Tips for Choosing a Good Gaming Mouse

For serious gamers, the right equipment can make or break a gaming session, and that includes having the right mouse. Even novice players can step up their game simply by upgrading to a better quality mouse. The difference in performance between a so-so mouse and a really good one is something you have to experience for yourself. And yet the difference in price is not as significant as some may think.

First of all, how does a good gaming mouse differ from a regular computer mouse? A true gaming mouse is designed with additional buttons and controls for playing any type of action or adventure-based computer game. It is often bigger than an ordinary mouse and shaped to accommodate all the extra controls. A gaming mouse also depends on a fast connection between it and the computer, while response speed is less critical for a regular mouse.

Before you make a decision, you must look at several criteria, including ergonomics, function, precision, and price.

Because gamers like to spend hours at the computer, the mouse must be very comfortable to use. It should be contoured to match the shape of your hand. Many gaming mice are on the large side, which may or may not be what you want. Do you prefer to grip the mouse with your fingers, or do you like a relaxed, natural palm grip? Some models such as the Logitech g9x feature an adjustable grip, which lets them be used by people with larger or smaller than average hands. A well built mouse should feel pleasantly hefty. It should glide smoothly and confidently over the mousing surface without skipping or jittering.

Both wired and wireless gaming mice are readily available. Some gamers find that a wireless mouse is too slow for their level of play. Certain models are reported to be as fast as a wired mouse, but you have to be careful. If you must have a wireless mouse, try to find one that can be docked for recharging while you stay in the game. There is nothing more irritating than having to quit in the middle of a game due to low battery power.

Then you have to consider function. A gaming mouse needs plenty of programmable buttons that let you customize the mouse to your liking. In general, the more buttons that you can customize, the better.

Pay attention to how the control buttons are arranged on the mouse. Can you reach them all without straining the muscles in your hand?

Laser tracking and high dpi resolution are standard in a gaming mouse, where every pixel counts. You should be able to switch between higher and lower tracking precision to suit the situation. Serious gamers find that the ability to adjust sensitivity on the fly is a tangible advantage in many shooting games. Above all, you want fast, precise control even when game play gets intense. The Logitech mx 518 is one of several popular models that get top marks from hardcore gamers.

Price is often the least of a gamer’s concerns, because who wants to let a few bucks get between them and gaming world domination? But if it’s a factor for you, be sure to shop around because you can often find your mouse of choice on sale somewhere.

As you can see, there’s a lot to think about when it’s time to upgrade your mouse. Take the time to check out some gaming mouse reviews to help with the decision making process.