Search results for 'Features' - Page: 9
| PC World - 8 May (PC World)Social media is an important element of any marketer’s playbook, but it can also be a time-consuming one. With UNUM, it can be a lot easier. This all-in-one social media tool gives you intuitive features to create and edit posts, schedule posts, track insights, and much more. Right now, a lifetime Pro subscription is on sale for a major discount.
UNUM has been named an Apple App of the Day winner for good reason. It has more than 20 million users worldwide who use UNUM to post to every channel efficiently. UNUM makes it easy to drive traffic to your sites and pages with a customized BioBar, provides AI tools to create content and streamline your workflows, and provides detailed analytics to better understand what is and what isn’t working. It even comes with more than 500 overlays, filters, and more photo and video tools to elevate your creative process.
Amplify your social media without breaking the bank. Right now, you can get a lifetime subscription to UNUM Pro for just $49.99 (reg. $719).
UNUM Pro: Lifetime Subscription – $49.99
See Deal
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Accessories Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 8 May (PC World)Your Mac puts so much power at your fingertips, but there’s so much more to tap into. With MacPilot, you can access more than 1,200 features on your Mac without any command line tools or complicated file operations. Just install MacPilot and your Mac will be open to a whole new world. Right now, you can get it for $70 off.
MacPilot unlocks more than 1,200 features to optimize your Mac and streamline your experience. You can do things like display hidden files in Finder, add spacers and stacks to the Dock, run maintenance tools, toggle animations, and much more through an intuitive interface that puts you in the driver’s seat.
Find out why MacPilot has earned 4/5 stars on MacUpdate. From 5/6 through 11:59 pm PT on 5/12, you can get a lifetime license to MacPilot for just $29.97 (reg. $99).
MacPilot Lifetime License – $29.97
See Deal
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Accessories Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | ITBrief - 8 May (ITBrief)Fortinet unveils its FortiGate 200G series, a next-generation firewall designed to boost security and network performance at modern campuses, with AI-enhanced features and support for Wi-Fi 7 wireless standard. Read...Newslink ©2024 to ITBrief | |
| | | CNet News - 8 May (CNet News)The iPad Pro is a more beautiful tablet than ever, but the proposition seems very much the same. The Pencil Pro, though, has welcome new features. Read...Newslink ©2024 to CNet News | |
| | | CNet News - 8 May (CNet News)The Pixel 8 is Google`s current flagship, but the 8A offers a bunch of the same features at a lower price point. Read...Newslink ©2024 to CNet News | |
| | | PC World - 8 May (PC World)The best Windows Hello webcams add something your PC may lack: a quick, secure way to log in to your PC using just your face.
Why buy a Windows Hello webcam? Most laptops now include a webcam of some form or another, some with Windows Hello built in. Desktops don’t, however. If you share an apartment with someone else (or just want to avoid typing in your password), Microsoft’s biometric Windows Hello system uses a depth camera plus facial-recognition technology to log you in to Windows 10 or Windows 11 in a split second. And there’s more: passkeys are hot, and they use Windows Hello as well.
Below, I’ve listed several Windows Hello webcams that I recommend. I start with 4K Windows Hello webcams first, if only because I really think that your appearance makes a difference in a video call. But the budget (and clearly the most popular) picks all use 1080p resolution instead. Want more information? I’ve included a buying guide and a FAQ after the best Windows Hello webcam picks. You can also review PCWorld’s 1080p and 4K webcam buyer’s guide for recommendations on webcams without Windows Hello support.
Why you should trust me: I’ve been a technology reporter and writer for 30 years, with 10 years covering consumer technology for PCWorld alone. I’ve written about Windows Hello and supported webcams since Windows Hello launched in 2015, and have authored a separate roundup of recommendations for the best webcams based upon hands-on testing. I’ve taken this knowledge and applied it to the best picks for Windows Hello webcams, below.
Updated May 2, 2024: Updated to add more detail about passkeys and why they matter in the FAQ at the bottom of this article.
If you haven’t tried Windows Hello, you should. Your PC will recognize you, just like a person.
If you haven’t tried Windows Hello, you should. Your PC will recognize you, just like a person.
If you haven’t tried Windows Hello, you should. Your PC will recognize you, just like a person.
Logitech Brio 4K Ultra HD Webcam – Best Windows Hello webcam overall
Pros
4K resolution
Autofocus capabilities
Adjustable field of view
Cons
High MSRP, but can be found for less — especially right now
Best Prices Today:
$139.99 at Amazon$199.99 at Adorama$199.99 at Best Buy
Why I like the Logitech Brio 4K Ultra HD Webcam
Logitech has a well-founded reputation for quality, and if you don’t believe our review below, then listen to 17,000 Amazon customers who have awarded it nearly five out of five stars. Interestingly, Logitech focuses on the webcam aspect first — the camera captures great images and great audio…and then offers Windows Hello capabilities on top of that.
The autofocusing Logitech Brio 4K supports various resolutions and frame rates, including 4K Ultra HD at 30fps, 1080p at 30- or 60fps, and 720p (HD) at 30- or 60fps. According to our review, Logitech’s RightLight 3 technology snaps photos and video in a range of lighting conditions. It can adjust the field of view from between 90 degrees to 78 degrees or 65 degrees. You will need to download the Logitech app for fine-grained control options, however.
