The Verbatim Mini Wireless SlimBoard comes packaged in a black cardboard box with a clear window in the center showing off the keyboard. On the back are additional images of the keyboard and mouse along with specific features of the Mini Wireless SlimBoard; in addition there is a listing of technical specs. Inside the package we find the keyboard, mouse, Nano receiver, four AAA batteries, Software CD, and Quick Start Guide.

The Verbatim Mini Wireless SlimBoard comes in all black and features a piano plastic finish on both the keyboard and mouse. Verbatim designed the Mini Wireless SlimBoard to work with Windows 7, Vista and Windows XP.

The keyboard is lightweight and has a distinctly plastic feel to it. It is slightly longer than the Apple Bluetooth keyboard and weighs less.

The keyboard arrangement uses a laptop arrangement instead of a desktop format. The function keys at the top also double for media controls and to launch e-mail or the web browser. Below the space bar is the Verbatim logo.

Underneath the keyboard we find an opening for two AA batteries and a connect button for syncing the keyboard and mouse to one another. For those who like their keyboard on an incline we do not find any standoffs or feet to change the typing angle. Rubber grips on the bottom help keep the keyboard from sliding around.

The mouse is all black as well with a piano black finish on its top surface; the Verbatim logo seen on the top center of the mouse. It is a two button mouse with a scroll click wheel in the center. This mouse is more laptop than desktop in terms of form factor.

Underneath we see silicone track pads along with a battery door cover, connect and power buttons.

Opening the battery door reveals the Nano receiver which is stored here when the mouse and keyboard are being transported or not in use for long periods of time. The mouse also takes two AAA batteries.

Specifications:

Verbatim’s Mini Wireless SlimBoard

Save even more room on your actual desktop with Verbatim’s Mini Wireless Slim Keyboard & Mouse. Designed with a piano black finish, this keyboard features low profile keys that provide a crisp, responsive feel when typing. Boasting a laptop-style keyboard configuration, this ultra-slim, ultra-narrow keyboard offers 2.4 Ghz wireless communication – eliminating delays between what you type and what you see on-screen. The included media console allows control of your favorite tunes directly from the keyboard. With its slim design, the freedom of a cordless interface, and a wireless mouse, this keyboard is a perfect space-saver.

2.4 Ghz Wireless – Enjoy the latest in reliable, hassle-free wireless technology

Media Console – Play, Pause…control your tunes from the Media Console

Ultra-Slim Design – Thin-profile keyboard and mouse designed to enhance your digital lifestyle

Ultra-Narrow Design – Built with a laptop-style keyboard configuration to allow for maximum desktop space-saving.

Low-Profile Keys – Quiet, soft-touch keys provide a crisp, responsive feel when typing

Connect and Forget – Nano wireless receiver

Price: $53.70

To start using the Verbatim Mini Wireless SlimBoard you’ll need to insert the Nano receiver into your Windows PC’s USB port and wait for the machine to recognize the keyboard and mouse. I was also able to use the Mini Wireless SlimBoard with my iMac without any need for drivers.

You do not need to install the included software to have the mouse and keyboard working. However the included software adds an on-screen indicator for NUM lock, caps lock, scroll lock and battery power for the keyboard and mouse. This indicator can be minimized to the notification area as well.

The top row function keys double as standby, search, e-mail, Internet home page, mute, volume down, volume up, previous track, stop, play/pause, and next track.

As someone who uses the Apple wireless keyboard I feel comfortable with using slim keyboards although I still prefer my Das Keyboard. Typing on the Verbatim Mini Wireless SlimBoard felt like I was working on a netbook keyboard.

The keys felt plasticky which I personally did not care for. However typing on it was not uncomfortable, as the keys were very responsive and its features work as advertised. Typing on the Slimboard is a quiet experience which is appreciated by those in the vicinity.

The wireless mouse was functional and not much different than the slew of laptop mice available on the market. Since I have big hands I prefer bigger mice but the Verbatim one did its job adequately.

The piano black finish like always looks great until someone gets their fingerprints on it, then its smudge city.

Conclusion:

The Verbatim Mini Wireless SlimBoard is an affordable keyboard mouse bundle for those who lack desktop space or require something portable. It has a nice appearance with its piano black finish although does feel light and plasticky.

The keyboard has a laptop style arrangement for those who prefer that type of keyboard layout. Personally I do not care for type of setup. However, for its price ($30 on Amazon) it is probably worthwhile for those who are not that particular about their keyboards.

Pros:
+Keys are responsive
+Low-profile
+Multimedia buttons on keyboard
+Bargain price

Cons:
-Unable to adjust angle
-No LEDs on keyboard for Num Lock, Caps Lock or Scroll Lock LEDs
-No power button on keyboard
-Fingerprint magnet

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

To learn more about our review policy please visit this page HERE.

Review of Verbatim’s Mini Wireless SlimBoard is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

No special packaging for the Whirl, just a white box.

Smartfish was kind enough to include batteries for you, the Whirl uses two AA size for power. Included in the box as well is a brief user manual.

The Whirl is made to be ergonomic so it features what they call ErgoMotion. The mouse sits on top of of a pivot, so looking at it from a side view shows this and it looks unlike any other mouse out there. The Whirl is plastic and it’s fairly lightweight for the size. The idea of the pivot is to let the mouse move more naturally allowing for a more comfortable and ergonomic mousing experience.

The Whirl I got for review is basically black in color, but if you look closely it has a very faint metallic finish to it, and it’s glossy and smooth. The Smartfish logo is on the back of the mouse as well.

The Whirl has the right and left click buttons along with a rubberized scroll wheel.

The bottom of the Whirl has six feet, an on/off switch and a space to store the USB receiver.

The battery compartment is underneath and honestly it’s rather hard to get at.

Specifications:

Whirl Laser Mouse w/ Anti-Gravity Comfort Pivot

Smartfish Introduces anti-gravity comfort for your computer mouse— the Whirl Desktop’s patented ErgoMotion pivot system makes your mouse feel like it’s “floating on air!”

The Only Mouse with Gravity Defying Comfort Pivot Technology
For Desktop use, it’s time to get rid of that old-fashioned “laser mouse” and upgrade to the comfort of the Whirl Desktop Mouse with ErgoMotion — the world’s first truly ergonomic desktop mouse. No other desktop mouse provides the fluid, air-like comfort of the patented ErgoMotion pivot system.

ErgoMotion — A Technology Movement
ErgoMotion is a revolutionary technology that applies motion to experiences, a solution that actually reduces the risks of Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI). The ErgoMotion Laser Mouse challenges other “fixed position” mice by utilizing a patented pivot base that adapts to your natural hand and wrist movements. The mouse conforms to your unique positions, alleviating discomfort and encouraging productivity while you work. ErgoMotion is a breakthrough technology that has been designed in collaboration with the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York — the #1 rated Orthopedics Hospital.

