Ask Engadget: Which gaming mouse is superior?

Okay, so we already went way-too-vague on you when asking which mouse ruled them all, but we're hoping to narrow things up for you gamers out there with this one:

"I spend a fair amount of time on my PC playing a variety of games. First-person shooters, RPGs, a little of everything. I've heard lots of people recommend a certain mouse as a great overall device, but I'm looking for one that caters to gamers. Which mousing device on the market today gives gamers an edge and comes with features that we actually care about?"

If you're reading this now, chances are you've managed to log off long enough to help this guy out. Then again, if you're vying for top spot in those online death-matches, maybe you don't really want to give away your secret after all. Care to have your question plastered on the site? We'd typically recommend faxing your questions over, but IT just hooked us up with this fancy ask at engadget dawt com email address that you can try instead.

[Armon @ May 22nd 2008 8:52PM]

I have used MS, to Razer, to Logitech, and i think Logitech is the best. G5 or g7 ftw!

[Rarararapizza @ May 22nd 2008 8:55PM]

mx518

[Will H. @ May 22nd 2008 9:15PM]

I'm using a Logitech Revolution MX for games, it's great for RPG/RTS because of all the well placed programmable buttons, and the extra scroll wheel. It's good for FPS, but if you're really fussed about FPS everyone will tell you you need a wired mouse. I still like this mouse for games.

[Izzy @ May 22nd 2008 9:15PM]

Yep, my G7 rocks.

[Mark @ May 22nd 2008 9:44PM]

Personally, I like my G7 for most things, but whenever I really want to pwn n00bs, i get out my Microsoft Easyball:

[Slawek @ May 22nd 2008 9:47PM]

The almighty Mx510.

[DJCarbon43 @ May 22nd 2008 9:47PM]

Wow, thats bizarre! A friend asked me this two days ago.... my response is below :

You said "whats the best non-Apple Mouse for a Mac (not a fan of the Mighty Mouse)?"

Well, there are a lot of really crappy mice out there, and I'm kind of picky (strike that, really picky), but I'll tell you, I'm in love with my Logitech G5. It is to ordinary mice what a Ferrari is to a Ford. I"m such a geek, I stalked them for this mouse before it even came out (serious!), pre-ordered it, and was one of the first 500 buyers IIRC.

It was actually meant for gamers, but I've found it works extremely well for design purposes as well. Here's why:

1. It has absurdly high resolution (DPI) somewhere (I forget) between 1600 and 2400 ...ahh the page says 2000, so there ya go, for smoothness, and lightning fast reaction ( I know I sound like an infomercial).

2. The resolution is adjustable...thats right, using two buttons on the top, you can adjust the sensitivity on the fly, from a twitch to go across your desktop, to needing your entire desk top to travel a few inches of screen real estate.

3. Buttons. You heard correctly, that was an intentional plural. In addition to proper left and right mouse buttons, it also has a very well placed third mouse button that can be bound to whatever you choose (mine is bound to spaces right now). It is right there when you need it, but due to its excellent positioning, you won't find yourself accidently hitting it when you don't mean to.

4. Drivers? Who needs em? Logitech has been notoriously hit or miss with it's Mac products and drivers, but the G5 is fully functioning out of the box, no fancy schmancy drivers needed thankyaverymuch... which brings me to the next perk....

5. The scroll wheel is not just any old scroll wheel, dear boy, in addition to the standard forward and back scrolling, it also allows left and right scrolling, and further, while many many many scroll wheels disappoint for a variety of reasons, namely flimsy quality, and poor tactile feedback, the scroll wheel on my G5 feels as though Ferdinand Porsche himself might have crafted it. It rocks left and right enough when you want to utilize that function that you know which side you are rocking to, but not so much that it is ever a bother when using simple forward and back scrolling.

6. This may be breaking into the realm of the absurd, but when I was a gamer (ohh wait I still am...but I digress) we were very concerned with the weight of a mouse. If a mouse was too heavy, it could contribute to wrist fatigue over even short periods of time, while if it was too light, it would feel flimsy, and could slip/fly out of the hand in an intense situation. What is the solution to that you might ask? There is only one. A removable weight cartridge which can be customized to a variety of preferred weight (which as a bicyclist you'll appreciate are measured in grams).

