Is a Gaming Mouse Worth It? Here's What We Think

A mouse specially designed for gaming gives you a lot of extra features over your regular mouse, but is getting a gaming mouse really worth it?

Here we'll take a closer look at what advantages gaming mice hold over their more 9-5 counterparts, which may help guide you on your search for the best mouse for you.

We'll also do our best to demystify some of the complex specs around gaming mice, so you know what you're getting on your search.

So let's dive straight in and see if buying a gaming mouse is the best option for you.

Features Of A Gaming Mouse

A gaming mouse comes with a set of features that will help you to play your game better. They are generally more comfortable, responsive, and accurate than standard mice, and will benefit you greatly in your gaming endeavours.

Let's check out some of the notable features of a gaming mouse that tend to elevate your gaming experience to the next level.

Extra buttons for additional functionality

Most gaming mice come with a set of extra buttons that you can program to perform certain functions. These extra buttons typically appear on the side of your mouse, by your thumb, and can be assigned to different keys on your keyboard.

For example, in Counter Strike, you can assign one of them for throwing a grenade, so you do not have to hit a combination of buttons on the keyboard to do the same. It can be a real game-changer once you get comfortable with them.

These extra buttons can also be used for various other functions, such as cutting or pasting a file, which normally requires the tapping of two buttons. Instead of pressing Ctrl + V or X, a single tap of the mouse button will do the job for you.

• Read More: Are Gaming Keyboards worth It?

Customizable DPI (dots per linear inch)

For the uninitiated, DPI is a measurement of the sensitivity of a mouse.

It refers to the measurement of the speed at which a mouse cursor moves on-screen, in relation to the distance a user is moving the mouse. For example, let's say your DPI is 400. That means that if you move your mouse one inch, your mouse cursor will move for 400 pixels on your screen.

DPI has a substantial impact on gaming. While a higher DPI results in faster movements, a lower DPI offers you high accuracy. In some games, a lower DPI might be preferable, while a higher DPI might be better for others.

For shooting precision in FPS, the recommended DPI is in the lower scope of 400-800. Whereas for MMOs and RPGs, the best DPI is in the higher range of 1000-1600. Different genres of games demand different DPI and a gaming mouse can switch between these settings on the fly.

Higher polling rate

The polling rate is the rate at which the mouse sends out signals to the computer about its position on the screen. It is measured in Hz and can vary from 125Hz to over 1000Hz depending on the brand and model of the mouse. A mouse with a 1000Hz polling rate refreshes its location every 1ms.

The polling rate determines the speed and responsiveness of the mouse. A higher polling rate is important for FPS games that require speed, precision, and accuracy. Most gaming mice allow you to adjust your polling rate to match your gaming need. Any polling rate above of 500Hz is considered good for gaming.

• Read More: Is A Gaming Motherboard Worth It?

Advantages Of A Gaming Mouse

When you're gaming, you need a mouse that is fast, accurate, responsive and feels comfortable in your hand. A gaming mouse checks all the boxes. With adjustable DPI and a higher polling rate, gaming mice can give you an edge in terms of speed and performance.

Moreover, the additional buttons on a gaming mouse give you better control and ease of use. Thanks to them, you will be able to do complex skills or actions with just a single tap. Furthermore, the ergonomic design of the mouse fits in your hand comfortably and helps prevent you from developing Carpal Tunnel or RSI.

Last but not least, gaming mice are typically more durable and long-lasting than the average desktop mice. Their high-end materials and designs make them resistant to frequent use. So, you don't have to worry about your gaming mouse breaking down or wearing out after several months of use.

• Check Price: Logitech G502 HERO at Amazon

Is A Gaming Mouse Worth It?

If you are a serious gamer, a gaming mouse absolutely worth the money you pay for it. It’s definitely necessary if you want to be a pro at your favourite game.

For one thing, they have an adjustable DPI. This allows you to customize your mouse settings according to your preference. You can also adjust the polling rate to reduce mouse lag. This makes your gaming experience smoother. The additional buttons give you better control over your game.

There are a variety of gaming mice available, ranging from $15 to upwards of $100. You can find a decent one for about $30 to $50. The Razer DeathAdder V2 is just one of the standout gaming mice available on the market.

Casual gamers can go for some budget-friendly gaming mice to up their game. You'll be amazed at how much better your games will be with a gaming mouse.