Search results for 'Features' - Page: 11
| PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)I have way too many devices that need to stay plugged in — and I’m sure you do, too. From your laptop to your extra monitors, from your phone to your router, they all need to get juice somehow.
The Anker 321 Power Strip is a fantastic gadget that doesn’t just keep your devices powered but keeps your desk clutter-free. It’s currently available for $15, down from its usual $26.
This compact power strip is less of a “strip” and actually a cube, and it’s perfect for when you need to efficiently plug in multiple monitors and devices without taking up too much space.
The Anker 321 Power Strip features 3 AC outlets, 2 USB-A ports, and 1 USB-C port. For my own desk setup, it would support my laptop and my two monitors with the AC outlets, and the USB ports would charge my phone, my headphones, and (amusingly) my power bank.
And by the way, the USB-C port supports 20W Power Delivery, so iPhone users can charge up their phones in a blink.
It’s a gem of a power strip thanks to its compact size, great for keeping everything on your desk powered with a single unit. Whether you’re working from home or traveling, this power strip ensures you have enough outlets for all your devices.
Replace your bulky power strip with this nifty power cube! The Anker 321 Power Strip is a great deal for $15 — that’s 43% off its normal listing — and it’s not going to last long at this price.
Get the Anker power strip for $15 on Amazon
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| | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)The Computex trade show starts in Taipei next week, and it’s kind of a big deal. While CES tends to get headlines for general tech, Computex is where manufacturers pull out all the stops for desktops, laptops, and all the PC stuff that goes along with them. And we’re going there, of course. Wanna come along? You can, by following PCWorld’s social media accounts.
For instant, easy-to-snack-on coverage of the coolest stuff at Computex, you can check out our short-form videos on TikTok. These shorts will give you bite-sized info on the coolest stuff at Computex, from the biggest names to the smallest niches.
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For more in-depth coverage, check out PCWorld’s YouTube channel, where new videos covering the latest hardware from the show floor will be posted. If you want to see hands-on exploration of new laptops, motherboards, PC cases, and all that jazz, this is the place to do it. Oh, and we’ll also probably have some other tech YouTubers on just for some different perspectives. Subscribe to make sure that you don’t miss anything.
Want something a little more meaty? Then the next stop is The Full Nerd podcast, which now has its own dedicated YouTube channel for easier subscriptions and backlog binging. We’ll have at least one episode from Computex, including interviews with big players in the PC and gaming space you won’t want to miss.
And if you prefer to get all of this in a more glanceable social feed, follow PCWorld on Facebook and Twitter. We’ll post all the new videos, plus our main website’s stories for news, reviews, features and opinion posts, how-tos, and the best deals on technology.
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| | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)If there’s one trend in PCs for 2024, it’s “AI” in everything. That’s inescapable. (Ugh.) But if there are two, then the second one is OLED monitors finally gaining steam.
Case in point: Acer just showed off three brand new designs in its Predator lineup, all sporting gorgeous and speedy OLED panels.
Acer Predator X27U F3
The fastest of the bunch happens to be the smallest, although esports fans will probably still dig its 26.5-inch panel and WQHD (2560×1440) resolution. The Predator X27U F3 also boasts an impressive 480Hz refresh rate — not the fastest in the world, but not far off either.
And at .03 milliseconds of grey-to-grey response time, it’s literally faster than the human eye. (My human eyes, anyway. I don’t know if esports athletes qualify as merely human.) Naturally, it’s compatible with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync.
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Acer
Acer
This isn’t a one-trick pony. Ports include DisplayPort 1.4, double HDMI 2.1, and even USB-C with a maximum power output of 90 watts. That should be more than enough to handle most gaming laptops.
You also get a pair of standard USB-A ports and… two 5W speakers. Seriously, why do all these monitors include crappy speakers no one will ever use?
Acer Predator X32 X3
For a bigger and bolder presentation, you can step up to the Predator X32 X3. At “just” 240Hz, its 31.5-inch OLED panel isn’t as fast as the smaller monitor, but that should be plenty for gamers interested in showing off the latest titles at 4K resolution.
But if you need speed in a pinch, you can step down to 1080p resolution to bump up that refresh rate to 480Hz.
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Acer
Acer
This 32-inch monitor has all the same ports and extras, yes, including those dumb speakers. Oddly, it’s exactly the same price: both will start at $1,200, though the X27U F3 will come sometime in Q3 2024 while the X32 X3 will come along in Q4 2024.
Acer Predator X34 X5
As a fan of ultrawide excess, I have to say my favorite of the trio is the Predator X34 X5 (header image, right).
It features the usual 34-inch ultrawide form factor and a 3440×1440 resolution — essentially a 27-inch QHD stretched out to 21:9 aspect ratio — plus a subtle 1800R curve. It can handle 240Hz at that resolution, no options for shifting down and going higher.
The 34-inch model has all the same goodies as the other two monitors, but for some reason it’s slightly cheaper at “just” $1,100. It’ll come along in Q4 2024.
And keep in mind that for almost all OLED monitors, we’ve seen some significant sales just a few months after launch. So, if you’re looking for a deal, I’d hold out until about February of next year for these beauties.
Further reading: The best gaming monitors right now
“Smart” monitors with Google TV
In addition to the OLED gaming displays, Acer is launching a new series of “smart” monitors with Google TV onboard. Basically, miniature versions of the smart TVs you can’t escape in any electronics store.
In addition to the usual HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C (65W) inputs, they’ll be able to run Google TV streaming apps and Android-based games all on their own.
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Acer
Acer
The standard DA1 model will come in 27-inch and 31.5-inch varieties, both VA-LCDs with 4K resolution, plus a pair of standard USB-A ports and those 5W speakers (which make a little more sense now that these are just itty-bitty TVs). Naturally, they feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for downloading apps and connecting controllers.
The DA271K will cost $350 and the DA321QK will be $400, both launching in Q4 2024.
If you need something a little more competitive, the same designs will be offered in “Nitro” form. The 27-inch GA271U P (header image, left) is the better pick if you ask me, since it’s offering a 2560×1440 panel with fast IPS for better color accuracy. While not blazing by any means, 180Hz is still enough for most gamers.
The 31.5-inch version (GA321QU P) offers the same resolution and speed, but has to settle for a cheaper VA display panel. Since the 27-incher is slightly cheaper — $330 versus $380 — I’d opt for the former when they go on sale in Q4 2024.
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| | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)We’re spoiled for choice now with gaming mice. Some just hit ridiculous heights in performance — mice like the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 and Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro, for example, are just two that come to mind.
Yet these mice are missing something that I would have thought was essential for pro gamers — a dedicated DPI switcher button. So, what’s the story? Why do these mice adopt such a minimalist design, free of the old DPI switcheroo?
Further reading: The best gaming mice
What is a DPI switcher anyway?
Most gamers have some familiarity with DPI. In a nutshell, it’s the dots-per-inch resolution that determines how sensitive the mouse sensor registers movement. A DPI of 1,600 or lower makes movement slow and precise, whereas a high DPI setting of 8,000 or above makes it extremely sensitive and quick.
Gamers use different DPI settings for different games, and even for different player classes within games to find a performance edge.
Take a gamer playing a first-person shooter as an example. They may prefer the accuracy and micro control of movement that a low DPI of 1,600 gives them when wielding a sniper’s rifle, but enjoy the more fluid movement that a DPI of 3,200 gives them when strafing with a sub-machine gun.
A dedicated DPI switcher button can usually be found just behind the mouse wheel in some gaming mice like the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless. Some mice like the Razer Cobra Pro even have two switcher buttons, one to switch up DPI and one to switch down DPI.
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HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
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The beauty of DPI switchers is that they allow gamers to quickly switch between DPI settings mid-game without having to pause and load up their mouse’s companion app, which would naturally disturb the gameplay — not to mention the fun!
Then why the missing switcher in some esports mice?
There are quite a few reasons why some of the best esports mice don’t have a dedicated DPI switcher.
The most obvious reason is that in esports competitions, where mere ounces can be the difference between winning or losing, mice need to be as lightweight as possible.
You can see this in action in the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro and Logitech G Pro X Superlight, which weigh just 2.2 ounces (63 grams) and 2.1 ounces (60 grams), respectively.
These mice have been stripped of all non-essential features — things like flashy RGB lighting, thumb rests, and extra buttons.
Where competitions sit on a knife’s edge there’s also player consistency to be considered. If there’s no DPI switcher, pro gamers don’t have to worry about miss-clicking it in the heat of battle, accidentally changing their DPI and throwing out their performance.
Many esports mice like the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition don’t have dedicated switcher buttons on top but do have other options to switch DPI on the fly.
Many esports mice like the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition don’t have dedicated switcher buttons on top but do have other options to switch DPI on the fly. Dominic Bayley / IDG
Many esports mice like the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition don’t have dedicated switcher buttons on top but do have other options to switch DPI on the fly. Dominic Bayley / IDG
Dominic Bayley / IDG
Another big reason is that a top-side DPI switcher just isn’t necessary for most pro gamers. Indeed, some pro gamers choose not to switch DPI on the fly at all since they think it’s going to cause inconsistency in their performance.
Those who do still have options to change their DPI that don’t involve using a DPI switcher.
Mice like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro have discreet DPI switcher buttons on their underside. Admittedly, this makes switching on the fly and not getting fragged a little difficult, but players might like to use this option between rounds.
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Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
Read our review
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What’s easier than that is setting up one of the existing buttons to switch DPI on the fly in the mouse’s companion app.
