In the high-stakes world of gaming, where every click and movement can be the difference between victory and defeat, the choice of a gaming mouse is critical. While the trend towards wireless devices continues to grow, a significant segment of the gaming community still prefers the reliability and consistent performance of wired gaming mice. This preference isn’t just about avoiding the hassle of charging batteries; it’s about ensuring that every action is as swift and accurate as possible, without the slightest lag or interference.
The wired gaming mouse, often overshadowed by its wireless counterparts, remains a staple in a gamer’s arsenal for several reasons. Firstly, it offers an unyielding connection to the game, ensuring that there’s no delay or loss of signal at crucial moments. Secondly, these mice often come equipped with cutting-edge technology like high-end sensors, adjustable DPI (Dots Per Inch) settings, and customizable buttons, which are essential for tailoring the device to the player’s specific gaming needs. Lastly, ergonomics plays a pivotal role, especially during prolonged gaming sessions, where comfort can significantly impact performance.
In this comprehensive review, we dive into the intricate market of wired gaming mice, exploring various models that stand out in the market. From the Xtrfy M4 renowned 3389 sensor to the iconic Razer DeathAdder V3‘s ergonomic design, we examine the nuances that make each mouse unique. Our goal is to guide you and provide insights that will help you choose a mouse that fits your gaming style.
5* Xtrfy M4: Precision Meets Affordability
Price: $49.99 on Amazon
The Xtrfy M4, a wired gaming mouse, positions itself as a strong contender in this space. The Xtrfy M4 is an ergonomically designed, right-handed mouse, catering primarily to palm and claw grip users. Its design, although not universally appealing, is geared towards gamers who value comfort during prolonged gaming sessions. The mouse’s surface is adorned with circular cutouts reduces the overall weight.
While the overall build quality is commendable, a notable concern is a slight creaking noise on the right side where the pinky rests. This issue, although minor, might be a distraction for some users. However, considering its price point, the build quality is still impressive. The Xtrfy M4 offers a commendable range of customization options. Users can choose from a variety of colors like teal, pink, gray with red accents, and classic white, allowing for personalization based on aesthetic preferences.
The mouse is equipped with 100% PTFE skates, placed at each corner. This design choice, albeit unconventional, provides a smooth glide with minimal drag. The effectiveness of these skates is a pleasant surprise, given their placement and size.
The mouse uses Ron switches, striking a balance between being neither too light nor too heavy. For gamers who prefer a distinct click without excessive force, these switches hit the sweet spot. Programmability is somewhat limited, as there is no dedicated software, but it does offer additional buttons on the side and behind the scroll wheel. The scroll wheel, while functional, falls short of being exceptional. It’s slightly mushy with tactile bumps that don’t feel as precise as some might prefer.
The Xtrfy M4 features an ultra-light cable design. However, the cable’s rigidity may cause some drag during intense gaming sessions. This can be mitigated with the use of a mouse bungee or by arranging a bit of excess cable on the desk.
At the heart of the Xtrfy M4 is the PixArt 3389 sensor, renowned for its precision and reliability. With a DPI range of up to 16,000, a 1000 Hz polling rate, 400 IPS, and 50G acceleration, the mouse is well-equipped to handle fast-paced gaming scenarios with remarkable accuracy and ensures that every movement is tracked with high fidelity, crucial for competitive gaming where precision is paramount.
Considering its features, the Xtrfy M4 is competitively priced. It offers a robust set of functionalities that are usually found in more expensive models. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers who do not want to compromise on quality and performance.
4* Endgame Gear XM1R: Sleek Performance
Price: $59.99 on Amazon
In the competitive market of gaming mice, the Endgame Gear XM1R emerges as a noteworthy contender. Launched at a reasonable price of $59.99, it promises high-end features tailored for both casual and professional gamers. The XM1R sports a minimalist yet sturdy design. It’s characterized by a matte finish which, while attractive, tends to attract fingerprints, especially in lighter color variants. The mouse’s shape is flat and low-profile, lacking a pronounced palm bump. This design choice makes it particularly suited for users who favor claw or fingertip grips, though it remains functional for palm grippers.