7. Now what am I forgetting? ... Oh yeah. Freakin Lasers! Thats right, getting back to square one, the G5 doesnt use LEDs like a lot of the mice out there these days, the G5 is rockin a Gen U Ine LASER, which not only gives it far better resolution than LED mice, but seems to allow it to work more stably on a broader variety of surfaces (glass is still out). Plus, if anyone tries to get near your computer, you can melt a hole in their head (well not really, but that would be cool).

It looks like the G5 is selling for 60 dollars right now, which for a mouse may seem a bit steep, but let me assure you, this is not some throwaway purchase two years down the road, this is an investment in your wrist (for comfort),, your mind (for ease of use and additional functionality), and your bank account (you won't be needing to replace it for quite some time).


Apologies for the long entry... and the slightly bombastic tone ^_^

[James Cameron @ May 22nd 2008 9:50PM]

G5 was a great mouse. But the stupid middle mouse wheel is a POS.

[rektide @ May 22nd 2008 10:05PM]

Could you be any less specific please? "I used a couple mice and i like my Logitech, it work good" would be much more truthful.

I've used a MX518, MS Intellimouse Explorer 3.0 and 4.0, and recently got a Razer Lachesis. The Lachesis is the first gaming mouse I've bought but it blows the socks off everything else I've used. 4000DPI, 1000Hz refresh, adjustable DPI, and its almost big enough for my large hands.

[BIlly G @ May 22nd 2008 10:17PM]

I definitely prefer the Logitech mice myself.
I have both the G5 (v.2) and the G7 (among others) and they are excellent mice. I personally prefer the ergonomics of the G5 myself, but the G7 has top notch performance.

I find the scroll wheel left/right tilt on the G5 to be a lot easier to use reliably in a game, compared to my G7. It moves further and clicks harder, if you know what I mean. (I use the wheel tilt for selecting grenades in various FPS games.)

In any case, I'm stuck with the G7 since my G5's right button broke. I'm not unhappy though. I love it.

Of course, the cheap alternative to the G5, the MX518 is also a wonderful mouse for the gamer on a budget.

[BIlly G @ May 22nd 2008 10:22PM]

Whoops sorry, meant G9 not G7 in my last post. Apologies.

[polobunny @ May 22nd 2008 10:39PM]

Take my advice. I've used the G5 and G7 for ages after my Razer Copperhead being stole at a LAN party. I've moved to a Razer DeathAdder, and it has much better tracking. Be sure to upgrade the firmware. HOWEVER, it's damned pricey.
I suggest having a look here: http://esreality.hexus.net/?a=longpost&id=1300293&page=4
This might help you choose. If you're into competition, don't forget USB hacks are not allowed.

[Bunson @ May 22nd 2008 11:08PM]

I use a shitty no name brand 2 dollar mouse and I still pwn nubs

[Bunson @ May 22nd 2008 11:08PM]

I use a shitty no name brand 2 dollar mouse and I still pwn nubs

[Pedo Bear @ May 24th 2008 11:50PM]

G7 ftw i have the G7 and the G5 they are basicaly identical except that i cant use the G7 from my upsataris when the PC is in the basement

[triforceOFcourage @ May 23rd 2008 1:26AM]

Okay, I don't like most of the mice out there because they're ambidextrous. I prefer a right-handed mouse because, well, I'm right-handed. They feel nicer. That alone knocks out 80% of the gaming mice, including almost all Razers. I've used the Logitechs a lot, and both the G5/G7 models and the G9 rock. I prefer the G9 because of the scroll wheel (metallic parts work better than plastic) but the G7 is wireless, so you may prefer that. In any case, I personally stick with the higher end Logitechs.

[r3loaded @ May 23rd 2008 2:37AM]

Same, I love my 2007 model (the blue one with two side buttons) of the Logitech G5. So smooth...