Wireless Connection
The ErgoMotion Mouse connects wirelessly to your computer using 2.4GHz USB nano-transceiver. No software is required. The nano-transceiver is an intelligent plug-and-play device that provides instant and uninterrupted connection, wire free. The nano-transceiver is also small enough to leave plugged into your laptop so you are ready to mouse all the time, wherever you are. Saving battery life is easy enough by switching the power on/off while traveling.

Laser Tracking
The ErgoMotion Mouse uses a high-resolution laser for precise mousing control. The 800dpi laser provides superior response over traditional optical tracking, allowing you to mouse on practically on any surface without a mousepad.

Ambidextrous Design
The Smartfish ErgoMotion Mouse is a symmetrical design created for both left and right-handed users alike, making the ErgoMotion Mouse the most comfortable device for everyone.

Price: $49.95

As I mentioned I already reviewed the portable or laptop version of the Smartfish Whirl, so here’s both for comparison. I like the smaller one much better personally.

So the first thing I noticed is that it’s a rather large mouse, at least it feels that way under the hand. The mouse isn’t physically that much larger than others, but the shape makes it feel much larger than it is.

The Whirl takes a lot of time to get accustomed to really. The pivot puts it up much higher than any other mice so you’ve got to lift you hand and wrist off the surface of your desk or pad. When I use my mouse I don’t lift my hand or wrist off the pad really, I just slide the mouse back and forth where I need it to go. I’ve got he sensitivity set rather high so I can travel long distances without much movement of the mouse. It’s just the way I do it.

The Whirl forces you to be more ergonomic with your mouse movements, the idea is to protect your wrist, arms and back from repetitive stress injuries. The Whirl essentially makes you have to re-learn how to use a mouse so there’s a lot of learning involved with it, or I should say un-learning. You’ll need to rethink how you use your mouse, with patience and time I’m sure most people will become accustomed to it, but sadly I’m not one of them as I’m just too set in my

The feet on the Whirl allow it to really just glide across most surfaces, I’m using the Mionix Propus 380 and the Whirl just slide across it like ice. Using it on a cloth pad is similar but not as smooth, using it on my desk is close to using it on the plastic surfaced pad. It tracks excellent on all surfaces though, no skips or jumps at all.

Conclusion:
I guess if you’re willing to put time into getting accustomed to the Whirl then it might be a benefit to people that use a mouse all day. It’s certainly going to take a lot to get accustomed to and there is a learning and unlearning period involved with using it.

I don’t think I’d use the Whirl for gaming as it doesn’t have any other buttons other than the standard ones, and there’s no way to adjust sensitivity either. Using it as an everyday mouse is fine I guess but I really miss side buttons for forward and back.

As is I don’t think it’s a bad mouse, but I think I would need a few months with it really to judge it. In the week or so I’ve been using it I still haven’t been able to really get accustomed to it, it’s going to take a lot longer for me or anyone really I think to get comfortable using a mouse like this.

Pros:
+Excellent tracking
+Glides across good mousepad
+Supposedly better for you than a regular mouse

Cons:
-Feels awkward at first
-No side buttons
-Feels larger than it is

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

To learn more about our review policy please visit this page HERE.

Review of Smartfish Whirl Laser Mouse w/ Anti-Gravity Comfort Pivot is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

The Whirl arrived to me in just a plain white box, inside the mouse was wrapped in bubble and included was a user manual and batteries.

The mouse has just two buttons and a scroll wheel, it’s fairly basic. Here’s a few views of it for you, as you can see it sits up on a pedestal like base, the mouse pivots on it. The sides have a rubberized feeling to them, and the one I got is silver but it’s available in other colors as well.

On the bottom you’ll find the laser sensor, on/off switch and teflon feet.

On the bottom of the actual mouse is a door where the batteries go and you’ll find the mini USB receiver there. The receiver can be put back in when not is use for storage and transport so you don’t lose it.

Specifications:

Whirl Mini Laser Mouse w/ Anti-Gravity Comfort Pivot

Smartfish Introduces anti-gravity comfort for your computer mouse— the Whirl Mini’s patented ErgoMotion pivot system makes your mouse feel like it’s "floating on air!"

The Only Mouse with Gravity Defying Comfort Pivot Technology

For laptop use, it’s time to get rid of that old-fashioned “miniature mouse” and upgrade to the comfort of the Whirl Mini Notebook Mouse with ErgoMotion — the world’s first truly ergonomic compact mouse. No other portable mouse provides the fluid, air-like comfort of the patented ErgoMotion pivot system.

You can finally say goodbye to aches and pains while using a computer mouse. Whether you are right- or left-handed, you can enjoy the unique on-the-go experience of our Award Winning computer mouse that experts from MacWorld Magazine, PC World, GQ Magazine, Good Housekeeping and many, many more all agree will forever change your mousing experience!

The perfectly portable Whirl Mini Notebook Mouse with ErgoMotion combines the remarkably natural comfort of the patented ErgoMotion pivot system with the three most sought-after computer mouse features: Up to 800-dpi hi-def laser sensitivity, 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity and extra long battery life.

The ErgoMotion pivot system reduces your risk of Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI) by adding motion! The magic of the function is how it naturally adapts to your hand motion rather than the other way around! While all other computer mice require your hand and wrist to remain in a fixed position, the Whirl Mini pivots naturally as you move, automatically changing it’s angle infinitely to match your wrist and hand. The mouse will lean, swivel or pivot with your movement so your hand and wrist are never in a fixed position, creating the most comfortable and healthy mousing experience ever. This mouse rocks!

Wireless Connection
The 2.4GHz nano-tranceiver lets you mouse around wirelessly. Keep it at your desktop, or take it on-the-go with your a laptop, the nano-tranceiver is discreet and has uninterrupted connection.

Laser Tracking
The Whirl Mini features a laser tracking engine that’s far more sensitive and responsive on more surfaces than traditional optical technology. That means it can track with precision on nearly every surface with no mousepad required.

Ambidextrous Design
Who says a comfortable mouse is only for right-handed people only. Smartfish’s Whirl Mini is designed for both left and right-handed users, making our mouse the most comfortable for everyone.

Price: $49.95

The Whirl is made for both left or right handed people so that’s a good thing right?

The Whirl installed with no issues, just plugged it in, turned it on and it installed automatically on my Windows 7 64bit system.

Using the Whirl I found it takes a lot to get accustomed to, it’s a very unique mouse that’s for sure. I’ve been using it as my main mouse for the last few days and it’s going to take a lot longer before I get accustomed to it, but I found that it works well well on most any surface. I used it on my desk, cloth pad and a hard surface pad and it performed flawlessly on all.

The Teflon feet allow it to just glide quickly and easily over the surfaces, especially a good mouse pad.

The ErgoMotion part of it is odd to say the least. At first I thought you just tilted the mouse to move it, but you tilt and then slide it as you would any other mouse. It’s sort of like riding a motorcycle in how you tilt to turn the bike.

Overall it’s not a bad little mouse, as I said it works great on most any surface and it’s very sensitive. The mouse doesn’t jump or skip no matter how fast or slow you move it.

