have more settings, but they are more expensive and more whimsical to the playing surface. For example, the lift-off distance setting is available on most laser sensors, and only on a few "optics", and this parameter is disastrously important for games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, especially if the developer did not bother to fine-tune it himself.
However, modern science has come to the point that some manufacturers offer the ability to change the sensor on the fly with just a few movements.
Step five :
pay attention to the switches under the mouse buttons.
The quality of the switches directly affects the lifespan of your future device. More resource-intensive switches increase the cost of the mouse, but it will also last noticeably longer.
The most common switches are manufactured by Omron and typically have a claimed lifespan of 5-10 million clicks. This does not mean at all that after you make your 5 million click, the mouse will stop working. It all depends on how you handle it and how hard you hit the keys if something goes wrong in the game.
However, when developing their flagship products, many companies have invented their own proprietary switches. That's what Steelseries did with their latest top-of-the-line devices like the . "Mikriki" (from the word microswitch) of this mouse are designed for a fantastic figure of 30 million clicks.
Old models of switches often sinned with a “double click”, which manifested itself over time even in expensive devices, but this defect has been corrected in new gaming mice.
Gradually, switches with optical cutoff come into fashion. With such a device, the signal from pressing the mouse button is transmitted as soon as the key crosses the optical sensor below it. It is believed that they have a minimum response time, however, in our opinion, the average person will feel the difference, if he does, then only in price.
Step Six :
specify the quality and length of the wire in the mouse you like. The length of the cable, of course, should be taken into account based on your workplace at the computer. Also, the cables are braided and without it.
Unbraided wires are stiffer and dirt can accumulate on them. Braided cords tend to be soft, but they tend to make a lot of noise when moving across the carpet, and also abrade the surface more, especially with active mouse movements.
Make sure the cable is equipped with a kink protection as shown in the illustration.
This design is designed to reduce the risk of chafing the wire at the point of its connection with the mouse, where there is an area of increased mobility during the game. Conscientious developers also turn up the protection nose a little. This is not a defect and is designed to reduce friction between the cable and the playing surface.
step seven:
Choose your cover material. The most popular plastic with a Soft-touch surface, which ensures a secure fit of the mouse even in a heavily sweaty hand, as well as minimizing the visibility of fingerprints on the keys.
Do not neglect the glossy models of mice. Fingerprints on their surface are much more noticeable, however, their cleaning is much easier, after which they look like new.
Thanks to this simple sequence, you can choose a mouse that will best meet your requirements and become a reliable companion in virtual battles.
You can explore the range of gaming mice in ours. We tried to give the most accurate description of the devices, not only from the point of view of the seller, but also as players who tested them in practice in the most popular games.
In the second part of our review, we will consider several models of gaming mice of all price categories, as well as analyze their characteristics and try to determine for which game this or that device will be most convenient.
There are certain criteria for mice for games. In particular, this is a high resolution (dots per inch) with the ability to switch it to a lower one (dpi setting). Also, the role is played by the presence of additional buttons, which can be assigned certain actions in the game (bind). We have compiled a rating of the best gaming mice based on customer reviews. That's what came out of it.
1st place - SteelSeries Kana V2
A simple and inexpensive gaming mouse that you can buy today for $30. This is a very low price for a good gaming mouse, so it is not surprising that the device is in great demand.
Specifications:
- Optical sensor;
- Connection via USB interface;
- 6 buttons;
- Symmetrical design - for both hands;
- Speed: 3600 CPI;
- DPI setting.
These are some of the best gaming bears for a computer in their price range. It sits perfectly in the hand, and in any - left or right. If you are a fan of playing any games, then you can safely buy this mouse. However, remember: it is not for professional eSports.
2nd place - Roccat Tyon
For $80, you can buy a Roccat Tyon Black gaming mouse. Unlike the previous one, this is a more sophisticated model, but also cooler. Its characteristics:
- Laser sensor;
- USB connection;
- 16 buttons;
- Built-in tracking module;
- Possibility of programming buttons.
This is a beautiful and good mouse with excellent backlighting. One of its main advantages is the ideal location of the buttons. Moreover, the buttons are so well-placed that when using this device, the thumb remains in place, from which control over the mouse is not lost. Note that in other models, most often the main number of buttons falls on the thumb. Not so here - the buttons are evenly distributed.
The downside of a mouse is the software. The software is not Russified, and there are a lot of settings in it, so without knowledge of the English language, you will have to program the buttons a little hard. However, this is one of the best mice for gaming - highly recommended!
3rd place - Roccat Kone XTD Optical Gaming Mouse
Approximately $ 75 - this is the cost of this mouse. This is a pretty good gaming model with the following characteristics:
- Optical sensor;
- USB connection;
- 8 buttons;
- Sensitivity 6400 dpi;
- Weight adjustment;
- Adjustment of height of a separation of a sensor;
- Possibility to program buttons.
The device collects positive customer reviews. The model is multifunctional and the software for it allows you to configure the mouse in such a way that during operation it will feel like an extension of the hand. The device is made soundly - there are no complaints about possible breakdowns. However, some buyers complain about the unreliable left button - it backlash, as they themselves assure.
This mouse opens up great possibilities for gamers - this is a really worthy model created for eSports.
4th place - Logitech G402 Hyperion Fury
For about $60, you can buy a Logitech G402 Hyperion Fury mouse. First things first: this model "can" track movements very quickly with high speed (500 inches per second) and accuracy.