The build quality is commendable. The XM1R feels solid and durable, akin to being “built like a tank” without feeling overly heavy. This aspect is crucial for gamers who demand durability without compromising on the swift movements required in fast-paced games. Weighing in at 69g, the XM1R is neither the lightest nor the heaviest in its class. It strikes a balance, offering enough heft for stability without being burdensome. In terms of aesthetics, the XM1R maintains a sleek and understated look, focusing more on performance than flashy RGB lighting.
The XM1R offers decent customization. It features five programmable buttons: two main buttons, two side buttons, and a clickable scroll wheel. One potential drawback is the accidental clicking issue. The XM1R uses Kailh GM 8.0 switches for the main buttons, which are exceptionally light and have a very short throw. This sensitivity can lead to unintended clicks, especially during intense gaming sessions where the mouse might be lifted or slammed down. This aspect might be a deal-breaker for some, particularly those with a more vigorous gaming style.
The scroll wheel on the XM1R is precise and tactile, though some might find it a bit too light. It strikes a balance between smooth scrolling and enough resistance to prevent accidental scrolls. The skates are made of 100% PTFE, ensuring a smooth glide across most surfaces. Interestingly, the XM1R comes with additional skates in the box, allowing users to replace the default setup if they experience excessive drag.
The ultra-light cable design is a significant plus, offering flexibility and reducing drag, which is crucial for uninterrupted gameplay. However, some users may find the cable a tad stiff, potentially affecting movement. This can be mitigated with a mouse bungee or by arranging the cable to reduce tension.
At the heart of the XM1R lies the Pixart 3370 sensor, known for its precision and reliability. It supports a 1000 Hz polling rate, up to 19,000 DPI, 400 IPS (Inches Per Second), and 50 Gs of acceleration. These numbers indicate a mouse that’s not just responsive, but also versatile enough to cater to various gaming styles and preferences. Performance-wise, the XM1R doesn’t disappoint. The high-end sensor ensures accuracy and responsiveness, essential for competitive gaming. The mouse’s shape and low profile design cater to a variety of grip styles, offering comfort over extended gaming sessions.
3* Razer Basilisk V3: Ergonomic Excellence
Price: $49.99 on Amazon
Priced at around $49.75, the Razer Basilisk V3 offers excellent value for money. It competes well with other mice in its price range, offering features that are often found in more expensive models. The Basilisk V3 is a right-handed ergonomic mouse, that offers a design that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The mouse features a pronounced thumb rest, which is a boon for palm grip users and well-suited for those with larger hands, providing extra support during long gaming sessions.
The mouse’s build quality is impressive. The plastic used feels robust, and there’s a notable absence of any creaks or weak points that you might find in lesser-quality mice. Aesthetically, the Basilisk V3 maintains Razer’s signature sleek, black design, accented by customizable RGB lighting that adds a personal touch.
Razer equips the Basilisk V3 with numerous programmable buttons, including three on the side, two behind the scroll wheel, and the standard left and right clicks. The scroll wheel itself is a highlight, offering both tactile and free-spin modes, which can be switched on the fly. This versatility is beneficial for both gaming (precise weapon selections) and productivity tasks (scrolling through long documents).
The Razer Synapse software allows for extensive customization. Users can remap buttons, adjust DPI settings, and customize the RGB lighting. The ability to save profiles directly to the mouse is a useful feature for gamers who switch between different PCs. One of the standout features of the Basilisk V3 is its sniper paddle. This programmable button allows users to temporarily lower DPI for precise aiming in FPS games – a feature that can be a game-changer in sniper situations.
The PTFE feet ensure smooth gliding across most surfaces, complementing the mouse’s overall performance. The Razer Speedflex cable is flexible and light, minimizing drag and giving a near-wireless experience.