The Whirl isn’t that much smaller really than most desktop mice, but it’s still portable and easy to use.

Conclusion:
The Smartfish Whirl is great little mouse that can be used on any surface with no difficulties and perfect tracking.

The Whirl is well made and it’s wireless over USB so you can be free of the cord.

The USB receiver stores in the back of the mouse for safe keeping, and it uses regular batteries.

Pros:
+Excellent tracking
+Seems well made
+Wireless and portable

Cons:
-Takes a while to get accustomed to

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

To learn more about our review policy please visit this page HERE.

Review of Smartfish Whirl Mini Laser Mouse w/ Anti-Gravity Comfort Pivot is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

The mouse is an ever evolving product, the main idea behind it is the same, but companies are coming out with products to replace it, or at least make your life a bit easier. These products are more specialized and aimed at the HTPC crowd, if you’re got an HTPC you really don’t want to use a mouse with it, it just doesn’t quite work, you need something more like a remote control really, and the product I’ve got today for review is just that, a device that lets you navigate and control your PC from the comfort of your couch.

Up on the review block today I’ve got the GlideTV Navigator, it’s a very unique product that  is intended to be used with an HTPC to make life a lot easier, it’s a remote control for your PC basically. The Navigator fits in the palm of your hand, and features a touchpad like you’d find on your laptop, along with basic function buttons for media controls. The GlideTV Navigator can be used for basic navigation and control, but if you pair it with the GlideTV software interface it becomes much more useful. It’s a great little product really that if you own an HTPC you might want to take a close look at…

We’ll start off with an unboxing video:

It’s a nice presentation style box:

In it you’ll find what you need to get going, the GlideTV itself, USB cable, wireless dongle, adapter, cradle, USB cable and instruction guide.

The unit itself is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and operate with just your thumb. The center section is a touchpad like you’d find on a laptop, around it is the buttons. On the edges of the GlideTV you’ll find more buttons for volume, power, magnify or search, the GlideTV interface launcher button and basic media controls at the bottom.

Specifications:

GlideTV Navigator

From movies to TV shows, from music services to radio stations, it’s all there at a click of a mouse.

But try to access it from your TV using an HTPC and you’ll discover that you need to balance a whole office on your knees…from a full keyboard to a mouse and a pad. And if you use a universal remote, you’ll discover that two-axis movement is not enough to navigate today’s websites.  The experience becomes cumbersome, even frustrating.

That’s where GlideTV Navigator comes in…it combines the functionality of a keyboard, mouse and AV remote in an elegant device that fits the palm of your hand.

GlideTV is the easiest way to surf the net from your TV…head-up and leaning-back.

Features:
-Clickable touchpad mapped to your TV screen – precise cursor control, one-thumb scrolling, single and double-click selection.
-Backlit AV buttons to control volume and playback.
-Directional buttons for easy two-axis navigation.
-Dedicated Esc, Enter, Back, and Function keys to control applications.
-On-screen keyboard. (Windows and Mac)
-Integrated search menu with links to Google,Amazon Video on Demand, Hulu, Netflix, YouTube and more. (Windows and Mac)
-Rechargeable battery.

System Requirements:
-USB Port
-Broadband Internet connection
-Home Theater PC
-PC |Windows XP (SP2 or greater), Windows Vista
-Mac |Mac OS X (10.4.11 or later)
-Sony PS3

<

The first thing you’ll need to do is charge the GlideTV Navigator before using it, simple to do, either use the included adapter or the USB port on your computer. The buttons light up to let you know it’s charging.

I used the GlideTV with my HTPC (that’s also my gaming PC) that’s hooked up to my Vizio 47” HDTV. It’s got a C2Q9650 in it and a Radeon 4870 1gig video card and it’s running Windows 7.

I had no problems installing the software, easy to do, and it adds a little on-screen icon as well, like a sidebar widget.

Before I got the GlideTV for review I was using something similar from EVO, it’s a touchpad as well, but it features an almost full QWERTY keyboard as well. There’s a big size difference between the two products, but both have their positives and negative aspects to them. For instance the Touchpad on the GlideTV is much more responsive, but the EVO has the keyboard which I really like…

The GlideTV interface is Java based and it’s nicely done. When you press the GlideTV button you’re greeted with the home screen with four main options and an exit button. Overall the interface is nice, it’ has nice large finger friendly buttons that are easy to hit when using the touchpad. If you’re not familiar with a touchpad it can take a while to get accustomed to and develop accuracy, the nice large buttons make life a lot easier.

Clicking the Applications button takes you to the apps that are pre-set for you, only three of them but you can add more in the Settings.

Clicking the Websites button takes us to a nice interface that’s two pages, and again you can add more or remove the ones you don’t want from the Settings section.

If you click Search the Internet from the main menu you’re taken to an on-screen keyboard so you can type your search query, it uses your default search engine.

Clicking Settings takes you to the settings menu as one might expect. here you can do several things like Check for Updates, Edit Home Screen Items, Clear Histories, Open keyboard and hide or show the on-screen icon.

If you click edit Home Screen Items you’ll be taken from the interface back to your desktop to a small window where you can change things. This bugged me a bit, I run HD resolution, 1920×1080, and this box is small and you cannot make it larger. It just feels odd going from the large screen of the interface to this little tiny box that you can hardly see, especially if you’re far from the TV. The little interface window is 340×292 in size, that’s small when shown on such a large resolution really. From the interface you can change Programs and Web Links that are shown in the main interface.

The program also puts an icon in your taskbar where you can access the same Settings.

The range of the GlideTV is very good, I can easily control my HTPC from the next room.

The battery life is good as well, in two weeks using it I don’t think I charged it after the initial charging. I didn’t use it that much, maybe a few hours per day, and I didn’t use the cradle specifically to see how long the charge will last, it seems to last quite a while without recharging though. The idea of course is to have the cradle plugged in at all times and then when you’re done using the GlideTV Navigator you just put it back in the cradle and let it charge again, so feasibly you could have infinite charge with it.

Using the GlideTV Navigator to control the PC works well, it does take a bit to get accustomed to though especially since you’re basically using your thumb to navigate, but it works well. At first you’ll want to use two hands for navigation until you figure out how to use it, but within a few hours I was just using one hand with it. The touchpad is very responsive and fast, I can easy swipe across the pad and the cursor will go across the screen, it’s also accurate as well, not skipping and jumping around, so you’ll be able to even hit the smallest buttons.

I did run into one major problem, and that was with a game I just got for review actually. Epix sent me over Pyroblazer Gold Edition and the GlideTV interfered with the controls to the point where I had to unplug the Navigator to be able to play the game. In Pyroblazer you control a space ship racing around a wild 3d course, but with the Navigator attached all the ship did was spin in circles and I couldn’t play the game at al.

I didn’t have any problems with other games, but I didn’t play that many either, only two or three others, so I can’t comment on how it really affects the games, but if it does it for one I’m sure it will do it for others.