Logitech G402 Hyperion Fury has 8 programmable buttons that can be customized with Logitech Gaming Software. You can also adjust the sensitivity level and instantly switch between them (from 250 dpi to 4000 dpi). In dynamic games, the ability to change the sensitivity at lightning speed is almost impossible to overestimate.
But the mouse is good not only technically, but also physically. It fits perfectly in the hand, it is easy and simple to control - we recommend it.
5th place - A4 Tech X-705K Oscar Mouse
An inexpensive model that can be bought for only $15. Despite the low price, this is still a gaming mouse, which is very popular due to its low cost.
This model is ideal for people who spend a lot of time at the PC. It is suitable not only for games, but also for comfortable work with office applications. However, for games it is used more often. It moves well in corners, reacts clearly to the slightest movement, and most importantly - quickly.
There is also a resolution change button that allows you to change the speed of the cursor. The resolution of the mouse is 2000 dpi, but it can be changed. For example, for comfortable work at a computer, 400 dpi is enough, and this resolution can be set. There is also the possibility of adjusting the response time - from 3 to 30 ms.
Judging by the reviews, it is easy to conclude that buyers are satisfied with this model. It is used by professional gamers who have been playing CS for over 10 years, as well as office workers. This is a reliable device that lasts for years and does not break. At the same time, it is inexpensive.
6th place - Razer DeathAdder Chroma Edition
One of the best gaming mice that will set you back $85. It has a sensitivity of 10,000 dpi and a speed of up to 200 inches per second, which practically guarantees the accuracy of movement. However, special software will allow you to customize the mouse at the discretion of the user.
According to the developer, a lot of attention was paid to the weight of this mouse. It was designed not to be heavy, so that it was easy to move, and not very light, so that it was easy to control it. This model has an ideal weight distribution, and when using it, the load on the hand is minimized.
It goes without saying: there is special software that allows you to customize the mouse and program the buttons (of which there are 8). The mouse itself is reliable, well-assembled and of high quality - almost all buyers write about this.
7th place - Asus ROG Sica
An inexpensive model for $35, which is positioned on the market as a mouse with improved response. It is reliable, high-quality and stylish - professional gamers took part in its development, moreover, not without success.
The mouse is equipped with a sensor with a resolution of 5000 dpi and has only 3 buttons. Despite this, it is still a gamer and is popular at the same time. It is more intended for those people who prefer shooters. Here is a cool sensor, nice body material and understandable software - we recommend it as an affordable gaming mouse.
8th place - Razer Mamba Elite Ergonomic
Incredibly stylish and expensive mouse for $135. It is equipped with a fourth-generation dual sensor system, which is why it has improved tracking accuracy.
Unlike the previous models reviewed, this is a wireless mouse, but the gaming technology Mamba from Razer works great and is in no way inferior to a conventional wire. There is a short response time (1 ms), 2 sensors with a resolution of 6400dpi and 6 programmable buttons.
Despite the high cost, the device is in demand - there are a lot of positive feedback from customers about it, who immediately feel all the possibilities of this mouse. It is convenient, reliable, but the only drawback is a weak battery.
9th place - A4Tech Bloody TL8
Great gaming mouse for $35, equipped with a high-sensitivity 8200 DPI laser and a 1ms response time.
Judging by the manufacturer's statement, the mouse has increased reliability - its wear resistance resource is 20 million clicks. The mouse itself is made of high-quality plastic, has a comfortable ergonomic shape, ideal for gaming.
The mouse has 9 programmable buttons, 16-step calibration technology is used here, because of which the mouse can work on any surface with high accuracy. In two words - everything for gamers.
Customers are satisfied with this model - they respond positively. Considering all these factors, we decided to include this model in our rating.
10th place - A4 Tech X-748K Oscar Gaming Mouse
This is the last mouse in our today's rating, and its cost is $20. What is special here? Virtually nothing: 3200 dpi resolution with the ability to switch dpi modes, 16 kb internal memory, a triple click button, the ability to program buttons and adjust the response time (from 3 to 30 ms), 6 buttons.
Understanding modern mice is sometimes very difficult. One has a dozen buttons, the other has two joysticks, and even a little lever on the left... Oops, it's broken. Excuse me, is this under warranty? And after all this, there is only one thought in my head: “Yes, I just need a good mouse! With normal and simple shape as well as human ergonomics. And an accurate sensor! Well, really, I want it to sit well in my hand, and look attractive outwardly ... Well, the software is very desirable, otherwise how can you set up a mouse without it? All this is very familiar.
Everything does not happen at once, but you can choose a mouse that, with certain goals, will satisfy most of your needs. In some ways, gaming mice are similar to each other - good build quality and materials; competent technical base, thoughtful ergonomics and so on. However, eminent manufacturers have many worthy models in their arsenal, and all these mice cost a lot of money. Therefore, in the article I will talk about all the main aspects that you should pay attention to when choosing a gaming mouse.
Form
Form is the first thing you should pay attention to. The more comfortable it is to hold the mouse, the more pleasant it is to play and work at the computer. If the mouse is comfortable in the hand, then everything else is not very important. And here neither the sensor, nor the materials, nor the build quality will decide. The shape of a mouse is subjective, so it's impossible to choose a mouse based on specifications and dry data alone. As well as on someone else's opinion. The ideal form simply does not exist - it is different for everyone. And following your preferences, you can choose to choose the mouse that will be closest to the cherished ideal.
