Comparison Logitech MX Master 3S vs Logitech MX Master 2S

Resolution of the sensor responsible for tracking mouse movements on the work surface. Specified in DPI — dots per inch.

The physical meaning of DPI as a whole is as follows. The sensor of a modern mouse works on the same principle as the camera matrix, and consists of pixels. And DPI is the number of pixels that fall on 1 inch of the underlying surface (length or width), "visible" by the sensor.

It is believed that more DPI means a more advanced sensor and mouse in general; nowadays, models for 3500 – 5000 DPI, 12000 DPI, 16000 DPI even more are not uncommon. In a way, it is — high resolution contributes to accuracy. However, the only thing that is directly determined by this indicator is the speed at which the cursor moves across the screen: the higher the resolution of the sensor, the greater the number of pixels that the cursor will move when the mouse itself moves a certain distance. At the same time, it is worth recalling that too high a speed is even more undesirable than too low. So the real need for high DPI ( 1000 and above) arises mainly when working on large screens (4K resolution and more); for more modest displays (HD and Full HD), smaller values are often enough.

The number of buttons provided in the design of the mouse. However, the term "buttons" can also refer to specific hardware solutions — for example, a solid touch area used in many Apple mice counts as two buttons, because. it is divided into two working areas. But the clickable wheels, as well as the power button, are not taken into account in this calculation.

The minimum number of buttons for modern mice and other similar manipulators is two : this is the number that is necessary for comfortable work in most modern operating systems. If there are more than two keys, this means that there are additional buttons responsible for specific actions. So, even relatively inexpensive devices can be equipped with 3 – 4 buttons ; in addition to the 2 main buttons, they can have, for example, 2 side thumb keys, or 1 double/triple click button (see below). Solutions for 5 – 6 buttons are extremely popular nowadays; among them are many gaming mice, where the mentioned thumb buttons are supplemented with a double / triple click, a sniper button and/or a DPI switch (see also below about these functions). And in the most multifunctional models, 7 – 8 buttons and even more can be installed. In some cases, this number exceeds a dozen and a half; such mice are usually gaming devices designed for RPGs and other simil...ar genres where it is important to have a wide range of actions at your fingertips.

The presence of the mouse side buttons — under the user's thumb.

The traditional, most popular option is two buttons, which by default are responsible for the “Back” and “Forward” commands in the browser, system file explorer, etc. There are more of these buttons in gaming mice; some of these models even have an interchangeable side panel that allows you to install a different number of side keys, as desired.

Anyway, the side mouse buttons provide additional convenience and expand the list of features available from the device. At the same time, the buttons are always at hand, in fact, in instant access. This is especially handy in games: some frequently used actions can be tied to the side keys, such as reloading or a special attack. However, even in everyday use, it is much easier to press a button on the mouse than to move the cursor to the Back or Forward icon every time in the same browser.

A separate button that allows you to change the working resolution of the sensor on the fly without going into the software settings.

Recall that the sensitivity of the mouse and the speed of moving the cursor around the screen depend on the set DPI. For different tasks, the optimal DPI values \u200b\u200bcan also be different: for example, when working with graphic materials or maps on a large screen, high sensitivity is often convenient, and in a shooting game you may need to reduce it — for accurate aiming. Setting the sensitivity using the DPI switch button is as simple and convenient as possible: it is available regardless of the currently running programme, including in situations where it is difficult or impossible to enter the software settings of the mouse (the same games can be used as an example). Also note that the DPI level indicator can be built into this button (see below).

This feature means that the mouse keys, when pressed, sound much quieter than most "rodents". This is not necessarily completely silent operation — the sound may be present; but there are also absolutely silent models. Anyway, "quiet click" can be a real lifesaver in situations where normal button clicks are undesirable — for example, if the mouse has to be used intensively at a late time, or if the user or others are very annoyed by clicks. However, note that the presence of a quiet click is indicated based on the manufacturer’s statements, and different brands may invest different meanings in the concept of “quiet”. So if the minimum noise level is critical for you, you should clarify the features of the selected model from additional sources, for example, video reviews or reviews.

The presence of programmable buttons in the design of the mouse. In this case, the buttons mean not only the keys, but also the scroll wheels, which are usually able to work on pressure.

Almost all models with this feature are gaming (see "By Direction"). Usually, programming is carried out using special proprietary software, while the functionality of such a setting may be different. For example, in some models, only one action can be tied to one button, in others — a whole series of actions (such as a combination of attacks in an RPG). Often, it is possible to configure one button for different actions in different games.

However, this feature provides an additional convenience: the mouse keys are right at hand, and it is usually easier (and faster) to use them than to reach for the button (s) on the keyboard.

The total weight of the mouse. For models with a wired connection, usually, it is indicated without cable, and for devices with weight adjustment (see above) — without weights.

This parameter is important primarily for professional gaming applications, although it is often relevant for ordinary users. Theoretically, less weight promotes speed and reduces fatigue. At the same time, in fact, much depends on the personal habits and preferences of the user: a mouse that is too light may “not be felt in the hands” and not give familiar feedback. Therefore, although most mice have a lower weight limit of 60 – 80 g, however, even among professional gaming models there are much more massive devices — 120 – 140 g or more. The lightest variety of "rodents" is laptop (see "In the direction"), among them devices come across and less than 60 g.

Also note that the weight to some extent depends on the size and “tricked out” of the device, but there is no unambiguous dependence here: models similar in size and functionality can differ markedly in weight.