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HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini review: a small, ergonomic gaming mouse with more heft than meets the eye
1:29 pm | August 14, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini: Two-minute review

The name of the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini appears to be a slapdash assortment of buzzwords, but it at least signals its intentions of being a rapid gaming mouse. HyperX claims it’s 16% smaller than the Pulsefire Haste 2, as well as being a few grams lighter (59g rather than 61g).

As with other HyperX peripherals, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini keeps to a minimal aesthetic, with only two small logos present. There is also an RGB light around the rim of the scroll wheel, but again, this is reasonably understated compared to other gaming peripherals. The chassis has a more textured feel than you might expect from a gaming mouse, which should help players maintain their grip when things get sweaty. 

This isn’t the lightest mini gaming mouse out there, with numerous other examples managing to keep the grams down to the low 50s. What’s more, the weight doesn’t feel evenly distributed, with most of it appearing to be concentrated around the center, making the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini feel heavier than it is. 

Immediately apparent when you first grip the mouse is the steep rake of the two main buttons. I found this comfortable as it was conducive to the natural bend in my fingers and knuckles – something I can’t say about other compact gaming mice I’ve experienced. Their deep indentations also help to keep your fingers in place, while the concave sides help secure your overall grip on the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini.

Clicks are more weighted than you might expect compared to some of the best gaming mouse options in this size category, which means rapid firing isn’t as easy to pull off as you might expect, quite ironic given its name. That sloping angle does help to facilitate spamming somewhat, letting you hammer down on the buttons more emphatically, but they’re still not as snappy as I would’ve liked.

The back and forward buttons are quite large for a miniature mouse. They feel firm but are easy to actuate and pleasingly responsive. The scroll wheel is well-notched, and the scroll button offers a secure push for the most part, although I did struggle to actuate it consistently: if you don’t hit the wheel square in the middle, then you’ll encounter a surprising amount of resistance, which can lead to failures in registering your inputs.

Front of HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini

(Image credit: Future)

Despite only having four small PTFE skates in each corner and one around the optical sensor, they’re quite thick, which makes the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini glide smoothly, even over hard surfaces. It’s one of the mouse’s standout features, one that will be sure to please the accuracy-craving FPS sect.

The DPI button is located on the top and can be used to cycle through up to five predefined settings. It can also be customized to perform other functions. I should mention I did experience a strange bug on one of the Windows 10 machines I tested the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini with, where the DPI kept reverting to 800 when left idle for a couple of minutes. This could’ve merely been a quirk of my particular system, and on my main gaming rig – which also uses Windows 10 – I didn’t have this issue. 

What might deter some gamers is the maximum polling rate of 1,000Hz, who might not deem this high enough for esports-grade performance. Those who use the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini for casual gaming will most likely not even notice the difference, but the higher polling rate should reduce that all-important latency figure, making movements smoother and therefore more accurate.

Ngenuity is HyperX’s software for customizing the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini, but it is quite limited in what it can do. There are options to change the polling rate, lift-off distance (a binary choice between 1mm and 2mm), and RGB lighting, but there is a distinct lack of system-level and media shortcuts available for binding. Admittedly, this is probably less of a concern for mice than it is for keyboards, but worth mentioning nonetheless. If top-level customization is what you’re after, then Razer provides its peripherals with many more options via its Synapse suite.

Underneath of HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini

(Image credit: Future)

Battery life is a claimed 100 hours, and during my testing, this does appear to hold true. After using the mouse for around three weeks, I didn’t need to recharge it once.

As well as a wireless 2.4GHz dongle, the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini also has the ability to connect via Bluetooth, handy if you want to switch between two devices quickly by using the selector switch underneath. The connection works well, although be warned that if you do connect via Bluetooth, you won’t be able to use it with the Ngenuity software, so your customization options are limited. You can still cycle through your DPI settings with the DPI button, though.

The Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini can also be used in wired mode while charging. The included USB-C to USB-A cable is very light and malleable, which means there is next to no drag to disrupt the experience.

As a gaming tool, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini is a solid choice, but it ultimately won’t blow you away. It glides excellently and has good ergonomics to offer a secure grip and operation. But the lack of an 8K polling rate will likely irk some potential users, and the clicks are a little too on the heavy side when ultra-quick spamming is called for. This is fast becoming a saturated market, and the fact is there are plenty of high-polling lightweight mice out there from the likes of Razer and other big hitters. 

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini: Price & availability

Side view of HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini

(Image credit: Future)
  • $79 / £89 / about AU$119
  • Available in black or white
  • Cheaper than the competition

The Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini is available now for $79 / £89 (about AU$119) and comes in two colorways: black or white. It’s marginally cheaper than its bigger sibling, the Pulsefire Haste 2, which comes in at $89 / £94 / AU$149.

Confusingly, there’s also the Pulsefire Haste 2 Core, which is even less at $49 / £49 / about AU$73. It looks nearly identical to the standard edition, but there are various differences, including a heavier weight (70g), no inbuilt battery (it uses a single AAA instead), and a lower maximum DPI rate of 12,000.

The Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini has a lower price tag than many of its rivals in the lightweight wireless gaming mice market. There are others in this segment that are over £100, but then there’s the Cooler Master MM311, a bargain pick that undercuts many competitors at $39.99 (about £30 / AU$59) while still offering a very competent package. It is heavier at 77g, though.

The Razer DeathAdder V3 Hyperspeed, a similarly lightweight wireless gaming mouse tipping the scales at 55g, is slightly more expensive at $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$179.95, and it’s full-size. However, it can be upgraded to an 8KHz polling rate with the additional Razer HyperPolling wireless dongle, which costs an extra $29.99 / £29.99 / AU$54.95.

If lightness is a priority for you, then the Pulsar X2v2 commands a similar price but weighs less at 52-54g, and it’s also wireless. There’s also the Razer Viper V3 Pro, which is a full-size mouse but still lighter at 54g, although it is considerably more expensive than the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini. It does have a maximum polling rate of 8KHz, though – an important feature for those who prize smoothness above all else.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini: Specs

Should you buy the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini?

Buy it if...

You want secure mouse clicks
The indented mouse buttons make clicks nice and secure, and the drop-off angle makes them ideal for all claw grippers.

You want good ergonomics
The front slope of the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini, coupled with the concave design and the aforementioned indented buttons make it feel better in the hand than many other mini gaming mice I’ve used.

You want multiple connectivity options
The Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini allows for both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity – useful if you want to switch quickly between two devices. And since it comes with an inbuilt battery, you can play and charge simultaneously with the included USB-C to USB-A cable too.

Don't buy it if...

You want a mouse to fill your palms
Unsurprisingly, HyperX specifically aims the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini at those with smaller hands, so those with a larger palm and want something to fill it won’t be catered for here.

You want a pro-level mouse
With a maximum polling rate of 1KHz, the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini might not be smooth enough for those who value this aspect above all else.

You want plenty of functionality
As a stripped-back gaming mouse, there aren’t many extras on the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini. At least the bindable DPI button is on top rather than underneath, as is the case with many other pro-level gaming mice.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini: Also consider

How I tested the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini

  • Tested for 3 weeks
  • Played a variety of games
  • 10+ years of PC gaming experience

I used the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini for around 3 weeks. During that time, I used it for gaming, casual PC use, and productivity. 

I played various FPS titles, including the ever-popular Counter-Strike 2 and the open-world Generation Zero. I also played sedate exploration games, including Botany Manor and Dimhaven, both of which are pretty much the antithesis of competitive shooters.

I used it in both the 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth modes, as well as wired. I used it on a variety of machines, including desktop and laptop PCs.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed: July 2024

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD review: this 4K OLED monitor thinks it’s a TV
2:04 pm | August 7, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Monitors Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD: one-minute review

Gaming monitors that have taken inspiration from Samsung's 32-inch 4K QD-OLED display have been around for a little while. But this is Samsung's own take, the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD. In theory, that should make it the ultimate example of the breed and a nailed-on certainty to top the tables among the best gaming monitors in 2024, right? 

It certainly all bodes well. You get Samsung's stunning QD-OLED panel tech combined with crispy 4K resolution and high pixel density, plus a 240Hz refresh. More to the point, this is Samsung using its own QD-OLED panel. In other words, you'd think Samsung knows how to get the best out of it.

Of course, it's far from cheap and hardly looks like good value compared to a much larger 4K OLED TV for about the same money. Speaking of which, it just so happens that TV-style functionality might just be this monitor's greatest flaw. Hold that thought.

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD: price and availability

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD monitor on a desk

(Image credit: Future)
  • How much does it cost? $1,299 / £1,099 / AU$1,999
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

No 32-inch 4K OLED monitor is cheap. But the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD is still one of the most expensive of this new breed. By way of example, the MSI MPG 321URX can be had for $899, albeit that's such an attractive price it's usually sold out. 

There are various other monitors using essentially the same QD-OLED panel from brands like Gigabyte and Alienware that are between $100 and $200 cheaper. That's problematic given this Samsung option is not without its flaws. On a pure value basis, it's hard to recommend.

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD: design

The thin side profile of Samsung's Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD monitor

(Image credit: Future)
Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD Key Specs

Screen size: 32-inch
Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160
Brightness: 250 nits full screen, 1,000 nits max HDR
Color coverage: 99% DCI-P3
Response time: 0.03ms
Refresh rate: 240Hz
HDR: HDR10
Features: Samsung QD-OLED 3rd Gen panel, Adaptive Sync, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 2x HDMI 2.1, SmartTV, phase-change cooling

No question, if it's a gaming monitor with a mature, upmarket vibe you're after, look no further than the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD. It's got the same premium design language as other Samsung Odyssey OLED monitors. Put simply, it looks and feels grown up and expensive in a way that most, if not all, of the competition simply doesn't.

With slim and symmetrical bezels on all four sides of the 32-inch QD-OLED panel, it's sleek and modern, too. You do get some programmable RGB lighting on the rear, which is a subtle nod to the monitor's gaming remit. But for the most part, Samsung has sidestepped the usual adolescent gamer design cues in favor of a more mature look.