Who should buy the Logitech Brio 4K Ultra HD Webcam
Anyone who doesn’t like entering a password or PIN but wants to look great. This webcam does it all, and it even has a three-year limited hardware warranty to back it up. This is a product you should be happy with.
Read our full
Logitech Brio 4K Ultra HD Webcam review
Dell UltraSharp 4K Webcam (WB7022) – Best 4K Windows Hello webcam
Pros
4K resolution
Autofocus
AI framing
Cons
You`ll have to supply your own mic
Best Prices Today:
$199.99 at Dell$199.99 at Dell Home
Why I like the Dell UltraSharp 4K Webcam (WB7022)
Dell’s UltraSharp WB7022 webcam is similar to the Logitech Brio 4K, our best pick, but goes a bit further in terms of image quality and especially framing. Dell was one of the first out of the gate to use advanced features like automatic panning and zooming to keep you in frame if you shift in your seat. Likewise, this autofocus camera provides digital zoom and automatic HDR, cropping in and out from 90 to 78 degrees and even down to 65 degrees. The result is a webcam that is really designed make you look your best, more so than the other webcams listed in this roundup.
Dell applies HDR, temporal, and spatial noise reduction to help you look your best. There’s no mic, unfortunately, so you’ll have to use your laptop mic for that. There’s also a magnetic shutter which attaches to the front of the webcam.
Who should buy the Dell UltraSharp 4K Webcam (WB7022)
In some ways, this is a step down from the Logitech Brio 4K, in that it lacks a mic. But you’ll look better, too. If you want to look your very best and get Windows Hello capability, this should be the webcam for you.
NexiGo HelloCam Pro – Best budget Windows Hello webcam
Pros
Solid value for the price
1080p
Autofocus, 60fps
Cons
Utility software needs to be installed
Best Prices Today:
$79.99 at Amazon$79.99 at NexiGo
Why I like the NexiGo HelloCam Pro
There’s a tremendous value here: Most 1080p webcams cost about $50 to $70 or so, and this webcam adds Windows Hello capability on top of that.
Otherwise, the NexiGo HelloCam Pro is a good 1080p/30fps autofocus webcam, whose other signature feature is an iris-like physical webcam shutter. (Our previous pick, the slightly cheaper $69 NexiGo HelloCam, lacked autofocus.) Once the webcam is in use, the iris opens; if turned off or disconnected, the shutter closes. The images this webcam produces are good, and the noise-cancelling mics are too. Again, the value here is that this a good all-around webcam, at a terrific price.
Who should buy the NexiGo HelloCam Pro
Budget buyers and mainstream users looking to improve upon their laptop’s 720p webcam, and who also want the added security of Windows Hello biometric security. If price matters, you can’t beat this webcam.
Lenovo 510 FHD Webcam – Best budget Windows Hello webcam runner-up
Pros
Very inexpensive
Privacy shutter, though a manual one
1080p, fixed-focus
Cons
Wide-angle lens might be too much for some
Best Prices Today:
$59.99 at Amazon$59.99 at Lenovo
Why I like the Lenovo 510 FHD Webcam
Lenovo’s 510 FHD (1080p) webcam balances a known name with a fairly reasonable price and some decent features. It’s the “true” budget pick compared to the NexiCam HelloCam Pro, which at press time was $20 more. Here, you’ll need to slide the privacy shutter closed yourself, and you won’t find conveniences like automatic zooming and framing. The field of view is also 95 degrees, which is a bit more than we’d like. The pair of dual noise-cancelling mics seem to work well, however.
Who should buy the Lenovo 510 FHD Webcam
Treat this as a basic Windows Hello webcam, though from a reputable name. (It has a one-year warranty from Lenovo.) If you just want Windows Hello capability, this is the cheapest way to do it. Honestly, if you already have a webcam you’re happy with, you can still buy the Lenovo 510, use it to log in, but use another webcam for Teams and Zoom calls. It sounds silly, but the price makes this a practical option.
What to look for in a Windows Hello webcam
Windows Hello dates back to 2015, and the introduction of Windows 10 running on Microsoft’s Surface hardware. It replaces the need to type your password to log in every time you sit down at your desk, providing a speedy yet secure compromise to secure your PC.
Typically, Windows Hello is associated with depth-camera technology, which recognizes the various contours of your face, identifying you and only you. (A normal webcam doesn’t understand that it’s looking at a 3D image.) The image is then compared with a reference image which is stored during setup. The process itself is fast: It takes just a second or two for a Windows Hello webcam to recognize you, verify your identity to the PC it’s connected to via a USB cable, and log you in. Windows Hello can also read your fingerprint with a separate Windows Hello fingerprint reader, but these webcams are all you need.
1080p
The resolution of the webcam matters. Most laptops still ship with 720p webcams, and a higher-resolution webcam will make you look better than your colleagues.
Fixed-focus versus autofocus
A worthwhile but not critical feature, autofocus will keep you in focus if you move back and forth, walk around the room, or so on. Fixed-focus webcams usually work just fine for normal use.
Auto-exposure
Most webcams will adjust their exposure for the available lighting, but superior webcams will do so in a way that makes you look well-lit and not a webcam zombie.