Logitech G Hub software, for example, allows you to set any button on your Logitech G mouse as your DPI shifter, so some gamers that use the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 opt to use one of the small buttons on the mouse’s left-hand side.
Another great option that some pro gaming mice now offer is the ability to change DPI by pressing a combination of buttons on the mouse itself. This is one of the best features in the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition, and one reason why I rated it so highly in my recent review.
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| | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)On May 29, Microsoft began rolling out an unscheduled update for Windows 11. Patch KB5037853 is currently still optional, but the changes are expected to be applied to everyone during June’s Patch Tuesday.
The new features in Windows 11’s patch KB5037853 include:
Account management improvements
Sharing updates
Personalization options
What’s changing in Windows 11 account management
Windows 11 now provides a page called “Add linked devices” in the settings under Accounts. There you can see and manage all PCs and Xbox consoles that are linked to the system.
However, this option is only available for the Home and Pro editions if you sign in to Windows with your Microsoft account.
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Windows 11 Pro
The new Account Manager is now in the Start menu for easier management of account settings. If you use a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows, you can get an overview of your account benefits here. In the Start menu, you can also enter an email address to recover your account.
You can now also save your sound settings and transfer them to another device. This is in the settings under Accounts, then Windows backup. There you need to tick the box next to “Save my settings” and also activate the boxes next to Personalization and “Other Windows settings.”
With the new update, it’s also possible to sign in to your Microsoft account in the Windows Backup app. This app saves backups to your account.
Changes to sharing in Windows 11
The new update also brings additional features for sharing under Windows 11, like preventing you from accidentally closing the Windows sharing window when you click outside the window.
It’s also now possible to send emails to yourself via the Windows sharing window. (You’ll receive the email at the email address in your Microsoft account.) You can also create QR codes for website URLs and cloud files directly from the Windows sharing window.
Other features in the update
Once the patch is installed, you can use the mouse to drag files between breadcrumbs in the File Explorer address bar. This makes it easier to navigate under Windows 11. The update also simplifies operation via voice input in apps and on the web.
Last but not least, the KB5037853 update for Windows 11 fixes a few bugs. The complete list of changes can be found on the corresponding support page.
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| | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)Acer has unveiled their new TravelMate laptops mere days ahead of Computex. These business laptops are traditionally known for their slim form factor and long battery life. In fact, the 2023 version of the TravelMate P6 nabbed a top spot on our best laptops roundup, earning the title of “Best Ultraportable.”
The new models announced today come loaded with more power-efficient Intel Core Ultra CPUs as well as useful AI capabilities. There’s also a 2-in-1 version and a clamshell with a bigger 16-inch display, and they all use recycled materials in both design and packaging. Heck yeah.
Configurations, hardware, and availability
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Acer
Acer
Acer puts forth three offerings on the table: Acer TravelMate P6 14, Acer TravelMate P4 Spin 14, and Acer TravelMate P4 16.
Acer TravelMate P6 14
The Acer TravelMate P6 14, a traditional clamshell and the first to lead the charge, is powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and comes with up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage.
The 14-inch touch-optional display is a real stunner with its 2880×1800 resolution, 16:10 aspect ratio, and 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut support for sharp-looking pictures with rich colors.
It even comes with Wi-Fi 7 (gotta go fast!) and Thunderbolt 4 support — both ideal if you’re connecting high-performing devices. It has a starting price of $1,429.99 and will be available to purchase in July 2024.
Acer TravelMate P4 Spin 14
The Acer TravelMate P4 Spin 14 is the convertible version of the business lineup. That means you can swing the screen around a full 360 degrees and use it in various positions, like tent or tablet mode. It weighs 3.29 pounds, making it super travel-friendly.
The machine also comes with up to an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, a 14-inch touch-optional 1200p display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. The taller aspect ratio makes scrolling through web pages a much more comfortable experience.
This versatile device has a starting price of $1,329.99 and is expected to launch in July 2024.
Acer TravelMate P4 16
Looking for a laptop with a bigger screen? The Acer TravelMate P4 16 is your girl. Like the other models above, it’s packing the latest Intel Core Ultra processor.
However, you can load this one up with up to 64GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. 64GB is a lot of RAM — and that’s a good thing, especially if you typically work with video editing software.
The 16-inch display has a 1920×1200 resolution and 100 percent sRGB, so the picture and color quality should be quite good. The starting price is $1,229.99 and you can start ordering it in July 2024.
New AI capabilities
Everybody’s embracing AI these days, so it’s no surprise to see Acer jump on that bandwagon. You’ll find a number of AI features in the Acer Experience Zone on the TravelMateSense application.
Need to remove something in the background of a photo? Acer LiveArt has you covered. You can also generate “depth maps on 2D images,” according to Acer.
The TravelMate laptops also come with Acer PurifiedView 2.0, which uses the CPU’s neural processing unit to create more seamless, free-flowing AI experiences. This is useful for when you need to blur your background during a videoconferencing call.
Enterprise Chromebooks
Speaking of business laptops, Acer’s got two new business Chromebooks on tap: Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515 and Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 514.
Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515
The Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515 has a spacious 15.6-inch 1080p display and an equally spacious keyboard with a number pad. The number pad is key for both workers and students alike, especially if your day-to-day consists of punching in numbers (data entry is no joke).
The Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515 has a starting price of $649.99 and will be available in June.
Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 514
The Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 514 is the convertible model, meaning you can prop it up like a tent or flip the screen around and use it like a handheld tablet. It also has Google AI-powered video call tools, which automatically enhances the webcam picture.
The Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 514 will hit the market in August with a starting price of $749.99.
For regular customers, there’s also the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514. It comes with up to an Intel Core 7 150U processor and 16GB of RAM. It has a starting price of $549.99 and will become available in August.
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| | | PC World - 31 May (PC World)At a glanceExpert`s Rating
ProsGreat 20Gbps read performanceHandy form factor with travel caseWeighs only slightly over an ounceConsSlows drastically when writing over 20GB of dataOur VerdictFor light duty, the 20Gbps Teamgroup PD20M SSD will get the job done. But slow write performance with larger data sets means pros should look elsewhere.
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While being a decent 20Gbps USB SSD with light workloads, the Teamgroup PD20M is not the drive for writing large data sets on a continual basis. The parsimonious 20GB of cache on our 1TB test unit had it dead last overall in our performance ratings.
That’s a shame, because it’s also one of the lightest and most attractive SSDs we’ve tested — i.e., it travels well, especially with the handy carrying case that Teamgroup bundles.
Further reading: See our roundup of the best external drives to learn about competing products.
What are the Teamgroup PD20M’s features?
The PD20M is a 20Gbps USB 3.2×2 external SSD sporting a thin, but squarish profile measuring 2.45-inches wide, by 2.75-inches long, by a mere 0.32-inches thick. The top is rounded, while the bottom is perfectly flat.
Unusually, there’s no anti-skid material on the bottom of the unit, but it makes perfect sense: The PD20M weighs a mere 1.1 ounces on its own, and only 1.3 ounces with the Type-C cable that plugs into one edge. With so little heft for gravity to effect, you’d have to use semi-adhesive tape to secure this featherweight puppy in place.
The PD20M is the lightest SSD we’ve ever tested.
The PD20M is the lightest SSD we’ve ever tested. It’s not bad looking either.
The PD20M is the lightest SSD we’ve ever tested. It’s not bad looking either.
The PD20M is the lightest SSD we’ve ever tested. It’s not bad looking either.
The large upside is that if you’re looking for an SSD you can dangle off of a port without damaging it, this is it. Performance concerns aside, that is. Just be careful that you don’t forget it’s in your pocket and put it through the wash!
Teamgroup warranties the PD20M for three years, but no mention is made of the warranty’s TBW (terabytes that may be written) rating. Given the drives slow write rate when cache runs out, which was rather early on the 1TB version we tested, you should never have to worry about writing so much data that the company considers it unfair usage.
How much does the Teamgroup PD20M cost?
The PD20M is available in 1TB and 2TB capacities, which retail for $110, and $165, respectively. Given the performance, that’s a tad pricey. Indeed, when we checked Amazon, the mighty 1TB Crucial X10 Pro, a far superior SSD, was available for $100. Hopefully, the PD20M will drop in price significantly in short order.
How fast is the Teamgroup PD20M?
In our initial testing, the Teamgroup PD20M turned in a far lower (364MBps) CrystalDiskMark 8 sequential write number than the 2GBps claimed on the box. It finally wrote at 1.8GBps, but only after I reduced the size of the 64GB data set I normally use four-fold to 16GB.
Ie’ve included both the 64GB and 16GB results to illustrate exactly how important cache, and the lack thereof can be.
The dark red bars are what we based our ranking on, as all other drives we’ve tested use the same 64GB data set. The 16GB bars show what is possible when cache is in play. Longer bars are better.
The dark red bars are what we based our ranking on, as all other drives we’ve tested use the same 64GB data set. The 16GB bars show what is possible when cache is in play. Longer bars are better.
The dark red bars are what we based our ranking on, as all other drives we’ve tested use the same 64GB data set. The 16GB bars show what is possible when cache is in play. Longer bars are better.
Note again, that the PD20M we tested was a 1TB drive. The Corsair EX100U on the charts, which experienced similar slowdowns at one point or another, was a 2TB drive. If Teamgroup has sent us the 2TB version, it likely would’ve outpaced the Corsair.