According to the type of shape, mice are divided into two main types - ergonomic and symmetrical (also called "Ambidextrous"). The first mice can also be called asymmetric, since they are made taking into account the characteristics of only one hand (right or left). The latter have the same design on both the left and right sides, so they can be used by both right-handed and left-handed people.
Mice can be categorized into large, medium and small. Small mice are quite compact, and they are more convenient when working with a laptop than in games. The best choice would be a medium or large mouse, because they are more comfortable to hold with your whole hand. And it all depends on your grip. If you like to put your palm on the whole mouse, a larger mouse will be preferable; if you like a tenacious grip with your fingers, then a medium-sized mouse is quite suitable for your grip.
Sensor
The sensor is the second component after the form, which should be paid close attention to. There is one stereotype of sensor resolution in the gaming segment: the more dpi, the better. This is not true. The type and model of the sensor itself, as well as its technical characteristics, are more important, because the quality of reading, called tracking, depends on it. The better the tracking, that is, the better the mouse reads the surface, the more accurate the tracking of any movements will be. In the language of shooters: the more accurately you will distribute headshots and make sharp jerks and any turns.
Sensor resolution is always indicated in dpi, although other names (dpi, cpi, ppi) can be found. All this is the same, just called differently, and means the resolution of the sensor - the number of dots per inch. The quality of the sensor is directly related to its technical characteristics. The higher these characteristics, the more accurately the sensor works. And do not forget a simple and useful rule: a good sensor - a good carpet.
Sensors are divided into three types:
optical LED
optical laser
laser sensors (working with Doppler shift technology, sometimes also referred to as "real laser")
The main parameters of any sensor are:
speed (ips)
acceleration (g)
number of frames per second (fps)
Which sensor do you prefer and why?
Optical LED(they are called simply optical). The most popular type of sensor installed in mice. It is versatile and hassle-free - it works with most carpets, and they also have the least problems when reading. Top models of optical sensors perform best in gaming terms - they have excellent tracking, low lift-off distance from the surface, while they do not have various disadvantages such as acceleration, angular binding and some other ailments inherent in budget models or other types of sensors. An excellent universal option for shooters and everyday work at the computer, including when working with graphics.
Optical laser(they are simply called laser). A less popular type of sensor that works on almost any surface, as well as reduced power consumption. Unlike optics, laser sensors have some drawbacks such as unrecoverable acceleration, which results in a slight loss in tracking, and therefore this can be critical in games where maximum sensor accuracy is required. Due to omnivorousness and low power consumption, these sensors are put in wireless mice, but in general they lose to good optics. Rigid surface types (plastic carpets) are preferred for the laser sensor.
laser(Doppler Shift, sometimes referred to as "real laser"). This type of sensor is less common and is sometimes confused with an optical laser sensor. Technically, these are the most advanced sensors on the market, but they are demanding on firmware, and therefore not every company undertakes to install them in their mice. In addition, they have several drawbacks, due to which they have a "capricious" behavior and are much more demanding on the surface than the above options. At the moment, this does not allow them to become a mass product on the market, although the potential of these sensors is incredibly high.
When choosing a mouse, it is important to pay attention not only to the shape, but also to the model of the sensor installed in it. For this reason, professional players and eSportsmen often choose mice with the best optical sensor, but put moderate dpi values on it, which are in the range from 400 to 1600 dpi. In this range, the sensors work in the best possible way, they have no errors or inaccuracies in reading, and the potential of the sensor with its technical parameters is revealed to the maximum possible.
Ergonomics
Mouse ergonomics is a subjective factor that is individual for each person. Ergonomics is inextricably linked with the integral perception of the form, but here we will focus on the individual details of the performance of the mouse. Simply put, ergonomics is how certain controls are thought out, what materials the mouse is made of, what weight it has, cable and other little things that make the device user-friendly.
Controls. The standard set of any gaming mouse includes at least 5 controls: main, side buttons and a wheel. Fans of shooters and simple devices will have enough of these buttons, while people who often play MMORPG or MOBA, and also work in complex programs, may need a lot more buttons. An interesting trend recently has been the creation of mice where you can customize the elements of the device as you wish - you can adjust the mass, replace or completely remove the side buttons, and also transform one or another part of the mouse for a more comfortable grip.
Materials. When creating gaming devices, any manufacturer strives to create a mouse from practical materials. The advantages of gaming mouse materials are obvious: pleasant tactile sensations, practicality and ease of care, tenacity in the hand, which is especially important during intense gaming, as well as an attractive appearance. Various types of coatings are used for this: painted plastic, soft-touch plastic, ordinary matte plastic, glossy plastic, rubberized coating and rubber pads. These materials are the most common, and they can be either smooth or textured.
Weight and cable. The small mass makes it easy to control the mouse on the carpet, which is important when playing shooters. At the same time, there are users who prefer a heavier mouse because it "feels good in the hand." This is a verbatim phrase of many people who prefer heavy mice. This also includes cable. Cables come in braided and unsheathed, thin and thick, and they partly affect the game. A thin cable is not felt during sudden movements of the mouse, and the braid allows you to keep it safe, while a thick wire can interfere with the game, depriving some of the freedom of movement, or simply dragging the mouse along.