The heart of the Basilisk V3 is the Razer Focus+ Optical Sensor, boasting a staggering 26,000 DPI. This high level of sensitivity ensures that the mouse is incredibly responsive, making it suitable for both high-speed action and precision movements. The high 1,000 Hz polling rate further enhances its responsiveness. In terms of in-game performance, the Basilisk V3 shines across a variety of genres. Its high DPI range and rapid response rate make it excellent for fast-paced FPS games, while the ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended RPG or strategy gaming sessions.
2* BenQ Zowie S2C: Solid and Reliable
Price: $59.99 on Amazon
The BenQ Zowie S2C has emerged as a standout contender in this arena, offering a compelling blend of performance and comfort. The Zowie S2C, a part of BenQ’s esteemed Zowie series, is designed with a focus on comfort and usability. The mouse features a distinct shape, which is slightly shorter and with a raised rear end, catering to a comfortable claw grip. This design ensures that users can game for extended periods without experiencing fatigue or discomfort, a crucial aspect for both professional and casual gamers.
Constructed with a high-quality matte plastic finish, the Zowie S2C feels robust and durable. The matte surface provides a non-slip grip, essential during intense gaming sessions. Despite its solid build, the mouse maintains a lightweight, a critical factor for gamers who rely on swift, precise movements.
The Zowie S2C, with its versatile shape, accommodates various grip styles, though it’s particularly suited for claw and fingertip grips. Its size and contouring make it a comfortable fit for most hand sizes. The Zowie S2C features Huanuo switches under its buttons, offering a crisp, responsive click with minimal travel. The mouse includes two side buttons, strategically placed for easy access. While the Zowie S2C doesn’t come with software for customization, its plug-and-play nature with adjustable DPI settings.
The mouse comes equipped with PTFE skates, known for providing a smooth glide across various surfaces. The unique placement of these skates – one large skate at the top and bottom, and a smaller one around the sensor – contributes to a controlled, stable movement. This design minimizes drag and enhances the mouse’s responsiveness.
The heart of the Zowie S2C’s performance lies in its PixArt 3360 sensor. Renowned for its reliability and precision, this sensor offers a maximum DPI of 12,000, catering to a wide range of preferences. The sensor’s accuracy is evident in its tracking, with minimal jitter and no acceleration, making it an excellent choice for gamers who rely on precision aiming. Beyond gaming, the Zowie S2C’s ergonomic design and responsive buttons make it a suitable option for general computer use, particularly for those who value comfort and precision in daily tasks.
1* Razer DeathAdder V3: The Ultimate Gaming Companion
Price: $69.99 on Amazon
The Razer DeathAdder series has stood the test of time, consistently offering gamers high-quality options. The latest iteration, the Razer DeathAdder V3, is no exception. Priced at $69.99, the DeathAdder V3 offers exceptional value for its features and performance. It’s a strong choice for gamers who prioritize precision, comfort, and reliability in their gaming gear.
The DeathAdder V3 continues Razer’s legacy of ergonomic design tailored for right-handed users. It sports a sleek, contoured shape that fits snugly in the palm, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. The mouse’s dimensions cater to a variety of hand sizes, and its lightweight structure, weighing just 59 grams, ensures minimal strain during rapid movements. The surface of the DeathAdder V3 is coated with a matte finish that offers a good grip while resisting fingerprints and smudges. This matte finish, coupled with the mouse’s subtle curves, provides a comfortable and secure grip, essential for precision in fast-paced games.
The DeathAdder V3 features seven programmable buttons, including two conveniently placed thumb buttons. These buttons offer tactile and responsive feedback without being too sensitive to accidental presses. Razer’s use of their Gen 3 Optical switches in these buttons ensures durability and a satisfying clicky response.