I really like the GlideTV Navigator but I don’t like the fact that I can’t leave it plugged in all of the time.

If your HTPC is just an HTPC than you might not encounter the problems I did, but I wanted a dedicated gaming PC, so mine serves a dual purpose really to be both, and gaming on a 47” HDTV is just awesome…

Conclusion:

The GlideTV Navigator is a great accompaniment to any HTPC, it will make your life much easier and allow you to control all functions of your PC from a distance. Think of it as a fully functional remote for your computer. I really do like the GlideTV Navigator it works well, has a long range and excellent battery life.

The Navigator works well, but as I mentioned, it did interfere with one of my games. If it can interfere with one thing then I’m sure it will with others also. If your HTPC is just an HTPC then you shouldn’t have any problems with interference with games though.

Pros:
+Easy to use
+Nice interface
+Long battery life
+Fits in palm of your hand for easy navigation
+Includes charging cradle with dual power options
+Long range

Cons:
-Can interfere with other products and programs
-Takes a bit to get accustomed to

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

GlideTV Navigator is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

The mouse is the tool we use for controlling our computers, yes the keyboard plays a big role, but the mouse is probably the most important part of it all really. If your mouse isn’t accurate and comfortable, you’re overall computing experience will not be a good one. Using a cheaply made mouse can be frustrating and downright annoying really, the same can be said for using one that is not comfortable or accurate.

Mionix is a relatively new company to the United States market, they’re primarily a gaming peripheral company that’s actually based in Sweden and they’ve recently contacted me to review a couple of their products. What I have for review today is their gaming mouse called the Saiph 1800, the 1800 stands for the maximum DPI setting of the mouse, and the Saiph name comes from a star in the constellation Orion. The Saiph 1800 is a star in more ways than one really, in my time with this mouse I’ve come to like it quite a bit, it feature seven DPI settings, two side buttons, and it has a nice, comfortable design as well. So continue on to learn more..

The packaging for the Saiph 1800 is nice, it comes in a display style box with information listed on it as one might expect:

You’ll notice that the only thing that comes in the box is the mouse itself, no manual or driver cd. This is not the way it comes now though, I spoke to the company about this and they’ve changed the package to include the manual. The drivers can be downloaded from the Mionix website by the end-user, they’ve actually just released a new version on the 26th of August.

The mouse is black in color with the Mionix logo on the back of it and a translucent scroll wheel. The cable is the braided type which is a very nice feature, I much like the heavier cables than just a thin little wire that some mice have.

The Saiph 1800 slants off to the right side making it ergonomic and comfortable to use. There are two buttons on the left side that can be programmed and an indentation below then for your thumb. There are two buttons behind the scroll wheel that are used for changing the DPI of the mouse up and down through seven, user-programmable settings.

The Saiph 1800 also features a laser sensor for increased accuracy, and teflon feet for easy gliding across most any surface.

Specifications:

Saiph 1800

A STAR HAS BEEN BORN
Saiph got its name from the sixth brightest star in the constellation Orion. The word Saiph origins from a phrase that means ”sword of the giant”, a proper name for a high-end gaming mouse. Saiph lies about 720 light-years from planet Earth and its energy emits a slight violet light because of its high temperature. There are theories that describes that Saiph was probably formed from a molecular cloud about 10 million years ago. Super giants like Saiph are destined to collapse on themselves and explode as a supernova.

MODEL OVERVIEW:
Mionix Saiph 1800 is a high quality gaming mouse with great precision. The sensitivity is adjustable in-game from 400 to 1800 dpi for games that requires different types of sensitivity. Saiph is ergonomically designed to fit the natural position of the hand. Five programmable buttons included the macro function (scroll wheel and two side buttons).

FEATURES:
• Unique ergonomic Design brings you more pleasant gaming
• Equipped with the latest 1800 dpi laser technology
• In-game dpi adjustment with 7 dpi-steps

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION:
• Ergonomic design (12° tilted)
• 5 programmable buttons
• 7 steps in-game dpi adjustment (with scroll wheel LED indication)
• 16 kb built-in memory
• Large teflon feet (improved friction reducement)
• Net Weight: 138.5 g
• Gold-plated USB connection
• Full speed USB 2.0 with Plug n Play
• Cable length: 2 m (braided for durability)
• Compatible with all kinds of surfaces

LASER SPECIFICATION:
• 1800 dpi Cypress laser sensor
• 1.8mm lift distance
• 1 ms response time
• 1000Hz polling rate
• True 16-bit data path
• 20 G acceleration
• 40 000Hz sampling rate
• 50 inch / sec

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:
-Windows 2000 / XP / XP64 / MCE 2005 / Vista / Vista64
-Available USB port
-2 mb free space on hard drive for driver

Installation is easy, it will work fine with just plug and play, and you’ll have access to the default DPI adjustments. Of course if you want the full functionality of the mouse you’ll want to install the software that allows for fine tuning of most every aspect of the Saiph 1800.

One thing I like very much about the Saiph 1800 is that there are seven levels of sensitivity that can be easily and quickly access by the buttons on the top. The defaults worked fine for me, but you can go in and fine tune each one from 400DPI up to 1800DPI.

The scroll wheel also changes colors to indicate the level of DPI settings you’re on. There are four main colors, red, green, blue and purple, with variations of light green, bluish green and orange in between.

I really like using the Saiph 1800, it’s very responsive and accurate, and the feet are nice and slick. I used it on several different mousepads and it worked fine with all of them.

No matter what I was doing I found the Saiph 1800 kept up, it’s not only good for gaming but it’s a great all around mouse as well.  I personally like mice that I can use for everything I do, and the Saiph 1800 is one of those mice.

I do have one small complaint though, and it’s a personal one, others might not mind as much, but I found that the Saiph 1800 is a bit lightweight, I like my mouse to be a bit heavier in weight. So it’s more of a personal preference than a complaint.

The Saiph 1800 is comfortable to use, at first it seemed a bit big, but after using it for a few days I found I liked it very much. The angle at which the mouse is designed does seem to make it more comfortable to use that the standard ‘flat’ mouse.

The Saiph 1800 though is for right-handed people only due to its design, I’m right handed so it’s not a big deal to me obviously, but I guess you lefties are out of luck, for now anyway…

Conclusion:

The Mionix Saiph 1800 is an excellent mouse overall, it’s well made and it’s accurate. The laser sensor does a good job of tracking on every surface. The seven DPI settings should be more than enough for every user and every type of game they play. The Saiph 1800 is more than just a gaming mouse though, it’s a great all-around mouse really, you’ll find it useful for general activities as well and not just gaming.

Mionix has done a great job designing the Saiph 1800, for a relatively new company they seem to know what they’re doing and what goes into making a decent mouse.