Features and Opportunities
Software and built-in memory for storing settings. Well-known manufacturers reinforce their device with software with which you can fine-tune the buttons and some technical parameters of the mouse (for example, change the sensitivity, calibrate the mouse, or adjust the port polling rate). The software is useful for those who want to set up macros or remap the standard mouse buttons to more convenient ones. And the built-in memory will allow you to save all the settings inside the mouse, so that when you connect the device to another computer, these settings can be recalled from the mouse's memory.
Unusual tokens. Manufacturers often come up with very handy things that greatly simplify the gameplay and workflow, and each manufacturer has their own. So, SteelSeries began to equip the latest models of its mice with vibration motors and displays, which provide significant advantages in the same shooters, and Logitech distinguished itself by creating an inertial wheel that allows you to scroll through many pages at once. Other examples are the ability to change the sensor, analog controls and even joysticks, as well as modifying the mouse by replacing the side buttons and panels on the mouse.
Technical equipment and build quality. Often, the reliability and durability of the device depend on the installed components, besides, they are responsible for the tactile sensations when pressing the buttons and scrolling the wheel. This applies to microswitches under the main and side buttons, as well as the type of wheel encoder used. Equally important is the build quality of the mouse - for gaming mice, this parameter is at a very good level, since they are subject to increased requirements. Given the cost, such devices should justify the expectations placed on them. It all depends on the company, and the leading peripheral manufacturers have a rather strict quality control.
Appearance
Appearance is a secondary parameter that can play a role when choosing a gaming mouse. Someone likes aggressive and sophisticated performance, while someone, like a true esthete, chooses conciseness and asceticism with a minimum of design elements. The appearance depends on the types of plastic used, and most often there are black mice in various versions. However, some prefer eye-catching devices, so you can always find a mouse in some bright and juicy colors. If you want to assemble a set of devices in a single color style (for example, in white), then in this case a black mouse will look out of place.
Recently, the RGB backlighting, which is equipped with many gaming mice, has provided extremely wide opportunities for personalization. Such a backlight works in the entire color spectrum, often passing through the entire body of the device, which looks very unusual and memorable, especially at night. And various lighting effects give almost limitless scope and freedom for imagination when arranging the workplace. In addition, many manufacturers offer a comprehensive backlight system for the interaction of various devices with each other.
Wireless mice
It's just a new word in the genre! Efforts to create high-performance and accurate gaming mice have been going on for years, but only in the last year have we managed to achieve truly impressive results. Previously, all wireless mice could hardly be called gaming, since they had a number of problems: a budget and unproductive sensor, data transfer delays, a large mass, and a short operating time. In addition, the "gaming" options cost a lot of money, in no way commensurate with their quality.
Recently, the market for wireless gaming devices has seen increased activity. The arrival of some companies ushered in a new era of wireless mice, as they managed to rein in the best optical sensor and get rid of all the shortcomings of past wireless mice. Now such devices have a moderate weight, a relatively long operating time, they have no delays in data transfer, and they cost a little more than their wired counterparts. The wires, of course, will not go anywhere - how else to charge the mouse? However, such changes may soon give us a bright future for wireless gaming devices.
Conclusion
The most important thing to rely on when choosing a mouse is the shape and sensor. The two most important components on which all the convenience of working with the device depends. The form is at the head, followed by the sensor. Everything else is up to your taste and discretion. To find your mouse, rely on your past experience with different mice. The type of shape, grip, dimensions - all this affects the choice of mouse. Think about the type of shape, mouse dimensions, and the grip that is most comfortable for you - all this will help you understand what you like and don't like about your current mouse. For example, if you've always liked ergonomic mice, and the symmetry makes your arm turn back, then it makes sense to stick with ergonomic mice. It is impossible to choose a mouse purely by technical parameters - palm length and others, so the only unmistakable advice is to try. All that will help when choosing a mouse is your personal experience and feelings.
There are a lot of gaming mice out there now, so finding a comfortable fit isn't that hard, so it's always a good idea to have an idea of what else you want from a mouse. Materials, weight, appearance, the presence of certain controls, as well as technical equipment and software - all these factors can also greatly affect the further choice of the device. The more specific requirements, the fewer options when choosing, but the more likely it is to find the exact mouse that is perfect for you. Given the latest trends, it is quite possible that preference will fall on wireless mice.
And therefore it will be useful to mention the price here. The pricing of gaming devices is not always logical - the cost of the device, marketing, software and other features are always included in the final cost of the device. So the advice here is simple - choose what you like best. After all, once a correctly chosen device, albeit an expensive one, will give you pleasure from using it for many years to come.
The main weapon of any gamer is the mouse and keyboard. These are one of the main attributes of every computer player, so such people choose a mouse for themselves very carefully.
The range of gaming mice is extremely diverse: there are hundreds of options that differ from each other in characteristics, weight and ergonomics.
The ideal gaming mouse should:
- fit the palm in size;
- comfortable to hold in the hand;
- move smoothly.
It should also match the genre of preferred games:
- for fans of shooters, mice with high DPI are suitable: they have perfect accuracy;
- for fans of MMORPG - a mouse with an increased number of buttons.
Another very important, but seemingly unremarkable at first glance, parameter is which hand the mouse is intended for. It will be inconvenient for a left-handed person to play with a right-handed mouse, and vice versa.
Before buying, you should also consider the following aspects:
- Illumination type.
If the backlight is defined as RGB, then it supports a large number of colors. They are configured through special software for the computer. - Mouse software.
There are both mice that are used by simply inserting the wire into the USB channel, and those that can be customized. In the second case, you can customize the backlight and even the buttons in certain games. - DPI is the number of dots per inch.