The PD20M’s random performance was better, but you can still see the effects of the small cache. Longer bars are better.
The PD20M’s random performance was better, but you can still see the effects of the small cache. Longer bars are better.
The PD20M’s random performance was better, but you can still see the effects of the small cache. Longer bars are better.
The Crucial X10 Pro is a much faster drive, and given that it’s currently $10 less for 1TB, and only $10 more than the PD20M for 2TB, there’s little reason to opt for latter other than weight.
The parsimonious caching again showed up in our real-world transfers. While the PD20M was not the slowest external SSD we’ve tested (there are four or five slower 10Gbps units), it was easily the slowest 20Gbps SSD we’ve seen.
Again, the small amount of cache bit the PD20M in our 48GB transfers. Shorter bars are better.
Again, the small amount of cache bit the PD20M in our 48GB transfers. Shorter bars are better.
Again, the small amount of cache bit the PD20M in our 48GB transfers. Shorter bars are better.
Below you can see where the PD20M ran out of cache — at around the 20GB mark.
The drive ran out of cache at around the 20GB mark. Normally we only see a drop like this in the 450GB write.
The drive ran out of cache at around the 20GB mark. Normally we only see a drop like this in the 450GB write.
The drive ran out of cache at around the 20GB mark. Normally we only see a drop like this in the 450GB write.
The story was no better in the 450GB write, which basically proceeded at 364MBps from the relative get go. Slow.
The PD20M was no great shakes in the 450GB write. Only 20GB of cache will do that to a drive. Shorter bars are better.
The PD20M was no great shakes in the 450GB write. Only 20GB of cache will do that to a drive. Shorter bars are better.
The PD20M was no great shakes in the 450GB write. Only 20GB of cache will do that to a drive. Shorter bars are better.
In truth, few users write even 48GB at a time, so like the Corsair EX100U, the RD20M will do the job the majority of the time when writing — and all of the time when reading.
Should you buy the Teamgroup PD20M?
The PD20M is fine for light duties, but the write slowdowns occur far to early, at least on the 1TB model, for me to recommend it for anything other than a light-duty drive. Also, compare prices. At least at the moment, there are numerous 20Gbps SSDs, some of them far more consistent performers, for less.
How we test
Drive tests currently utilize Windows 11 (22H2) 64-bit running on an X790 (PCIe 5.0) motherboard/i5-12400 CPU combo with two Kingston Fury 32GB DDR5 modules (64GB of memory total). Intel integrated graphics are used. The 48GB transfer tests utilize an ImDisk RAM disk taking up 58GB of the 64GB total memory. The 450GB file is transferred from a Samsung 990 Pro 2TB, which also contains the operating system. For external drives, the motherboard’s dedicated Thunderbolt 4 and 20Gbps USB ports on the rear panel are used.
Each test is performed on a newly NTSF-formatted and TRIM’d drive so the results are optimal. Note that as any drive fills up, performance will decrease due to less NAND for secondary caching, and other factors.
The performance numbers shown apply only to the drive we were shipped as well as the capacity tested. SSD performance can vary by capacity due to more or fewer chips to read/write across and the amount of NAND available for secondary caching (writing TLC/QLC as SLC). Vendors also occasionally swap components.
If you ever notice a large discrepancy between the performance you experience and that which we report (systems being roughly equal), by all means—let us know.
Computer Storage Devices, Storage Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 31 May (PC World)If you walk in on a team of graphic designers, you may be believe you’ve just stumbled into a PC gaming tournament. To power 3D intensive applications, many of those users seek out powerful gaming laptops. They can carry them to the field as a bonus, with or without the RGB.
Video editors are similarly enticed by gaming laptops. They’re often right behind gamers in the queue when a new model sees light of day. Bleeding-edge hardware and new screen technology constantly ups the ante for these users who depend on the best.
Are gaming laptops a good choice for a budding video editor or graphic designer? We’ll go over the hardware typically required, the all-important screen, and the drawbacks you will be dealing with by going this route.
Further reading: Best gaming laptops 2024: What to look for and highest-rated models
IDG / Matthew Smith
IDG / Matthew Smith
IDG / Matthew Smith
Performance
On the surface, it makes a lot of sense why professional users go on this RGB-laden path. Robust gaming laptops such as the Razer Blade 16 are filled to the brim with an overabundance of hardware. They’re chock full of RAM and the fastest mobile CPUs. The Intel Core i9-14900HX and Powerhouse GPUs such as the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 with 16GB of VRAM delivery astounding levels of performance.
It’s simple: PC games demand maximum performance of the GPU, CPU, and RAM. This means that gaming laptops are conveniently equipped to deal with non-gaming tasks. Video editing relies heavily on the GPU, with some CPU backup. 3D Graphics workflows are likewise dispatched intuitively, taking advantage of the same potent hardware.
Utilitarian workstation laptops may have unnecessary specialized hardware that adds to the price. Much of consumer grade hardware is well-suited for workflows such as Blackmagic Design’s Davinci Resolve or Adobe Photoshop.
Nvidia’s CUDA on its GPUs make easy work of 3D tasks, along with available Studio Drivers on consumer hardware.
Desktops can have higher performance for a lower price, but with a lack of mobility as a caveat.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Let’s break down what you’re getting in a high-end laptop. Workflows with video editing or 3D graphics will depend on the GPU. The CPU plays a vital role with photography and overall performance.
CPU
The fastest gaming laptops will pack a CPU such as the Intel Core i9-14900HX or an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX. Power draw is lower than desktop counterparts due to thermal limits. The Intel Core i9-14900HX utilizes a whopping 24 cores and 32 threads. This means it will breeze through synthetic benchmarks such as Cinebench R23 and software such as Handbrake.
Adobe Creative Cloud users with apps such as Photoshop will benefit from these fast CPUs. The highest clock speeds are shy of their desktop counterparts, but they remain capable. Encoding and decoding can also be a benefit with modern CPUs for video editors where the GPU is not needed.
New chips such as the Intel Ultra Core lineup have built-in AI capabilities, which help to regulate performance and power usage.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
A drawback of these powerful CPUs will come down to cooling. Thermal limits are quickly reached and result in throttled performance. Higher fan noise will be expected unless power settings are tweaked by the user. Laptop cooling pads will be essential for prolonged sessions. Video editing or 3D design software can often have similar demands as gaming on the hardware.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Gaming laptops have sizable power bricks to supply their ample performance. Battery life is typically poor, irrespective of the large power supplies. The high performance on tap and bright screens makes for quick depletion of batteries. Mark Hachman shared some of his thoughts on these power adapters in his review of the MSI Raider GE78.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
RAM
Gaming laptops often pack 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM. Some models, such as the MSI Titan 18 HX, can handle upwards of 128GB of RAM. The sweet spot for most will fall between 32GB and 64GB of RAM. It remains one of the most upgradable components on gaming laptops, which is a major plus.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
GPU
Ah, the GPU. It’s the star of the show for users seeking 3D performance. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 with 16GB of VRAM can breeze through many tasks with aplomb.
Video editors who use Blackmagic’s Davinci Resolve or Adobe Premier Pro have seen tremendous results. A powerful GPU can help with timeline scrubbing, adding affects, exporting, and overall snappiness. 3D graphics artists using software such as Blender will be all too familiar with GPU grunt to aid in workflow.
VRAM is vital in video editing or 3D work such as the 16GB found in the top-end Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090. These mobile GPUs are not the full versions found on desktop, as power limits enter the fray in mobile hardware.
Gaming laptops will have both an internal GPU such as on an Intel chip and a discreet GPU such as an Nvidia GeForce RTX. The switch is often seamless and can aid with battery life. The internal GPU can sometimes aid in tasks like encoding when the CPU is involved, too.
There are some caveats with even the fastest laptop GPUs, though. They remain less powerful than their desktop counterparts for those requiring maximum performance. For example, a desktop Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 will be far superior to its mobile brethren. The laptop version is more on the level of a GeForce RTX 4070 Ti. This is par for the course due to mobile’s smaller size and thermal constraints.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Storage
Professionals rely on storage much like oxygen and gaming laptops do not disappoint. The Alienware M16 laptop above features multiple slots for fast NVME SSDs, which can be placed in RAID setups. With large and fast sizes readily available, internal storage can accommodate the workflows of professionals with ease.
Along with RAM, NVME drives account for the only user-accessible upgrades that can be done. The drawback here is that you’re stuck with the CPU and GPU for the life of the machine.
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Thiago Trevisan/IDG
Ports
If the internal storage isn’t sufficient, many gaming laptops pack a bevy of ports to accommodate professionals. With Intel based machines, Thunderbolt 4 is available with the fastest transfer rates.
Various flavors of USB are also abundant on gaming laptops, along with the prerequisite HDMI outputs. Connecting to external monitors will be essential for professionals, and gaming laptops have that capability built in.
Screens and usability
Gamers are not alone in chasing the best screen technology available. Video editors, photographers, and graphic designers rely on accurate, bright screens.
Creators enjoy working with high resolution 4K screens with maximum pixel density. Gaming laptops do not disappoint with numerous models such as the Razer Blade 16 offering such screens. One drawback will be screen size, as the biggest laptop currently tops out at 18 inches. The MSI Titan 18 HX packs a 120Hz 4K mini LED display, accompanied by a jaw-dropping price of around $5,000.
Looking for a more high-end gaming laptop? The MSI Titan 18 hx is your best bet.