Noise cancellation
Running a fan in the background? Are the neighbors mowing their lawn or blowing their leaves away? A good noise-cancelling webcam with a mic will filter out these background noises.
FAQ
1.
What do I need to use a Windows Hello webcam?
The webcam, a USB cable to connect it to your PC, and a desktop or laptop with Windows 10 or Windows 11 are all you need. We’ve never seen a webcam that uses a proprietary USB cable, but you can always spend a few dollars and buy a longer one if for some reason if it’s too short.
You may need to download proprietary software from the webcam to enable more advanced features. Basic Windows Hello functionality should be plug and play, however.
2.
How do I set up a Windows Hello webcam?
After buying a webcam, make sure you have a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC. Connect the webcam to the PC via the USB cable and that should be all you need for basic webcam functionality. (Some webcams require you to install their utility software for Windows Hello to function, however.) In the Windows 10 or Windows 11 Settings menu, search for “Set up face sign-in.” Then click the “Facial recognition (Windows Hello)” menu. You’ll first need to add a PIN code as a backup — don’t pick something too obvious.
Setting up Windows Hello simply requires your PC to “look” at you for several moments, recording your face.
From then on, just be sure that your PC is using your webcam (though it should by default). Windows Hello setup requires simply looking at the screen while the webcam looks at you and records your image.
3.
Is a Windows Hello webcam secure?
In general, yes. You shouldn’t have to worry about a rebellious teen holding up a photo they snapped of your face and logging in. Just be sure to secure your PC by logging out or setting a timeout function if you get up from your PC and walk away. You can also manually lock your PC by using the Win+L shortcut.
4.
What happens if my Windows Hello webcam doesn’t recognize me?
That can happen, over time. A beard (or lack of one), new glasses, a big hat, or something else that obscures your face can interfere with Windows Hello. You can always go to (on Windows 11) Settings> Accounts > Sign-in options and “improve recognition” — the phrase Windows uses for updating what you look like to your PC. Remember to back up Windows Hello with a PIN, like you use at your bank. (Just don’t use an obvious PIN like “1234”, as that could be an easy way to break into your PC.)
5.
How do passkeys work with Windows Hello?
Passkeys debuted in the fall of 2023 with Windows 11 22H2. Think of passkeys as a simple way to eliminate passwords on websites that support them. Technically, a passkey can use a password, PIN, or biometric identification to prove your identity to the website. In reality, though, who isn’t going to use Windows Hello?
Here’s how to use passkeys. A website or service will need to support them, but more do. Passkeys finally work with all Microsoft consumer accounts, too. Instead of trying to remember a PIN or a password, all you’ll need to do is look into the Windows Hello camera when asked. If for some reason the authentication fails, you’ll be asked for your Windows Hello PIN (assuming you set one up) as a backup.
Webcams Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 8 May (PC World)It’s been seven years since Corsair introduced its first pre-built gaming PC, the teeny-tiny One with a striking columnar design. While more conventional gaming desktops followed, the company is back with a new One, christened the i500. It’s packing a bunch of new features and the latest components, and also it has some wood on it.
While it’s still tiny, the One i500 is markedly larger than the original design, stepping up from a Mini ITX motherboard base to a Micro ATX. (Yes, micro is bigger than mini in this context, don’t look for consistency in PC part names.) Methinks the redesigned chassis is there to accommodate today’s far larger GPUs. You can still see design elements from the original shine through, with big, in-your-face vents at the top and bottom. The 21.7-liter case is 39.1 centimeters tall, 30cm deep, and 18.5cm wide (or 15.39 x 11.8 x 7.28 inches).
The front panel is now adorned with two wood accents in either dark or light options, matching gray or white side panels, respectively. In addition to the addressable color logo and two lighting strips, you get two USB 3.1 gen 1 and a 3.2 Gen 2 Type C port. The rear motherboard I/O panel features seven total USB-A ports and another Type-C, plus integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth antennas.
Inside you get the latest Intel Core i9-14900K on a customized B760 motherboard, 2TB of SSD storage (no word on which drive specifically, but with that chipset it’ll max out at gen 4), and either 32GB or 64GB of DDR5-6000 memory. An integrated liquid-cooling system is applied to both the CPU and GPU, the latter of which comes in Nvidia RTX 4080 Super or 4090 flavors. Tying it all together is a 1,000-watt power supply.
The design is as cool as ever, but I can’t help noticing that the promo video and images highlight “upgradeable memory and storage.” That tells me that all that custom cooling for the CPU and GPU are an integral part of the design of the case. While it might not be impossible to upgrade the CPU, graphics card, and motherboard, it looks like it would be a lot harder than a regular gaming PC and require some serious part selection.
Corsair
Corsair
Corsair
That custom graphics card without an air-cooled shroud is a particular sticking point — at just 300mm deep, the One i500 case can’t fit a regular RTX 4080 Super from off the shelf. So if you buy it, note that your upgrade options will be limited right out of the gate. The best you can hope for is that Corsair offers some upgraded custom parts, and that’s certainly not guaranteed.
Speaking of which, what’s the price? Predictably it’s high, even for a pre-built gaming PC. The base configuration with 32GB of RAM and an RTX 4080 Super is a whopping $3,600, with the 64GB and RTX 4090 upgrade going for $4,700. That’s double the price, at minimum, of the original One.
