SteelSeries Rival 650 aims to deliver wireless freedom, coupled with the high quality and accurate tracking that distinguished the SteelSeries Rival 710. Following our initial preview at TechBrief 2018, we have been evaluating the mouse daily for several weeks to formulate our assessment. The Rival 650‘s design presents a fusion of modern aesthetics and classic gamer RGB lighting. Key features include low-latency wireless performance, precise tracking with lift-off distance customization, rapid charging, and adjustable weight via included magnetic weights.
As a wireless device, the SteelSeries Rival 650 connects to computers via either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. SteelSeries utilizes a dedicated USB dongle to ensure optimal precision and tracking. While USB ports are generally plentiful, the reliance on USB-A connectivity posed an immediate challenge for our office Macs, which are equipped exclusively with USB-C ports. Connecting the dongle through a USB-C dock introduces an additional element that could potentially compromise the mouse’s intended performance. While the mouse remains responsive and smooth, it may not achieve completely lag-free operation. The lift-off distance functionality, although superior to the Apple Magic Mouse, did not perform flawlessly on our test Mac, unlike its demonstrated performance on a PC. The SteelSeries Engine software functions effectively on macOS, enabling adjustments to sensitivity, RGB lighting, and other settings. However, to realize the full potential of this premium mouse, a PC with a dedicated USB-A port is recommended.
The ergonomics are well-considered (though the design is exclusively for right-handed users), and we appreciate the inclusion of small, magnetic 4-gram weights for customizable weight tuning. These weights allow users to fine-tune the mouse’s feel, achieving the desired resistance without sacrificing agility. In our testing, two weights on each side, positioned furthest forward and next furthest back, proved ideal. The side panels detach to reveal recesses for up to four weights per side. In total, users can add up to 32 grams (eight 4-gram weights) and experiment with the center of gravity, which noticeably impacts handling. Given that the SteelSeries Rival 650 weighs 121 grams without any added weight, and can reach 153 grams fully loaded, it ranks among the heavier mice we’ve evaluated, but also one of the most adaptable.
The customizable magnetic weights offer a refined approach to weight and balance adjustment.
The Rival 650 incorporates the TrueMove3 dual-sensor system, SteelSeries’ implementation of the industry-standard PWM3360 sensor, achieving a DPI of up to 3,500 (compared to the typical 2,000). An additional sensor measures lift-off distance, preventing cursor drift when the mouse is lifted. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers and designers requiring pixel-precise tracking. While its performance is generally reliable, we observed slightly superior performance on PC compared to Mac, where the improvement over other wireless mice was less pronounced.
Furthermore, the Rival 650 features fast-charging capabilities, delivering at least ten hours of use from a 15-minute charge (via the included USB-A to USB-micro cable). During our testing, the unit experienced intermittent recognition issues when connected to a Mac via the USB cable, potentially due to the USB-C dock and/or the mouse’s firmware. Wireless operation, however, remained consistently flawless.
Summary: The SteelSeries Rival 650 is a premium wireless mouse that offers compelling features for both gamers and users demanding precision. The comfortable ergonomics and highly customizable center of gravity are welcome additions. However, the USB dongle approach might not be optimal for modern computers with USB-C ports. This mouse will be most appreciated by PC users with readily available USB-A ports, although it will satisfy most users regardless.
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