MSI Titan 18 HX
Read our review
Image fidelity is essential for professionals and gaming laptops understand this dual nature. The Titan MSI 18 HX laptop has a 100 percent DCI-P3 screen capable of HDR 1,000, for example. Adobe RGB and sRGB are typically respectable and acceptable for most. Professional calibrated monitors may be preferred and they can easily be attached to most gaming laptops externally.
Lower priced gaming laptops such as the Alienware M16 will come with 2550×1600 resolution LCD screens. These are still high quality and may be adequate for all but the most precise work needing top color accuracy.
Check out our top pick for gaming laptops
Alienware m16 R2
Read our review
The ergonomics of gaming laptops come with its own pros and cons. First, many gaming laptops will have great keyboards such as the low-profile mechanical MX Cherry keyboards found on top-end units. Tactile response and accuracy are important for professional work, benefiting from the gaming-DNA.
Trackpads are often large and responsive, but one always has the flexibility of connecting external peripherals for more accurate inputs.
Audio is another component that will be important for users such as video editors. Laptop speakers are notoriously flimsy, but some high-end models such as the Razer Blade series have adequate speakers. Most professionals will turn to external solutions or headphones for mission critical work, however. Spatial or surround sound aspects of many gaming laptops will also be lost on professionals.
Conclusion
If you look past RGB aesthetics adorning most gaming laptops, they’re stellar professional machines. With hot-rod levels of hardware to power demanding games, it translates directly to many professional workflows.
Adobe Photoshop users will find powerful CPUs with high-clock speeds very capable. 3D graphics artists and video editors will benefit from the powerful GPUs with more than sufficient VRAM. Fast NVME drives and abundant RAM limits means that many demanding apps can have a home on these mobile powerhouses. Nvidia Studio drivers are available for professional applications and feature widespread support on consumer hardware. it’s a no-brainer that creators venture towards gaming laptops.
The garden variety of gaming laptops, such as those curated by PCWorld, is a big help to creators. Not everyone wants or needs a $5,000 laptop, so there are plenty of cheaper offerings available. With upgradability in the form of RAM and NVME drives, there’s also flexibility built-in for future proofing.
Mobility will be important for many who rely on travel and need portability. Poor battery life, loud fans, and smaller screens are often outweighed by the performance on tap. When the work is done, you’ll also have the benefit of playing the latest games for some leisurely activity if you so desire. The only choice you’re left with is if you’ll leave the RGB on or off.
Gaming Laptops Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 31 May (PC World)At a glanceExpert`s Rating
ProsCompact ergonomic standSuperb contrast with deep, inky black levelsExcellent HDR performanceInexpensive for an OLED monitorConsHDMI ports don’t support 240Hz refresh rateNo USB-CSDR performance is great, but slightly lags QD-OLED peersOur VerdictThe Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG has a third-generation LG WOLED panel that delivers superior brightness in HDR content.
Best Prices Today: Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG
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Those looking for an OLED monitor have a lot of choices in 2024, but if you want a 27-inch 1440p display, those choices have primarily used Samsung’s QD-OLED panel. Now, however, Asus is changing that with the ROG Strix XG27AQDMG. This new 27-inch 1440p 240Hz gaming monitor has an OLED display from LG. It is similar to QD-OLED in many respects but takes the lead in HDR performance.
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG specs and features
You wouldn’t know the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG from other OLED monitors by glancing at the spec sheet. It is a 27-inch display with a 2560×1440 resolution and a maximum refresh rate of 240Hz. Also, like similar monitors, it sticks to HDMI and DisplayPort for video input and keeps USB connectivity minimal with just two USB-A ports.
Display size: 27-inch widescreen
Native resolution: 2560×1440
Panel type: Glossy WOLED
Refresh rate: Up to 240Hz
Adaptive sync: Adaptive Sync 240, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync
HDR: Yes, HDR10
Ports: 1x DisplayPort 1.4 DSC, 2x HDMI (v2.0), 1x earphone jack, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB Type-B (upstream)
VESA mount: 100x100mm
Speakers: None
Price: $749 MSRP
The key difference, of course, is the type of display panel used. WOLED stands for “white OLED,” and it’s a type of panel manufactured by LG that has a subpixel layout with an additional white OLED pixel that joins the red, blue, and green OLED pixels.
This is rather unique, as nearly all LCD and OLED displays throughout history stick to a red, blue, and green sub-pixel layout, and achieve white by lighting all three simultaneously. LG says the unique white sub-pixel can increase the display’s maximum brightness.
The is a successor to the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM, which also had a WOLED panel. That monitor aged poorly as QD-OLED competitors quickly leaped ahead of it. The XG27AQDMG fairs better.
Further reading: See our roundup of the best gaming monitors to learn about competing products.
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG design
The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG’s design, much like its spec sheet, is difficult to tell apart from other OLED monitors at a glance. It strikes a modern look from the front, with slim bezels along all sides and a glossy display panel. Unlike some competitors, however, Asus branding remains prominent thanks to a glowing red ROG logo.
Some RGB accents indicate the monitor’s gaming credentials.
Some RGB accents indicate the monitor’s gaming credentials. Matthew Smith / Foundry
Some RGB accents indicate the monitor’s gaming credentials. Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
From the back, the monitor’s thin profile stands out, and some subtle etching makes the monitor’s gaming intent clear. The monitor includes an RGB-LED accent in the shape of the Asus ROG logo. It can be customized using the on-screen menu or coordinate with other RGB-LED devices via Asus’ Aura Sync.
Asus wisely chooses to use a compact, flat stand for the ROG Strix XG27AQDMG. This reduces the amount of space the monitor takes up on your desk and keeps the space it does consume usable, as you can still place items on the stand. The stand adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivots 90 degrees for use in portrait orientation. A 100x100mm VESA display mount is available, which means that third-party monitor stands and arms are an option.
The monitor stand includes a threaded mount on the top of the stand. It can be used to attach a peripheral like a webcam, microphone, or LED light, and it’s a useful feature for streamers and other video content creators. You’ll likely need a spacer or adjustable mount to use it, however, because the top of the display will block a peripheral mounted here unless the stand is adjusted to its lowest height.
The back of the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG.
The back of the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG.Matthew Smith / Foundry
The back of the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG.Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG connectivity and menus
Asus sticks to the basics with connectivity. The ROG Strix XG27AQDMG has one DisplayPort 1.4 port and two HDMI 2.0 ports, both of which support VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) for compatibility with modern game consoles.
It should be noted that this monitor does not support HDMI 2.1, and as a result, it can’t display its maximum refresh rate of 240Hz over HDMI. This could be a problem if you want to connect a PC over HDMI. I always prefer to see a monitor support its maximum refresh rate across all available display inputs, and it’s disappointing to see this omitted.USB-C connectivity is not available, and the monitor has only two USB-A ports for connecting wired peripherals. These can be accessed through a USB-B upstream connection. This is basic connectivity for a gaming monitor, but similar to competitors.
The monitor’s on-screen menu system is accessed through a joystick centered on the bottom bezel. It is responsive and easy to use. Asus on-screen menus are logically arranged and well-labeled, so navigating them to find features is simple.
Image quality adjustment is extensive. It includes a number of preset modes as well as color gamut modes that target sRGB and DCI-P3. Color temperature and gamma are adjustable as well, and both target specific numerical values instead of vague labels like “cool” or “warm.” Six-axis color customization is included for further fine-tuning if it’s required.
Gamers can elevate the brightness of dark areas of the screen to make enemies hidden in shadowy areas easier to see. The display also includes several aspect ratio modes, which can change the size of the viewable area on the display. That might be useful if you want to restrict the viewable area to a 24-inch 1080p equivalent for esports titles. There’s also a 4:3 mode, which is handy if you want to play a very old PC game that lacks proper widescreen support.
The monitor’s features can be adjusted in Windows with Asus’ DisplayWidget software. It’s quicker and easier to use than the on-screen menu. Most monitor makers offer similar software, but DisplayWidget is more attractive and easier to use than similar software from competitors like Gigabyte and MSI.
Speakers are not included, so you will need to use external speakers or a headset. I always prefer to see bundled speakers, but competitive gaming monitors also exclude them.
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG SDR image quality
The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG, like every other 27-inch OLED gaming monitor on the market, serves up 2560×1440 resolution. But while competitors use Samsung’s QD-OLED panel technology, the XG27QDMG instead relies on LG’s third-generation WOLED. So, how does it stack up?
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
The ROG Strix XG27AQDMG reached a maximum full-screen SDR brightness of 260 nits. That’s competitive with peers like the Alienware AW2725DF, but it’s still not amazing.
Brightness is said to be a perk of WOLED panels, yet in SDR the XG27AQDMG is barely brighter than alternatives with a Samsung QD-OLED panel. The monitor’s full-screen brightness is fine for a room with good light control, but bright overhead lighting or a sunny window can create a lot of glare and make the monitor uncomfortable to view.
WOLED does have an advantage in HDR brightness, though, as I’ll explain in more detail in the next section of this review.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Contrast is a strength of the ROG Strix XG27AQDMG. The monitor achieved a minimum brightness of zero nits at every display brightness setting, which is effectively a perfect result and boosts the contrast ratio into the millions.
The monitor’s excellent contrast is noticeable across everything viewed on the display, but it’s especially useful in darker games and movies like Diablo IV or Blade Runner. OLED avoids the grayish, foggy look common to less expensive monitors with an IPS panel.
