VaxeeOUTSET AX Wireless

VAXEE introduces the OUTSET AX Wireless, the wireless variant of the OUTSET AX, marking their third gaming mouse without a cable. Alongside the recently released ZYGEN NP-01S Wireless, this is VAXEE’s second ergonomic mouse. While the NP-01S is designed more for gamers with smaller hands, the shape of the OUTSET AX Wireless, which, as expected, shares the identical shape of the OUTSET AX (cable version), is intended for medium to larger hands. Especially, the ZOWIE EC3-CW faces serious competition here, even though the shapes differ in detail and feel different in hand, as is often the case.

Although the wireless version has become a few grams lighter, it still carries a fairly high weight of 73g, typical for current gaming mice according to VAXEE standards. However, the build quality of my unit is really of the highest level – no incidental noises, no scratching of the always very well glued white PTFE skates, no rattling, or other issues. Even extreme pressure on the sides or buttons does not affect the mouse. A look inside the mouse confirms the high build quality and shows the well-thought-out and designed exoskeleton, which is secured with several screws. The individual parts are connected by flat cables, which can be quickly repositioned if necessary (should one become loose or detached in the heat of battle).

The OUTSET AX incorporates the same technical components as the ZYGEN NP-01S Wireless. Besides the PixArt PAW3395 sensor and the PixArt PAR2862QC MCU, switches from Huano (black shell / pink dot) are used as always. Again, there is the standard and competition mode, between which one can simply switch with a click. The mouse configuration is done directly on the device with buttons and combinations, which is practical but also a reason for the higher weight as noted with other models. Generally, VAXEE focuses on durable quality, accepting the higher weight. The coating has not changed: it feels good, provides grip even during intense duels, and will last long, as with my XE Wireless. My main buttons 1 and 2 work excellently, with some variation in actuation point, which is typical for ergonomic mice. They feel pleasantly light and are easy and fast to actuate. Both have minimal pre- and post-travel but are perfect to actuate regardless of the position. However, I have a minor complaint: If more pressure is applied to these buttons, especially near the top edge, the buttons can come into contact with the mouse’s casing since they are slightly shorter and do not extend beyond the “body” of the mouse. Since these edges are very sharp, this can be somewhat uncomfortable if one holds the mouse in such a way and actuates the buttons very far forward (like Twistzz, for example). This is not a quality issue but rather a question of the mouse’s design, and it does not bother me during gameplay. The side buttons feel great, nicely tactile with little lead-in for both. The placement is also good, although I can press both buttons quite far into the mouse. This was not the case with either the XE or the NP01-S. What I like is the slightly transparent design of the side buttons, although it only becomes noticeable upon close inspection.

Standardly, the OUTSET AX Wireless is set to competition mode with disabled Motion Sync, offering the fastest response time and matching the wired model. Switching to standard mode has minor effects on response time but causes higher SPI timing jitter, corrected by Motion Sync at the expense of motion delay. The competition mode simulates a “wired” sensor, thus offering the lowest latency but reducing the battery life from 100 to about 50 hours. With 4,000 Hz the life is reduced to approx 1/4 of this. This allows for use in standard mode for casual gaming and in competition mode for more intense gaming. I strongly recommend the competition mode as it delivers the best performance, and the 400-mAh battery is large enough for extremely long gaming sessions. VAXEE continues to forego the implementation of 4,000Hz, even though the installed sensor could easily handle it. But who knows, maybe a firmware update will come someday. 🙂

(Update: Vaxee introduced their 4,000 Hz dongle at the beginning of 2024, which is available separately. Moreover, all wireless mice, including those previously purchased, will have the 4,000 Hz option unlocked through a firmware update)

Speaking of which, one should always check for updates from time to time. Since there’s no software to notify you, I recommend checking the Homepage / Download section periodically. The update went smoothly for me and took less than 30 seconds.

The click latency is not affected by the choice between standard and competition modes and varies only according to the set debounce. Using the lowest debounce time of 2ms, the click latency in wireless operation is about 3ms. The charging cable remains unchanged and is still flexible enough to allow for playing while charging without feeling too restricted, and charging itself is also quite fast. Again, I find the unique shape of the USB-C cable to be a negative, as it is only usable for the mouse or other VAXEE mice, and I believe that the cable could provide enough support during gaming even without the two “prongs.” I tested connecting a Paracord cable from another company and had no issues. Unlike the VAXEE cable, this would give you the option of having just one USB-C cable on the table, with which you could alternately charge your gear. The implementation of automatic lift-off detection is again present: when lifted, the debounce is presumably increased, preventing unwanted clicks when lifting and repositioning the mouse. (see NP-01S: “Another innovation introduced with the latest firmware is the implementation of lift-off detection, which prevents unwanted clicks when lifting and repositioning the mouse. Online, I read that supposedly the debounce is increased to 20 ms when the mouse is lifted, which makes sense. Unfortunately, my contact at VAXEE could not provide further information on this (or would not).”)

The VAXEE OUTSET AX gaming mouse is the perfect choice for gamers and young people looking for an upgrade from the classic Ergo-Shape, such as the ZOWIE EC3-CW or the PULSAR Xlite v2 Wireless. With a design that is both shorter and wider, the AX offers a unique blend of compactness and comfort. Its special shape, rising higher on the left side, provides a more voluminous feel without compromising mobility. This is ideal for gamers who prefer a full grip while also valuing space in the rear of the mouse. The AX is particularly appealing to fans of the Palm-Grip, seeking a comfortable and ergonomic experience during long gaming sessions. Additionally, the innovative design also supports the “Tilt-Grip” developed by VAXEE, where the wrist is rotated to the right – a posture that offers benefits regardless of the preferred grip style. In short, the AX could be the ideal choice for young, dynamic gamers looking to take their game to the next level.