This setting determines the accuracy of the optical mouse sensor: the higher the DPI, the more accurate the mouse. When moving it, the cursor will more smoothly and accurately repeat the movement of the player.
In the game, especially fast-paced shooters where precision is important, high DPI is a must. Often on gaming mice this parameter can be adjusted.
If a person is not strong in choosing computer parts, but wants to make the right purchase, you should read this article. Desires and preferences will become clear, and the purchase of a gaming mouse will be successful.
The best gaming mice of 2018
The mouse has a very futuristic look. Aggressive design will please the gamer.
The matte plastic coating helps not to slip in the hand, but picks up typos a little. The case is completely symmetrical, and the main buttons are made in the form of petals. Behind the rubberized wheel are two sensitivity increase buttons. Behind you can attach an additional block of buttons.
One of the features of the mouse is that it can be connected to a computer both by wire and via Bluetooth.
The battery lives up to 30 hours of continuous play. The USB cable has a length of 1.8 meters and has a fabric braid that will help not to fray the wire. Textile Velcro fastener on the wire will help to easily fold the cord if the gamer goes to the championship or meeting with friends.
Included are removable keys to create a custom mouse and a receiver for wireless communication with a PC. Features G-shaped RGB backlighting (Logitech logo) and mouse battery indicator.
Specifications:
- DPI: 200-12000
- ergonomics: symmetrical;
- number of buttons: 7-11 (replaceable keys);
- connection type: wired and wireless.
- weight: 107 g
Advantages:
- interchangeable side keys;
- The symmetrical design makes the mouse suitable for both right-handed and left-handed people.
Flaws:
- no additional weights.
Average price: 9000 rubles.
Professional gamers review the Logitech G900:
Razer DeathAdder Elite.
This mouse is still the same DeathAdder, but improved.
It has an ergonomic design for the right hand. The upper part is made of rough plastic, and the side faces are made of branded rubber. The hand does not slip off the mouse, and it is extremely comfortable to hold it. Behind the wheel are two DPI switching buttons. The click of all buttons on the mouse is elastic, the response is felt great.
The cable is 2 meters long and is wrapped in fabric. The RGB backlight has 16.8 million colors.
The kit comes with a mouse, instructions, a wish from Razer and 2 stickers with the company logo.
Specifications:
- DPI: up to 16000;
- ergonomics: right hand;
- number of buttons: 5;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: 96 g.
Advantages:
- high responsiveness;
- comfortable for the right hand;
- RGB backlight.
Flaws:
- no free scroll mode;
- the design from the previous version of the product has been preserved.
Average price: 5500 rubles.
Professional gamers review the Razer DeathAdder Elite:
Logitech G502 Proteus Spectrum.
This gaming mouse from a well-known company makes the extra weight, oddly enough, out of place. Its hexagonal core can be customized with six 3.6 gram weights, giving the user a light and heavy mouse in one body. The provided ability to adjust the mass and transmission of the mouse is not just a trick of this model: the sensor on the surface with the ability to rotate using Logitech's Delta Zero technology allows you to use the mouse on any surface, except for the usual mouse pad. There is a fabric braided wire and an illuminated company logo. The box comes with a mouse and instructions: nothing more.
Specifications:
- DPI: up to 16000;
- ergonomics: right hand;
- number of buttons: 11;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: adjustable weights.
Advantages:
- backlight class RGB;
- satisfactory scroll wheel.
Flaws:
- weights are difficult to remove.
Average price: 5000 rubles.
Professional gamers review the Logitech G502 Proteus Spectrum:
Corsair Harpoon RGB.
The minimalist design of the mouse looks very good in the workplace. Leather texture allows you to confidently hold the mouse in your hand. The number of buttons is minimal, but that's what the mouse aims for. Suitable for small and large hands.
A 1.8 meter long cable is enough for everyone. There is no fabric braid, and the RGB backlight is only in one place and shows the DPI value.
There is nothing superfluous in the package, a mouse and instructions with a warranty card.
Specifications:
- DPI: 250 to 6000;
- ergonomics: for the right hand;
- number of buttons: 6;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: 85 g.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- lies comfortably in the hand.
Flaws:
- the absence of a fabric braid of the wire;
- the lack of the possibility of custom changing the color palette for highlighting.
Average price: 2700 rubles.
Professional gamers review Corsair Harpoon RGB:
Cougar Minos X3.
The futuristic design is reminiscent of a spaceship, and the streamlined shape of the mouse looks great. The mouse is covered with smooth plastic, and on the side faces there is a textured pattern that makes it comfortable to grip with the palm of your hand. The wheel spins easily, but without slips. There is also a backlight color change button on the back.
The cord is 1.8 meters long and has a nylon coating. Illumination is eye-catching: the Cougar logo and the bottom edges of the mouse light up. Consequently, the table itself glows.
Specifications:
- DPI: up to 3200;
- ergonomics: right hand;
- number of buttons: 7;
- connection type: wired;
- weight:94g;
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- optical accuracy of the mouse;
- good RGB lighting.
Flaws:
- wire without fabric braid;
- in some instances there is a bad assembly.
Average price: 1500 rubles.
Professional players review Cougar Minos X3:
Mad Catz R.A.T. Prox.
Gaming mice from Mad Catz are some of the most unusual mice in terms of design.