  • Design: 5 / 5

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD: features

The back side of the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD monitor

(Image credit: Future)

Up front and center is the 32-inch QD-OLED panel. The big attraction is the combination of 4K resolution and therefore pixel density with the speed and HDR performance of OLED. Samsung rates the monitor at 250 nits for full screen brightness, 1,000 nits for peak HDR, plus 0.03ms for response time. Add in the 240Hz refresh rate and you very much have the same recipe as other 32-inch 4K monitors using this QD-OLED panel.

Where the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD notably differs is its SmartTV functionality. It's what makes this a "Smart Gaming Monitor" in Samsung terms, and it's a bit of a mixed bag. The positives involve the full Samsung SmartTV platform complete with a NQ8 AI Gen3 processor for video upscaling and motion enhancement.

So, assuming you watch your TV over IP rather than using a tuner, then this monitor effectively has full TV functionality with support for all the major streaming apps. The problem is that this functionality has been put up front and center to the extent that the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD ends up feeling like a very small and expensive 32-inch TV.

The on-screen display (OSD) interface kicks you back into the "Smart" functionality at every opportunity. Indeed, there's a certain amount of SmartTV setup you have to go through to even use the monitor as, well, a monitor. The OSD in general also has quite a steep learning curve. It's not nearly as straightforward to access the DisplayPort and HDMI inputs as it should be, and there are multiple and overlapping menus that make adjusting some settings absolutely baffling.

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The Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD monitor's small remote control

Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD IR remote (Image credit: Future)
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The connectivity options on the back side of Samsung's G8 Odyssey OLED G80SD

Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD connectivity options (Image credit: Future)

Obviously all of this is something you'd learn to navigate eventually. And the bundled IR remote control does help with accessing some features. But it really shouldn't be this hard or this confusing. It's also a pity because SmartTV would be a welcome extra feature if done right. As it is, it feels like a nuisance if what you mainly want to do, again, is use this monitor as a monitor.

Elsewhere, Samsung has implemented a phase change cooling system for the panel known as Pulsating Heat Pipe, which bodes well for both brightness and panel durability. Speaking of which, Samsung has also implemented various burn-in mitigation features, including logo and taskbar detection.

Finally, along with DisplayPort and HDMI connectivity, there's also USB-C with 90W of power delivery, enabling single-cable functionality with a laptop. So, pretty much all your connectivity needs should be covered.

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD: performance

Samsung G8 OLED G80SD monitor resting on a desk

(Image credit: Future)

The first thing you'll notice in terms of image quality with the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD is that it has a matte anti-glare coating rather than glossy. There are pros and cons to both types of coating, but it's notable that every other monitor based on this QD-OLED 4K panel we are aware of has a glossy finish.

Broadly, glossy coatings maximize contrast, which in turn makes the most of the perfect per-pixel lighting of an OLED screen. The matte panel does detract a little from those characteristically deep and inky blacks. It's also a little odd given that all of Samsung's actual TVs are glossy and Samsung is pitching the SmartTV functionality here. But the matte coating also helps to mitigate the quantum-dot associated greyness these panels can suffer from in strong ambient light. 

In the end it's a subjective call. We think glossy coatings really let OLED panels zing. But this is still a mostly stunning monitor. Full-screen brightness is as good as OLED monitor technology currently allows, which means it's about the same as a 250 nit LCD monitor for SDR content. But for HDR games and video, it'll hit 1,000 nits for small highlights. That's some serious sizzle.

The catch is that the calibration in both SDR and HDR modes could be better. Connected to a PC, the SDR colors are oversaturated. The factory default HDR color balance could do with a little tweaking, too. To be clear, this is not a massively wonky monitor in terms of color accuracy. But given the price, you'd be justified in expecting near perfection. And you're not getting that.

That said, you can't argue with the speed. The combination of 240Hz refresh and 0.03ms response makes this a seriously rapid panel. For both latency and pixel response, it's pretty much impeccable. The only catch is that the 4K resolution takes some driving. If you want to hit high frame rates and make the most of that 240Hz refresh at 4K, you're going to need one of the best graphics cards on the market.

  • Performance: 4 / 5

Should I buy a Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD?

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD resting on a desk with the on-screen display shown

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

Don't buy if...

Also Consider

Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD: Report Card

How I tested the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD

I had the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD as my primary PC and Mac display for two weeks. That meant everything from daily work duties to watching YouTube and streaming services. Oh and gaming - lots of gaming.

The latter is really what this monitor ought to be about, though with the SmartTV functionality dominating proceedings, it's easy to forget that. Along with my usual suite of test images and apps, I used the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD across multiple gaming genres, from shooters to strategy titles.

Most of all, it was intriguing to see how it compared with other 4K OLED monitors. This is the fifth such model I have personally reviewed, so I have a pretty good feel for how they all stack up. 

  • First reviewed August 2024
HyperX Alloy Rise review: a lightning performance keyboard with weak software
12:08 pm | August 1, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Keyboards Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

HyperX Alloy Rise: one-minute review

The HyperX Alloy Rise sits at the top end of the brand’s gaming keyboard range, claiming to be a strong and fast mechanical board for ultimate performance. 

At first glance, the Alloy Rise doesn’t look much like a gaming-oriented peripheral, especially compared to some of the best gaming keyboards around. It only comes in one color, black, and the stylings typical of this market are largely absent. There are a few nods to its target audience, such as RGB backlighting and personalization opportunities, but on the whole, the design of the Alloy Rise is fairly anonymous, which isn’t usually a charge one can level at gaming gear.

It’s also a very substantial piece of hardware, weighing in at 1.3kg. Although the key layout is compact, the chassis is quite thick, which reveals one of the worst design flaws of the Alloy Rise: its lack of wrist support. The elevated height forced my wrists to bend upwards at an uncomfortable angle and put too much pressure on the heels of my palms. Propping up the back feet did help somewhat, but not enough to alleviate the discomfort altogether. What’s really needed here is a wrist rest but, unfortunately, the Alloy Rise doesn’t come with one.

As you would expect from a premium gaming keyboard, the keycaps are made from PBT. They are mildly textured, offering enough grip while still retaining a smooth feel. The default switches underlying them are HyperX’s Red Linear variety, which actuate very quickly with light touches, making them great for fast-paced gaming sessions. However, I found that misinputs were an issue for me, especially when typing. I did acclimatize eventually, but if you’re used to traditional mechanical boards, this might not be an issue for you.

The compact layout makes adopting the WASD position comfortable, with all the important keys easily accessible. The always-awkward Ctrl key is much easier to reach for compared to other boards I’ve used, and the weight and thock of the space bar is a real highlight (although my thumb did tend to hit the back edge of the bar if I didn’t use a wrist rest).

close up of RGB backlighting on HyperX Alloy Rise

(Image credit: Future)

Less of a highlight is HyperX’s take on peripheral software. Ngenuity, as it’s called, lets you rebind every key, offering options for primary and secondary functions, but there are far fewer system-level shortcuts available compared to other manufacturers’ software. It does feature a macro recorder, though. You can also customize the backlighting with different colors and effects, and even sync them with other HyperX devices you have.

Considering where the Alloy Rise stands in its lineup, HyperX seems keen to pitch it as a top-tier gaming keyboard. Based on its feel and performance, it’s nailed that aspect, but the lack of wrist support, in-depth customization software, and wireless capabilities prevent it from being a true standout. 

This is a hotly contested market, and there are equally capable boards out there for a similar price or less, including plenty of offerings from big hitters such as Razer, Logitech, and the like.

HyperX Alloy Rise review: price and availability

  • $199 / £169 / AU$308
  • 75% model available for less
  • One colorway

The Alloy Rise is priced more or less in line with other premium wired gaming keyboards. There are certainly costlier options out there, such as the Razer Huntsman v2 Analog, but there are also plenty at a similar if not cheaper price point.

HyperX offers some optional extras for the Alloy Rise, including a variety of keycaps, switches, top plates, side badges, and wrist rests. There’s also a 75% variant available, which costs $169 / £149 / AU$277. 

If you’re after a full-size board, then the Asus Rog Strix Scope II RX is another option for a cheaper price ($139 / £149 / about AU$210). It uses optical mechanical switches that are also quick and precise. However, the Asus Armory software isn’t up to the same standards as its competitors. It does come with a wrist rest, though.

There are some wireless options available for a similar price, too. The Corsair K65 Wireless is a similar gaming keyboard with a price of $159 / £149 / about AU$250, but it's 75% rather than full size.  

Value: 3 / 5

HyperX Alloy Rise review: specs

close up of HyperX Alloy Rise numpad

(Image credit: Future)

HyperX Alloy Rise review: design and features

  • Solid construction
  • Nondescript looks
  • Uncomfortable on wrists

The HyperX Alloy Rise is fairly restrained and understated, as far as gaming peripherals go. Naturally, there’s some RGB lighting to liven up proceedings, but branding is kept to a minimum. The company logo only appears in the faint indentation above the arrow keys and on a small side badge; the latter is attached magnetically and can be swapped out for others sold by HyperX. 

Aside from these accouterments, there’s very little to distinguish the Alloy Rise from any other workaday keyboard. Some may prefer this level of anonymity, and to my mind, it certainly beats the garish designs many brands adopt in their bid to appeal to gamers.

That said, there are some aesthetic customization options for the Alloy Rise. Like the aforementioned side badge, the top cover is also magnetically attached and can be swapped out for another design made by HyperX. The keycaps can be replaced too (as well as the underlying switches), and while HyperX claims the same is true of the rotary knob, I couldn’t find any replacement examples on its website.

As for the form factor, the Alloy Rise has a substantial depth, but the full-size version has a surprisingly compact layout. One of the major drawbacks of this board, though, is the lack of wrist support. Due to the thick chassis, the keys sit high above the surface, which forced my wrists to bend to an uncomfortable degree and placed too much pressure on the heels of my palms. The back feet help to alleviate the problem somewhat, but not enough to solve the issue completely.