[Almighty- @ May 23rd 2008 3:40AM]

Logitech's G5 Refresh is a masterpiece !

[maty @ May 23rd 2008 5:48AM]

No-one's mentioned the Microsoft Sidewinder Mouse, surprising!

I use, its a pretty sick mouse. Its a big mouse (not for the small of hands), big hands it perfect for. 2000 DPI with LCD display and 3 customizable settings. Macros, 5-button config (and its setup so you wont "knock" the side buttons accidentally and are easy to press when you need to 9unlike some of the Logitech ones). Its got a Vista Games Menu shortcut button, additional weights of up to 35g, 3 types of feet and a cable anchor. And I got it for a nice £35/$70.

The other thing I find I prefer to it over the logitech ones is that it doesn't have a free wheel. Sure, its great for browsing, but having a wheel that clicks into place is far more accurate for selecting weapons in-game.

I've tried a bunch of different mice, this one appeals and works best for me. Reccomended!

[desertfox292 @ May 23rd 2008 6:07AM]

DJCarbon nailed it! (not to mention gave a good description of its features) I have been using a G5 for a while now and love it. I managed to grab it on sale for about $45 so it doesn't hurt to look around.

[Shinigami @ May 23rd 2008 7:20AM]

Great mouse:
Logitech:
MX510, G5, G9
Razer:
Copperhead.

I have them now/had them in the past so I can say they're GREAT. Hardcore gamer's opinion :) Don't buy G5 if you can get G9 though, G9 has both "back" and "forward" buttons, great when browsing. Besides, one more button isn't bad for games either.
If you're left-handed, take a look at Razer mouse. They make some amazing stuff as well, they are symmetric. The only down-side - they are similar visually so its hard to differ one from another. The more expensive it is, the more features it has. Copperhead is balanced, there are both cheaper and more expensive models.

As for games, I found that Razer is better for strategies/diablo clones with camera "in the sky" while Logitech G9 is better for FPS games. Thats my personal opinion though, personal opinions may vary.

The only noticeable difference between (performance-wise) them is that copperhead makes more smooth circles, while G9 makes edgy circles. The difference is quite small, so basically either will fit any game you play. Both are laser mouse and both can be recommended to any hardcore gamer.

I highly recommend you to buy gaming mouse in a shop where you can use it for 2-3 days and then return it with no problems. Why? Because, unlike most people, I prefer the "matte" surface of G9 mouse, not "shiny" one (yes G9 has 2 different mouse "cases", very useful).

If you aren't certain about your preferences in mouse grip (more info can be found on Razer web site), you'll need to get both mouses and compare them side by side after 2-3 hours of gaming. Then just return one to the shop. Or keep both, like I did xD

Hope this helps :)

[Rodrigo @ May 23rd 2008 9:11AM]

Everyone seems to have a raging hard-on for the G5/G7. And having used them, I still prefer the G9 over all those mice. It's Super smooth, comfortable, and great for fps as well as mmorpg.

[Matt @ May 23rd 2008 10:43AM]

I personally still use the mx1000. I haven't found a single logitech mouse since that is as comfortable and feels as well built as this one. After my last one broke I tried the MX revolution, as well as a g7 (I can't go back to using a corded mouse) and neither one felt right, so I ended up having to order an mx1000 on ebay.

[OneLove @ May 23rd 2008 11:31AM]

A4tech X-750BF 2500 dpi with rapid fire (3x) button!!!!!!!!!

[joe @ May 24th 2008 12:14PM]

i have been through several gaming mice in the past year:

logitech g5 wired
logitech g7 wireless
MS laser 6000 wired
logitech g9 wired
steelseries ikari laser
MS sidewinder mouse

the ikari is definitely the best:

internal driver - no lame client daemon i have to run for the features to work

best shape/size (for right-handed gamers) - the g9 is way too small, g5/g7 are a bit too long and narrow, sidewinder ergonomics suck

high quality manufacturing - all of the other mice don't feel as solidly built, well-made - tolerances feel lower on the ikari. friends have said the same

only 2 adjustments for sensitivity instead of unnecessary 5, and they can be set to anything. Logitech and MS have pre-sets for sensitivity that aren't usually what you want. e.g. logitech jumps from 200 to 400 ppi.