The user is given the opportunity to fully customize it for themselves: without any problems, you can change the laser sensor to an optical one. Buying this product is creating your own mouse to fit your palm and needs. Parts are screwed with a hex wrench or mounted on magnets.
Bright yellow wire is presented without braid. There is no backlight, but even without it, the mouse looks aggressive.
The kit comes with a lot of spare parts that help to create a mouse as conceived by the player.
Specifications:
- connection type: wired.
Everything else depends on the custom build of the mouse.
Advantages:
- bold appearance;
- long-term use;
- the ability to make a mouse "for yourself."
Flaws:
- difficult to fix;
- price.
Average price: 11500 rubles.
Professional players review Mad Catz R.A.T. ProX:
Steel Series Rival 500.
The mouse is made in a somewhat aggressive style. It consists of soft-touch plastic and soft rubberized rims. At the top are the right and left mouse buttons, as well as the DPI switch button and 3 programmable buttons (2 on the right side and 1 on the left side). The wheel is rubberized and, in addition to scrolling, it responds to pressing and tilting.
The user already has 9 buttons on the top side only. On the left side there are six more keys that are conveniently pressed with the thumb.
The length of the wire is 2 meters, there is no fabric braid. There is RGB lighting in the form of a company logo.
A unique design element is the rubber insert, which has Rival written out of the box. But, thanks to the drawing, on the official website of Steelseries, the player can print his nickname or name on a 3D printer.
Comes with mouse and instructions.
Specifications:
- DPI: 10000-16000
- ergonomics: right hand;
- number of buttons: 14;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: 127 g.
Advantages:
- backlight class RGB;
- 14 buttons - ideal for MMORPG or MOBA games;
- user-friendly software.
Flaws:
- lack of onboard memory.
Average price: 6000 rubles.
Pros review SteelSeries Rival 500:
G.Skill Ripjaws MX 780.
The design of the mouse is unusual and immediately memorable. On the metal frame there are parts made of soft-touch plastic. The symmetrical body will satisfy the needs of any gamer. In special software, there is the ability to enable the "For left-handers" option. After that, all buttons will switch in mirror image.
In total, the mouse has 8 programmable keys. Their location is not the most convenient, but over time the user gets used to it.
The 1.8 length cable has a nylon braid. It is better to purchase a wire holder so as not to fray it. The junction of the wire with the mouse is raised and does not allow the wire to get tangled or interfere with the movement of the mouse.
Independently adjustable lighting is provided in 4 places. The user is provided with 16.8 million colors for it.
In addition to the mouse, the kit includes a warranty card, two interchangeable side pads, a hex key to adjust the back height and two additional weights weighing 4.5 g each.
Specifications:
- DPI: 16000
- ergonomics: symmetrical;
- number of buttons: 8;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: 115 g.
Advantages:
- lies comfortably in the hand;
- independent setting;
- the presence of RGB backlighting.
Flaws:
- not the most convenient location of the buttons;
- side buttons are loose.
Average price: 6000 rubles.
Professional players review G.Skill Ripjaws MX780:
Roccat Kova is a mouse with a modernized design, versatile software and color backlight. The case is made of tenacious matte plastic, which almost does not collect fingerprints.
The cost is low, almost the lowest of all the best gaming solutions. Has an attractive design. It is symmetrical and has the same number of buttons on each side. Suitable for both right-handed and left-handed people.
The cord is 1.8 meters long and does not have a braid, but it is made with high quality. The advantage of this mouse over competitors in the budget segment is the backlight.
Comes with mouse and instructions only.
Specifications:
- DPI: 200 - 7,000;
- ergonomics: symmetrical;
- number of buttons: 10;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: 99 g.
Advantages:
- decent value for money;
- pleasant appearance;
- RGB backlight.
Flaws:
- material.
Average price: 4000 rubles.
Professionals review Roccat Kova:
Razer Naga Hex Black V2.
The main coating is a rough plastic that does not collect fingerprints. The size of the mouse is slightly larger than the standard, and it fits well in a medium to large hand.
On the right there is a place for the ring finger and a rubber insert on which the little finger rests. On the left side there are 7 numbered keys that can be programmed to suit your needs. Inside the circle of buttons is a rubber insert for the thumb.
At the junction of the cable and mouse there is protection against bending. The cord with a nylon braid is also protected from bending. The wire itself is very soft and flexible.
RGB lighting is available in three places: on the wheel, the Razer logo, and near the rubber circle on the left side.
The kit includes a mouse, a manual, a wish from Razer, and company logo stickers.
Specifications:
- DPI: 100-16000
- ergonomics: right hand;
- number of buttons: 11;
- connection type: Wired;
- weight: 104 g.
Advantages:
- a large number of side buttons;
- Customizable RGB lighting.
Flaws:
- unusual arrangement of buttons in a circle;
- lack of onboard memory.
Average price: 5500 rubles.
The pros review the Razer Naga Hex Black V2:
Razer Lancehead Tournament Edition.
The Lancehead is symmetrical and made of nice textured plastic with excellent grip. Behind the rubberized wheel are two buttons for changing DPI settings. On the left side there is a rubber pad and two side buttons in a very convenient place. On the right side - everything is the same as on the left. This makes using the mouse convenient for both left-handed and right-handed people.
The 2.1 meter long cable is kink-resistant and USB-connected, as well as fabric braided. The wire is thin and soft, does not retain its shape.
The Razer logo, scroll wheel and two side panels are illuminated. The user has access to 16.8 million colors.