The scroll wheel is designed with tactile bumps for precise scrolling, ideal for weapon switches in-game or navigating long documents outside of gaming. While the scroll wheel is less pronounced compared to previous models, it provides a balance between tactile feedback and ease of use.
The mouse is equipped with Razer’s Speedflex cable, known for its flexibility and lightweight design. This cable almost mimics the feel of a wireless mouse, with minimal drag and resistance, enhancing the overall fluidity of movement. Underneath, the DeathAdder V3 is fitted with 100% PTFE feet, ensuring a smooth glide across most surfaces. These feet contribute to the mouse’s overall agility, making it easy to execute precise movements without any unwanted friction.
At the heart of the DeathAdder V3 is the Razer Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor, a state-of-the-art component that offers exceptional tracking accuracy. This sensor supports up to 30,000 DPI, allowing for ultra-fine sensitivity adjustments. It’s capable of an 8,000 Hz polling rate, providing near-instantaneous response times that can be a game-changer in competitive scenarios.
The high IPS (Inches Per Second) and acceleration stats mean the DeathAdder V3 can handle rapid and large movements with accuracy, making it suitable for both high and low-DPI gamers. The precision and responsiveness of the sensor are particularly noticeable in FPS games, where quick and accurate aim is paramount.
Razer’s Synapse software allows for extensive customization of the DeathAdder V3. Users can adjust DPI settings, reprogram buttons, and fine-tune other performance settings. The software is user-friendly, offering both novice and experienced gamers the tools to tailor the mouse to their specific needs.
Cooler Master MM711 (Honorable Mention): Budget-Friendly Beast
Price: $28.95 on Amazon
Priced at under $30, the Cooler Master MM711 offers exceptional value. It competes favorably with more expensive mice in terms of performance and features, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers or those looking for a high-performing secondary mouse.
With its unique design and features tailored for gamers, this mouse stands out as a compelling choice for both casual and competitive players. The MM711 boasts a distinctive design that immediately catches the eye. It features a lightweight honeycomb shell that not only reduces the weight but also provides a unique aesthetic. The mouse weighs in at an impressively light 60 grams, making it one of the lightest on the market. This weight reduction is a significant factor in reducing hand fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
Ergonomically, the MM711 is designed to accommodate a variety of grip styles, including claw and fingertip grips. Its shape provides adequate support for the hand, reducing strain during prolonged use. The side buttons are well-placed, offering easy access without the risk of accidental presses. One of the standout features of the MM711 is its PTFE feet, which allow for smooth and consistent gliding across different surfaces.
Cooler Master has equipped the MM711 with high-quality Omron switches rated for 20 million clicks, ensuring durability and a satisfying click response. The mouse also includes customizable RGB lighting, which adds a personalized touch. While the RGB implementation is not as extensive as some higher-priced competitors, it strikes a good balance between aesthetics and functionality.
The build quality of the MM711 is surprisingly robust for its price point. Despite its lightweight and perforated design, the mouse feels sturdy in hand. The honeycomb shell does not compromise its structural integrity. The matte finish adds a premium feel to the mouse and enhances grip, although it can be prone to accumulating fingerprints and dust. The MM711’s cable is another highlight. It’s an ultralight, braided cable that is flexible and minimizes drag, almost giving a wireless feel.
At the heart of the MM711 is the PixArt 3389 sensor, renowned for its precision and reliability. This sensor provides excellent tracking accuracy, crucial for both fast-paced FPS games and precision tasks. The mouse supports up to 16,000 DPI, which is more than sufficient for most users and can be adjusted in 100 DPI increments, allowing for fine-tuning to the user’s preference. The MM711 features an impressive 1,000 Hz polling rate, ensuring that every movement is captured with minimal latency. This high polling rate is particularly beneficial in competitive gaming, where every millisecond counts.
The MM711 is supported by Cooler Master’s software, which allows for extensive customization. Users can adjust DPI settings, reprogram buttons, and customize the RGB lighting. The software is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to tailor the mouse to individual preferences.
