Endgame GearOP1we
Gaming Mouse Review
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Technology
All mice contain a small circuit board inside to handle the connection between inputs and the computer. Some are more complex than others, which is why these so-called Microcontroller Units (MCUs) are needed, which are essentially specialized miniature computers. Most modern mice today are equipped with more complex microcontrollers to manage things like stored profiles and CPI settings and to ensure a smooth connection, especially in wireless mice.
The resolution of a mouse, also known as CPI, indicates how many pixels the cursor on the screen moves when you move the mouse one inch on the mousepad or table. Many mouse manufacturers and some online sources use the term DPI to refer to the same thing. However, DPI stands for ‘Dots per Inch’ and refers more to screen resolutions, while CPI stands for ‘Counts per Inch’ and directly relates to the sensitivity of a mouse. The higher the CPI of a mouse, the “finer/more precise/more frequent” the sensor can scan the surface. However, this does not mean you should play with the highest CPI.
The polling rate, also known as the report rate, is the frequency at which the mouse communicates with the computer and makes inputs (responds). The polling rate is measured in Hz and can vary between 125 Hz and 8,000 Hz depending on the brand and model of the mouse in question. For example, a mouse with a polling rate set to 1,000 Hz will update its position on the screen 1,000 times per second, or every 1 ms. The higher the polling rate, the more “real-time” the cursor movement you see on the screen will be.
The Lift-Off Distance (LOD) refers to the height at which a mouse sensor stops tracking the surface it’s on. A high LOD means that the mouse continues to track even when lifted off the surface. Therefore, a low LOD allows tracking to stop sooner, preventing unwanted mouse behavior. On the other hand a higher LOD means the mouse will draw more energy which often results in a crispier feeling but for the cost of less battery life.
Many of the latest high-end gaming mice offer the option to enable Motion Sync, which synchronizes SPI reads with USB polling, resulting in less jitter. This feature is often found in PixArt 3370 or newer sensors. Motion Sync has its pros and cons, and whether or not to use it often depends on the games you play and how much you notice these extremely fine differences.
When correctly implemented, Motion Sync promises higher sensor reactivity by synchronizing the signals the mouse sends at the exact intervals the PC is looking for these data. This leads to more consistent data exchange, which helps in tracking targets better. However, while Motion Sync is enabled and the sensor tracks more consistently, it pushes data to the next polling event, leading to a minimal higher input delay of a few milliseconds, depending on the MCU and sensor used, which polling rate is utilized, and how much power the components are allowed to draw (LP, HP, Corded / God Mode). In short, Motion Sync is comparable to VRR technologies like G-Sync, where one must decide if they are willing to sacrifice a minimal delay for a smoother experience on the monitor.
I currently recommend disabling Motion Sync
Under each mouse button, there is a microswitch (switch) that creates the clicking sound and sends the input signal to the computer. A microswitch consists of an outer plastic housing and a small button connected to the internal mechanism. The inside of a switch contains a spring and two metallic contact points that close upon activation to complete the circuit. Currently, two types of microswitches are used in mice – the good old mechanical switches and the newer optical switches. What makes microswitches so essential for mice is that they require very little force to activate, often just 50g. Once activated, they respond almost instantaneously.
There are many manufacturers of microswitches. The more well-known ones include Omron, Kailh, Huano, Razer, and TTC.
Debounce is the time a switch takes to register a keypress or mouse click. In mechanical keyboards and gaming mice, the switch can “bounce” several times when pressed, causing the device to register multiple inputs for a single press. Debounce time helps eliminate this issue by ignoring additional inputs that occur within a predetermined timeframe after the first press. However, the higher the debounce, the higher the delay of the registered “clicks.” Therefore, one aims to have as low a debounce as possible without “double clicks.”
Measurement values relative to the base (0ms) of the Zaunkönig Mk2 & Razer Viper 8k
Click latency is the time delay between the physical click of a mouse button and the subsequent action performed on the screen. In gaming, this delay can significantly impact the player’s performance, especially in competitive gaming. For example, in first-person shooter games, the delay between clicking the mouse button to shoot and the action executed on the screen can mean the difference between winning and losing. Several factors can influence click latency, including the hardware and software used, the type of connection, and the computer’s processing speed. Gaming mice designed for competitive gaming typically have low click latency to provide a fast and responsive gaming experience. Some gaming mice also have customizable click latency settings, allowing players to adjust the response time according to their preferences.
The capacity of the battery is indicated in mAh, which stands for milliampere-hours. It is a unit for measuring the electrical charge stored in a battery. The higher the mAh number, the more charge the battery can store, and the longer it will last.