All modern OLED monitors benefit from OLED’s contrast ratio, so contrast is not a reason to buy one OLED display over another. Still, it’s good to see the WOLED performs as well as expected.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
The ROG Strix XG27AQDMG’s color gamut results are interesting. It achieves 100 percent of the sRGB color gamut, 96 percent of DCI-P3, and 89 percent of Adobe RGB. These are excellent results, but they’re a bit behind recent QD-OLED monitors. Most QD-OLED monitors released in 2024 can reach 98 percent of DCI-P3 and 94 percent of Adobe RGB.
Gamers shouldn’t fret over this, as the difference will be difficult to notice while playing games. Even content creators probably won’t find the XG27AQDMG’s slightly reduced color gamut a problem.
Still, if maximum color gamut is a priority for you, a QD-OLED monitor is the better choice. It’s also wise to consider a Mini-LED monitor with quantum dots, such as the RedMagic 4K Gaming Monitor. They achieve unparalleled color gamut results.
The XG27AQDMG’s wide color gamut and superb contrast make it excellent for games and movies.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Matthew Smith / Foundry
WOLED’s color performance continues to lag behind QD-OLED in color accuracy, as the XG27AQDMG posted results that lag the QD-OLED monitors that PCWorld has tested this year. The XG27AQDMG’s color looks realistic and remains great for gaming, but content creators may want to calibrate the display.
The XG27AQDMG also had slight issues with color temperature and gamma performance. I measured a gamma curve of 2.3 when the setting was at 2.2, meaning content looked a tad darker than it should. Color temperature was also a bit off, with a measured color temperature of 6600K when the monitor was set to 6500K. That means the monitor looked slightly cooler and more sterile than ideal. Both of these variances are fairly minor, though, and not likely to be an obstacle for gamers.
Sharpness is a more noticeable problem. The WOLED panel’s unique subpixel layout can cause color fringing issues around details like small text and fine, high-contrast edges. Small fonts were pixelated and at times showed off-colors along their edges. Asus includes a ClearEdge feature, which is supposed to minimize the problem, but it wasn’t effective in my testing. In fact, at times the monitor looked worse with ClearEdge on than with it off.
This issue is also present on modern QD-OLED monitors, especially 27-inch monitors 1440p resolution, but I do feel it’s a bit more noticeable on the WOLED panel.
The XG27AQDMG’s overall SDR image quality is at once impressive and disappointing. Its wide color gamut and superb contrast make it excellent for games and movies. However, the WOLED panel slightly underperforms QD-OLED in some respects, and its lackluster sharpness stands out. I can recommend the XG27AQDMG if you just want to game, but shoppers looking for a game that’s equally great for gaming, office productivity, and content creation should be wary.
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG HDR image quality
The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG’s SDR performance slightly lags behind its OLED peers, but it strikes back in HDR.
I measured a maximum sustained full-screen HDR brightness of 269 nits, which basically ties the monitor’s SDR brightness. However, the monitor hit a maximum sustained brightness of 724 nits in a 10 percent window, meaning 10 percent of the display was lit. QD-OLED displays, like the Alienware AW2725DF and Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM, achieved about 400 nits in this scenario.
The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG also hit a maximum sustained brightness of 608 nits in a 50 percent window, meaning half the display was lit. That, too, is better than QD-OLED alternatives, which are lucky to sustain 300 nits.
To put it simply, the XG27AQDMG’s WOLED panel delivers better HDR brightness than QD-OLED. Higher brightness is important because it provides more detail in luminous areas of a scene. The accretion disc around the black hole in Interstellar’s Gargantua scene is a great example. The disk seems like a uniform, glowing uniform mass in SDR, but HDR reveals subtle colors and added detail that was invisible in SDR.
The XG27AQDMG is also great for HDR gaming. Games that have HDR support frequently have attractive particle effects and other small, flashy elements that appear only briefly on the screen. The XG27AQDMG looks exceptionally bright and detailed when displaying these effects. QD-OLED monitors also look good in HDR games, but the XG27AQDMG is superior.
If HDR is at the top of your list of priorities, then the XG27AQDMG is an excellent choice. Its brightness is defeated only by Mini-LED monitors like the AOC Q27G3XMN. Mini-LED monitors have their own disadvantages, though, like halos around small bright objects and, in most cases, less motion clarity. The XG27AQDMG’s combination of brightness, contrast, and motion clarity makes it ideal for HDR gaming.
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG motion performance
Motion performance is a strength of OLED monitors, and the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG is no exception. Scrolling test images from games like League of Legends and Dota 2 revealed good detail around character silhouettes. The names and hitpoint bars displayed above characters were generally legible in motion, though not always easy to read. Small, fast moving objects remain identifiable and significant detail is visible in decent vistas when panning the camera in a 3D game.
While the XG27AQDMG’s motion clarity is good, it’s defeated by QD-OLED alternatives that hit 360Hz, such as Alienware’s AW2725DF. These competitors are more expensive, but their improved refresh rate can provide a slight motion clarity boost. Keep in mind, however, that a game must achieve a frame rate of up to 360 frames per second for the 360Hz refresh rate to prove useful. That’s difficult, or impossible, with many modern PC games.
Asus offers a backlight strobing mode called ELMB, which rapidly flickers the image to reduce perceived motion blur. It’s effective, but it also lowers the brightness of the display. That can be a problem in SDR content, as there’s not a lot of brightness to spare. The ELMB mode also supports a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, and it doesn’t work with HDR. These limitations take away most of its appeal.
The XG27AQDMG’s official adaptive sync support is extensive. It includes certifications for VESA Adaptive Sync 240, Nvidia G-Sync Compatible, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. The monitor also works with the variable refresh mode on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
All OLED competitors offer adaptive sync support, but many companies choose not to pursue official certification with both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. Technically, monitors without the certification will usually work with both, but I like the peace of mind Asus offers by including official support for both standards.
Should you buy the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG?
The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG is a viable alternative to QD-OLED monitors that performs slightly worse in some situations and better in others. The monitor’s HDR performance is its greatest strength, as it achieves a level of HDR brightness that’s significantly higher than QD-OLED monitors. In SDR, however, the XG27AQDMG slightly lags behind QD-OLED competitors in color performance and sharpness.
Pricing works in Asus’ favor. The XG27AQDMG carries a retail MSRP of just $749.99. A few QD-OLED monitors, like the MSI MAG 271QPX, are available for $750, but most are $50 to $100 more expensive. That makes the XG27AQDMG a great choice for gamers who want OLED but still need to be mindful of their budget.
Monitors Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 31 May (PC World)If you want to be competitive in PC games these days, you can forget about using a run-of-the-mill office mouse. Instead, you’ll need a powerful device that’s optimized just for gaming.
Manufacturers go to great pains to design specialist devices that give players an edge, with enhancements like unique body sizes and shapes, customizable weight, and extra grips to increase speed and accuracy. On top of that, the best gaming mice have unique hardware enhancements like highly sensitive sensors and complex button configurations to keep up with fast-paced games.
Deciding on the right mouse is a highly personal decision that needs careful consideration. Factors like the size and shape of your hand, your preferred grip style, the types of games you play, and the number of buttons you need, are all factors in your quest for the best gaming mouse.
Why you should trust us? PCWorld has delivered in-depth product reviews and news going on 40 years now. Our reviewers aren’t just peripheral geeks, they’re also avid gamers on a mission to find the best gaming gear for themselves. Because of that they know the ins and outs of gaming gear, what’s good and what’s not.
Every mouse we review is put through a rigorous testing process by our expert reviewers. We appraise everything from the device’s comfort, and reliability, to its performance in games. We also compare each product to competitors to sum up whether or not they represent value for money. See our article on how we test gaming mice for more details.
Updated May 30, 2024 to include the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Editon, which earns our pick for best buttons. The buttons feature Huano 80M Micro Switches which are very soft and have an exceptionally quick debounce. We also added the Swiftpoint Z2, which is the most customizable gaming mouse we’ve ever reviewed, boasting not only 13 programmable buttons but also a mini-OLED display, haptic feedback, a gyroscope, and an accessory that turns it into a joystick.
Razer DeathAdder V3 – Best wired gaming mouse / Best overall
Pros
Very light (59 grams)
Ergonomic design for right-handers
High-precision sensor
USB polling rate of 8000Hz
Durable Razer Optical Switches (up to 90 million clicks)
High-quality PTFE grade feet
Cons
Non onboard storage of the key assignment
No RGB lighting
Why I like the Razer DeathAdder V3
Lightweight, wired FPS mice don’t come any quicker than the Razer DeathAdder V3, which is maxed out with an extraordinarily sensitive 30,000 DPI Razer Optical Sensor and a whopping 8,000Hz hyper-polling rate that’s eight times as fast as the standard 1,000Hz polling rate you get in other FPS gaming mice.
If that isn’t already enough speed for you, the V3’s lightweight 2.08-ounce (59 grams) chassis and 100 percent PTFE feet combine for an exceptionally quick and smooth glide over your mouse mat, making it even more deadly in FPS gaming.
Who should buy the Razer DeathAdder V3
Based on the DeathAdder V3’s weight anyone looking for more speed in their FPS games would be well advised to get one. It’s also ideal for palm grippers with large- to medium-sized hands who will undoubtedly find plenty of support in its generous proportions for all sorts of tricky maneuvers.
