Gaming Mice

Gaming mice have customizable features and speed

A gaming mouse has higher resolution than other types of mice, generally above 1,000 dpi. This type of computer mouse gets a lot of attention in reviews, but experts also say that 800 dpi and higher is overkill for basic office applications and web surfing. However, if you are a gamer or graphics professional who needs precise pointer control, you'll appreciate a gaming mouse. Most have adjustable sensitivity, so you can dial down the settings when you're using the mouse on more mundane tasks.

Logitech's G9 Laser Mouse (*Est. $70) wins high praise for its performance and -- in most reviews -- for its ergonomics. Resolution can be set to as high as 3,200 dpi, but also changed on the fly (two of the G9's nine buttons are dedicated to that task) to as low as 200 dpi, so the G9 mouse is suitable for a wide range of tasks. The included SetPoint software is powerful, with lots of options for peaking performance as well as pre-configured profiles for typical uses: Gaming, General and Productivity. An LED display shows the current profile/resolution.

The G9 gaming mouse features interchangeable grips, which are snapped to the base to give the user a "precision" or "wide load" feel. Reviews for this feature are mixed. ExtremeTech's Jeremy Atkinson says both grips are comfortable, but that some other mice, such as the older Logitech G5 gaming mouse, are "shaped the hand a bit better than the G9." Virtual-Hideout.com's Peter Chng adds that though the grip required to hold the G9 is different than some other mice, it was still comfortable, especially with the wide grip. One definite design shortcoming, however, is that the mouse's LED display is easily covered by an index finger during normal use. You can also adjust the weight of the G9 mouse, changing the way it drags across the desktop.

Aside from a different grip, the one negative named most often with the G9 is its price. If your budget is a little tighter, experts say the Logitech G5 gaming mouse (*Est. $45) is an excellent alternative, especially since its second-generation refresh last year.

The Logitech G5 gaming mouse falls short compared to the G9 in sensitivity as it maxes out at 2,000 dpi. However, reviewers love the ergonomics, with some calling it "near perfect." Last year, Logitech fixed what most considered a design error by adding two thumb buttons and updating the sensor. Those improvements were enough to project the mouse to the top of the class in gaming mice in the opinion of CNet's Rich Brown, though most other experts still prefer the G9. Like the G9, the G5 has on-the-fly resolution adjustments and adjustable weight. Its blue/black crackle-look paint job and textured surface is a love-it or hate-it affair. Peter "Stygian" Chng at Virtual-Hideout.net says it has the "pattern and texture of dry, cracked earth." Some user reports say that the texture is a major turn-off.