Desktop PCs Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 8 May (PC World)Apple’s new iPad Pro is powered by the M4 processor, skipping the M3 entirely. Apple has never debuted an M-series processor in a product other than the Mac, so the launch of this new processor in the iPad Pro is an unexpected surprise.
The M4 is made on an enhanced 3nm process and contains over 28 billion transistors and has the following advanced features in the iPad Pro:
4 high-performance CPU cores with improved branch prediction and wider decode and execution engines.
6 high-efficiency CPU cores with improved branch prediction and a deeper execution engine.
10-core GPU built on the same architecture as M3, with dynamic caching, mesh shaders, and ray tracing acceleration.
16-core Neural Engine delivering over 38 trillion operations per second.
Apple
Apple
Apple
Apple says the CPU is up to 50 percent faster than the M2 found in the previous iPad Pro, which means it’s somewhere around 20-25 percent faster than the CPU in the M3. The GPU is said to be up to four times faster than that in the M2, though that might be a “best case” scenario that uses lots of ray tracing. The Neural Engine is the fastest in any Apple product, but just barely—the A17 Pro in the iPhone 15 Pro can do 35 trillion operations per second, according to Apple.
Apple says the M4 has a memory bandwidth of 120GB/sec, up from 100GB/sec in both the M2 and M3. There’s also a new display engine to handle the “Tandem OLED” display and updated video processing with support for H.264, HEVC, ProRes, and AV1.
When it comes to power efficiency, Apple says M4 uses no more power than the M2 and can deliver the same performance using only half the power, and the same performance as a thin and light PC with one-fourth the power (Apple used an ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED with Core Ultra 7 155H for that comparison).
In iPad Pro models with 256GB or 512GB of storage, the M4 will have 8GB of RAM. In those with 1TB or 2TB of storage, it will have 16GB. So that remains unchanged from the M2.
It’s not clear when the M4 will make its way to the Mac, but with the M3 MacBook Air only arriving in March and the Pro models making their debut in November, it’s likely the first laptops won’t roll out until later this year. However, it’s possible that the Mac mini, Studio, and Pro, which are still using M2 chips, get an M4 refresh sooner than that.
This article originally appeared on Macworld.com.
iPad Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 8 May (PC World)Did you know that your favorite PCWorld writers, and also Brad, are on a podcast every week? They are! It’s called The Full Nerd and it’s been going for over seven years, kinda surprised you haven’t heard about it at this point. Anyway, episode 300 is coming up today! It’s a big deal! You should watch it, today, at 3 PM Eastern US time, 12 noon Pacific, TODAY.
It’s gonna be a party in the studio and wherever else our hosts and guests are streaming in from, celebrating three hundred episodes of the best dang tech roundtable show that’s also a part of the website that you’re reading right now. Oh, and if you can’t watch live, don’t worry — the episode will be available on YouTube and all the standard podcast platforms afterward, as usual.
Hey, since you’re here, and presumably a Full Nerd fan after 300 episodes and/or three paragraphs of hype, why not subscribe to the official PCWorld YouTube channel while you’re at it? It’s the best way to catch every new episode of The Full Nerd, plus our hard-hitting video reviews, features, and live coverage of events like CES and Computex. It’s a pretty good time.
Congrats, The Full Nerd crew. Happy 300.
Desktop PCs Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 8 May (PC World)When your K/D tally is at stake it’s pretty tempting to buy a premium gaming mouse with all the latest bells and whistles. But that can be a costly move that can see you paying upwards of $150 USD — that’s coin that could go towards a brand-new processor instead.
The truth is you won’t lose much performance going for a cheaper option. In fact, you can get a top-performing mouse that — barring the sensor, which is usually more modest than in premium devices — is virtually identical in build quality and styling and with equally quick buttons.
That’s not to say all budget gaming mice are alike. Admittedly, at the lower end of the market there tends to be more variation in the build quality, weight, and button configuration than at the top end, so you’ll still want to do your homework before you buy.
Or, you could just peruse our list of best budget gaming mice (below). We’ve already done the research on your behalf by extensively testing a cohort of mice, sorting the wheat from the chaff, so that what’s left is the best of the best. We’ll keep updating our chart as we review more mice and find even better products.
Why you should trust us: PCWorld’s gaming peripheral experts are hardcore gamers on a never-ending quest to find the best peripherals to improve their own gaming performance, so they know what works and what doesn’t. As such, our reviews are raw evaluations, written in the voice of gamers. We want our readers to know the truth about products so that they can make informed decisions about which products to buy and which ones to skip.
For the criteria we use to review budget gaming mice you can read our article on “How we test gaming mice at PCWorld.” For even more options, see our complete roundup of the best gaming mice, featuring both wired and wireless picks at various prices points.
Updated May 2, 2024: See our recent review of the SteelSeries Aerox 3. Its perforated top won’t be to everyone’s liking, but it’s still highly competitive performance-wise with our top budget picks and worth considering.