Important note:
The battery life always refers to the “best” mode that generally consumes the most power. This means:
- highest polling rate (e.g., 4,000 Hz)
- best wireless mode (e.g., 2.4G)
- best sensor mode (e.g., Comp-Mode on)
- RGB (on if available)
Dimensions
Design
Miscellaneous
NVIDIA G-SYNC Displays with Reflex feature the world’s first and only System Latency Analyzer, capable of detecting clicks from Reflex-compatible mice and measuring the time it takes for the resulting pixels (muzzle flash) to change on the screen. Start every fight with the confidence and assurance that your PC is operating with the lowest possible system latency.
Paracord is typically a woven or braided (not to be confused with traditional heavy braided cables) nylon cable, used in a variety of applications. Paracord became famous for its use in the military and climbing industries and is considered incredibly durable. When used in gaming mice, Paracord cables are usually lighter than traditional mouse and braided cables. The light design and flexibility allow for more freedom of movement, resulting in easier movements and quick pivots during gameplay. Besides the lower weight, Paracord also offers less “cable drag” because nylon has lower friction. Combined with a mouse bungee, the negative aspect of using a wired mouse practically disappears for most users. However, it’s noteworthy that not all wired gaming mice include a Paracord cable, and not all Paracord cables are the same. This is important to consider when purchasing a new mouse, as a wireless mouse may still be lighter or more free in movement.
Disclaimer: The data and mousepad specifications on my website are provided “as is, as available” without any warranty. I assume no responsibility for any damages that could be caused by errors on my site. Please verify all information directly on the manufacturers’ websites.
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Highlights
Available at:Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP):89.99$
Manufacturer's product description
The OP1we, a New, Smaller Mouse Shape from Endgame Gear
The OP1we is an addition to the budget-friendly “Wireless Essential” series. It features a CompX CX52850 MCU and a PixArt PAW3370, enabling a constant report rate of 1,000Hz and fast response times. The optical Kailh GO switches further enhance performance. Equipped with a 335mAh battery, the OP1we offers a week of gameplay without charging. Its modding-friendly design also allows for further customization options.
Newly Designed Shape for a More Versatile Claw-Grip
The OP1we features an entirely new design that follows the principles of the popular XM shape, specifically focusing on the claw-grip. The flatter sides allow for more flexible finger placement, accommodating users with larger hands. The upward-extended sidewalls ensure that the buttons do not extend all the way to the sides of the mouse, allowing fingers to be placed on the right edge without affecting button clicks. This design change ensures maximum comfort and control for gamers with hands of different sizes.
Next-Generation Optical Kailh GO Switches
Experience precise control and an enhanced tactile experience with the latest optical Kailh GO switches. Carefully tuned based on extensive user feedback from 2022, these switches offer a satisfying click feel that closely resembles mechanical switches. With an impressive lifespan of 80 million actuations and consistent debounce timing, you can enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions over a long period.
Seamless, Wireless 1,000Hz Connection
Powered by a CompX CX52850 MCU, the OP1we ensures a stable wireless connection with a polling rate of 1,000Hz. In collaboration with the Pixart PAW3370 sensor in “Corded Mode,” this combination guarantees optimal gaming performance. Customize your settings with the intuitive Endgame Gear WE Series configuration software, including debounce timing, polling rate, and sensor configurations (CPI, LoD, etc.).
Enhanced Side Buttons and Scroll Wheel Click
Immerse yourself in an outstanding gaming experience with the upgraded scroll wheel click and side buttons of the OP1we. The carefully improved scroll wheel click with Kailh GM2.0 switches ensures faster responsiveness and more precise control during scrolling. Additionally, the newly designed side buttons, also equipped with Kailh GM2.0 switches, offer enhanced durability and a satisfying click feel, giving you an edge in intense gaming situations.
High-Quality Components for Optimal Performance
The OP1we impresses with a minimalist and durable design that includes reliable components and a hybrid skate design. The hybrid skate design offers users the flexibility to choose between two skate sets: a smaller set with a reduced surface area, ideal for harder mousepads, and a larger set that delivers outstanding performance on softer mousepads. Both skate sets include a sensor switch and ensure a consistent CPI by maintaining a constant distance between the sensor and the surface. This design allows you to adjust the mouse’s glide to your preferred gaming environment, providing optimal performance and precision. Please note: The large skate set is available as optional accessory.
Modding-Friendly Design
The OP1we features a screw construction that facilitates easy modifications. With the ability to open the mouse, you can replace the main button switches with other Kailh GO switches, such as those with a lighter or harder click feel, to create a personalized gaming experience. These optional accessory switches offer modding enthusiasts the freedom to customize the OP1we to individual preferences.