The full-size model I was given to test comes replete with three extra media keys, nestled in the top-right corner above the number pad. Disappointingly, they feel cheap and out of place compared to the rest of the board. However, the rotary knob, which is available on both keyboard size variants and controls the volume, feels nicely notched for smooth yet precise dials. Pressing it also mutes the audio.

close up of rotary knob on HyperX Alloy Rise

(Image credit: Future)

Ngenuity, the peripheral software HyperX provides, has some customization options, including the ability to set primary functions for every key on the board (and secondary ones for most of them too). It even includes a macro recorder. However, there is a distinct lack of media and system-level operations to choose from, and, disappointingly, you can’t change the function of the rotary knob, which could’ve potentially been useful for making other scrolling-based adjustments, such as switching tabs in a browser and the like.

Setting up the RGB backlighting in Ngenuity is a modular process, giving you the ability to add effects from a predefined list, with several to choose from. You can also sync your lighting preferences between compatible HyperX devices. How much mileage you’ll get out of this depends on how you feel about RGB light shows, but the range of options should satisfy those who are keen on them.

Design & features: 3 / 5

HyperX Alloy Rise review: performance

  • Super-fast keys
  • Great for WASD position
  • Easy to mispress

The Alloy Rise features lightly textured PBT keycaps, making for a smooth feel with sufficient tactility. The stock switches on the Alloy Rise are HyperX’s own Red Linear switches, which actuate with the lightest of touches and rebound very quickly. 

This helps to make typing sharper, but I found them to be a double-edged sword: presses are instantaneous, but misfires are all too easy. For those who are used to this level of sensitivity, though, it might not be a problem at all, and I found that I did acclimatize fairly quickly. Another aspect that makes typing a little trickier is that the bumps on the F and J keys aren’t very pronounced, so locating them when touch typing isn’t always easy.

The stock keys aren’t as deep as those on other mechanical boards, which aligns with my preference for shallower keys I can glide over. While they aren’t what you’d call low profile, their short actuation means you don’t have to press very far at all, making typing easier for me compared to other mechanical keyboards I’ve used.

bottom right corner of HyperX Alloy Rise

(Image credit: Future)

Key presses emit the typical mechanical thock, if sounding a little hollower than usual. Coupled with the generous lubrication, this helps to make the Alloy Rise quieter than many of its peers, while still providing enough gratifying feedback.

For gaming, the short travel and sensitive keys are great, although as with typing, I found that I had to be mindful of accidental presses, so this may take some getting used to if you’re coming from less sensitive switch types. 

Adopting the WASD position is comfortable, with all the essential gaming keys within easy reach, particularly the Ctrl key, which I often find uncomfortable to hit. The space bar is a joy to mash with your thumb, but only when used with a wrist rest and the back feet raised, otherwise you’re more likely to hit the back edge rather than the top.

Performance: 4 / 5

Should I buy the HyperX Alloy Rise?

Buy it if…

You want to be fast
The proprietary Red Linear switches made by HyperX are very fast and easy to actuate, making for quickfire strokes.

You want to customize your hardware
The keys and switches can be swapped out on the Alloy Rise, as can the magnetic face plate and side badge for added personalization, although this is quite limited. 

You want to use it with consoles
In addition to Windows PCs, the Alloy Rise is compatible with PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. Unfortunately, there is no macOS support.

Don’t buy it if…

You have wrist pain
There is no wrist rest with the Alloy Rise, and it sorely needs one, as the thick chassis creates an uncomfortable angle, and the fold-out feet aren’t enough to resolve the issue.

You want the best peripheral software
Although HyperX has its own peripheral software, Ngenuity, it doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, with limited functionality compared to some of its rivals.

You want to go wireless
The Alloy Rise isn’t wireless, which is a shame considering there are now plenty of great wireless gaming boards out there for the same price or even less. 

Also consider

How I tested the HyperX Alloy Rise

  • Tested for two weeks
  • Used for gaming and productivity
  • 10+ years of PC gaming experience

I tested the Alloy Rise for around two weeks. I used it for gaming, playing fast-paced FPS games such as Selaco and others. I also used it for work and general productivity, which included plenty of typing.

I have been PC gaming for over 10 years and have experience with a wide range of keyboards, including mechanical and membrane, wired and wireless, all with varying switch types and keycaps.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed July 2024
Lofree Edge review: on a mission for thin and light
12:00 am | July 27, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Keyboards Peripherals & Accessories | Comments: Off

Lofree Edge: Two-minute review

The Edge is Lofree’s attempt to make a mechanical keyboard as thin and as light as possible, and in that respect, it largely succeeds. But when you set aside this stated goal, is it actually a keyboard you’ll want to use?

Well, the most important metric – the typing feel – gets the Edge off to a positive start. Lofree has used custom Kailh POM linear switches underneath its low-profile keycaps, resulting in a soft, smooth action. It’s fast and comfortable, and we very rarely “bottomed out” when typing, meaning no sore fingers at the end of the day. It results in a quiet, satisfying typing sound that Lofree describes as “library-friendly.” We wouldn’t argue with that.

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The Lofree Edge keyboard and MacBook Air laptop against a blue background.

(Image credit: Future)
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The Lofree Edge keyboard and MacBook Air laptop against a blue background.

(Image credit: Future)

The Lofree Edge uses a compact 84-key layout that pushes the arrow keys close to the main body of the keys. That can make finding the right key a little tricky if you’re not used to this layout. It wasn’t a massive problem in games, though – the keys have enough of a raised bump to make finding them by touch simple enough, and games that extensively use the arrow keys are fairly rare.

Lofree has made the Edge as slimline as possible, cutting out extra weight and bulk so that it’s almost as thin as a MacBook Air. You get a magnesium chassis with many holes punched out of the back, low-profile keycaps, and cut-down key switches. Its chassis (excluding the keys) measures 31.9x15.5x1.3cm at its widest (or 1.8cm thick, including the keys). That makes it a dash thicker than the MacBook Air, but it’s close. And at 481g, it’s exceptionally lightweight.

The Lofree Edge keyboard against a blue background.

(Image credit: Future)

However, a byproduct of this process is that the Edge doesn’t feel as high-end as Lofree’s superb Flow keyboard. Yet, at the same time, it is priced much higher, which doesn’t sit well. At the time of writing, the Edge was undergoing crowdfunding on Kickstarter, where it was priced at $129. Yet its regular price will be $249, much higher than the $159 Lofree Flow. Given that state of affairs, we’d pick the Flow every time.

The Edge’s keycaps are made from PBT plastic rather than the more standard ABS, which gives them a slightly textured feel and should help them ward off key shine. It adds to the premium feel of the keyboard, but there is a very noticeable drawback: it’s rare to find PBT keycaps that let backlighting shine through. In the Edge’s case, it’s difficult to see the key legends in dim lighting, a problem exacerbated by Lofree’s decision to use razor-thin lettering on each key. This is much less of a problem on the Flow as it uses thicker key lettering.

The keys’ font choice contributes to the “edgy” aesthetic of the keyboard (perhaps inspiring – or inspired by – the Edge name), which is added to by the exposed screws and carbon fiber top surface. It feels like something out of the late 1990s or early 2000s, like Neo used it to jack into the Matrix. It’s not exactly to my taste, and I’d much rather take legible lettering over this look.

The Lofree Edge keyboard against a blue background.

(Image credit: Future)

One thing I do appreciate, though, is the Edge’s ability to switch between up to three connected devices via Bluetooth on the fly. It can also flip between macOS and Windows layouts with a quick key press. That flexibility means key mappings are always where you expect them to be, no matter which operating system you use.

Lofree also offers a free Configurator app alongside the keyboard. When I tested it (before the Kickstarter campaign had finished), it was extremely rudimentary. Some features didn’t seem to work at all, while others were hard to use due to a confusing workflow and poorly translated text. This is definitely a weak spot for the Edge.

On the back of the device is a toggle that lets you switch between Bluetooth and wired modes, and there’s also a USB-C port for the wired connection. You get two flip-up feet that let you adjust the angle from flat to slightly raised, although the difference between the two is not huge.

If portability is your first priority for a keyboard, the Lofree Edge is a contender. But it’s not just about compactness, as it offers a surprisingly pleasing typing experience for its slender key profile. However, its high price is hard to justify, and its stylized design will cause opinions to split.

Lofree Edge: Price & availability

The Lofree Edge keyboard against a blue background.

(Image credit: Future)

The Lofree Edge is currently available on Kickstarter, where the price is listed as $129. That translates to about £102/$195 AUD. The Kickstarter page indicates that the regular price will be $249 (about £198/$376 AUD) once crowdfunding is over.

That regular price will make it expensive, even for normally pricey mechanical keyboards, and much costlier than the $159 Lofree Flow. The reduced crowdfunding price is more reasonable.

Should you buy the Lofree Edge?

The Lofree Edge keyboard against a blue background.

(Image credit: Future)

Buy the Lofree Edge if...

Don't buy it if...

Lofree Edge: Also consider

How I tested the Lofree Edge

I tested the Lofree Edge over the course of about a week. This included writing articles, browsing the web, and playing games. I used the keyboard on both Windows and macOS and tried switching between different devices and layouts on the go.

Endgame Gear OP1 8k review: a tweakable gaming mouse that just can’t keep up with the competition
12:07 pm | July 23, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Endgame Gear OP1 8k review

The Endgame Gear OP1 8k is the German gaming peripheral specialist’s enhanced version of its OP1 wired mouse, which is capable of polling rates of up to 8,000Hz, hence the '8k' appendage to the model name. Users can also open it up and swap out the switches, which will appeal to the subset of gamers who are very particular about their clicks.

However, what might divide that group is the form factor of the OP1 8k. The small size, combined with the pronounced hump, might make it difficult for some to achieve a secure grip – although Endgame Gear does specify that the mouse only supports a claw grip, making it a suitable option for those who prefer this style. The super-lightweight, which Endgame Gear approximates to be about 50.5g, also helps rapid movement. 