Logitech G502X – Best wired budget gaming mouse / Best overall
Pros
The 25K Hero sensor is very proficient event at high DPI settings
The button are extremely well placed for accessibility
The rubber thumb rest provides plenty of grip
Cons
Not including swappable trigger buttons seems like a missed opportunity
There`s no RGB lighting except a small DPI indicator light
The mouse wheel is quite noisy
Best Prices Today:
$59.99 at Amazon$69.99 at Logitech G
Why I like the G502X
The G502X sports a number of nice upgrades over its predecessor the G502 — which was itself popular with gamers — including a super-quick and accurate 25,600 DPI sensor. But what really sets this mouse apart is its button configuration — which is near perfect. It features 13 programmable button options in all, including highly sought-after DPI up/down buttons and a four-button mouse wheel. But the gem in its crown is a trigger button near your thumb, which makes letting off that must-hit command or macro just that much quicker in fast-paced games.
On top of that, the G502X sports a refreshed design that makes it eminently more comfortable and easier to move. I especially like a new, improved rubber thumb grip that replaces the plastic one from the G502, and the mouse’s longer dimensions that make it a much better fit for large hands.
Who should buy the Logitech G502X
Gamers with large hands that want an all-round great performer and don’t mind that it only has wired functionality. It’s also a great option for serious gamers that want to release a macro or extra command at break-neck speed.
Read our full
Logitech G502X review
Roccat Kone Pro – Best wired budget gaming mouse runner-up
Pros
The 19,000 DPI sensor is very precise, and the buttons are quick and clicky
An ingenious design elevates your index finger ready to fire
A lightweight body adds to its speed and precision and prevents fatigue
Cons
No dedicated DPI button means you can`t as easily switch DPI settings
Wired connectivity only, so you`ll need to plug it in to play
The mouse wheel lacks lateral left / right clicks
Best Prices Today:
$39.99 at ROCCATNot Available at Amazon
Why I like the Roccat Kone Pro
The wired Roccat Kone Pro is designed for precise targeting thanks to its lightweight design and formidable 19,000 Owl-Eye DPI sensor, which in our playtesting proved an excellent performer in fast-paced FPS games. Clicks are also extremely quick thanks to Titan optical switches in the buttons and a slight left-to-right slant on top that perfectly poises your index finger on the left main button ready to fire.
A thin plastic outer layer keeps the Kone Pro’s weight down to just 2.3 ounces (66 grams), so that it glides across your mouse mat smoothly and with minimal effort. While the Kone Pro doesn’t have a dedicated DPI button, you can still change DPI on the fly in games by assigning this function to one of its other buttons in the supporting Roccat Swarm software app.
Who should buy the Roccat Kone Pro
Anyone who wants a quick, lightweight mouse for FPS gaming that won’t break the bank. It’ll also appeal to fans of RGB who will get a kick out of its futuristic aesthetic.
For another great budget wired option, be sure to check out the SteelSeries Aerox 3, which has become a favorite for many gamers because of its light weight and excellent maneuverability.
Read our full
ROCCAT Kone Pro review
Keychron M6 Wireless – Best wireless gaming mouse
Pros
Precise and accurate 26K sensor
The sloping design elevates your trigger finger
Two scroll wheels enhance your play
Cons
The build quality could be better
The mouse feet aren`t 100 percent PTFE
There`s no RGB lighting
Why I like the Keychron M6
The Keychron M6 doesn’t have the most robust build quality you’ll find in a gaming mouse, but it does offer a lot of functionality that you just can’t get elsewhere for the bargain basement price tag it wears. I’m talking about its large and comfortable thumb rest, two scroll wheels (one with four clicks), useful side buttons, and its accurate 26K optical sensor. You get all that for a mere $49. Considering the closest match I can think of feature-wise is the $99 Logitech MX Master 3S, the Keychron M6 seems like exceptional value!
This mouse also supports all three connectivity types — 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a wired connection — making it a highly versatile option that you can hook up to just about any PC or laptop you own. Because of its cheaper build quality, though, it’s definitely one to keep safely housed out of harm’s way.
Who should buy the Keychron M6
Gamers who like the features and functionality of the Logitech MX Master 3S but can’t or don’t want to scrape together $99 for the privilege of owning one. The Keychron M6 Wireless can do just about everything this more expensive mouse can and costs half the price.
Read our full
Keychron M6 Wireless review
Keychron M3 – Best wireless gaming mouse runner-up
Pros
Very fast and precise 26,000 DPI sensor
Well-proportioned and very comfortable
The quickest buttons I`ve ever used
Cons
It would have been more convenient for the DPI button to be placed where the RGB button currently sits
Mac users will have to wait on the software app
The M3 is currently only sold through Keychron`s online retailer
Best Prices Today:
$49 at Keychron
Why I like the Keychron M3
With a flawless 26,000 DPI sensor, a timeless and comfortable design, responsive buttons, and swish RGB lighting, the Keychron M3 is the complete package, worth every bit of its $49 price tag and possibly even a dime more. For a mouse with all three connectivity types — wired connectivity via a USB cable, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth — it’s also exceptionally light, weighing in at just 2.78 ounces (79 grams).
All this value would have come to nada without some decent performance, which is just what the M3 Keychron delivered in our playtesting. From spinning around to catch foes from behind, to zipping up our cursor to flush out snipers dug into camping spots, the Keychron M3 handled every movement smoothly and without a hint of lag. It also came bundled with a few extras in the box, including not one, but two separate dongles (one for USB-A and another for USB-C) so that we could connect to just about all our devices.