Conclusion
In the market of competitive gaming, the choice of a gaming mouse can be as personal and significant as the selection of a gaming title itself. Our exploration of the various wired gaming mice – The Xtrfy M4, with its 3389 sensor and commendable build quality, sets a high standard in affordability without compromising on performance. It stands as a testament to how competitive gaming gear can be accessible without the hefty price tag. Similarly, the Endgame Gear XM1R, with its 3370 sensors and matte finish, challenges our preconceptions about grip and texture, offering a unique experience for users who prefer a more understated approach.
Razer’s Basilisk V3 and DeathAdder V3, on the other hand, are prime examples of how ergonomic design and high-end sensor technology can come together to create devices not just for gaming, but for comfort and endurance in long gaming sessions. Their designs accommodate a wide range of hand sizes and grip styles, making them versatile choices for a diverse gaming community.
The BenQ Zowie S2C‘s emphasis on solid build quality and balanced performance speaks to users who value consistency and reliability. Its design philosophy underscores the importance of a mouse that responds predictably in every gaming scenario.
Not to be overlooked, the Cooler Master MM711 serves as an honorable mention, reminding us that exceptional gaming gear need not always be a significant financial investment. It stands as a beacon for budget-conscious gamers, offering quality and performance in an affordable package.
As we wrap up this comprehensive review, it’s crucial to reiterate the importance of personal preference in the selection of a gaming mouse. Each gamer’s hand, play style, and comfort level are unique, and what may be the perfect mouse for one could be less ideal for another. The subtle nuances in weight, button placement, tactile feedback, and glide of the mouse skates play significant roles in the overall gaming experience. The key is to understand your personal preference and play style. Remember, the best mouse is not just about the highest DPI or the flashiest RGB lighting; it’s about how well it complements your gaming experience and enhances your play.
Here’s a comparison table featuring the key attributes of each gaming mouse discussed in the review. This table will help to quickly compare and contrast their features, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.
| Feature / Mouse Model | Xtrfy M4 | Endgame Gear XM1R | Razer Basilisk V3 | BenQ Zowie S2C | Cooler Master MM711 | Razer DeathAdder V3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | Pixart 3389 | Pixart 3370 | Razer Focus Plus Optical | Pixart 3360 | Pixart 3389 | Razer Focus Pro 30K Optical |
| DPI Range | Up to 16,000 | Up to 19,000 | Up to 26,000 | Up to 12,000 | Up to 16,000 | Up to 30,000 |
| Polling Rate | 1,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz | 8,000 Hz |
| Build Quality | Very good (small creak noted) | Solid, no rattles | High-quality, durable | Solid, robust | Above average | High-quality |
| Ergonomics | Right-handed Ergo | Flat, low profile | Right-handed Ergo with thumb rest | Right-handed | Ambidextrous | Right-handed Ergo |
| Weight | 69 g | 69 g | 101 g | 69 g / 72 g | 60 g | 59 g |
| Color Options | Multiple (teal, pink, etc.) | Limited | Black (RGB customizable) | Limited | Multiple | Black |
| Skates Material | 100% PTFE | 100% PTFE | 100% PTFE | 100% PTFE | 100% PTFE | 100% PTFE |
| Cable | Ultra-light, slightly stiff | Ultra-light | Razer Speed Flex | Ultra-light | Ultra-light | Razer Speed Flex |
| Buttons | Standard + 2 extra | 5 total programmable | Multiple programmable | Standard + 2 extra | 6 programmable | 7 programmable |
| Scroll Wheel | Slightly mushy | Precise, tactile | Tactile, programmable | Top-tier | Clear, tactile | Tactile, less pronounced |
| RGB Lighting | Vibrant | None | Extensive | None | Unique palm area lighting | None |
| Price Range | Moderate | Affordable | Moderate | Moderate | Budget-friendly | Moderate |