The kit comes standard for Razer: a mouse, a manual, a wish from the company and stickers.
Specifications:
- DPI: up to 16000;
- ergonomics: symmetrical;
- number of buttons: 9;
- connection type: wired;
- weight: 104 g.
Advantages:
- backlight class RGB;
- convenience for left-handed people.
Flaws:
- price;
- thin cable.
Average price: 6500 rubles.
Professional gamers review Razer Lancehead Tournament V2:
Steel Series Rival 700.
SteelSeries Rival 700 is a wired mouse, ergonomic for the right hand. It does not have wireless mode, batteries and other things. The product is made from premium materials. Has 7 programmable buttons.
The mouse has a vibration motor and replaceable panels. Like the SteelSeries Rival 500, there is a rubber insert. RGB backlighting is also available.
A distinctive feature of the mouse is the presence of the screen. In the menu items, you can select or edit the profile settings (there are 5 regular profiles in the mouse, which can be changed, but cannot be deleted), configure some system functions (select the tear-off distance, display brightness, display turn-off time when not using the mouse), and also find out technical information: installed sensor and firmware version.
Friends, according to statistics, most people believe that all computer mice are the same, but this is not so! You have no idea how important it is in our computer business choose the right mouse, even if you spend only a couple of hours a day at the computer.
A computer mouse is, in fact, an extension of the user's hand, its interface for convenient computer control. When working with a computer, the user, ideally, should forget about the mouse and fully concentrate on what is happening on the monitor screen, and if the mouse does not suit this person according to various parameters that I have voiced later in the article, the person simply will not be able to concentrate as much as possible on his business, and most importantly, he will not even immediately understand what is bothering him. Moreover, due to work with an unsuitable mouse, you may develop paresthesia of the hand - numbness and periodic severe pain in the hand arising from prolonged work or even simply being in an uncomfortable and unusual position for the hand.
Sometimes watch your colleagues, if while working at a computer one of them periodically massages his right hand or shakes his right hand from time to time, then come up and advise changing the mouse. But of course, a lot still depends on the computer desk and keyboard, we will also talk about this in our articles.
Friends, you need to choose everything correctly: a computer chair, a table, a monitor, a mouse, a keyboard and everything else, even the case of the system unit must be chosen correctly so as not to climb all the time under the table to connect USB flash drives.
Professionals do not buy a mouse on a "come and take the first available" basis, as the wrong choice of mouse can cause physical discomfort while working with a computer.
Low mouse sensitivity (measured in dpi) will make your work in graphic editors uncomfortable, and a low polling (response) rate will “set you up” in computer games, excessively loud key clicks can become annoying over time, by the way, the same applies to the keyboard .
How to choose a computer mouse?
Let's consider below what computer mice are, and also give some tips on how to choose the perfect computer mouse for yourself.
Computer mouse - history and today's realities
But first, some historical facts. The computer mouse was invented by Douglas Engelbart in 1963 and it was a device for the NASA space project. The first mouse consisted of two perpendicular wheels and a body. Only 10 years later, the mouse was introduced into the design of a personal computer and became more widespread.
And its departure from the stage is not yet planned - neither touchpads, nor touch screens, nor any other devices for entering commands to computer devices are yet able to offer greater ease of use, greater accuracy in issuing commands that even the most ordinary computer mouse has.
There is a huge variety of computer mice on the market today. How do they differ from each other?
1. Mouse sensor type
Optical and laser- These are two types of computer mice that differ in the type of sensor that can be seen on the shelves of retail outlets with computer products and on the Internet.
About 10 years ago, you could still meet a ball mouse, users with a decent experience with a PC will probably remember it.
I cannot forget it due to the huge drawback of such a mouse - this is a ball located at the bottom of the mouse body. Thanks to this ball, the mouse could move smoothly over the surface, but this ball was constantly dirty. It had to be cleaned at least once a week so that the mouse was comfortable to use, and it did not slow down while moving it. The ball mouse was heavy, and it could not move on any hard surface, therefore, along with the ball mouse, you always had to buy a special rug. Now a ball mouse can be purchased only in the assembly kit of some old PC as a makeweight.
Optical mouse- the most common today, not least due to its affordable price.
Compact wired optical mouse Oklick 404 USB, has a rubberized scroll wheel and buttons with recesses for fingers. The mouse compares favorably with other ergonomic shape. Rubberized side surfaces securely fix the mouse in your hand during normal work and games.
For an optical mouse, in most cases, a pad is not needed; moving problems can only occur on metal or glass surfaces. The principle of operation of an optical mouse is determined by a tiny camera built inside. This camera, when moving on the surface of the table, takes thousands of shots every second, thanks to which the user sees the moving cursor on the monitor screen. The optical mouse is lightweight, it practically does not need to be cleaned.
laser mouse works due to a semiconductor laser, which determines its movements to display the cursor on the monitor screen. The laser mouse works on any surface, even on the hand or knee. Its other advantage is that a laser mouse is more accurate and faster than an optical one. But, of course, it costs more than optical.
Laser gaming mouse A4Tech XL-747H. Very ergonomic and comfortable, pleasantly and securely sits in the hand. I use it personally, I searched for it for a long time without any spiders, but I didn’t find it, I had to put up with it. Like the previous one, it has buttons with recesses for fingers and rubberized side surfaces.