Who should buy the Keychron M3
With all the connectivity types, a powerful sensor, DPI switcher, and even swish RGB lighting, the Keychron M3 will suit budget-conscious players of FPS games to a tee.
Read our full
Keychron M3 review
Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed – Best for esports
Pros
Quick and accurate sensor
High sensor positioning
Very long battery life
Hyperpolling support
Cons
No RGB lighting
2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity only
Weighs less than 3 ounces
Best Prices Today:
$69.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed
Razer’s Viper V3 Hyperspeed gives you a taste of pro gaming functionality at half the price of some other pro-grade gaming mice. So, what’s the catch? Very little actually — a modest RGB-free design and no Bluetooth functionality, is all. In my playtesting I found its 30K Razer Focus Pro sensor to be incredibly accurate and quick and the Razer Gen 2 Mechanical Switches in the buttons felt soft and responsive — just ideal for FPS.
This mouse’s handling is also as good as it gets thanks to a full-bodied grip with lots of length in the fingers. Connectivity is via a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi dongle only. The mouse is powered by a single AA battery which provides a whopping 280-hour battery life. While the Viper V3 Hyperspeed comes with a standard 1,000Hz polling rate out of the box, it also supports 4,000Hz HyperPolling via a Razer HyperPolling dongle (sold separately).
Who should buy the Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed
The saying is mostly true that you get what you pay for when it comes to gaming mice, but in the case of the Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed you get a lot more than you paid for. If you’re an esports player or aspiring to be one, this catch will save you some hard-earned cash.
Read our full
Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed review
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless – Best for esports runner-up
Pros
The solid top back is comfortable and stylish
Its 26,000 DPI sensor can target at lightning speeds
Bluetooth functionality makes it one of the most versatile esports mice you can get
Cons
The compact buttons can feel a bit cramped at times
There`s just the one RGB zone to play with
It`s more expensive than its predecessor
Best Prices Today:
$79.99 at Amazon$89.99 at HyperX
Why I like the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
The six-button HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2’s symmetrical design and 26,000 DPI sensor give it laser-like pinpoint precision in games, a fact which in itself doesn’t make it anything special. What sets it apart is that it weighs just 2.15 ounces (61 grams) — that’s lighter than more expensive pro-grade esports mice like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro and Logitech G X Pro Superlight. Suffice to say it’s super quick off the mark.
Achieving such a lightweight design is quite an extraordinary feat by HyperX for two reasons: The Pulsefire Haste 2 has a hard top back rather than the perforated one we saw in its predecessor the Haste 1, which also means it’s better suited to claw grippers. It also sports Bluetooth as well as 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, when extra Bluetooth functionality is still a rarity among pro-grade esports mice. All these factors make it one of the best value esports mice you can buy right now.
Also be sure to check out the Haste 2 Wireless’s forebear, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste Wireless, which is still an excellent all-round performer for fast action games.
Who should buy the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
Anyone who wants to put a rocket up their movement and mouse button actuation in competitive games. It’s not an exaggeration to say the Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless can spar with more premium priced esports mice like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro, yet by choosing the former you can save yourself a whopping $80.
Read our full
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless review
Logitech G203 LightSync – Best ultra-budget gaming mouse
Pros
A comfortable design that resembles more expensive esports mice
Sturdy and well-built
The RGB lighting really pops
Cons
Some sensor lag was experienced with large, fast movements
The sensor`s lift-off distance is higher than some mice
The RGB logo on the top isn`t customizable
Best Prices Today:
$26.68 at Amazon$39.99 at Best Buy
Why I like the Logitech G203 LightSync
The G203 proves gaming on a budget needn’t be glum, combining style, performance, and comfort for a shoestring price. This wired mouse sports a small ambidextrous body and familiar six-button configuration that resembles premium esports mice, except it has a more rounded back end that gives palm grippers a high level of precision.
In terms of hardware performance, the G203’s buttons feel quick and clicky. Its 8,000 DPI proprietary gaming sensor may not be as quick as some rival sensors, but it’s still highly accurate and performs decently in just about every casual gaming scenario.
In our review, we heaped praise on the G203 for its dazzling RGB lighting band and Logitech logo that light up your mouse pad with pops of color, the band of which also splits into three lighting zones customizable in the Logitech G Hub app.
Who should buy the Logitech G203 LightSync
Minimalist gamers, who don’t need the quickest gaming mouse on the planet but want something that will outperform any office mouse. The G203 best suits gamers with smaller hands, so children and young adult gamers may find it easier to use.
Read our full
Logitech G203 LightSync review
Razer DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed – Best dual-purpose budget mouse for gaming and productivity
Pros
Comfortable, ergonomic design
Dual Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
Long battery life
Cons
No RGB lighting
Slightly slower than top-shelf gaming mice
Best Prices Today:
$48 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer V2 X Hyperspeed
A stealthy profile is this wireless mouse’s biggest advantage — it sports an entirely matte-black body with no RGB lighting, meaning your work colleagues will be none the wiser about the gaming power that rests beneath your palm.
The V2 X Hyperspeed packs a very capable 14,000 DPI sensor that performs a treat in AAA games like Metro Exodus. Its seven buttons sport Razer second-generation mechanical switches, which Razer says makes them last up to 60 million clicks.