Read our full
Deathadder V3 review
Logitech G502X – Best wired gaming mouse runner-up
Pros
The 25K Hero sensor is very proficient even at high DPI settings
The buttons are extremely well placed for accessibility
The rubber thumb rest provides plenty of grip
Cons
Not including swappable trigger buttons seems like a missed opportunity
There`s no RGB lighting except a small DPI indicator light
The mouse wheel is quite noisy
Best Prices Today:
$59.99 at Amazon$69.99 at Logitech G
Why I like the Logitech G502X
The Logitech G502, which so wowed gamers back in 2014 has evolved into a new model, the Logitech G502X, which boasts several big improvements over its predecessor. These include: a higher-resolution 25K sensor, a new rubberized thumb grip, and lightning-fast hybrid optical-mechanical switches.
Admittedly, its 3.13-ounce (89 grams) weight means it’s not the lightest gaming mouse on the market. However, any concerns about performance fall by the wayside because of the larger and more accessible buttons. You still get 13 programmable options, including the side trigger button and DPI buttons cut into the left main click, but the trigger is now closer to your thumb and easier to reach, and the DPI buttons are longer and harder to miss-click. This ultimately means the G502X has arguably the best all-rounder button setup you can get.
Who should buy the Logitech G502X
Gamers who like to stretch out and enjoy the comfort and luxury of a large mouse with an ergonomic thumb rest. The 13 programmable buttons will also suit gamers who like to personalize their command setup with macros.
Read our full
Logitech G502X review
Corsair M75 Air Wireless – Best ambidextrous grip
Pros
Its narrow high-backed design enables superior control
The 26K Optical Sensor is quick and precise
Up to a quick 2000Hz / 0.5ms default polling rate
Cons
One button for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi can be confusing
There`s just one on-board memory profile
No DPI switcher button
Best Prices Today:
$66.73 at Amazon
Why I like the Corsair M75 Air Wireless
The Corsair M75 Air’s 26K Optical Sensor reports at a quick 2,000Hz maximum polling rate (that’s 1,000Hz higher than some more expensive FPS gaming mice), which means I get ridiculously smooth and precise motion in games like Fortnite and Counter-Strike 2 in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi mode. Yet, this mouse’s hardware alone isn’t the only trick up its sleeve — its symmetrical design is just as noteworthy.
The mouse’s excellent symmetry and low-key side buttons allow it to be used just as easily as a left- or right-handed mouse. There are five buttons all up, which all fire off quickly enough to win surprise attacks. There’s no top DPI button to speak of, but what you gain is an exceptionally lightweight design.
Who should buy the Corsair M75 Air Wireless
If you like a feeling of control in your play, the M75 Air’s high back is perfect for that; it pushes against your palm comfortably, syncing with your movements. The M75 Air’s long narrow front also provides plenty of space to stretch out your trigger fingers.
Read our full
Corsair M75 Air Wireless review
Logitech G203 LightSync – Best ultra-budget gaming mouse
Pros
A comfortable design that resembles more expensive esports mice
Sturdy and well-built
The RGB lighting really pops
Cons
Some sensor lag was experienced with large, fast movements
The sensor`s lift-off distance is higher than some mice
The RGB logo on the top isn`t customizable
Best Prices Today:
$27.29 at Amazon$39.99 at Best Buy
Why I like the Logitech G203 LightSync
Few devices offer as much bang for buck as this wired RGB gaming mouse that combines comfort, style and decent performance but without a hefty price tag. The Logitech G203 resembles more expensive esports mice with its simple six-button configuration, small body, and ambidextrous shape, but despite being substantially cheaper than rivals, it still feels sturdy and well-built. The G203’s 8,000 DPI sensor isn’t the quickest you’ll find, but for causal gamers it’s still a more than adequate performer that tracks accurately.
The G203 isn’t lacking style either. It features a signature rounded back design with colorful RGB band and Logitech logo that lights up your gaming den with pops of color. The RGB band is also customizable in the Logitech G Hub app, with the option to personalize three separate lighting zones.
Who should buy the Logitech G203 LightSync
Gamers on a budget who want a bona fide gaming mouse that costs just a handful of spare change. The Logitech G203 LightSync’s compact design also makes it ideal for younger gamers who have smaller hands.
Read our full
Logitech G203 LightSync review
Razer Cobra Pro – Best wireless gaming mouse
Pros
Its Razer Focus Pro 30K sensor is superb
Dedicated DPI up/down buttons makes switching DPI on the fly easy
Having 11 zones of RGB is brilliant
Cons
The dimensions won`t suit large hands
Buying the Cobra Pro with a Hyper polling dongle costs extra
It`s a little heavier than its stablemate the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
Best Prices Today:
$116.90 at Amazon$129.99 at Best Buy
Why I like the Razer Cobra Pro
The Razer Cobra Pro is an excellent all-round gaming mouse with a very sensitive 30K sensor that will give the best esports mice a run for their money. While its 2.78-ounce (79 grams) weight makes it a little heavier than many competitive FPS mice, it boasts features that most mice don’t have. Indeed, features like its up / down DPI buttons that allow you to switch DPI on the fly, its gorgeous 11 zones of RGB lighting, and Tri-Mode connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth) make it a highly versatile and sought-after gaming mouse.
Its one drawback, however, is its compact size, which comfortably fits small to medium sized hands but is a little too small for some large hands. Of course, this won’t affect players who prefer to use a claw grip, so this mouse is especially suited to them.
Who should buy the Razer Cobra Pro
Esports players or keen competitive players wanting one of the quickest mice you can buy, but also want the convenience of extra features that most esports mice don’t have.
Read our full
Razer Cobra Pro review
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless – Best budget wireless gaming mouse
Pros
The solid top back is comfortable and stylish
The 26,000 sensor can target at lightning speeds
Bluetooth functionality makes it one of the most versatile esports mice you can get
Cons
The compact buttons can feel a bit cramped at times
There`s just one RGB zone to play with
It`s more expensive than its predecessor
Best Prices Today:
$79.58 at Amazon$89.99 at HyperX
Why I like the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless features a lightning-fast 26,000 DPI sensor, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, as well as a dedicated DPI switcher, and still manages to be lighter and more affordable than some rivals. It weighs just a little over 2 ounces (61 grams), which is ideal for fast competitive gaming and esports. Its generous proportions and easy six-button configuration are just ideal to fit medium- and large-sized hands.
Who should buy the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
Claw and fingertip gamers — the mouse’s solid plastic casing is a lot more comfortable for these grip types than its predecessor the HyperX Pulsefire Haste Wireless, which has a perforated casing. It’s also a great option for gamers on a budget since it undercuts competitors with similar features by around $50.
Read our full
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless review
Swiftpoint Z2 – Best gaming mouse for tinkerers
Pros
Converts to a joystick
The button layout and button customization is excellent
Pressure sensors and haptic feedback give you a deeper level of functionality
Has a powerful accurate sensor
Cons
Only one small RGB zone
The joystick conversion provides only a small lift from a tabletop
Wired connectivity only
Why I like the Swiftpoint Z2
It’s without a doubt the most customizable mouse that’s ever come across my review bench. Not only does this mouse allow you to customize its 13 programmable buttons with your choice of commands, but you can also customize the depth of actuation on those buttons, and the mouse tells you how deep you’ve clicked via haptic feedback.
If that wasn’t enough already, the Swiftpont Z2 has a mini-OLED display. It also has an inbuilt gyroscope and converts into a joystick, which is a blast in flight simulators.
Who should buy the Swiftpoint Z2
Gamers who like to tinker with their controls for a deep level of customization or gamers who liked the Mad Catz R.A.T 8+ and are looking for something with upgraded functionality. The only problem once you’ve decided this is the mouse for you, is picking one up; right now it’s sold out and Swiftpoint is taking back orders for future shipments.
Read our full
Swiftpoint Z2 review
Razer Naga V2 Pro – Best gaming mouse for MOBA and MMO games
Pros
The swappable button plates let you tailor your button setup to your game`s command load
The sensor is very accurate and without a hint of lag
There`s tons of comfort and the build quality is excellent
Cons
The Razer Gen 3 Optical Switches are a little stiff at first and need wearing in
It weighs 134 grams which is quite heavy even for an MMO mouse
It`s currently very expensive
Best Prices Today:
$179.99 at Amazon$179.99 at Best Buy$179.99 at Razer
Why I like the Razer Naga V2 Pro
The Razer Naga V2 Pro does one better than just let me program my buttons how I like them — it features three swappable side-button plates that I can change out to tailor my mouse’s physical button setup to my game’s command load. Consequently, it makes a great all-around gaming mouse. In my playtesting I found it was especially perfect for MOBA and MMO games since you get a total of 22 commands with the 12-button plate attached, so there’s lots of options.
As well as a very comfortable design, the V2 Pro also sports an accurate and precise 30,000 DPI sensor and Razer Gen 3 Optical Switches in the buttons that actuate in just 0.2 milliseconds.
Who should buy the Razer Naga V2 Pro
In my playtesting I found it was especially perfect for MOBA and MMO gamers since they get a total of 22 commands with the 12-button plate attached, so there’s lots of options. In MMO games the mouse’s weightiness (it weighs 4.7 ounces, or 134 grams) made weapons play feel extremely authentic and highly satisfying.
Read our full
Razer Naga V2 Pro review
Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless – Best for MOBA and MMO games runner-up
Pros
Sliding keypad
Precise sensor
Flexible connectivity: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, USB cable
Long battery life
Robust workmanship
Cons
Bulky design
Higher weight compared to other gaming mice
Learning curve for MMO mouse newcomers
Different operating modes could confuse beginners
Only suitable for right-handers
Best Prices Today:
$99.99 at Amazon$129.99 at Corsair
Why I like the Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless
The Scimitar Elite Wireless’ sensor is both responsive and accurate in fast games thanks to its 26,000 DPI resolution and quick 2,000Hz polling rate. That’s despite the mouse weighing a hefty 4 ounces (114 grams). You get 16 programmable buttons all up, which is enough for a round robin of favorite commands in games like World of Warcraft and The Elder Scrolls Online.