Everyone will welcome the lack of drag, though. The USB cable is light and flexible, and the cable base stress-relief is angled upwards – a smart design choice that helps to further reduce surface contact, acting like an ersatz mouse bungee. However, the cloth material surrounding the cable is very thin; during my time with the OP1 8k, it already began to fray slightly, spelling trouble for its long-term durability.

Although the lack of cable drag helps the mouse to perform at its best, the same can’t be said for the PTFE skates. They cover a small surface area, so glides aren’t as smooth as they are with the best gaming mouse options. Thankfully, larger PTFE skates are included in the box, which helps to reduce friction. What’s worse, though, is that using the OP1 8k on hard surfaces can cause the middle to grate unbearably, and even the optional skate that goes around the optical sensor doesn’t fix the problem. But if you’re using the OP1 8k exclusively on padded surfaces, this will be a moot point.

Another disappointing aspect of the OP1 8k is the button quality. The mouse clicks aren’t as snappy as I would have liked, taking too long to rebound. Endgame Gear claims that its Kailh GX switches that come preinstalled have a short internal travel and good “spamability”; I found they couldn’t be actuated quickly enough to make them suitable for such quickfire pressing.

Front view of Endgame Gear OP1 8k on desk

(Image credit: Future)

The side buttons also feel harsh since they aren’t dampened at all, while the scroll wheel is a little too notchy for my preferences, and the middle button doesn’t feel as solid or as secure as it should be. I didn’t have enough confidence to use it in the heat of battle, worrying that I’d trigger the scroll function by mistake. Admittedly, this is an issue I tend to find with many gaming mice.

On the surface, the free configuration tool is as basic as it gets; it wouldn’t look out of place on a Windows 95 machine. The argument could be made that the barebones interface makes it an extremely lightweight application, therefore saving precious computing power. However, during my time with it, it did crash on one occasion, when I was switching back and forth between it and a game window to change settings on the fly. On other occasions when switching, the “Apply” button for confirming adjustments failed to appear. It could well be the case that such problems may not be experienced on setups beyond my own, but it’s an issue worth noting all the same.

There are various settings that can be adjusted using the tool – but, unfortunately, none of them is explained, so unless you’re au fait with the terminology, you’ll likely have some googling to do.

First, it measures sensitivity in the less common unit of counts per inch (CPI) rather than dots per inch (DPI), but essentially they amount to the same thing. Between one and four quick settings are available, which can be cycled through using the mode button on the underside of the OP1 8k. There’s also the ability to adjust the sensitivities of the X and Y axes independently.

Bottom of Endgame Gear OP1 8k

(Image credit: Future)

The lift-off distance (LOD) can be altered to between 1mm and 2mm, which are increments so small that I could barely discern the difference during gameplay. Of course, I’m far from being an esports pro. For most gamers, though, this won’t be a setting worth adjusting given its limited range. 

There are also toggle boxes for angle snapping and ripple control, which aren’t settings you always see in peripheral software. There’s no explanation as to what these settings do within the app. So, for those who aren’t familiar with the terms, angle snapping is an aid to help keep your cursor movements along a straight path, whereas ripple control is meant to help smooth mouse movements.

Angle snapping does indeed work as intended; however, I also found that it increases the acceleration of cursor movements, which is jarring. As for ripple control, its aim of reducing mouse jitter comes at the expense of “a few frames of added motion delay,” as Endgame Gear explains on its website, which is anathema to competitive gamers and not worth the cost of activating. Regardless, in practice, I found it made little difference to the smoothing of my movements. 

Under the advanced settings tab, you’ll find adjustments for the polling rate, with options between 1,000Hz and 8,000Hz. The aforementioned mode button can cycle through four different poll rates within this range. 

There’s a Motion Sync checkbox as well; but yet again, there’s no explanation on what this does. Endgame Gear explains on a Reddit post that the polling events and sensor data become synchronized when enabled, in order to make data more consistent, but at the cost of adding a 1ms input lag. Again, this is something that will probably make some players wince, and during my tests I failed to notice any real difference with this setting turned on.

Close up of side buttons on Endgame Gear OP1 8k

(Image credit: Future)

One feature that certainly is noticeable is the slam click filter, which prevents accidental mouse button activation when vigorously swiping, as you might when using low DPI/ CPI settings in FPS games, for instance. This is a setting that definitely works as intended, and will likely be one you’ll want to have enabled permanently.

Another set of adjustable (and not always seen) parameters are the multiclick filters. These determine how many button presses can be registered in quick succession – more commonly known as debouncing. Those who play Minecraft PvP will be among those most interested in these settings, as rapid-fire clicks are a core part of that game.

There are multi-click filter adjustments for every button on the OP1 8k (barring the underside mode switcher), ranging from 0-25. Lower values increase the number of clicks registered when spamming the given button; but misclicks are more likely, too, so you’ll want to find the setting that works best for you.

The right and left mouse buttons also have an optional dropdown box next to their respective multi-click filter settings, labeled SPDT (single pole, double throw). This refers to the type of switches the mouse buttons use, which allow for greater debouncing adjustments. You’re given three modes to choose between: GX Speed Mode, GX Safe Mode, or off. 

The former lowers click latency, while the latter increases it. If off is selected, then you can use the standard 0-25 multi-click filter sliding scale instead. I noticed no real difference between these GX modes and the sliding scale, so it ultimately seems like a wasted addition.

Close up of scroll wheel on Endgame Gear OP1 8k

(Image credit: Future)

Aside from these tweaks, the software also allows you to remap the buttons on the OP1 8k. This doesn’t merely involve swapping them around: you can also assign them to trigger a keyboard key, cycle the CPI, or perform certain media-based functions, such as play, pause, open Windows Explorer or even a web browser – although the latter didn’t work on my PC.

It isn’t just the software that’s customizable; one of the biggest draws of the OP1 8k is that the hardware is customizable, too. A small screwdriver is included, so you can open up the base and swap out the main button switches (and the USB cable) if you so choose. 

Endgame Gear offers a variety of different switches, which can be installed without soldering; it’s merely a case of inserting terminals. Endgame Gear even has a universal switch set, so you can use the OP1 8k with any mechanical switches you like, again without soldering. You can also take out the side button switches, although Endgame Gear offers no replacements for these.

I wasn’t able to test out these various switch options for myself, but having opened up the OP1 8k and removed the switches, I can say that it’s a fairly straightforward process. However, I did find that the right mouse button terminal wasn’t as easy to detach as the left. Also, make sure you have the terminal the correct way around when inserting it into the right mouse button slot – I found this was easy to get wrong.

While the OP1 8k aims high in its pursuit of being a high-end gaming mouse, featuring some useful software and hardware customization options, ultimately, it’s let down by its build quality and overall feel, failing to live up to its relatively high asking price.

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Price and availability

  • $74 / £69 / AU$125
  • Available now
  • Black and white colorways

The OP1 8k is priced at $74 / £69 / AU$125 and is available in the US, UK, and parts of Europe. Despite it having an Australian list price on Endgame Gear’s website, it isn’t currently available in the territory.

Compared to other wired gaming mice on the market, the OP1 8k doesn’t fare well against the competition. Razer is currently offering its DeathAdder V3 wired mouse for less than the current price of the OP1 8k, and although it’s a few years old at this point, it offers a similar spec, including an 8kHz poll rate and an only slightly heavier weight of 59g. 

However, the click filtering and movement smoothing parameters that the OP1 8k’s configuration tool offers stand in its favor. Razer’s equivalent software, Synapse, doesn’t provide these same tweaks; but it does offer a whole host of other customizable options with which you can experiment. 

Unlike many other gaming mice, you can open up the OP1 8k and change out the switches. However, buying new switches is of course an extra expense, and there’s no option to spec the OP1 8k with the switches of your choice from the outset. 

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Specs

Should you buy the Endgame Gear OP1 8k?

Buy it if...

You want something small and very light
With a weight of about 50g, the OP1 8k is on the lighter end of the scale, and the small size will be welcoming to those with similarly proportioned hands who prefer using a claw grip.

You want to tweak your settings and hardware
Alongside the standard mouse sensitivity adjustments, the configuration tool for the OP1 8k allows you to set smoothing options and alter the debounce sensitivity, too. You can also take it apart to swap out the switches.

Don't buy it if...

You want a wireless gaming mouse
Gone are the days when wireless gaming mice were considered too slow and unreliable for gamers. As a result, hybrid models that allow for both wired and wireless play are more popular than ever; but unfortunately, the OP1 8k is wired only.

You want high-quality clicks
None of the buttons or the scroll wheel on the OP1 8k feel particularly great to actuate, which is a serious problem for gamers. In particular, the mouse buttons just aren’t snappy enough.

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Also consider

How I tested the Endgame Gear OP1 8k

  • Tested for two weeks
  • Used for FPS titles and general PC use
  • Over a decade of PC gaming experience

To test out the OP1 8k, I played FPS titles Ultrakill and Day of Infamy, which cover both the fast-paced and tactical ends of the genre. I also played strategy, action and adventure games, as well as using it for general PC use, such as web browsing. 

I have a decade of PC gaming experience, and my mouse of choice for most of that time has been the evergreen Logitech G502 Lightspeed wireless mouse, which was my main point of comparison alongside the Razer Viper V3 Pro.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed: June 2024

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: a fast, well-featured but expensive 4K QD-OLED gaming monitor
4:10 am | June 26, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Monitors Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: Two-minute review

The 32-inch Aorus FO32U2P “Tactical” gaming monitor has a fast, 4K third-gen Samsung QD-OLED panel, some nifty design elements and is the first I’ve tested that has DisplayPort 2.1 connectivity. It’s in a crowded market, so how competitive and compelling will it be?

First up, it’s worth noting that there’s very little benefit to having DP 2.1 right now. Only AMD’s top-end workstation cards currently support it and there’s likely little real-world visual difference compared to DP 1.4 anyway. Still, it may be attractive to those seeking future-proofing.