3 friends of mine bought the ikari after trying mine. they don't have a lot of press but they definitely make the best gaming mouse.

[The Angry Intern @ May 22nd 2008 8:53PM]

my current favorite is the G5 Laser

[rodan32 @ May 22nd 2008 9:16PM]

I second that. It's very precise, good form. Very clicky scroll wheel if you're the type who uses the wheel for weapon switch. The weights are kind of silly, but give you some options; I like mine heavy. Overall just a very solid mouse.

[Rafer @ May 22nd 2008 9:23PM]

Mine is full heavy too.

[d840 @ May 23rd 2008 6:12AM]

Logitech G5 here too. However, I like my mice very light, and have therefore left out all of the weights. Logitech was very smart in allowing us to adjust the weight ourselves. :)

G7 is very nice as well, basically a cordless G5. I used to have a Logitech MX1000, but it was too heavy for FPS. The G7 is surprisingly light, and comes with 2 swappable battery packs, so it's not the end of the world when your batteries go dead.

I highly recommend either of these for gaming! With my G5 in Call of Duty 4, the thumb button is frag grenades, scroll tilt right swaps between primary and secondary weapons, and tilting the scroll wheel left gets me smoke 'nades or flashbangs (depending on what class I'm using).

I lucked out and got mine new from a friend for $20, and sold my MX1000 for $10, so I essentially got this mouse for $10, but I would absolutely pay the full $60 for one. It is totally worth it.

PS: I believe there is a leftie version as well, for you left-handed freaks out there ;P

[Technex @ May 23rd 2008 9:28AM]

I'm using a G5 currently, the bronze style one. I get top scores daily with no problems.

I need to invest in one of them friction free cable carriers though.


I would love to try the G9, I might just buy one.

Logictech MX Revolution I am using on my laptop, really comfortable and my hand never hurts. It's poor for games though, to low of a DPI and skips way to much, specially when the battery gets low which doesn't last long...

[Technex @ May 23rd 2008 9:29AM]

Sorry, I meant Logitech, my RC helicopter gyros are made from Logictech, lol...

Habit for me, sorry.

[Jeremy K. @ May 22nd 2008 8:53PM]

Razer mice are great so are the Logitech. I have a Razer Diamonback and it helps me to pwn noobz lol.

[Bman21212 @ May 22nd 2008 9:05PM]

Razers are either hit or miss. They are lower than logitech gaming mice, and can be used on either hand. Some find the lowered mass more comfortable, but others like myself do not.

Go to Best Buy and try out the feel of the mice. You really do have to know what they feel like, as that is the most important indicator. More money doesn't mean better, but it might make it feel nicer, which is better. It might have a better sensor than a ball mouse or an optical (non laser) mouse, but that's about it. And once you hit 2,000 dpi, more is just kinda useless.

[Hero @ May 22nd 2008 10:18PM]

w00t!
Go Razer. FTW!
Haha.

Razer Diamondback bros...
If you can afford the expensive stuff, go for it.
I could only afford a Diamondback after I spent all my money on my rig.

[darkstar @ May 22nd 2008 10:31PM]

im really surprised nobody here uses a Wacom tablet! u can afford sli yet u cant afford a wacom 9x12 tablet. a razer is nothing

[Keaton @ May 22nd 2008 10:44PM]

I use the mouse that came with my Medium Bamboo Fun Tablet... Super accurate and fast all at the same time...

[ByronGman @ May 23rd 2008 12:02AM]

Deathadder is definitely awesome as well...

Nice look, feels good in the hand, you can macro every button....

Only drawback is 5 buttons... if you want more than that....

[Juaquin @ May 23rd 2008 5:18AM]

Old-school Diamondback (before the new 3G sensor version) FTW! I've had mine for 3 years and see no reason to upgrade, despite having tried my roommate's G5 and Lachesis. Optical beats out laser every day.