A grid of 12 mechanical buttons sit on a side-oriented keypad, which has the unique advantage of being able to slide to fit my finger position — something most other MMO gaming mice simply can’t do. That means those furthest from me need not be a struggle to reach. The Scimitar Elite Wireless is also one of the most versatile of the MMO gaming mice, since it boasts all three connectivity types — 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and a wired connection via a USB-C cable.
Who should buy the Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless
It’s another great option for MMO or MOBA gamers since it’s packed with programmable buttons. The buttons on the side grid are well spaced-out and easy to navigate, which means spells and extra commands are easy to trigger on this mouse.
Read our full
Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless review
Razer Basilisk V3 – Best mouse wheel / Best for scrolling
Pros
The Razer Focus + sensor gives faultless performance
Scrolling is made simpler with the HyperScroll Tilt Wheel
The RGB lighting looks fantastic
Cons
It`s quite heavy and bulky
You`re limited to wired connectivity only
Best Prices Today:
$49 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer Basilisk V3
The Basilisk V3 resembles the Razer Basilisk V2 in size and shape, sporting similar right-handed curves and a slightly arched thumb rest. Among its best features are an 11-button layout, 26,000 DPI Razer Focus+ sensor, and second-generation Razer optical switches that I found very fast for all kinds of gaming — whether that’s casual or serious. But the real magic lies in the Basilisk V3’s HyperScroll Tilt Wheel, which is a fancy name for its mouse wheel. This tilts in four directions and triggers downwards to put five commands at your fingertips, ideal for tactical FPS games like Rainbow Six.
Impressively, the HyperScroll Tilt Wheel also has extra AI scrolling modes that made my scrolling and browsing a lot easier. In my testing I enjoyed toggling between “Tactile” and “Free-Spin” modes, which allowed me to switch between a slow, precise scrolling action and a faster, smoother scrolling action that was useful for getting to the end of long websites more easily.
Who should buy the Razer Basilisk V3
Anyone who wants to get fancy with their scrolling. With the right setup, the Basilisk makes scrolling game menus or long documents in Windows quick and easy.
Read our full
Razer Basilisk V3 review
Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse – Best gaming mouse for esports / first-person shooters
Pros
4KHz wireless polling rate
The buttons are soft and have quick debounce
The Alienware styling looks awesome
One of the most precise mouse wheels I`ve used
Weighs just over 2 ounces
Cons
The back could do with more height
There`s no RGB lighting
It`s quite large so won`t suit everyone
Best Prices Today:
$149.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Alienware Pro Wireless gaming mouse
You hear a lot about DPI being the main factor that determines performance. But quite frankly polling rate is twice as important for aiming at and hitting fast-moving players in FPS games. Hence why this mouse is so lethal — it comes with a 4KHz polling rate right out of the box, that’s quadruple the reporting rate of some other big-name FPS gaming mice.
Who should buy the Alienware Pro Wireless gaming mouse
Everything else about this mouse is tailored for speed and precision. From its 4K polling rate, to its ultra-light weight of just over 2 ounces, to its soft buttons with their ultra-quick debounce rate. For that reason, I’d recommend this mouse to gamers who want the fastest performance in FPS games.
Read our full
Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse review
Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 – Best gaming mouse for esports / first-person shooters runner-up
Pros
Symmetrical body provides nice accuracy
Ultra lightweight – it weighs just over 2 ounces
Quick and accurate 32,000 DPI sensor
Cons
The mouse wheel feels a little flimsy
No Bluetooth connectivity
It`s expensive
Best Prices Today:
$136.75 at Amazon
Why I like the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
With a 2,000Hz polling rate, the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 reports to your PC faster than a bunch of rival pro-grade FPS gaming mice, so it feels a little faster and more responsive. It’s also disarmingly accurate thanks to its 32,000 DPI Hero 2 optical sensor, which is one of the quickest and most accurate you can find.
The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2’s simple five-button design is the very definition of symmetry — which only increases the pointer-like precision you get wielding it.
Who should buy the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
If you’re an esports professional or aspiring to be one, this mouse is certainly one of the best you can get. It doesn’t come cheap, though: It cost a nail-biting $159.99 at the time I reviewed it. Shown here is the pink color. It’s also available in Black and White.
Here we had to make a choice on the best of the best, but the competition in the FPS gaming mouse category is fierce. For two other excellent options for FPS gaming, be sure to check out the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro and ROG Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition.
Read our full Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 review
Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition – Best buttons
Pros
An excellent sensor that syncs movements precisely
4K polling rate
Strong and lightweight metal chassis
Cons
Perforated back won`t suit claw grippers
Smaller size isn`t great for large hands
Battery life isn`t great in 4K polling mode
Why I like the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition
It’s very lightweight, weighing just 2.25 ounces (64 grams). Yet its chassis is made from magnesium, so it’s also very strong. I also had everything I needed to perform at my best — an accurate 26K DPI sensor, a lightning-quick 4K polling rate and soft buttons with a very quick debounce.
The Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition is also cheaper than some rival gaming mice with similar specs, judging by its price tag at the time of writing my review; it cost $99 at Keychron, which is $50 cheaper than some very capable competitors.
Who should buy the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition
The Keychron M3 mini 4K is a one-of-a-kind mouse that makes an excellent all-purpose gaming mouse. Its interesting design also suits gamers wanting to make it a centerpiece of a collection. The mouse’s compact size does, however, mean it’s best suited to players with small-to-medium sized hands.
If you’re after a mouse with exceptionally quick buttons like this one, you might also like to check out the Glorious Model O 2 Pro 4K/8KHz Edition.
Read our full
Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition review
ROCCAT Burst Pro Air – Best RGB gaming mouse
Pros
Owl-Eye sensor is very precise and quick
You won`t find a mouse with more stunning RGB lighting
Dual wireless as well as wired connectivity
Cons
81-gram weight can feel heavy if you`re used to a lighter mouse
Mouse wheel lacks left and right lateral clicks
Pricey compared to some rivals
Best Prices Today:
$55.31 at Amazon$69.99 at Best Buy79.99 at ROCCAT
Why I like the ROCCAT Burst Pro Air
The ROCCAT Burst Pro Air’s four dedicated RGB lighting zones shine colored light through its semi-transparent body, creating a mesmerizing sheen-like glow that looks totally stunning from any angle. If the semi-transparent shell is my canvas, then ROCCAT’s Swarm app provides my painter’s palette, letting me go to town customizing each zone with up to 16.8 million colors and a range of stunning effects.
But as any gamer knows, looks aren’t everything. Consequently, I also chose the Pro Air because of its excellent gaming performance, which in my play testing I attributed to its comfortable eight-button design, powerful 19,000 DPI Owl-Eye optical sensor, and low-latency optical switches, which are rated for 100 million clicks.
The Pro Air also scores big points for its excellent connectivity options, which includes low-latency 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 wireless options, and a USB-A to USB-C cable for wired connectivity. For another great ROCCAT gaming mouse that has previously taken top position for ‘Best RGB gaming mouse’ also check out the ROCCAT Kone XP.
Who should buy the ROCCAT Burst Pro Air
If you appreciate a bit of RGB artistry in your gaming getup or want to create a mesmerizing light show to go with your other dazzling RGB gaming gear, then this looker is ideal.
Read our full
ROCCAT Burst Pro Air review
Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless – Most original gaming mouse design
Pros
Very good sensor
Ultra-flat front
Very light
Eco-friendly design
Long battery life
Cons
Unusually placed charging socket
Design might take some getting used to for some users
Best Prices Today:
$99 at Amazon
Why I like the Xtrfy M8 Wireless
The Xtrfy M8 Wireless’ design is as unique as possible, with the charging socket placed on its right-side rather than at the front like just about every other gaming mouse you will find. But while some players may like that and others not so much, what I salute the most in its design is the fact that its housing is made from 60 percent recycled plastic.
Who should buy the Xtrfy M8 Wireless
Despite the reused materials and side charging socket, this mouse’s hardware is just perfect for pro-gamers. It’s powered by a Pixart 3395 sensor with a maximum resolution of 26,000 DPI. A low-latency 2.4GHz Wi-Fi signal provides a response time as fast as 1 millisecond.
If changing debounce is your jam, the M8 also allows you to choose between four settings: 2, 4, 8, or 12 milliseconds. Plus, it weighs just 1.94 ounces (55 grams) which makes it one of the lightest and quickest mice you will move over your mouse mat.
Read our full
Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless review
Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed – Best dual-purpose gaming and productivity mouse
Pros
Quick and accurate sensor
High sensor positioning
Very long battery life
Cons
No RGB lighting
2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity only
Weighs less than 3 ounces
Best Prices Today:
$69.50 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed
With no RGB lighting and a modest uni-color Black casing, the Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed is stealthy enough to be your work or study mouse, and yet it also has some of the best hardware for esports you can find in a wireless mouse. That includes a whopping 30,000 DPI Razer Focus Pro Optical Sensor and super-quick Razer Gen 2 Mechanical Switches.