Pros:
+Very sensitive
+Easy to use
+Nicely made
+Comfortable design
+Several DPI adjustments

Cons:
-Lightweight

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

Mionix Saiph 1800 Gaming Mouse is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

Zowie Gear is a relatively new company, especially in the states, they specialize in gaming gear like mousepads, headphones, skates and mice. They sent me over their new IO1.1 Professional Gaming Bundle for review which consists of a mouse carrying bag, large mousepad, skates and a re-painted Microsoft Intellimouse. The Intellimouse is an optical mouse that is very popular with gamers, touted as one of the best out there from what I’ve read, so I was curious to get to try it out.

First up I’ve got the unboxing video for you:

And here are some still pictures as well:

The mouse come pre-installed with skates, but they’ve included another spare pair for you:

The Mousepad is large, and rubber backed with the Zowie logo in the corner.

The little Co/Genes mouse bag is a nice way to carry your mouse with you, nothing really special about it, but it seems well made.

Specifications:

IO1.1 Professional Gaming Bundle (Black version)

Feature :
* Microsoft IO1.1 optical mouse with special coating
* ZOWIE GEAR G-RF mouse pad : 440 x 380 x 4 mm
* CO/GENES mouse bag
* ZOWIE GEAR speedy mouse skatez

The mouse included in the bundle is the very popular Microsoft Intellimouse, many gamers all over the world love this mouse, and I’ve heard it proclaimed as the best there ever was. This mouse though is custom painted a glassy black, with the Zowie logo on the back. Included also in the bundle is a USB to PS/2 adapter.

It’s a standard 5 buttons mouse, including the scroll wheel.

As I mentioned already the mouse comes pre-installed with the Zowie skates:

So it’s a redone MS Intellimouse, but not for the better really. The paint job is glossy, and after using it for a while it becomes sticky, your hand will actually stick to the mouse, a bit uncomfortable really. Personally I think the mouse is too lightweight, I prefer a much heavier mouse. The mouse though works fine, and I had no problems with it tracking on the Zowie mousepad. (I’ve owned many mice, and still do, but I don’t understand what the big deal is with this mouse…)

On to the mousepad now. It’s big, there’s not doubt about that coming in at about 17″ x 14″ in size. This will not fit on many desks out there I’m sure, but for me it’s fine, I’ve got a nice larger desk.

The mousepad itself has a very rough texture to it, looking at it it almost reminds me of denim really. Some people might not like the rough surface, but to me it’s not a big deal.

I used it with both the MS Intellimouse and my MS Sidewinder X8 and both worked fine with it for the most part, though slow movements with the X8 are a bit jumpy at times. Using the X8 with the mousepad actually made it track a bit better or faster actually, at least it seemed that way. I think it felt faster because it made the mouse jumpy. So basically what I’m saying is that the mousepad isn’t quite compatible with the X8 from my experience. The Intellimouse however worked perfectly fine with the pad.

Conclusion:

The IO1.1 Professional Gaming Bundle is not a bad bundle really, it includes a lot of nice stuff and could be considered a nice starter gaming kit. I don’t think it’s quite on par with being a ‘professional gaming bundle’ though as it needs some improvement.

The paint job on the Intellimouse looks good but it’s not the best choice for an actual gaming mouse where you’ll be gaming for hours.

The mousepad works fine with the Intellimouse, but I ran into problems using my MS Sidewinder X8 with it, so it’s not quite compatible with all mice.

Pros:
+Nice bundle of stuff for gamers
+Popular mouse included
+Large mousepad

Cons:
-Mouse is very lightweight
-Mouse gets sticky after using for a while
-Mousepad not compatible with all mice

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

Zowie Gear IO1.1 Professional Gaming Bundle is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

Look around and you’ll find many companies out there producing mice, it seems that a lot of them are trying to get in on the gaming industry, but not all are created equal, or that good for much of anything. When it comes to gaming though most people much rather prefer a wired mouse as there is no lag, many companies have tried to come up with wireless gaming mice, but the results just really weren’t good enough for most gamers. It’s been a long time since I’ve owned or used a wireless mouse, even though I’m not professional gamer, I do like the features that come with gaming style mice and use them often, and even I don’t like wireless mice for gaming.

Microsoft has recently released a new product, it’s a wireless gaming mouse called the SideWinder X8 and it aims to actually be a usable wireless mouse for gaming. It’s got the standard features of gaming mice, adjustable DPI settings, macros management and programmable buttons. It also features an extra button which acts as a quick launch button to the games folder in Vista, it also features replaceable feet as well, and includes two extra sets of them. One of the other features I found unique is the ability to charge while playing, the charging cable clips to the base via a magnetic connection and allows you to continue playing while the mouse is charging. Overall it’s a great mouse and in my time with it I’ve come to like it very much, so read on to learn more about a very adept and adequate wireless gaming mouse.

First up here I’ve got the unboxing video for you, and then a bunch of pictures.

In the video we pretty much saw everything, but let’s take a look again.

The for the SideWinder X8 is a nice presentation style design, it’s red glossy and just has a gamer look and feel to it.

Inside we find the mouse itself, charging base, user manual and software disc.

The charging base is the wireless receiver as well, it reminds me of a hockey puck actually, and it’s rather heavy with a rubberized base to make sure it stays where you put it. The charging cord is nice and long, on the very end is where you find the charging contacts, the plug just clips to the bottom of the X8 with a magnet and stays in place nicely. The cord wraps around the base, there’s an indentation in the middle section of the base where the cord fits into.

… but the charging base is a bit more than that, the top comes off to reveal two more sets of the feet for the X8, the feet just clip to the X8, and interesting system actually.

The SideWinder X8 is a rather large mouse, and it’s really only for right handers, for the last few months I’ve been using the small NZXT Avatar so it took a bit of time for me to get accustomed to the size of the X8.

The SideWinder X8 features three buttons on the left side, two of which can be your standard back and forth browser buttons, the other, towards the front is for creating macros for gaming. The stacked buttons on the side are a bit odd as most mice have them side by side or even on either side of the mouse, I’m still not quite accustomed to them yet.

On the top of the X8 you’ll find the regular right and left buttons along with four more, three small black buttons are for changing DPI settings, and the square silver one is a quick launch button, in Vista it opens the gaming folder. The scroll where is a buttons as well, and it can tilt from sided to side for side scrolling, it’s a clicky style so it’s audible when you scroll with it.

The bottom of the X8 is where you’ll find the charging port on the front, the removable feet, sensor and battery compartment along with the power switch.

Specifications:

Microsoft SideWinder X8 Wireless Gaming Mouse

The Ultimate Gaming Mouse System
Grab hold of the Microsoft® SideWinder™ X8 mouse and experience gaming thrills and performance that will blow you—and your opponents—away! This addition to Microsoft’s award-winning line of SideWinder gaming products is a complete desktop gaming system that features breakthrough Microsoft BlueTrack™ Technology, 2.4 GHz wireless, USB charging while you play, an advanced design for precise handling and fast action, adjustable feet, custom tuning—and much more.