[d @ May 22nd 2008 8:53PM]

"I just use my Mighty Mouse" said the village Apple Fanboy

(That's me)

[Ray @ May 22nd 2008 9:30PM]

Dude, you're the kinda of person that gives Apple a bad name.

"A gaming mouse post....let me go mention the Mighty Mouse and annoy people!"

I love Apple but I hate their mice, currently using a MX518 and I absolutely love it!

[d @ May 22nd 2008 9:43PM]

Ray, you missed the point. It was a joke. I know the Mighty Mouse is not a gaming mouse, nor am I a gamer (except for a little cell phone Tetris once in a while :-) ). I wanted to put a smile on face by calling myself the village Apple Fanboy as if everyone had one and the fact that someone would say it eventually and I just turned it into a joke, as it already is. I guess I failed.

And BTW, you're kinda the person who gives people who say "you're kinda the person who gives _______ a bad name" a bad name :-)

[Ray @ May 22nd 2008 9:46PM]

Wow that joke was amazing

Comment of the year ladies and gentlemen!

[Rafer @ May 22nd 2008 8:53PM]

Logitch MX518
Or for 5 bucks more at best buy the G5 with weights.

Same mice cept one has lazer.

[CUBSWILLWIN @ May 22nd 2008 8:55PM]

I agree. I own one for my gaming rig, and it's probably the best I've used in a long time.

[Lazerface @ May 22nd 2008 11:37PM]

long live the mx518!!! I've gone thru 2 of these mice (one was for the house computer, the other for my personal use) and both have been fantastic!

Also, consider your mousepad too. I have an Allsop metal mousepad, has a rubber bottom so it wont slip, great texture for optical/lazer mice, and was only $20 some 5 years ago, so should be cheaper now!

I also have a beef with all mice, more specifically the glue that hold the sliding pads on the bottom, it can degrade with wear and can cause buildup of dirt/dust/etc that can slow you down.

[tiuk @ May 23rd 2008 11:10AM]

MX518 rocks. For years I kept using IntelliMouse Explorers, I must have bought 3 or 4 of them as they wore out. When I finally made the jump to the MX518 it was awesome. The biggest selling point for me was the fact the it had two buttons on the left side. It's amazing how many mice don't, and I'm so used to them being there (the IntelliMouse Explorer had them too) that not having them pretty much isn't an option anymore.

[Mredraider @ May 22nd 2008 8:55PM]

I use the Logitech MX518 and love it.... seems a little bigger than other mice, but slides smooth like across my hard plastic mouse pad. Responsive and programmable buttons (one button to instantly close the art *wink* your looking at)

My wife, however, insists on using a Razer Diamondback. Razer's software is absolutely abysmal, but that most is slender and very responsive.

[Alexander @ May 22nd 2008 8:56PM]

It all depends on your playing style. There are mice (like the Logitech G5, G7 and Razer DeathAdder and Lachesis) that let you rest your hand for a more subtle play. Then there are mice (like the Logitech G9 and Microsoft Sidewinder) that require more of a 'claw' like gaming approach. My personal reccomendation after owning all of these is stick to Logitech and Razer for gaming, but in order to really get the best feel it will require finding a mouse that feels good first up (like trying the feels of demo mice at Best Buy, etc.) and then playing with a few candidates for several hours to see if that comfort stays over time/use (and then take advantace of BestBuy's return policy if one doesn't make the cut).

[JakeB @ May 23rd 2008 10:56AM]

I have the Microsofy Sidewinder becasue I have somewhat big hands and it feels really confortable. Plus i enjoy being able to turn the dpi down when im sniping on COD4, TF2, or Crysis for a more accurate shot and then turn it up instantly when I need to switch weapons. I agree in that you should find one that first feels confortable, and then go with the rest of the specs. regardless of what mouse you have if you are not confortable hodling it, then you have wasted your money.

[Jeff @ May 22nd 2008 8:56PM]

I use the MX Revolution...pretty good for Team Fortress 2 sniping. The wireless signal is death though if you live in a crowded apartment.