Why did I buy this mouse? Because it is perfect for a large hand, if you have a small hand, choose the mouse according to your size. Also pay attention to the two side buttons, they can also come in handy, there is also a double-click button on the front side.
This mouse has a very high sensitivity or resolution, which is very important!
Mouse sensitivity is directly related to the resolution of the sensor, measured in dots per inch (dpi). If the mouse has a resolution of 1000 dpi, then it is very convenient to work with it in graphic editors, such programs as Photoshop. This mouse has a resolution of 3600 dpi.
The polling rate of the mouse is important in games, you need at least 1000 Hz., our mouse has just such a resolution.
Click the left mouse to enlarge the image
Pay attention to how she sits in my hand. The hand rests completely on the mouse. The index and middle fingers end where the mouse ends. The arrows show the two side buttons.
There is a very convenient double-click button that can easily be reached with the index finger.
But what happens if I use a small mouse for myself. You see my brush has acquired an unnatural position. I have to keep my index and middle fingers in constant tension, so my hand will quickly get tired.
If I put my hand completely on the mouse, it will immediately become clear that the mouse is clearly not the right size for me.
2. Buttons and mouse wheel
Two mouse buttons and a scroll wheel for vertical scrolling is a standard that should be present in any model, even the most inexpensive one. Some mouse models have a third button (usually next to the wheel) - it plays a double click. A kind of innovation for the lazy, but personally I often use it.
Slightly more expensive than ordinary mice are more functional computer mice with additional buttons - for example, the Windows button, buttons for opening mail, favorites, search, etc. For the convenience of web surfing and working with large documents, the mouse can be equipped with a special wheel, which can rotate up to 7 seconds by inertia, so that you can quickly flip through dozens of pages of documents or extremely long web pages.
Special gaming mice are equipped with additional side buttons that gamers can assign individual actions in the game. Gaming mice may also have a second wheel, usually for horizontal scrolling.
3. Mouse connection interface
PS/2- This is a standard computer port, specially designed for connecting a mouse. It is better to connect a mouse through this port to old computers that do not detect USB ports before Windows boots. Otherwise, problems may occur during system reinstallation.
USB- you can safely connect a mouse through this computer port if your computer detects connected USB devices in BIOS mode.
There is no special choice of mice connected via the PS / 2 port at the points of sale of computer equipment. The reason for this is that store owners are trying to buy goods designed for as large a consumer audience as possible. So, laptops do not have a PS / 2 port, but via USB a mouse can be connected to a PC, a laptop, and even a tablet or smartphone (via a mini-USB adapter).
Both PS/2 and USB- These are wired connections of a mouse to a computer.
Bluetooth and radio interface - the most common wireless interfaces for connecting a mouse to computer and mobile devices
Bluetooth - almost all laptops, tablets and smartphones are equipped with this module today. It is through the Bluetooth module that the battery-powered mouse connects to various computer and mobile devices. The advantage of this type of wireless connection is its versatility. But there is also a huge drawback - when a laptop, tablet or smartphone works offline, a Bluetooth mouse will quickly run out of battery life. As for the PC, it is obvious that for the sake of this interface it makes no sense to specially equip the assembly with a Bluetooth module if it is not needed in another case.
It is much easier for a PC to purchase a wireless mouse with an air interface, and such mice are slightly cheaper than Bluetooth mice.
The radio interface provides for connecting a mouse and a computer using a small receiver that is built into the USB port of a computer or laptop. The mouse inside itself already contains a receiver for radio communication. There should be no problems with connecting a radio mouse - as a rule, Windows automatically selects and installs drivers for the radio receiver.
How to choose the perfect computer mouse for yourself?
Of course, the choice of a computer mouse should be determined by its intended purpose - that is, it should be selected for those tasks that you mainly perform on a computer. The second criterion for choosing a mouse is a specific computer device (PC, laptop, tablet).
When choosing a mouse, put your hand on it and make a few movements. You should not feel any discomfort, the mouse should lie comfortably in your hand. Press the buttons to appreciate the sound of a mouse click, it should not annoy you. Feel the surface of the mouse - if its surface is not rough, it will most likely slip out of your hands.
For home and office use of a computer - working with programs, surfing the web, playing multimedia content - a regular optical mouse will be enough for you. In this case, the emphasis should be on its ergonomics. No more. If you want to speed up the process of working with mail or searching for information, you can pay for additional functional buttons.
To work with a laptop or tablet, a small wireless mouse, preferably a laser one, is more suitable. This will ensure comfortable work with a portable device on any surface, in any "mobile" positions.
For computer games, the most ideal option is a large laser mouse. Such a tool will allow you to carry out one or another trick with maximum efficiency - a jump, somersault, shot, etc. - at the most crucial moment. Since during computer games the mouse is subjected to a large number of mechanical influences (and this is not counting the lost nerves during the loss), it is better to choose a model with a special durable coating. Whether or not you need the aforementioned additional buttons on the sidebar of your gaming mouse is a question you should decide based on the specifics of the games you play. If necessary, be sure to test the convenience of working with them.
And, finally, specify the specifics of the mouse connection interface. Ask the seller how long the battery life of a laptop or tablet will take connecting a wireless mouse so that you can turn it off in time if you do not have the opportunity to recharge your laptop or tablet.
If your computer does not detect USB ports before loading the operating system, when buying a USB mouse, make sure that even the most seedy, nevertheless, working mouse with a PS / 2 connection connector is in the house in the right place. It can be useful for resuscitation or reinstallation of Windows.