-2.4 GHz Wireless connection Reliable wireless connection built for lag-free play.
-BlueTrack Technology World’s most advanced tracking technology for gaming with image processing of 13,000 frames per second.
-Play and Charge Up to 30 hours of active gaming on a single charge, or use the play-and-charge cable for non-stop action.
-Twelve Buttons – Seven are programmable Customize the five programmable main buttons, plus left/right tilt wheel—seven programmable buttons— to customize your gaming experience.
-Scroll Wheel with Tilt Better feel and response with detents for precise control.
-Full-Speed USB Reporting Full-speed, 500 Hz USB reporting is built for lag-free play.
-Engineered for Speed Shape designed for quick, balanced, precision gaming action.
-Vertical side buttons Don’t make mistakes. The top/bottom design makes locating the side buttons easier and reduces the inadvertent actuation risk.
-LCD Display Quickly view DPI settings and macro-recording.
-Quick Launch Button One-touch access to Microsoft PC Gaming features.
-DPI Switching Instantly switch sensitivity between high, medium, and low with one click.
-Replaceable Mouse Feet Choice of three different materials for glide preference.
-Macro Record Easily record macros while in game with the dedicated button.
-3-Year Limited Warranty

Additional Features:
-2.4 GHz Wireless – Built for lag-free play.
-LCD Display – Quickly view DPI settings and macro-recording icons on the mouse.
-DPI Switching – Instantly switch sensitivity between high, medium, and low with one click.
-Replaceable Mouse Feet – Choice of 3 different materials for glide preference.
-7 Programmable Buttons – Customize 5 programmable main buttons, plus left/right tilt, to your preference.
-Macro Record – Easily record macros while in game with the dedicated button.

Specs:
-Resolution: 250–4000 dpi (BlueTrack™ Technology)
-Image Processing: 13000 frames per second
-Max Acceleration: 75 G
-Max Speed: 120 inches per second
-USB Reporting: Full-speed, 500 Hz
-Feet: 3 sets of different mouse feet (for glide preference)
-Wireless Play: Up to 30 hours

System Requirements:
-Windows Vista®/Windows XP
-100 MB
-USB Port
-CD drive

The user interface, Intellipoint, is pretty basic, only three of the seven tabs really pertain to the SideWinder X8. You can change the button functions, assign DPI to the buttons and change the scrolling, the others are basic stuff for all mice.

Here’s a few shots of the X8 compared to the Avatar that I’ve been using:

The X8 does have red LEDs in it for highlights, but they don’t stay on all of the time, personally I would have liked if they did, but oh well, they only come on when you change the DPI. There’s a small screen on the left side above the buttons that tells you what DPI you are using and the buttons you pressed also lights up.

Using the X8 is nice in fact, very nice, as I mentioned though since it’s so large it took me a while to get accustomed to it, but that’s only me as the mouse I was using is rather small in size. I’d forgotten what it’s like really to use a wireless mouse, I very much enjoy the freedom of it.

I used the X8 on cloth and plastic mousepads and even just my desk surface, I had no problems with tracking on any surface at all. Having three monitors it’s nice to be able to run a higher resolution to be able to easily zip across all three, for me I have the DPI buttons set at 4000, 1500 and 750, 1500 being the normal setting for everyday usage. The only complaint I could have is that the DPI settings aren’t as adjustable as I’d like them to be, what I mean is that they go from 500 to 750 then to 1000 etc, I’d like them to be much more adjustable, on other mice 800DPI is usually my lower setting, but with the X8 there’s no option for that. For me though it’s not that big of a deal, but I could see where a professional gamer or even someone who games more than me would like to have better adjustability with the DPI settings.

Some mice out there have adjustable weights as well, the X8 does not, again here, some people like to change the weight of their mice, personally I like a heavier mouse, and the weight of the X8 is fine for me really.

I played several games with the X8, Price of Persia, F.E.A.R. 2 and many others, all of them worked great with the X8, no problems to report in that area.

Battery life seems fine with the X8, not that it matters much really as you can play while you’re charging. At first I was a bit leery of the charging system and how it connected, it connects with a magnet so I wasn’t sure if it was going to stay in place, but after using it that way I found it works perfectly fine. The charging cord is very thin, which is good and bad really, being thin it’s lightweight, but it can possibly get damaged easier as well.

Conclusion:
The Microsoft SideWinder X8 wireless gaming mouse is an excellent all around mouse, and of course it’s very good for gaming as well. It’s probably the first wireless mouse that I’m happy with for gaming, there seems to be no lag at all. The configurable buttons and interchangeable feet are a nice touch, and the adjustable DPI settings are something that even the most casual gamer can appreciate.

Of course though I’m not a professional gamer, but for me it works very well for all of the games I played, it tracks on every surface style, and it works great for everyday uses.

Being wireless it frees you from cords, it’s quite possibly the best wireless mouse on the market today.
As much as I like my NZXT Avatar, I won’t be going back to it, in my time with the X8 I’ve grown to like it very much, I can easily recommend the SideWinder X8 to anyone looking for a high quality wireless gaming mouse.

Pros:
Works well on all surfaces
Easy to use
Nice long charging cord
Play while charging
Wireless that works well for gaming
Adjustable DPI
Interchangeable feet
Nicely made

Cons:
Large mouse
Only right handed
DPI settings are not fully adjustable in smaller increments
No adjustable weights

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

Microsoft SideWinder X8 Wireless Gaming Mouse is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

So back in September I looked at the NZXT Avatar Gaming Mouse and I found it to be a great choice for gaming or just everyday use, in fact I still use it everyday, it has become my favorite mouse. One of my complaints, and many others about the Avatar was the large side buttons, they could easily be accidentally pressed, but NZXT listened to us reviewers and you users out there and released a second version of the Avatar.

This version is aesthetically exactly the same as the original Avatar, the main difference is the size of the side buttons, or should I say height of them, they don’t stick out as far so they are much harder to press accidentally.

Since I’ve been using the original Avatar for several months now I’ve become accustomed to the buttons and don’t accidentally press them now, but change can be good, so continue on to learn more about the revamped NZXT Avatar mouse, in my humble opinion, the best just got better…

There’s no video unboxing for this review, since it’s pretty much the same as the original where I did do an unboxing. If you wish you can check out that review HERE.

The Avatar comes in a neat little box, block color with purple and silver accents on it.

Inside we find the mouse of course, along with a user manual with a driver/software CD attached to the last page.<

Here’s several views of the Avatar, it has two side buttons, two DPI buttons on top behind the scroll wheel, which also acts as a button, and there’s an LED DPI level indicator on the left side.<

The bottom is the same as the original Avatar with teflon mouse feet:

Specifications:

NZXT AVATAR GAMING MOUSE Gaming Mouse

2600DPI gaming mouse
Introducing the first gaming mouse from the award winning NZXT design team, as with all of NZXT’s PC accessories, Avatar is designed to provide gamers with the ultimate crafted gaming armor to emerge victorious in the gaming arena of choice. Featuring a ambidextrous and smaller form, the Avatar mouse is versatile and ideal for gamers. A hardware implemented DPI switching allows compatibility with any game, and the Avatar interface allows for all types of customization including macros and 9 customizable buttons. Extruded Teflon mouse feet also allows for better accuracy and smoothness during gameplay.