The Viper V3 Hyperspeed’s design gives you precision control of your movements; it features a high back and lots of length in the fingers so that you can stretch out in a palm grip. The high position of the sensor catches your movements at their origin for split-second quicker movement than we’ve experienced in some rivals. The Viper V3 Hyperspeed also supports 4,000Hz HyperPolling, which really makes this mouse cook with fire in fast action games like CouterStrike — although you will have to shell out $29.99 extra for the HyperPolling dongle (not included). The Viper V3 also has excellent battery life. In fact, a single AA battery provides up to 280 hours of operation at the mouse’s default polling rate of 1,000Hz.
The V3 Hyperspeed currently costs $69.99 at Razer, Amazon, and Best Buy. In a similar vein but with more modest hardware and for $15 cheaper, be sure to check out the Razer DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed too.
Who should buy the Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed
Players who want a kick-ass gaming mouse that’s also stealthy enough to double as a school or work mouse. It’s also a great option for those who like the feeling of a mouse with a high back and slightly flared main buttons.
Read our full
Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed review
MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless – Best rechargeable gaming mouse
Pros
Charging dock included
Current high-end sensor from Pixart
Omron switches
Three connection modes (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, wired)
Good price-performance ratio
Cons
A bit heavy for `Lightweight`
Software is a little convoluted
Best Prices Today:
$84.99 at Amazon
Why I like the MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless
The MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless gaming mouse combines practicality, functionality, and stellar looks better than just about any other gaming mouse. As well as supporting all three connectivity types — 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wired — it features visually striking RGB Diamond Lightgrips down each side that hold your fingers to the mouse’s body and provide you with a lot of precision control over movement. Another practical feature is the convenient charging dock that makes recharging a piece of pie and means it’s very difficult to ever run out of battery.
The GM51 Lightweight Wireless has impressive hardware for gaming, including a Pixart PAW 3395 sensor with a maximum resolution of 26,000 DPI and Omron switches in its buttons, which are known for their durability and speed.
Who should buy the MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless
Although its 3.1-ounce (89 grams) weight is at the upper end of what many would call lightweight, the MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless’ balanced size makes it especially comfortable for players that adopt palm and claw grips. It’s also a great option for players who play for long stints and like the convenience of not having to plug their mouse in to charge after every gaming session.
Read our full
MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless review
How we test gaming mice
To ensure that our gaming mice selections are the pick of the crop, the PCWorld team subjects them to extensive play testing as well as a legion of other tests. We scrutinize everything from how well a mouse perform in games, to the size and shape of it in the hand, to comfort and ergonomics, to customizations. Here are the main categories our tests fall under:
Gaming performance: At the end of the day it doesn’t matter how a mouse looks; it’s how it performs that matters. To evaluate a mouse’s performance we look specifically at how sensitive and responsive its sensor is and also how well the sensor tracks movement. Precision is also a key consideration, with mice that are more accurate generally scoring better in our reviews than those that aren’t. In wireless mice we also evaluate the speed and strength of the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals, keeping a look out for red flags like signal dropouts or interference. Some mice also come with software enhancements that determine the mouse’s lift-off distance, which we also examine in our testing.
Design and ergonomics: You won’t find another tech device for which design plays a more crucial part of a user’s experience. And, while it’s true that there’s no one shape, size, or configuration that fits every gamer, there’s enough variation out there for every gamer to find their own perfect fit. When looking at design, we consider the size and shape of the device itself and the type of hand it fits. Gamers tend to use one of three common grip types—palm, claw, or fingertip—so a mouse’s compatibility with one or all of those types is a big consideration.
Software: Being able to tweak settings like your mouse’s DPI and polling rate and create specific profiles for your favorite games can make or break your gaming experience, which is why a mouse’s software support is so important. Our PCWorld reviewers’ focus here is to consider the range and scope of software support and how readily settings can be modified, changed, and saved for future use.
For more details about our testing process, see our article on how we test gaming mice at PCWorld.
FAQ
1.
Should I choose a wired or wireless mouse or one with both connectivity types?
It used to be generally well accepted that wired gaming mice had the edge over their wireless counterparts, providing gamers with a much faster and more accurate signal between mice and PCs. However, that’s less true today thanks to the popularity of 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technologies, which have almost levelled the playing field.
I say almost, because there’s no denying that wired gaming mice still deliver the fastest and most secure connections you can get. That said, whether you choose one type over the other should come down to your gaming priorities.
If you’re a serious competitive gamer or esports player, where winning or losing sits on a knife’s edge, opting for a wired mouse over a wireless one is a good decision, since it’s less likely a signal dropout or interference will disrupt your play. Every competitive edge counts. However, wireless mice are infinitely more portable and allow you to switch between devices at a whim, so if nimbleness and portability is more important, a wireless mouse will be a better fit.
2.
What size and shape mouse should I get?
Hands, just like gaming mice, come in all different shapes and sizes, and for comfort reasons it pays to match like with like. While categorizing sizes of hands can be highly subjective, chances are you’ll be able to guess whether your hand is on average small, medium, or large. You can then find a mouse that best fits from among the size categories below:
• Small gaming mouse: Length: Less than 6.7 inches; width: 2.9 to 3.3 inches• Medium gaming mouse: Length: 6.7 to 7.9 inches; width: 3.3 to 3.9 inches• Large gaming mouse: Length: 7.9 inches; width: 3.9 to 4.3 inches
Gaming mice generally come in three shapes: left-handed, right-handed, and ambidextrous. Ambidextrous mice are designed to be neutral in that they can be just as easily used by your left or right hand. Alternatively, left-handed and right-handed mice are tailor-made for the dominant hands specified by their namesakes, often sporting bespoke curves and button placements for one or the other. Unless you switch between hands, using a gaming mouse that matches your dominant hand will go a long way to improving your performance and comfort.
Your preferred grip type should also be considered when selecting a suitably shaped mouse. Here’s a rough guide for matching grip types with mouse shapes:
• Palm grip: Long, flat mice tend to be a better fit and more comfortable• Claw grip: Narrower and smaller mice tend to suit this grip style• Fingertip grip: Lighter mice are often preferred by fingertip grippers to reduce strain
3.
How light should my mouse be?
Gaming mice weights have been gradually trending downwards over the years as players look for lighter options that are quicker to move and prevent arms and wrists getting overly tired or sore in long play sessions. FPS (first-person shooter) gamers in particular tend to go for the lightest mice possible, seeing every millisecond of speed advantage as worth chasing.
Despite this, there’s no ideal gaming mouse weight for all gamers, but rather a deeply personal preference. In fact, some gamers—often those with larger hands or stronger arms—actually prefer heavier mice for the extra stability they get. Still if you are one of those looking for the lightest mouse possible, anything under 70 grams will be among the lightest on the market.
4.
Does DPI really matter on a gaming mouse?
Your mouse’s sensor is the essential hardware component that relays movement to your PC. Mice sensors are rated for DPI, or dots per inch, which tells us how far a cursor moves per inch of mouse movement—that is, how sensitive it is. Manufacturers really hype up the importance of high DPIs, which can be a bit misleading because they don’t necessarily equate to better gaming performance (they can, but not in all circumstances).
For example, if you play a lot of FPS and want the absolute best accuracy while targeting opponents, a lower DPI (between 800-1,000) is preferable, since this allows you to make short, sharp, and precise movements more easily. However, if you make a lot of wide, sweeping hand movements, or if your display is a very high resolution, a mouse with a high DPI (between 12,000-30,000 DPI) can be an advantage.
The great thing about most modern gaming mice is that they can switch between DPI profiles just by clicking a small button behind the mouse wheel. That said, our advice is to opt for a gaming mouse with the highest DPI your budget allows, and then choose your preferred setting for different gaming scenarios by using this handy DPI-switching feature.
5.
Is an optical or laser sensor better for a gaming mouse?
Optical sensors are the most popular with gamers since they tend to have less jitter and smoothing problems. These sensors work by casting down infrared or LED light onto your mousepad and capturing thousands of digital images per second, that then reveals the precise location of the mouse to the PC.
On the other hand, laser sensors use a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser diode to determine positioning. In most cases an optical sensor will do just fine. However, if you plan on using your mouse on a translucent surface (like glass), a laser sensor is preferable since it will have better sensitivity to a variety of surface textures.
6.
How many buttons do I need on a gaming mouse?
The type of games you play should help you determine how many buttons you need. For example, if you’re a big fan of real time strategy (RTS), role-playing games (RPG), or massively multiplayer online (MMOs) games, you’d be we’ll advised to choose a mouse with between 10 and18 buttons—like the Razer Naga Pro or the SteelSeries Aerox 9. These games typically require you to fire off a lot of commands quickly, so the more buttons you have to program commands and macros in, the better.
On the flipside, if FPS is your go-to game type, you’ll probably want to keep your button count to between 6 and 8 buttons. Chances are you won’t need the higher button-count for your smaller list of commands. Plus, buttons tend to increase a mouse’s weight, so opting for a mouse with fewer will most likely mean it’s lighter and quicker to move in the frantic FPS action.
7.
Should I get RGB lighting on a gaming mouse?
RGB lighting is a fun feature to have in any gaming device that can brighten up your gaming den with pops of color. It can also be pretty useful, allowing you to see your device better in dimly lit rooms or at night. And yet, there may be times when you opt to use a mouse that has only a minimal RGB, or none at all.
The most common example is if you plan on using your gaming mouse covertly at work. In this case, mice like the Razer DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed, that have no RGB lighting zones and can convincingly pass as standard black office mice, are ideal because your colleagues will be none the wiser.
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