TL;DR
Steelseries' Rival 3 Wireless delivers impressive wireless precision, matching high-end wired mice for gaming and creative work. It's lightweight (95-106g), boasts a massive 400-hour battery life with clear indicators, and offers versatile 2.4g and Bluetooth connectivity, perfect for Mac users. While its software allows deep customization, the smaller size might not suit larger hands. Overall, it’s a feature-packed, affordable option for most users. Discover if it's the right fit for you in our full review!
Danish Steelseries returns with a wireless iteration of its gaming mouse, the Rival 3, aptly named the Rival 3 Wireless. This mouse incorporates all the features and refinements of its wired counterpart, and any concerns about compromised precision in the wireless version are unfounded. During testing, the Rival 3 Wireless performed admirably in both gaming scenarios and VFX creation, showing negligible difference compared to a high-end wired mouse. Reconfiguring the mouse for diverse tasks is also remarkably seamless, thanks to the detailed and intuitive software that allows for comprehensive customization.
One might assume the Rival 3 Wireless is weighty, but it maintains a modest 106 grams with two AAA batteries. It can also function with a single battery, reducing the weight to 95 grams. The battery life, rated at approximately 400 hours with two batteries, is notably impressive. Furthermore, the software provides a clear indication of remaining battery capacity, mitigating the risk of unexpected power loss.
Connectivity options include a 2.4g USB transmitter and Bluetooth. The inclusion of Bluetooth is particularly advantageous for users with devices like the MacBook Pro, which have a limited number of USB ports (especially the newer models lacking USB-A ports). While Bluetooth offers convenience, the 2.4g connection provides slightly superior precision, making it the recommended option for gaming applications.
The Rival 3 Wireless exhibits a robust and premium feel. The primary drawback lies in its size, which may be less suitable for users with larger hands. For those individuals, the Steelseries Rival 710, with its larger dimensions and heavier weight, may offer a more comfortable and ergonomic fit.
In conclusion, the Rival 3 Wireless from Steelseries presents a compelling combination of advantages and minimal disadvantages. Coupled with its attractive price point, it represents a highly desirable option for gamers and professionals alike.