Features:
* Optimal performance — 2600 DPI Optical Sensor provides maximum sensitivity and responsiveness which yields unparalleled gaming accuracy. LED DPI indicator gives the user improved usage and feedback. 5.8 Mega Pixels/second with a max frame rate of 6469 ensures smooth fragging and accurate sniping. 4 Speed DPI switch enables you to go from slow sniper movement to quick attack movement in a matter of seconds

* Maximum Customization — 7 programmable keys allows gamers to customize their configuration specifically for First-Person Shooters, Real-Time Strategy, or Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games all within the macro and profile settings

* Ergonomic Design — Ambidextrous design gives full use to both right and left handed gamers. Rubber grip helps avoid slipping during intense gameplay and the small, light form factor allows for faster and quicker movements, perfect for any gamer on the go or playing on a laptop or notebook. A slim form factor makes it the perfect choice for finger tip gamers.

* Simple Installation — Avatar plugs into any available USB port

* Slim and small dimensions — Measuring at 36.8mm x 69.1mm x 128mm ( H x W x D ), the Avatar’s smaller form factor is the best choice for finger tip gamers and people who game on the go.

Specs:
Max Speed: 40 Inches/Second
Max Acceleration: 15g
Max Frame Rate: 6469 Frames/Second
Resolution: 650-2600 DPI
Image Processing: 5.8 Mega Pixels/Second
USB Reports: Up to 1000 Reports/Second
Buttons: 7 Buttons, 5 Million Clicks

Now it’s comparison time!

Here are the two of them in the dark:

and here are several views of both of the mice together, the difference in the buttons is very subtle, the one on the right is the original Avatar if you can’t tell by the worn finger spots…..

and here they are from the bottom, look the same to me….

The first thing I noticed immediately about the new Avatar is the scroll wheel, it seems fairly stiff, but if I recall correctly so did the original, but it loosened up after a while. Though the scroll wheel button is much easier to press now, I’ve accidentally pressed it several times already. On a good note I have not accidentally pressed the side buttons though, so that configuration works much better now, though it could be because I’ve gotten accustomed to knowing where they are, but I don’t think so, as I don’t feel them as I did on the original.

I’m not going to go into the software interface, it’s the same as the original, you can check the screenshots in the original review if you wish, I do like having the extra buttons on the sides, they works well in everyday use and in gaming to be remapped.

Usage of the mouse is exactly the same as the original Avatar, it’s just an excellent mouse for gaming and everyday use, if it wasn’t I wouldn’t have been using it everyday since September, I’ve got several other mice here I could be using, but I prefer the Avatar over the others.

Conclusion:
As I mentioned in the intro, the best just got better, and I stand by that remark, the NZXT Avatar is an all around excellent mouse for everyday use and gaming.

The changes NZXT made are for the better really, the smaller profile side buttons work well, they now can’t be accidentally pressed as easily as the original, but yet they are still accessible.

The scroll wheel is stiffer than the original, but I like it that way, and it should loosen up a bit after a while. The scroll wheel button is a bit more sensitive than the original Avatar, but after a couple days I found I was accustomed to it and didn’t accidentally press it as often, I’m sure after a month of usage I’ll be fully aware of its sensitivity and all will be good.

The NZXT Avatar is one of the the best mice on the market today, and the changes have only made it better.

Pros:
Excellent all around mouse
Smaller side buttons
Excellent tracking on all surfaces

Cons:
Scroll wheel button is a bit sensitive

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

NZXT Avatar v2 Gaming Mouse is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

There’s all sorts of mice out there today, and you’ll find that none of them are created equal, they all have pros and cons, and it’s really going to take a bit to find the one that’s right for you. Razer is a company that is well known for their top-quality gaming accessories, many people rave about them and covet their Razer products. If you’re a gamer, then most likely you’ve heard of Razer and probably own one of their products.

Today for review I’ve got the Razer Lachesis gaming mouse, it features a 4000dpi laser sensor, 32kb onboard memory to save profiles, nine buttons, one the fly sensitivity adjustments and many other features that make this an excellent choice for a gaming mouse.

First up, as usual, we’ve got the unboxing video for you, so check it out and continue on:

Specifications:

Razer Lachesis gaming mouse

Features:
4000dpi Razer Precision 3G Laser sensor
The Razer Lachesis  reigns supreme with a true 4000dpi 3G Laser sensor, which enables movement speeds of 5 times that of a standard 800dpi optical sensor

32KB Razer Synapse onboard memory
With a 32KB onboard memory, you can store up to five unique gaming profiles.

Nine independently programmable Hyperesponse buttons
The Razer Lachesis allows programming of button functions while Razer’s Hyperesponse technology reduces latency for optimum gameplay.

Specs:

*  4000dpi Razer Precision 3G Laser sensor
* 32KB Razer Synapse onboard memory
* Nine independently programmable Hyperesponse button
* 1000Hz Ultrapolling / 1ms response time
* On-The-Fly Sensitivity adjustment
* Variable true dpi setting adjustments in increments of 125dpi
* Always-On mode
* Ultra-large non-slip buttons
* 16-bit ultra-wide data path
* 60-100 inches per second
* Ambidextrous design
* Scroll wheel with 24 individual click positions
* Zero-acoustic Ultraslick Teflon feet
* Gold-plated USB connector
* Seven-foot, lightweight, non-tangle cord
* Approximate size: 129mm (length) x 71mm (width) x 40mm (height)

Windows 2000 / XP / X64 / MCE 2005 / Vista / Vista64
Available USB port
CD-ROM Drive (for drivers)
At least 35MB of hard disk space (for drivers)

Price: $ 79.99

Here’s size comparison with the Lachesis next to the NZXT Avatar and SteelSeries Ikari Optical:

You can use the Razer Lachesis without the software, but it’s highly suggested that you don’t as with the software you can fully configure everything to your own personal likings, there are many options to choose from and you can store them in separate profiles as well.

I used the Lachesis with plastic, glass and cloth mousepads and had no problems with tracking on any of the surfaces, the plastic pad is a SteelSeries S&S and the Lachesis slid across it like it was on ice, I was amazed the first time I tried it out. The teflon pads on the Lachesis truly are silent as well, the S&S has a fine rough surface to it and I couldn’t hear the Lachesis at all sliding across it.

The Lachesis is a rather large mouse, especially compared to the small NZXT Avatar that I’ve been using, and it’s not so much the size but the height of it really that bothers me, it just feels to high in the back to me, but that’s my personal preference.

I gave the Lachesis a go for two weeks, and the verdict is that it’s a great mouse, but just not for me, I’ll be going back to the Avatar. It’s just the size of the Lachesis that doesn’t work for me, I just don’t care for a mouse that fills you hand what seems almost too much.