The monitor is easy to assemble thanks to its three-piece-one-screw stand design. The panel itself is incredibly thin and all core electronics are isolated in a box at the back where it attaches to the stand. It's generally quasi-aggressive in terms of styling and includes an RGB strip at the rear – although you’ll likely never see it. A cool, rainbow-iridescent logo catches the light at the base, but all other design elements are geometric in nature.

While early QD-OLED panels struggled to display text without turning it spidery, this was practically banished when second-gen screens appeared and now there’s no problem at all. It uses the same anti-reflective coating we've seen on previous QD-OLEDs and this does a fine job of eliminating the black-mirror effect when viewing dark content – unless you have a bright light source behind you. The main downside of the coating is that it can slightly wash out OLED’s inherent true-black performance but it’s really not by much and I, for one, am OK with the trade-off.

The on-screen display (OSD) is operated by a small joystick button at the base that provides low-lag access to numerous standard display options, plus OLED care settings and game-boosting functionality – the latter includes on-screen crosshairs and contrast-equalization that stops enemies jumping out of shadows and bright lights. 

The numerous anti-burn-in features still highlight the QD-OLED technology’s potential flaw (for use as computer monitors) – static images like toolbars risk burning into the screen if you regularly use them for work. Fortunately there’s a three-year anti-burn-in warranty to provide peace of mind.

A ‘tactical’ switch next to the joystick button can be programmed to do things like drop the screen size to 24 inches for competitive FPS players and also to activate, change or deactivate the crosshair.

As for gaming performance, the fast pixel response time marries with the fast 240Hz refresh rate to produce impressive ghost-free motion performance. It’s not as blur-free as 360Hz or pro-grade TN (twisted nematic) technology panels, but only some pro FPS players might grumble.

Multimedia performance is impressive, especially when Windows HDR is activated. Bright lights shine out of the screen and details are retained in dark shadows. Both colorful and monochromatic gradients are impressively smooth and designers will like that it supports 99% of the difficult DCI-P3 color gamut.

There are two 5W speakers that get loud but don’t provide much in the way of bass-heavy punch, but it's still handy to have them for casual video watching.

Powered-off Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P monitor on a desk

(Image credit: Future)

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: Price and availability

  • $1,299 / AU$2,199; UK price TBC
  • Available in US and Australia, UK availability TBC

This is far from a cheap monitor and it’s difficult to find outside of Asian markets right now. There are plenty of high-performing gaming monitors that rival many of the specs here, but the combination of QD-OLED, a UHD resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate and DisplayPort 2.1 really bumps the price up. Rivals with similar specifications (though without DP 2.1) can be found from MSI and Asus, but their availability and price also varies from region to region.

  • Value score: 3 / 5

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: Specs

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: Design and features

  • Easy to build
  • Packed with future-proof features
  • Some features not totally necessary right now

The Aorus FO32U2P has a very thin screen that’s mounted to a two-foot stand and has only minor decorative elements when compared to some bling-laden gaming beasts. It’s simple to fit together using the screen’s clip and a single finger screw (at the base) and, after construction, you’re left with a smart-looking gaming monitor that’s got a discreet (nay, hidden) RGB strip on the back and some ‘aggressive’ geometric lines.

The stand affords plenty of adjustments: there’s +20° to -5° of tilt, +20° to -20° of swivel, 90° of clockwise pivot and a generous 130mm of height adjustment.

There’s also one of the most impressive complements of ports I’ve come across on a monitor, even though some are so new (and expensive) that I’m questioning the value of their inclusion in the current market. 

Cable management and branding on the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P monitor

(Image credit: Future)

Indeed, if the 48Gbps bandwidth of HDMI 2.1 has felt constrictive for you(!), the Aorus FO32U2P supports DisplayPort 2.1 UHBR20 connectivity that goes up to 80Gbps for a potentially completely uncompressed 240Hz UHD image. For most people this will be a bit like Spinal Tap going up to 11, as the existing image is excellent and looks far from compressed. Still, when compatible consumer graphics cards appear, image quality might suddenly improve – to some extent – and I might be eating my words. That’s hard to imagine on a 32-inch screen, though I’d expect it to be more apparent on massive 4K and 8K TVs.

Right now DP 2.1 UHBR20 only works on Radeon Pro (workstation) graphics cards anyway. Also be aware that the supplied DP cable is relatively short, so might not reach if your PC isn’t on your desk.

A joystick button provides access to the OSD where the usual preset display settings (plus HDR additions when turned on) live, along with the option to activate FreeSync Premium Pro. 

There’s Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture that can be made use of via the two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB-C port (with 65W PD charging) and the two main DisplayPorts (one is miniDP). There’s also a DisplayPort out for daisy chaining. Note too, there are dual 3.5mm audio jacks that will please/annoy those with (in)compatible headsets. 

A Game Assist menu enables you to display a timer and the monitor refresh rate. There are also various styles of onscreen crosshairs (great for CoD Hardcore) and an Eagle Eye (sniper) mode that zooms in on a moveable area of the screen so you can cheat get better headshots. To be frank, if you can succeed using such a distracting feature, then good for you. 

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P gaming monitor rear profile

(Image credit: Future)

You can also activate a Dashboard that provides an on-screen system status (CPU, GPU and frame rate) list. 

A Resolution Switch mode transforms the display into a virtual 24-inch screen – gimmicky but potentially attractive to e-sports players who require a smaller screen with a more eye-friendly field of view.

An OLED Care menu monitors how long you’ve been using the screen and provides numerous burn-in tools like Pixel Clean, Static Control, Pixel Shift and (zoned) screen dimming. While burn-in on QD-OLED panels is still a heated issue, Gigabyte offers a three-year burn-in warranty for peace of mind.

A Tactical Button next to the joystick can be configured to instantly drop the resolution, activate the crosshair, enable an OLE-care cleaning cycle or mute the speakers.

Ultimately, it’s a good-looking and very well-specced monitor with few missing features and additional future-proofed, high-bandwidth connections.

  • Design and features score: 5 / 5

The ports on the underside of the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future)

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: Performance

  • Vibrant colors
  • Impressively fast in use
  • Built-in speakers are good but not great

The Aorus FO32U2P’s colors are as vibrant as I’d expect from a QD-OLED screen and both monochromatic and colorful transitions are smooth when Windows HDR is turned on. 

Contrast is excellent, with details remaining visible in bright and dark areas alike. The 250 nit SDR brightness might seem low but it's uniform and well suited to gaming and day-to-day use. HDR brightness can hit 1000 nits on 3% of the screen – enough that all but larger highlights really pop. You can also butcher it with Aorus’ Black Equalizer 2.0 settings to stop enemies hiding in shadows and jumping out of the sun.

The 240Hz refresh rate marries well with the super-quick 0.03ms (stated) pixel response time. You can get faster screens but only super-fussy pro e-sports players might grumble at the minuscule blur on show.

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P gaming monitor on a desk beside a laptop

(Image credit: Future)

Another potentially contentious issue with monitors using this third-gen Samsung QD-OLED panel is that it’s not quite true black. An anti-reflective coating does a very impressive job of banishing reflections (even in dark scenes) and despite this being a great trade-off, some multimedia purists might hate having ever-so-slightly washed-out blacks. 

A less contentious issue concerns the QD-OLED’s spidery text problems from its early days. It was almost perfectly fixed on second-gen panels and I didn’t have any issues on this third-gen display.

The twin 5W speakers get loud and offer a bit of punch. However, there’s not much bass to speak of and fidelity suffers in the mid-range when at high volume. Still, I like having them as sometimes you want to watch a quick video without dealing with headphones.

  • Performance score: 5 / 5

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P gaming monitor in its packaging

(Image credit: Future)

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P: Score card

Should I buy the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P?

Buy it if...

You want an uncompromising gaming monitor

Having a 240Hz refresh rate on a UHD-resolution QD-OLED panel ticks my three core features of a dream monitor, and this Aorus has them all.

You want DisplayPort 2.1

There are few actual benefits to having this technology but, if you’ve been hanging out for huge video bandwidth, then this is the first monitor to provide it.

Don't buy it if...

Money is an issue

It’s a very expensive display and you can get non QD-OLED variants that have similar headline specs for much less money.

Thoughts of QD-OLED burn-in gives you anxiety

There are many anti-burn-in technologies in the Aorus FO32U2P (plus a three-year warranty), but you’ll be thinking about it a lot – especially if you’re planning on working with a fixed Windows Taskbar on a day-to-day basis.

Also consider

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2

The non-P version of this monitor doesn’t have DisplayPort 2.1 (or DP daisy chaining) and its USB-C port isn’t as powerful (18-Watt PD), but this can save you some money. However availability is not great in all regions.

Gigabyte M32UC

Gigabyte’s non-QD-OLED 4K gaming monitor packs in the features and still manages to offer a 144Hz refresh rate. It also costs one-third of the price!

Read our full Gigabyte M32UC review

How I tested the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P

The packaging for the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future)

For the review, I tested the Aorus FO32U2P over the course of a month by using it as my work-from-home monitor, which I also use for gaming. That means I regularly use all Microsoft and Google Office applications, Adobe photo and video editing applications, social media and YouTube.

In order to test the overall image quality I focus on real-world tests and a few technical tests. For multimedia performance I use UHD video clips (HDR where possible) on YouTube to establish color vibrancy and accuracy, smoothness (and noisiness) of chromatic and monochromatic gradients, plus contrast range and true-black performance.

For speed and gaming performance I predominantly focus upon CoD MWIII and PCars 2 for fast-and-frantic motion smoothness. I also look at the TestUFO technical motion test.

For physical attributes I check reflectivity of the screen and speed/intuitiveness/features of the OSD.

I’ve been reviewing computers, peripherals and components for over 20 years for multiple titles in the UK, Australia and internationally.

Read more about how we test

[First reviewed June 2024]

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard: a responsive, well-featured gaming keyboard that’s great for typing too
4:41 pm | June 13, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Keyboards Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard: one-minute review

Let’s cut to the chase – the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard is a fantastic wireless RGB gaming peripheral. Really, the only reasons to stay away are if you need a different form factor, whether it’s a full-size model or something in a more diminutive package, or if you find the price a bit too much to stomach. While plenty of premium gaming keyboards go for a similar price, you can certainly find decent models for much less.

