Choosing a Gaming Mouse
What should you look for?
Much has been said about getting the mouse with the highest DPI, but it's important to realize that DPI is simply a measure of sensitivity. Per Kim Ron, the CMO of Steelseries you could go to a professional tournament and "Ninety percent of the expert gamers there will be using a DPI value between 800 to 1,600." So, instead of looking to move your mouse more quickly gamers should be looking for better precision, functionality, and comfort.
Interactivity - See What Other Gamer's Like You Think
Don't just take my word for it. The order of the following top ten is based on how others before you have voted on our interactive poll. (See the results below the first mouse). The top ten changes as new products are introduced and surpass older products. Think it's wrong? Vote to change the order.
Interactivity - See What Other Gamer's Like You Think
Don't just take my word for it. The order of the following top ten is based on how others before you have voted on our interactive poll. (See the results below the first mouse). The top ten changes as new products are introduced and surpass older products. Think it's wrong? Vote to change the order.
Top 10 Best PC Gaming Mice for 2011-2012
#1 Logitech G9X Review
The G9x is one of the most customizable gaming mice that you'll come across. For around $20 more than the G500 and Deathadder 3500 the Logitech G9X gives you several more customizable features to fit your personal preference and gaming style.Interchangeable Grips - Precision or Wide Load
Gamers come in all shapes in sizes and with the the G9x you can choose either the "wide load" or "precision grip" that fits your hand and gaming style. The Wide Load has a fuller shape for more comfort with a large thumb rest and the Precision grips give you better finger control.
DPI and Precision
Although I can't imagine using much more than 3000 DPI the G9X gives you the option of going for a precise targeting with as little as 200DPI to ultra-fast maneuvering with up to 5700 DPI if you download the latest software. Like most USB gaming mice it has a full USB report rate of Up to 1000 reports/second and uses next-generation laser gaming technology to give you increased accuracy.
With a choice of pixel precise targeting at 200dpi or fast maneuvering with up to 5000dpi, you certainly have enough control and the onboard memory gives you five profiles so you can take all of them with you when you travel for a LAN party.
Weight Tuning
Like the G500 Logitech has given you 28 grams of extra weight. If you've never used the weights before, then I recommend you do a simple test by adding and removing weight. I've always found that some level of weight in the front helps to improve my overall accuracy and just "feels right" when playing FPS-type games.
Customization and Profiles
The G9X comes with onboard memory for up to 5 profiles which store your macros, DPI settings, and even customizable LED colors (Red, Green, Blue, and Orange).
Summary
Overall the G9X offers you more options and flexibility and is one of the better high-end USB gaming mice available. The scrolling wheel is similar to other gaming mice but what really sets the G9X apart is the interchangeable grips and hard nosed accuracy. You can find it on Amazon for around $60. I highly recommend it for FPS-type games, but MMORPG gamers may want to consider a mouse with more programmable buttons.
Budget/Value Pick for FPS Gamers
Although it's been replaced by Logitech's G700 the G500 is still a solid option for gamers on a budget.
Although it's been replaced by Logitech's G700 the G500 is still a solid option for gamers on a budget.
#2 Razer Deathadder 3500
Another Solid USB Budget Option
This mouse combines comfort and a level of precision that is a good value at this price range. The ergonomic right handed design keeps you comfortable for hours of gaming and the scroll wheel has 24 individual click positions with large mouse buttons and a rubber coating to keep you from slipping. With 3500 dpi and 3.5G infrared sensor you get what you need by way of precision (most professional gamers don't use over 1600 per Kim Rom of Steelseries).
A Standard PC has around 800dpi so you do gain an advantage in accuracy over a typical mouse. You'll find that the response time of 1000Hz with Razer's ultrapolling technology is good but also somewhat common with other gaming mice.
A Standard PC has around 800dpi so you do gain an advantage in accuracy over a typical mouse. You'll find that the response time of 1000Hz with Razer's ultrapolling technology is good but also somewhat common with other gaming mice.
#3 Logitech MX 518 Gaming Mouse
A Time Tested Classic
The MX518 simply works. Ask the thousands of gamers who use it or have used it in the past. At a more affordable rate, it gives you 400-1600DPI and good accuracy, targeting, and high speed handling. It is sculpted to fit most hand types and will glide over nearly any surface without sticking or catching. It is made to be very durable for harder play.The Logitech MX518 comes with in game switching that gives you control over cursor speed and response time without interfering with your game play; go from 400 to 1600dpi at the flick of a finger. You can also download additional software so you can customize the mouse for every game you play. It comes with 8 programmable buttons.
Overall this time test classic simply works right. The slick feet design along with the contoured grip is comfortable and smooth. Because it's such a durable mouse you can also consider getting it used on Amazon for about half of the standard price.
# 4 Logitech G500 Programmable Gaming Mouse
With intense precision and control, this mouse is a must have for FPS gamers on a budget. The Logitech G500 gaming grade laser works at any hand speed and does not require additional software.
You Choose the Weight
The G500 comes 27 grams which you can use as much of or as little as you want. I use the extra weight while I'm gaming and then pop the cartridge out when I'm done and ready to browse. You may find that different weights are more efficient for different games although I typically stay with one weight.