I did update the firmware and get the new drivers, but I found that at times the Lachesis can bit a bit jittery, and honestly it’s rather annoying when it doesn’t do what I want it to do. Those times are only when I’m using the mouse for my everyday things though, in gaming I didn’t notice it at all, so it does make a great gaming mouse, just, depending what you do, not that great of an office mouse. Sure it can be an excellent dedicated gaming mouse, but I personally use the same mouse for everything, and that’s what I like, I’m also not a hardcore gamer either.

I played Fallout 3, FarCry2, C&C Red Alert3, and Dead Space with the Lachesis and as I mentioned it is an excellent gaming mouse, it worked perfectly for any type of gaming.

I like the ability to change the DPI on the fly, it comes in quite handy, actually all of the options come in very handy, you can easily program several profile for different games.

Image Gallery:

Conclusion:
The Razer Lachesis is an excellent gaming mouse that I believe any hardcore would just love, it’s got tons of features and the ability to save several profiles for different games is something that any gamer will appreciate.

The Lachesis though is just that, a gaming mouse, and it seems not to be the greatest everyday mouse, I personally prefer a mouse that I can use for everything I do, and to me it seems the Lachesis is a bit jittery when using it for slow motions like copy and paste etc.

Pros:
Very sensitive
Lots of adjustments
Very slick feet
Works equally well on all surfaces
Easy to use

Cons:
Oddly shaped
A bit jittery at times

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

Razer Lachesis Gaming Mouse is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog

Today it seems that most every company that makes anything computer related is coming out with a gaming mouse, you’ve just got so many choices if you’re looking to buy a mouse. Since there are so many mice out there, companies are adding special features to their mice to make them stand out from the rest, and sometimes these features are great and other times they’re rather pointless.

Silverstone is known for excellent quality products, especially their PC cases, but they’ve decided to venture into the gaming mouse market. Their first entry is the Raven Gaming Mouse, it features an OLED display to let you know the DPI settings of your mouse, a laser sensor up to 3200DPI, Macros and a very unique feature called a Flip 3D Thumb Scroll.

The Raven mouse is a very unique gaming mouse, in fact I’ve never seen anything like it, or least one with this scroll wheel sticking out of the side, and it’s also one of the heaviest mice I’ve had the chance to review. So, continue on to learn more about the Raven…

As usual please check out the unboxing video first and then continue on for the rest of the review:

Specifications:
Silverstone RVM01B Raven Gaming Mouse SST-RVM01B

Features:

-3D shaped carbon fiber palm rest surface
-Independent X & Y axis adjustments in 100 dpi increments
-Precision twin-eye laser sensor with 3200dpi accuracy
-RVM01B can maintain perfect accuracy during fast acceleration change movements
-Dedicated flip 3D thumb scroll for rapid switching capability
-Up to 5 sets of programmable profiles
-OLED with setting and dpi display
-Clear OLED to display operation mode and DPI value
-50-50 weight balance for perfect feel and control
-The RVM01B has optimal weight balance from left to right and from top to bottom
-Dual mode switch
-A "mode switch" on the bottom of the RVM01B allows quick change without using software
-In normal mode, an animated RAVEN logo is displayed
-In gaming mode, X & Y axis DPI value is displayed at all times
-Multiple Key stroke commands can be recorded to one mouse button
-Single key command can also be programmed
Specs:

Material: High-strength plastic with carbon fiber surfacing Teflon feet
Dimension: 128mm x 85mm x 45mm
Application: Windows 2000, XP, Vista
Connectivity: USB 2.0 (16-bit data format)
Cable length: 180cm
Buttons: 11 total, including scroll wheels
Profiles: 5
OLED Pixel Size: 128 x 32
Controller: FreescaleMCU MC68H908JW32
Sensor: Philips PLN2030 twin-eye laser
DPI Range: 400 ~ 3200
Max. Acceleration: 50G
Weight: 182g
Price: $75.00 (Approx, depending where you look)

Here’s a quick comparison shot of the Raven and my current favorite mouse, the NZXT Avatar:

The Raven is large, much wider that other mice, and it fills your hand.

Included with the Raven is software that helps you adjust the DPI settings and change the buttons if you wish. On the bottom of the Raven is a switch labeled ‘Normal’ and ‘Game’, depending which mode you’re in is the screen that will appear, only in gaming mode can you adjust or change the settings though.

The whole Flip3d thing with Windows Vista is just eye candy and it’s something that I never even use, so for me the flip wheel on the side really just gets in the way while I’m using the mouse. The wheel sticks are very far, and actually gets in the way of the side set of buttons, at least the back button. To me it’s just a gimmick as is the while Flip3d thing with Vista, but the center of it is useful for switching between DPIs while gaming. The OLED display screen is useful to let you know the status of your mouse, but it’s location isn’t the greatest, your hand completely covers it so unless you take your hand off of the mouse you won’t know what DPI setting you’re in or on.  With the Avatar and other mice there are LEDs on the side to indicate the DPI settings and you don’t have to remove your hand from the mouse to see them either, the LEDs are a much better system than a screen I have to read.

Using the mouse for every day use is something for me that I just couldn’t get accustomed to, it just feels big and bulky in my hand, and it’s a fairly heavy mouse, I’ve turned my tastes towards lighter mice these days, and I just don’t prefer such a heavy mouse.

Overall though using it for everyday tasks is fine, but as I mentioned the wheel can get in the way of the side button, you almost have to contort your finger to reach the back button.

Tracking though was fine with any surface, glass, plastic, cloth or even wood, it performed just the same on every surface I tried.

For gaming I found the Raven to work fine, but for me it’s just to heavy, it doesn’t allow for quick reactions, but it could be because the NZXT Avatar is a very light mouse and that’s what I’m accustomed to. Even so I gave the Raven a few weeks of testing and I’m back with the Avatar as the Raven is just too large, bulky and heavy for my preferences.

I think if the side wheel wasn’t there I’d like the Raven a lot more, but as it stands it just gets in the way for me.

Conclusion:
The Silverstone Raven is competing with the top gaming mice manufacturers out there today, and for a first attempt at it, Silvestone has done an admirable job overall.

The Raven though isn’t without it’s faults, and it’s certainly one of those mice that you’re going to either love or hate. There are some things that need to be addressed with this mouse and it’s design before it can become any real competition for companies like Razer, Logitech and the others out there that have been designing gaming mice for a long time.

On a personal note I think the Raven is just too big, but that’s my own opinion, others might be more than happy with the size. I’m currently very happy using the small NZXT Avatar that some have said was too small, so to each his own I guess, everyone has their own preferences…

Pros:
Well made
Sensitive, works on any surface
Easy to use
Tracks very well

Cons:
Large and heavy mouse
Scroll wheel on side can be annoying and get in the way
Display covered by hand when using

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance

Silverstone RVM01B Raven Gaming Mouse SST-RVM01B is a post from: Testfreaks | The Blog