That said, I will say I was essentially smitten the first time I typed on the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless. For me personally, it’s certainly among the best wireless keyboards and best mechanical keyboards out there. Whether it’s one of the best keyboards for you will depend on what you’re looking for, of course.

Outside of the main downsides I already mentioned, the only other reason someone might avoid this keyboard is if they want something that looks a little less like a gaming keyboard. As good as I think this keyboard looks, it still feels more appropriate for a gaming setting than a professional one.

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard: price and availability

Connectivity options of the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • How much does it cost? $159.99 / £149.99 (about AU$250)
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? On sale in the US and UK

Paying $159.99 / £149.99 (about AU$250) for a gaming keyboard is a lot for most people, especially as everything else in life seems to cost a little more these days. For better or worse, though, spending that much on a premium gaming keyboard with wireless connectivity is par for the course.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% I reviewed last year, which not only shares the same size, but also allows you to replace keycaps and switches to your heart’s content (in fact, you can use both three- and five-pin switches) goes for $189.99 / £189.99 / AU$349.95. And, since it’s aimed at modders, any first-party additions like different keycaps only adds to that price tag.

Or, take a look at the Yunzii AL71. It costs almost the same depending on where you are ($159.99 / £129 / AU$245), and offers a lot of the same features regarding customization, connectivity, and even being able to switch between Windows and Mac connectivity. It is a slightly smaller form factor and you won’t get the control dial seen on this Corsair keyboard (more on that in a moment).

Value: 4 / 5

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard: design and features

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless keycaps

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

As far as the design of the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless goes, let’s start with the basics. This is a 75% sized model, meaning that you forgo a number pad and extra dedicated macro keys as you would see on full-sized options, but you still have the arrow keys as well as Page Up, Page Down, and Home (that you would miss out on with even smaller form factors). Plus, you still have a media key in the form of the control dial in the upper-right corner of the keyboard.

The keycaps have a soft feel with a concave shape to them that makes for easy, comfortable presses. And, since Corsair uses a top mount plate and stabilizers, not to mention pre-lubed switches, every press feels almost like pressing into a firm pillow (that might be a bit hyperbolic, but you get the idea). Each press is stable as the switches and keycaps have no wiggle to them – just a proper up and down motion.

There are also two layers of sound dampening built into the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless, and the Corsair MLX Red switches are designed for quiet operation as well. That makes this among the quieter mechanical keyboards I’ve used.

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard Specs

Layout: 75%
Switch: Corsair MLX Red
Programmable keys: Yes
Dimensions: 12.59 x 5.35 x 1.37-inches (LxWxH)
RGB or backlighting: Yes (customizable)

Moving on to connectivity, the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless has just about everything you could ask for. There’s the wireless dongle, of course, for 2.4GHz operation, as well as USB connectivity for wired use and charging. Furthermore, there’s also Bluetooth on hand. Plus, you can pair this keyboard with three different devices and use hotkeys (mapped to Home, Page Up, and Page Down) to switch between each Bluetooth connection.

The controls for switching connectivity, excluding the different Bluetooth sources, are on the back of the keyboard along with another little switch that lets you flip between the Windows and Mac layout, a feature I really appreciate.

Since this is a gaming keyboard, RGB lighting is on hand and it’s quite colorful. You can customize to your heart’s content, even on a per-key basis, in the iCue software. Using that you can also remap all the keys along with some limited but useful customizations for the control dial, which controls the volume by default.

If there’s a missing piece of the puzzle here, for me it’s a nice wrist rest, especially considering the price. However, Corsair does include a keycap puller to remove both the keycaps and switches, which are hot-swappable.

Design: 4.5 / 5

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard: performance

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless gaming

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

All this attention to detail spills over to the way the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless performs. Thanks to a polling rate of 1,000Hz and switches that have an actuation point of 1.9mm, not to mention require just 45g of actuation force, this keyboard is as quick as most people will need.

While there are a few keyboards with a higher polling rate or lower actuation point, I would say that pretty much nobody but the most competitive gamers will notice any kind of difference. Even then, I have my doubts.

Whether it’s keeping up with the action in Battlefield 2042, Rocket League, Cyberpunk 2077 (the games I like to use for testing), or any other fast-paced title, there’s no question that this keyboard is up to the task.

I was even able to get the desired results with very light presses, so there’s no need for a heavy hand. Of course, if you are heavy-handed, the switches are rated to last 70 million keystrokes. Since Corsair employs N-key rollover, I never experienced any missed presses either.

More broadly, thanks to all the factors incorporated in its construction that I mentioned before, as well as the fact that the switches are pre-lubed, typing on this keyboard is a dream. In fact, I find that most decent gaming keyboards can keep up with general typing needs. 

Where this keyboard really sets itself apart is with its feel, as I was able to do quite a bit of typing without putting too much pressure on my fingers. Plus, it feels really nice to type on. If you’re willing to splurge, I definitely think the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless is a worthy recommendation.

Performance: 5 / 5

Should I buy the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard?

RGB lighting of the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Buy it if…

You want a lot of features
From being able to hot-swap the switches to changing between a Windows and Mac layout, not to mention all the connectivity options, the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless is about as fully loaded as they come.

You want an accurate, fast, and comfortable typing experience
It’s not only fast and accurate for just about any gaming needs, the K65’s quiet, soft operation makes for a very comfortable typing experience.

Don’t buy it if…

You need to save some money
Let’s be clear: the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless is worth its price. But if you’re on a budget, you can sacrifice some of its quality-of-life features for a cheaper keyboard that will still provide the performance you need.

You need a wrist rest
As comfortable as this keyboard is to use, I’m surprised it didn’t come with its own wrist rest. You can buy a third-party one, but for the price, you would think it would come included.

Also consider

How I tested the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless

  • Used regularly for a couple of weeks
  • Tested with typing as well as gaming
  • Tested all included features

I used the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless Keyboard regularly for a couple of weeks, typing quite a bit on it, as well as playing games. Specifically, I tried fast-paced gaming like Battlefield 2042, Cyberpunk 2077 and Rocket League as well as more sedate games like Starfield. I even tried it with some RTS titles like Iron Harvest.

I looked at other aspects beyond performance, of course. I played with the K65’s programmable features, whether remapping or adjusting RGB, and the various connectivity options.

I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and mice, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

  • First reviewed June 2024
HP E45c G5: a huge, immersive monitor, but it comes at a price
9:30 pm | June 12, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Monitors Peripherals & Accessories | Comments: Off

HP E45C G5: One-minute review

Using the HP E45c G5, a 44.5-inch ultrawide monitor, is an experience. It’s not for everyone as the price tag is high, and it takes up a lot of space (as any 40-inch+ monitor would, of course). However, it’s engagingly immersive for media and, more importantly, allows for the ability to streamline a workflow where you need to look at multiple tabs or windows without having to switch between them.

If you’re looking for 4K resolution or need impeccable color accuracy and coverage for editing, your money may be better spent elsewhere. That’s not to say this screen isn’t great, or falls down badly in those respects, but the HP E45c G5 is among the best monitors for those looking for that immersive experience or ability to spread out a workflow, and not so much for other considerations.

Of course, if you’re reading this review, you’re probably looking for one of the best ultrawide monitors for your needs, anyway. In that regard, I think it’s up there.

HP E45C G5: Price and availability

HP E45c G5 running Sable

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • How much does it cost? $1,099 / £959.99 / AU$2,045
  • When is it available? It’s out now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK and Australia

While the HP E45c G5’s price tag is certainly justifiable, $1,099 / £959.99 / AU$2,045 is not a small chunk of change to pay for a monitor. However, it fills a very specific niche as it’s for those who like to have the screen real-estate of two monitors, but in a somewhat more streamlined setup.

Looking at it from that perspective, the price tag isn’t so bad. Most decent monitors are going to set you back about $400 to $500 anyway, so getting two of them will be the same price as the HP E45c G5, while requiring two spots on an outlet or power strip for power, not to mention you won’t have a single ultrawide screen if you want to use it this way.

As for the similarly-sized competition, you’re looking at the same kind of asking price or more. For instance, the Corsair Xeneon Flex 45WQHD240 OLED is just as big and has a nicer OLED display with a faster 240Hz refresh rate, but costs $1,999.99 / £2,099.99 / AU$3,299.99.

Or, consider the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 with its similar aspect ratio and resolution. Of course, it does have an OLED display as well, so it’s going to cost much more at $2,199.99 / £1,599 / AU$3,399. Really, the only way you’ll pay the same $1,000-ish price tag as this HP display is to find the older non-OLED version of this monitor or go smaller.

Value: 4 / 5

HP E45C G5: Design and features

Image 1 of 2

HP E45C G5 cable management

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Image 2 of 2

Assembling the HP E45C G5

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

When discussing the design of this HP monitor, we have to go into detail about the obvious fact that this thing is big. With a 44.5-inch VA panel, it’s made to replace the need for two monitors. In fact, I would say it’s mostly better than using two monitors as the 1500R curvature allows for a more natural way to take in the whole panel. Plus, you can either split the screen between two sources, or expand the screen real-estate of one source in a way that isn’t separated by the blemish of an inconvenient bezel (well, two bezels).

HP E45c G5 Specs

Screen size: 44.5-inches
Aspect ratio: 32:9
Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440
Brightness: 400 nits
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Response time: 3ms gtg (overdrive)
Viewing angle: 178/178
Contrast ratio: 3,000:1
Color coverage: 99% sRGB
Inputs: 1x DP 1.4, 1x HDMI 2.1, 2x USB-C, 4x USB-A, 1x RJ-45
Weight: 32.18lbs (14.6kg)

Of course, the downside with this one-panel solution is that you don’t have the same level of ergonomic control as with two separate monitors, so for example, some people like to use the second monitor in portrait mode, and obviously that’s not possible with the HP E45c. Aside from that, the HP monitor’s overall ergonomics are somewhat limited, offering a 10-degree swivel in either direction, along with a 5-degree downward tilt and 20-degree upward tilt. On a more positive note, at least its height adjustment is substantial at around 8-inches.