The V2 X Hyperspeed offers the convenience of dual wireless connectivity, allowing you to switch between 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with the flick of a button. It’s also highly portable thanks to a long battery life, which provides approximately 235 hours in Wi-Fi mode and up to 615 hours in Bluetooth mode on a single AA battery.
Who should buy the Razer V2 X Hyperspeed
Anyone who needs a kickass gaming mouse that can just as easily pass off as a work or student mouse. The dual wireless functionality and its use of AA batteries means it’s also a great option for travelers.
Read our full
DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed review
Roccat Kone XP – Best for MMO, RPG, and RTS gaming
Pros
Stunning RGB lighting that lights up the whole top section
The Owl-Eye sensor is highly accurate and powerful
The 15 buttons can be customized with up to 29 functions
Cons
The button layout can be confusing before you get the hang of it
Some gamers may not like the bold RGB
The supporting Swarm software could do with an update
Best Prices Today:
$56.37 at Amazon
Why I like the Roccat Kone XP
The Kone XP is the flashiest mouse we’ve had the pleasure of testing, featuring no less than eight customizable RGB “pipelines” illuminated by 22 LED lights, yet it’s also a solid performer. With an impressive contingent of 15 buttons — customizable to 29 functions — the Kone XP is especially suited for MMO, RPG, and RTS games that require players to quickly deploy a high number of commands or macros.
Under the hood, the Kone XP sports a 19,000 DPI Owl-Eye sensor based on the flawless PixArt PMW3370, which has proven its worth among competitive gamers.
In our PCWorld review we found it to be precise and accurate in games like Cyberpunk 2077. We also liked the Kone XP’s four-directional scroll wheel, which felt sturdy and responsive.
Who should buy the Roccat Kone XP
Gamers who really like to jazz up their gaming getup with bold RGB lighting. The Kone XP will also suit RTS, RPG, and MMO gamers that like assigning a second command to their mouse buttons and think the more commands they can get, the better.
Read our full
ROCCAT Kone XP review
Roccat Kone Air – Best battery life
Pros
Precise Owl-Eye sensor
Durable Titan Switch Optical switches
Impressive battery life up to 800 hours
Dual wireless connectivity
Cons
Uneven weight distribution with one battery
No wired mode
Limited to a single profile
Possibly too heavy and large for esports
Best Prices Today:
$49.99 at Roccat$59.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Roccat Kone Air
Popping just two AA batteries into the Roccat Kone Air gives you a whopping 800 hours of battery life in Wi-Fi mode. Suffice to say, the Kone Air has one of the best battery lives of any wireless mice you can buy. That said, it’s definitely a mouse for gamers who like a solid weight in their hand — it weighs 5.1 ounces (147 grams) when loaded with batteries — so it’s not going to be great for esports. Its hardware is nonetheless very respectable, and in our PCWorld review we found the 19,000 DPI Owl-Eye sensor to be very precise and quick off the mark.
The mouse’s Titan Switch Optical switches in the two main buttons are also extremely quick and they have a high durability rating of 100 million clicks. If connectivity options are going to sway you one way or the other, it’s worth noting that the Kone Air relies solely on wireless connectivity. Although, you do get both a 2.4GHz low-latency connection as well as Bluetooth, so the Kone Air will connect to almost any device.
Who should buy the Roccat Kone Air
Anyone who frequently finds themself away from an AC outlet or forgets to charge. The Roccat Kone Air’s amazing battery life means you can forget about frequent charging and just concentrate on the one thing that matters — your game.
Read our full
Roccat Kone Air review
Razer Basilisk V3 – Most ergonomic and comfortable
Pros
The Razer Focus + sensor gives faultless performance
Scrolling is made simpler with the HyperScroll Tilt Wheel
The RGB lighting looks fantastic
Cons
It`s quite heavy and bulky
You`re limited to wired connectivity only
Best Prices Today:
$49.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer Basilisk V3
Thanks to its extremely comfortable design, this right-handed mouse is a pleasure to use for extended gaming periods. Among the features that make it so comfy are an ergonomic thumb rest that elevates your thumb off the surface you’re playing on, two highly tactile injection-molded grips on either side, and 11 well-placed, easy-to-reach buttons.
The Razer Basilisk V3’s hardware also performs handsomely. In our review we thought its 24,000 DPI sensor tracked flawlessly, and the buttons, which feature second-generation Razer Optical Switches, responded very quickly. The Basilisk V3 also has one of the best scroll wheels of any budget mouse we’ve come across, allowing you to switch between additional scroll modes, including a Free-Spin Mode and Tactile mode with the touch of a button.
Who should buy the Razer Basilisk V3
Anyone who enjoys the feeling of a comfortable thumb rest while gaming. Also, anyone who really wants the convenience of a multifunctional scroll wheel that makes flicking through menus or long lists of items much easier than a conventional scroll wheel.
Read our full
Razer Basilisk V3 review
FAQ
1.
How much should I spend on a gaming mouse?
When it comes to what you should pay, there’s really no one price that fits every gamer. Although, as a general guide, you shouldn’t pay more than $90 for a budget gaming mouse—that being the absolute maximum cost of the most feature-stacked budget gaming mice you can get.
