Read our latest take: 2010 Mouse Round-up: 12 Options, Every Budget Covered
With online gaming being as competitive as it is these days, you will no doubt want to take advantage of every opportunity available (short of cheating) to gain an edge over your online foes. Today we are taking a look at five gaming mice that aim to do just that.
From Logitech, we have the G5 and G9 mice. Microsoft is represented by their Sidewinder and Habu mice, while Razer rounds out the group with the Lachesis gaming mouse.
Although there is admittedly a plethora of options out there as far as mice are concerned, there is only a handful of brands that we would wholeheartedly recommend. Considering it would be nearly impossible to cover all options we have gone with the usual suspects which usually carry the best ergonomics and sensor technology available at any given time.
Each mouse offers a unique layout and feature set that should go a long way to improving your gameplay during intense action. Without further ado, here's our detailed impressions and comparisons between these major contestants.
Logitech G5 (2nd revision)
Logitech's second revision of the G5 gaming mouse adds a second thumb button on the left side as well as all-new aesthetics. A grippy, rubberized black and blue "cracked" surface replaces the smooth plastic of the previous G5. A DPI indicator lies on the top of the mouse between where your thumb and index finger rest. The rubberized scroll wheel is clickable and also tilts to the sides for two additional button clicks. Directly behind the scroll wheel are the DPI adjustment buttons to switch on-the-fly between 400, 800 and 2000 DPI at default settings.
Logitech includes a removable weight cartridge that slides into the bottom of the mouse along with a set of weights. Eight 1.7g and eight 4.5g weights are included, allowing you to mix and match to find the perfect balance of weight vs. friction when fragging.
Three polytetrafluoroethylene feet (a.k.a. Teflon) ensure smooth, effortless movement over your mouse pad or desk. Logitech replaced the standard boring cable with a braided version that looks really nice. If you have been using a wireless mouse, it may take some time to get used to a wire again, but you will no doubt enjoy not having to charge a battery.
The G5 works just fine out of the box, but you will more than likely want to install the included SetPoint software for added flexibility and customization. With Logitech's SetPoint, you can remap each button to a specific function in Windows or even map it to a specific program such as Outlook or Windows Media Player. Other options include adjustable pointer speeds, report rates, and further DPI adjustments.
During testing, I found the G5 to be a superb gaming mouse. I have relatively small hands and I never felt like the mouse was overwhelming my hand. I experimented both with and without weights and found a medium-weighted mouse using 800 DPI offered me the best gaming experience. The on-the-fly adjustable DPI comes in handy when using a sniper rifle, allowing you to bump down the sensitivity for more precise shots. A quick bump back to 800 DPI and you are ready for battle with assault rifles and the like.
Price as of writing $49.99.
Pros:
- Adjustable on-the-fly DPI
- Grippy Surface
- Multi-Use (Tilt) Scroll Wheel
- Braided USB cable
- Adjustable weight cartridges
- Relatively Low Price
Cons:
- Scroll wheel is a bit tough to depress
- Aesthetics not for everyone
- Those with larger hands may find it a bit small