Another point in HP’s favor compared to using two monitors is that the HP E45c’s base, while substantial, takes up less space than you would need for two monitors. Additionally, its stand comes with some basic cable management to keep the desk looking tidy. On a side note, assembling the whole thing is much easier than I thought it would be – just attach the stand to the back of the monitor while in the box, attach the base, and just pick it up from behind.

There are plenty of ports available as well, including three video-capable inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. While there are no duplicates, so you won’t be able to plug in two laptops that only have HDMI, that’s still enough to take advantage of its ability to split the screen between two sources. Also, that USB-C port can deliver up to 100W of power to one PC, or 65W to two computers.

There’s also an additional USB-C port and a couple of USB-As on hand for peripherals. Since this monitor is a multi-tasker’s dream, KVM is incorporated too. You can even plug in an Ethernet cable with the HP E45c G5.

The last design-related aspect I want to mention is the OSD menu button on the back. It’s situated all the way over on the right side behind the panel, requiring a bit of a stretch whenever you want to change a setting.

Design: 4.5 / 5

HP E45C G5: Performance

Using the HP E45c as a productivity monitor

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

When it comes to performance, most of the negatives go right out of the window. Though this large display is limited to a (still great) 99% sRGB color coverage, its DCI-P3 coverage is not provided, and there are no settings for different color coverages, meaning that this is probably not an ideal monitor for photo and video editing.

However, for the rest of us non-creatives, it’s a blast to use. It still looks great with its dual QHD (5,120 x 1,440) resolution at a 165Hz refresh rate, and offers the kind of immersion for gaming and media that I found engrossing (I did have a powerful PC on hand to run it, of course).

This isn’t meant as a gaming monitor necessarily and is more targeted to worker bees who need a lot of screen real-estate to spread out on. This is an aspect I really appreciate, as I often have to look at several tabs to access and process different bits of information for articles and reviews. Additionally, the monitor can snap windows to an assortment of grids for easy organization.

HP was thoughtful enough to include a pair of 3W speakers. They’re loud enough and sound fine if you just need some audio in a pinch. But, if you care about sound quality, you’ll really want to pair this monitor with some decent speakers. This is true of 99% of the monitors I test, mind you, and it’s still nice to have integrated speakers as a little extra for a well-rounded experience.

Performance: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the HP E45C G5?

HP E45c G5 picture in picture

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Buy it if…

You hate switching windows or tabs
With this ultrawide panel, you no longer have to rifle through different tabs and windows to find what you’re looking for. You can streamline, organize, and spread out your workflow here.

You want an immersive experience
It might not be 4K, but the dual QHD screen is plenty sharp enough. And, with its 1500R curvature and ultrawide panel, you’ll be engrossed in whatever you’re doing.

You have multiple PCs to connect
As a monitor meant for multi-taskers, the HP E45c comes with the right kind of features including KVM and picture-by-picture so you can seamlessly switch between two different computers.

Don’t buy it if…

You’re on a budget
Compared to buying two separate monitors, the price is right. But if you’re on a budget, you can get a decent monitor for much less. You’ll just need to go smaller.

You need portrait mode
If you’re considering alternatives to a second display, just be aware that by the very nature of this monitor, ergonomically speaking you’ll be forever locked in landscape mode.

Also consider

How I tested the HP E45C G5

  • Used regularly for a couple of weeks
  • Tested with multiple sources
  • Tried out all the features

I used the HP E45c G5 regularly for a couple weeks. I tested it with various games, as well as connecting multiple sources to see what it’s like viewing them side-by-side with its wide 32:9 aspect ratio. I tested the various features as well, not to mention the built-in speakers.

After spending some time with the HP E45c G5, it’s obvious that this monitor is for those looking for an impressive visual experience for gaming, for instance, or, as HP has positioned it, for streamlining and organizing a large workflow.

I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

  • First reviewed June 2024
Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse: top-notch gaming performance for both righties and lefties
4:56 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Comments: Off

Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse: Two-minute review

While there are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to the best gaming mouse, Corsair’s new M75 Wireless looks like it has all the goodies necessary to make that shortlist.

This mouse has the speedy and accurate performance that gamers need, the lightness that makes whipping it around furiously on a mousepad (or appropriate surface) effortless, and the kind of connectivity that lets one not only go cord-free, but allows for use with a second source without having to move the wireless dongle.

Whether it’s the best mouse for you will depend on a few factors. While there is a dedicated DPI button, it’s located underneath, which will deter some, especially if you still need all the other buttons for whatever hotkeys and shortcuts you like to have at your fingertips. More importantly, it’s expensive for a mouse. There are plenty of capable mice for much less, especially if you don’t care so much about wireless connectivity.

With that in mind, you’ll see regular comparisons to the non-wireless Corsair M75 that the company also provided for review. Since they’re very similar mice, with the main differences being connectivity and weight (the non-wireless version is quite a bit lighter), you can decide if you want to spend more for wireless connectivity or not.

Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse: Price and availability

Corsair M75 wireless mouse

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • How much does it cost? $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$203.08
  • When is it available? It's out now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

If you were to categorize gaming mice into budget, mid-range, and premium brackets, the Corsair M75 Wireless fits into the latter category. While there are some more expensive options out there, the Corsair M75 Wireless is plenty pricey at $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$203.08.

If you want to spend a little less and don’t care about wireless connectivity, the Corsair M75 non-wireless version goes for a somewhat more palatable $79.99 / £79.99 / AU$141.08. That’s still somewhat expensive, but you’re partially paying for its ambidextrous quality, not to mention its top-notch components.

You can certainly spend much more on a gaming mouse as the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro shows us with its $159 / £159 / AU$289 price tag. It does have 10+1 buttons (the +1 is a profile button underneath) and the ability to upgrade to wireless charging capabilities. But all that’s rather overkill for most people.

If you want something that’s competent and works for both righties and lefties but at a significant discount, the Cooler Master MM311 might be a better fit. It still has a solid 10k DPI and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, and while it doesn’t have Bluetooth onboard, it is way more affordable at $39.99 (about £34, AU$59).

Value: 4 / 5

Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse: Specs

Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse: design and features

Corsair M75 Wireless compared to the wired Hero model

Corsair M75 Wireless compared to the wired Hero model (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

First off, let’s dive into the design of the Corsair M75 Wireless. The most striking thing to me is not the two zones of RGB lighting on the palm rest and underneath, which are plenty bright, or the M75’s very smooth exterior. What strikes me most is its symmetrical design.

This mouse was made for both righties and lefties. In fact, it has identical side buttons on both sides that are magnetically held in place. Corsair included raised buttons that can be substituted for easier pressing no matter which orientation you prefer. This is also the case for the non-wireless version.

On top, you have the normal left and right buttons, and center wheel. What’s different compared to a lot of other gaming mice is the fact that the DPI button is nestling underneath. This is always a pain (again, also true for the non-wireless version).

Luckily, you can easily reprogram any but the dominant main button (left click in regular mode, right click in left-handed mode) however you like, including setting as the DPI toggle, DPI up, DPI down, and Sniper. Unfortunately, if you want to use all those buttons for other hotkeys, you’re going to have to find a compromise somewhere.

Also worth noting is how light this mouse is at just 89 grams. That’s very good for a wireless mouse as it needs to hold a battery, something that you don’t have to worry about with wired mice. The wired Corsair M75 is even lighter at 75 grams. While you can find some even lighter mice that hover in the 50 gram range, these feel balanced and lightweight enough to not cause any fatigue.

Before we dive into the performance, I also want to mention the connectivity on hand. While the wired version just connects via USB, the wireless M75 also adds in 2.4G Wireless (it also comes with a wireless dongle) and Bluetooth. Due to this, you can switch between your gaming PC with the wireless connection and a work computer on Bluetooth with just the press of a button. That button also happens to be the power button, which sits opposite the DPI button underneath.

Design: 4.5 / 5

Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse: performance

Corsair M75 mouse underside

Underside of the Corsair M75 mouse reveals the DPI button (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

When it comes to performance, there’s only one complaint about the Corsair M75 and that’s the placement of the DPI button. You either lose another button for that purpose (by remapping it), or you live with your DPI setting as it is, with no ability to switch on-the-fly (as changing involves messing about with turning over the mouse, of course).

Beyond that, its 2,000Hz polling rate when used in wireless mode and 26,000 DPI provided via Corsair’s own Marksman sensor, not to mention speedy optical switches for all the buttons, all make for a mouse that will have no trouble keeping up.

I used it in firefights when playing Cyberpunk 2077 and Battlefield 2042, and also in RTS games like Iron Harvest, as well as in Rocket League. All I can say is that if there was a bottleneck in doing better in any of those games, that bottleneck was me.

Lastly, I want to quickly mention the iCue software used to remap buttons, change RGB lighting, or adjust settings like putting the mouse in left-handed mode or enabling all side buttons. I’ve used the software for a long time in the course of testing Corsair products and have gotten used to it. Once you get iCue, it’s easy to use, but it does have a little bit of a learning curve. Be patient and you’ll be able to unlock just as much from the Corsair M75 Wireless as any other mouse.

Performance: 5 / 5

Should I buy the Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse?

Corsair M75 gaming mouse in action

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Buy it if…

You’re a leftie or ambidextrous
You can use the Corsair M75 Wireless and its wired sibling no matter the orientation you need. And you can replace the side buttons with raised ones for better personalization.

You want top-notch performance
With its 26K sensor, optical switches, and relatively light nature, this mouse will keep up with all your gaming needs.

Don't buy it if...

You can’t sacrifice any buttons
If you need access to that DPI button but can’t sacrifice any of the other buttons to remap it, other mice place the DPI button on top where you can use it on-the-fly.