Traditional wired gaming mice with six-button configurations tend to be some of the most affordable these days, with excellent value-for-money options like the Logitech G203 Lightsync, providing gamers with just about everything they’d want for casual gaming for around $25. Expect to pay a little more for a wireless mouse, such as the $50 USD Keychron M3 Wireless, whose tetherless design makes it a much more portable device.
2.
What shape mouse do I need?
Many budget gaming mice share the same design as their premium counterparts, so chances are you may already be familiar with a design you like that feels comfortable. If you’re starting from scratch, first off you’ll want to find a mouse with a shape that fits your dominant gaming hand. There are three main shapes: left-handed, right-handed, and ambidextrous.
Left and right-handed mice are just what their names suggest—mice designed to accommodate left or right hands. These mice come with design characteristics that provide advantages to left- or right-handed users, including curves to follow the contours of their hands and button configurations that can be more easily reached.
Alternatively, ambidextrous mice are designed to be used by either hand. These mice sport a more neutral shape, which is usually quite symmetrical. Ambidextrous mice are quite often favored by competitive gamers who like the predictable way they move.
3.
What size mouse is right for me?
Just like a new pair of sneakers, you’re going to be spending a lot of time with your gaming mouse, so if it’s a lousy fit you’re not going to be comfortable and that’s going to affect your performance. Mice tend to fit into three main categories: small, medium, and large. To find a mouse that best fits your hand size you can use this simple size guide:
Small gaming mouse: Length: Less than 6.7 inches; width: 2.9 to 3.3 inches
Medium gaming mouse: Length 6.7 to 7.9 inches; width; 3.9 to 4.3 inches
Large gaming mouse: Length 7.9 inches; width; 3.9 to 4.3 inches
4.
What mouse suits my grip style?
The way you hold your mouse should fit into one of three main grip styles: a palm grip, claw grip, or fingertip grip. While you can essentially ignore your grip style altogether and play with any gaming mouse you choose, if you’re looking to maximize performance, you’ll want a mouse that gives you the most control for your grip. Here’s a guide for what to look for:
Palm grip: Long, flat mice tend to be a better fit and more comfortable
Claw grip: Narrower and smaller mice tend to suit this grip style
Fingertip grip: Lighter mice are often preferred by fingertip grippers to reduce strain
5.
How many mouse buttons do I need?
Your mouse’s button count will limit the number of commands and macros you can apply in-game, and it can also affect the mouse’s weight, which can ultimately impact gaming performance.
Ideally, the number of buttons you need should be informed by the types of games you like to play. For example, if you play a lot of first-person shooters, then keeping your mouse’s weight to an absolute minimum with a small button count is of paramount importance. In this case a standard six-button mouse is perfect, providing enough functionality for at least six commands, but optimizing weight for movement and targeting.
On the other hand, if you predominately play role-playing games (RPGs), or massively multiplayer online games (MMOs), a mouse with from 10 to 18 buttons is preferable since you’ll have more options for the myriad commands these games require. These days you can also get mice like the Roccat Kone XP that allow you to customize buttons with extra functions, which greatly increases the number of commands you can deploy.
6.
What DPI sensor should I look for?
When it comes to performance a lot of emphasis is placed on the DPI (dots per inch) resolution of a gaming mouse’s sensor, with manufacturers touting the benefits of top-of-the-line mice with sensors between 20,000 to 30,000 DPI.
With some exceptions, budget gaming mice tend to have sensors that are much lower in DPI resolution than premium models, which by the same thinking should mean they’re a lot less capable. But that’s simply not the case. In fact, budget gaming mice with sensors as low as 8,000 to 12,000 DPI can still track movement faster than what the human eye can perceive, and, with the exception of some competitive gaming scenarios, can be just as capable performers.
The takeaway is, while it doesn’t hurt to purchase a mouse with the highest DPI sensor as your budget will allow, you should also place just as much importance on other factors like the mouse’s weight and its button configuration, which can be just as important as your mouse’s sensor when it comes to performance.
7.
How light should my mouse be?
Weight comes down to personal preference. Some gamers (especially those that play FPS games) swear by lightweight mice for quicker movement and aiming and to prevent soreness in long gaming sessions, while others prefer the consistent feeling of a heavier mouse.
That said, manufacturers continue to make lighter mice each year. This year we’ve seen a bucket load of new releases that weigh much less than their predecessors—some six-button mice are even breaking the previously unheard of 60-gram mark.
You may find it difficult to find a budget mouse that light, since the lightest mice usually carry the most premium price tags. A more realistic weight is anything below 100 grams, it being kind of an unspoken benchmark for optimal mouse weight among serious gamers. The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is one mouse that is extremely lightweight for its $89.99 price tag weighing just 61 grams.
8.
What’s the best budget gaming mice for kids?
Most kids have smaller hands than adults, so if you have kids, you’d be best advised to get a compact gaming mouse like the Razer Viper Mini, Corsair Scimitar Pro, or Logitech G203 Lightsync.
In addition to moderately sized dimensions, these mice pack gaming-grade sensors and quick switches in their buttons so your kids won’t miss out on any performance advantage in games. If you have older teenagers, any medium-sized gaming mouse like the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 will do just fine, since older teenager’s hands tend to be proportionally as big as most adults.
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