Accuracy/DPI/Buttons
The G500 allows up to 5700dpi so it has plenty of accuracy for any game. On the front left portion of the mouse it also has sensitivity buttons that make it convenient for adjusting on the fly. It also has a dual scroll wheel which allows you to more efficiently scroll on a large map or while outside of the map and browsing the internet. Just flick it up and it will go quite a way. Other mice have a mechanical trigger for this that makes the mouse scroll until you stop it. While this can be a great feature I like the simplicity of the overall design. It comes with up to 10 programmable buttons for all of your favorite in-game macros/keys.
Overall
This is a great time-tested mouse which I still use for games like BFBC2 and it makes for a great mouse even when you're not gaming. Are there better more expensive mice out there? Sure, but unless you're looking for a wireless mouse or a mouse with a million programmable buttons for your MMORPG, then this should be a solid option.
You Choose the Weight
The G500 comes 27 grams which you can use as much of or as little as you want. I use the extra weight while I'm gaming and then pop the cartridge out when I'm done and ready to browse. You may find that different weights are more efficient for different games although I typically stay with one weight.
Accuracy/DPI/Buttons
The G500 allows up to 5700dpi so it has plenty of accuracy for any game. On the front left portion of the mouse it also has sensitivity buttons that make it convenient for adjusting on the fly. It also has a dual scroll wheel which allows you to more efficiently scroll on a large map or while outside of the map and browsing the internet. Just flick it up and it will go quite a way. Other mice have a mechanical trigger for this that makes the mouse scroll until you stop it. While this can be a great feature I like the simplicity of the overall design. It comes with up to 10 programmable buttons for all of your favorite in-game macros/keys.
Overall
This is a great time-tested mouse which I still use for games like BFBC2 and it makes for a great mouse even when you're not gaming. Are there better more expensive mice out there? Sure, but unless you're looking for a wireless mouse or a mouse with a million programmable buttons for your MMORPG, then this should be a solid option.
# 5 Steel Series Xai High Performance Laser Gaming Mouse - Black (62135)
Steel Series is known for their professional gaming equipment. The Xai has an Ambidextrous shape and has a sensor which gives a huge improvement over current laser mice, processing 12,000 Frames Per Second at movement speeds of 150 Inches Per Second.#6 Logitech G700
In at number 3 is the Logitech G700 which combines USB gaming level speed of 1,000 reports per second along with the freedom of wireless. The sensitivity is up to 5700 DPI, and it has a nice nice natural feel to it. It comes with a rechargeable battery and can be plugged in to recharge even during battle.
#7 Razer Naga MMOG Gaming Mouse - Molten edition
17 Programmable Buttons
Best Corded Mouse For MMORPG:This molten version of the super popular Razer Naga mouse was released almost a year ago and I still can't get over just how cool it looks. Other than just the look you have access to a multitude of in-game commands located in one place with this mouse. The thumb grid comes with multiple buttons. Yet again, another ergonomically designed mouse to let you play for hours comfortably.
There are 17 MMO optimized buttons which include the 12 on the thumb grid. You can have an unlimited number of character profiles with AddOns and also more specific software with the AddOns as well. You can organize everything and get rid of information clutter with these interfaces.
Overall this is a very accurate mouse with 5600dpi Razer Precision and a 3.5G Laser Sensor. It is somewhat difficult to learn but overtime the learning curve is well worth the improved game play. Recommended for MMORPG-style games only. You'll have to decide whether it's worth a little extra cash for the molten version or whether you're willing to fork over considerably more for the Naga Epic which has gaming grade wireless and three interchangeable side panel grips.
#8 Mad Catz Cyborg PC Gaming Mouse
R.A.T. 9
Depending on how much cash you're willing to fork over you can purchase the R.A.T. 3, starting at $43, the R.A.T. 5, R.A.T. 7, and finally the R.A.T. 9 featured above.The R.A.T. 9 is a wireless mouse with no latency because of it's 2.4Ghz Wireless Technology. This along with the easy-to-use rocker switch which allows you to switch between 4 DPI settings of up to 5600 DPI gives you incredible accuracy. You can also completely customize the grip with 3 different pinkie grips and palm grips. This is a nice feature for gamers that have to have their mouse feel "just right". It has a lightweight and durable aluminum chassis and a custom weight system for up to 30 grams of additional weight.
Overall the R.A.T. 9 is expensive but very affective. If you haven't used this style of mouse before, then it might take some getting used to.
#9 Razer Naga Epic Gaming Mouse
Best Wireless MMORPG Mouse 2012
Another great mouse to add to your arsenal of gaming tools. This comes with 17 MMO optimized buttons and the famous Razer Naga thumb grid. The extra programmable keys give you a plethora of choices when it comes to how you want to use them. The driver software gives you simple access to organize your key binds and character abilities for any game. You can remap and create macros for all 17 buttons. You can switch between a wired and wireless mode with no effect on the function of the mouse. Using the wired mode is a great way to charge it up without having to miss out on play time. There are three interchangeable side panels to fit any hand type.
#10 Razer Orochi Elite Mobile PC Gaming Mouse
A Great Notebook Option
The Razer Orochi Elite Mobile Gaming Mouse is the first notebook gaming mouse that gives 4000dpi. A great feature is the battery life indicator so you know when it is time to recharge and you aren't interrupted in the middle of game play. It only takes two AA batteries to operate.It comes with Bluetooth compatibility for most laptops, so your on the go gaming is easier than ever. It is dual mode wired and wireless functionality so you have more precision and control. With the higher dpi you have speeds that are up to 5 times greater than standard sensors.
