The market offers a wide array of gaming mice, catering to diverse gamer preferences. Some prefer heavier mice, such as my personal favorite, the Rival 710, which allows for the addition of weights for increased heft. Others might lean towards ultra-light options like the Logitech ProX Superlight. Regardless of individual choice, the goal is to maximize the performance of your chosen gaming mouse. This review focuses on the Prime+ from Steelseries. Weighing in at 71 grams, it’s the lightest Steelseries mouse I’ve tested to date. The question is: how does it stack up against the competition?
Upon unboxing the mouse, its remarkably light weight is immediately apparent. My initial impression was one of skepticism, as I typically prefer heavier mice due to my larger hand size, which I find aids in precision. Connecting it to the computer prompts immediate recognition within Steelseries’ software suite, allowing for granular customization of settings.
My initial testing of the Steelseries Prime+ involved working with a VFX shot in After Effects. Having grown accustomed to the dedicated CPI (Counts Per Inch) button on other Steelseries mice, its absence on the top of the Prime+ was immediately noticeable. The button is instead located on the underside. While this design choice likely mitigates accidental presses, the frequent adjustments I make necessitated repeated flipping of the mouse. The integrated display showing the current CPI setting is a welcome addition.
The precision offered by the Prime+ is commendable, and its lightweight design is less noticeable than on other similar mice. This can be attributed to its robust construction, which provides excellent ergonomics even for users with larger hands. The programmable buttons are easily accessible and offer a satisfying tactile click. These buttons are rated for 100 million clicks, ensuring durability throughout the lifespan of the mouse.
The next phase of testing involved gaming, specifically Gears Tactics, a title that demands precise character placement. Even without a mousepad, I observed no discernible lag between my movements and the on-screen cursor. To further assess its performance, I played Terminator Resistance to evaluate its suitability for first-person shooter gameplay. Again, the mouse performed admirably. After prolonged use, I even acclimated to its lightweight nature.
The Steelseries Prime+ is a well-engineered and highly capable product, making it a strong contender in the gaming mouse market.