You’re on a budget
This is an expensive mouse. If you’re on a budget, there’s something out there that will meet your needs (or, at least, most of them) for far less.

Also consider

How I tested the Corsair M75 Wireless Mouse

  • Used regularly for a week
  • Tested with different genres of games
  • Fully tested all features

I used the Corsair M75 Wireless as well as its non-wired sibling regularly for a week, playing fast-paced games like Battlefield 2042 and Rocket League, as well as RTS games like Iron Harvest, not to mention less demanding titles like Starfield.

I looked at other aspects beyond performance, of course. I played with the M75’s programmable features, including remapping and adjusting RGB, and also looked at how easy it was to remove and replace the side buttons.

I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and mice, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

  • First reviewed June 2024
Razer Viper V3 Pro review: a super-light, super-customizable gaming mouse
6:55 pm | June 10, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Razer Viper V3 Pro review

The Razer Viper V3 Pro, as the name implies, is touted as a gaming mouse fit for professionals, with endorsements and development feedback from various esports stars. A follow-up to the Viper V2 Pro, the V3 is even lighter and has a new optical sensor for purportedly greater precision and control.

For a gaming peripheral, the Razer Viper V3 Pro's styling isn’t as brash as you might expect. It seems that Razer has toned down its adolescent designs for the most part, and the Viper V3 Pro continues in this newly established tradition. It's very minimal and sleek, with just a single instance of the Razer logo, positioned toward the back. It's barely visible on the black variant, as the outline is almost the same shade as the finish. On the white model, the logo remains black, but it’s still pleasantly restrained.

At just 54g (55g for the white variant), it’s very easy to maneuver, helped by the wide PTFE feet that make for frictionless gliding across multiple surfaces, including glass at least 4mm thick.

Close up of Razer Viper V3 Pro mouse buttons and scroll wheel

(Image credit: Future)

The low overall weight means acceleration is very fast – ideal for rapid swipes with low DPI settings – so it can hold its own against many of the best gaming mice when playing tactical shooters and the like. I did find the sharp cursor movement quite jarring at first, though. 

To help with this issue, you can adjust the tracking cut-off height in the free Razer Synapse software, which offers to install itself as soon as you connect the Viper V3 Pro. Synapse is a historically wonky piece of software, but it does the job well here. Higher settings reduce the snappiness of cursor movements, and you can even toggle asymmetric cut-off values, letting you set different height values for lift-off and landing. The V3 has 26 height adjustment values, whereas the V2 only had three, courtesy of the second-generation Razer Focus Pro Optical Sensor.

The Viper V3 Pro feels slender in the hand and the overall shape seems to accommodate various grip styles. It also comes with optional grip tape you can adhere to the sides and mouse buttons, should you prefer that extra level of tactility. However, the hump in the middle is quite pronounced, which made me curl my hand more than I’m accustomed to, and forced me away from a fuller grip in the palm, so those who prefer this may want to take note.

The mouse buttons feel snappy and only require a light press, yet they are well-dampened and lubed, with a satisfying click that provides good feedback for your actions. There are indentations on both buttons to keep your fingers in position, which I found improved comfort during long sessions.

Underneath of Razer Viper V3 Pro

(Image credit: Future)

A pair of side buttons and a scroll wheel are the only extra topside features, but they perform excellently. The buttons are easy to use in the heat of the moment, being large and responsive enough to be found and pressed easily with the thumb. The scroll wheel is tightly notched while still being smooth, making for quick and accurate selections every time. The lack of a fast-scrolling mode, however, was a minor gripe of mine away from gaming, as navigating web pages and documents can feel too slow at times. 

Pressing down on the scroll wheel button is incisive and tactile, and like the main mouse buttons, it's pre-lubed for smoother actuation. It gave me the confidence to use it without fear of accidentally scrolling the wheel. There's no side tilt input function, but for most gamers, this would've been an unnecessary inclusion.

The Viper V3 Pro is capable of DPI resolutions all the way up to 35,000, an increase over the V2, which peaked at 30,000. Settings this high, though, will frankly be unusable in most cases. If you’re using an 8K monitor, it may prove useful, but these remain rare, especially in the competitive gaming world, where 1080p and 1440p resolutions still reign supreme. The lowest possible DPI setting is 100, and the adjustments are available in single increments using Synapse software – another improvement over the V2 – meaning any gamer will be able to dial in the perfect amount of precision. The X and Y axes can also be adjusted independently. 

Right side of Razer Viper V3 Pro

(Image credit: Future)

The DPI/power switch is on the underside of the mouse, which some may find inconvenient. But if you're a pro-level player, you want your mouse to be as utilitarian as possible, without any unnecessary accouterments that might interfere with gameplay. I was also able to wrap my middle finger underneath if I needed to adjust it since it's positioned to the right-hand side, making for easier access.

The Viper V3 Pro can be connected wirelessly or with the included USB-C cable. However, due to the thickness of the cable, I found it caused a noticeable amount of drag, which is particularly bothersome given the extremely light weight of the mouse itself. 

Using the Viper V3 Pro wirelessly is certainly a better experience. The included dongle (there’s no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity) can elevate the poll rate all the way up to 8,000Hz (which Razer dubs “HyperPolling”), whereas a wired connection maxes out at 1,000Hz. This isn't a case where the dongle is a tiny USB attachment; here, it's a full-length cable with a transmitter on one end that needs to be placed near the mouse. Thankfully, due to the length of the USB cable, the dongle can be positioned comfortably within a desktop setup for minimal interference. During my time in this mode, I had nothing but flawless connectivity, with no dropouts or noticeable lag whatsoever.

Razer claims that the Viper V3 Pro battery life can last up to 95 hours, and I have to say that during my tests, this figure seemed to hold true. After just over an hour of continuous gaming from a full charge, the Viper V3 Pro only dropped a single percentage. Charging is also fast, and I managed to go from 28% to 72% in around 50 minutes. It's worth noting that the higher poll rates will drain the battery faster, however.

Close up of Razer Viper V3 Pro HyperPolling Wireless Dongle

(Image credit: Future)

Despite the relative dearth of physical buttons on the Viper V3 Pro, the number of customization options via the Synapse software is mind-boggling. All buttons can be remapped to perform other functions besides their usual defaults – even the left click can be modified to have a secondary function when activating Hypershift mode. Multiple profiles can also be created to easily switch between your desired set of customizations. 

Customizable functions range from simple Windows system-level actions – macOS isn’t supported – such as opening an app or putting your PC to sleep to creating a sniper button or cycling DPI resolutions (which rectifies the inaccessibility of the DPI button). You can also record keyboard shortcuts, activate individual keys, and write blocks of text with the press of a single button. The text option even features a full character list with virtually every possible symbol, including those in other languages, and emojis. It’s hard to imagine who would make use of all these functions with their mouse alone, but the fact that Synapse offers this much scope is impressive nonetheless. 

There's also the ability to record your own macros and assign them to a mouse button of your choice. (Adding the Macros menu to your instance of Synapse may mean installing the add-on in the Modules menu). It lets you record any input from your mouse and keyboard (even non-Razer ones), adjust their delay times, and set up loops. You can also run commands, and even run macros within other macros. 

All of this, in addition to the calibration and setup tools, make Synapse an extremely involved piece of peripheral software with an incredible amount of tweakability. It is the ideal companion for the Viper V3 Pro, which similarly aims for top-level performance – and for the most part, it hits the target. 

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Price and availability

  • $159 / £159 / AU$279
  • Black and White options
  • Available now

The Razer Viper V3 Pro is priced at $159 / £159 / AU$279 and comes in two color schemes: black or white. Thanks to the symmetrical design, both right- and left-handers are catered for. It was released on April 23, 2024. 

This is Razer’s lightest full-size gaming mouse. The next lightest full-size mouse in its esports line, the DeathAdder V3 Pro, is almost 10g heavier. There is, however, a smaller version – the Viper Mini Signature Edition – which tips the scales at a mere 1.72oz / 49g. This is priced much higher, though, at $279 / £279 / AU$449.

Other lightweight contenders include the ASUS TUF Gaming M4 Air, which comes in at 1.76oz / 50g and is much lower in price ($49 / £39 / AU$69), but it has no wireless option.  

Razer Viper V3 Pro gaming mouse and grip tape

(Image credit: Future)

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Specs

Should you buy the Razer Viper V3 Pro?

Buy it if...

You want an ultra-lightweight, high-quality gaming mouse
At 1.9oz / 54g, this is one of the lightest full-size gaming mice on the market, so those who want rapid movements with no resistance should get along fine with the Viper V3 Pro. All the buttons have a high-quality feel as well, instilling confidence there’ll be no slip-ups.  

You want to be among the esports pros
The Viper V3 Pro has plenty of ringing endorsements from esports stars, and some even provided development feedback to make this a gaming mouse worthy of tournament use. The lack of fuss is also highly prized in such circles.

You want in-depth customization
Razer’s free Synapse software still has a dodgy reputation, but after many, many updates, it's now about as involved as customization software gets, letting you create almost any shortcut and macro you could wish for, as well as the ability to tweak the Viper V3 Pro to your heart’s content.

Don't buy it if...

You want plenty of buttons
The Viper V3 Pro is fairly spartan, with a scroll wheel and side buttons being the only extras. A top-facing DPI button would help appease those who’ll use the mouse for both gaming and general PC use in equal measure. 

You want something to fit your palm
Of course, everyone’s hand size and grip style are different, but I found the Viper V3 Pro didn’t fit well within the palm of my hand, so if this is a style you prefer, it might not be for you. 

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Viper V3 Pro

  • Tested for gaming and general use
  • Played competitive FPS and strategy games
  • Over a decade of PC gaming experience

I used the Viper V3 Pro for over a week in various scenarios, from gaming to productivity and general use.

I played FPS games such as Counter-Strike 2 and Black Mesa, as well as strategy games like XCOM 2, to cover each end of the gaming spectrum.

I have been PC gaming for over a decade and for the most part, I measured the Viper V3 Pro against my erstwhile companion, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed May 2024

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