Cherry XTRFY M42V2: New 45-gram gaming mouse with interchangeable side panels for 39.99 euros

Philipp Briel
Philipp Briel · 4 min. read

The Cherry XTRFY M42V2 is a new ultralight gaming mouse that Cherry unveiled at Gamescom 2026 through its esports brand, XTRFY. It weighs 45 grams, costs 39.99 euros, and is available now. The highlight: Two interchangeable back plates allow the mouse to be adapted to palm, claw, or fingertip grips without tools—and without any additional software.

In a nutshell

  • Weighs 45 grams, symmetrical design based on the well-known XTRFY M42
  • Two tool-free interchangeable back plates for palm, claw, and fingertip grips
  • Pixart 3327 sensor with 400 to 6,200 CPI, polling rate up to 1,000 Hz
  • Settings adjustable directly on the mouse; no software required
  • Price: 39.99 euros (MSRP), available now

Two back plates for different grip styles

Instead of a fixed shape, Cherry includes two back plates in the box with the M42V2 that can be swapped out without tools. Players who use the palm grip opt for the taller plate, while claw and fingertip players choose the flatter version. The basic design is based on the M42, one of the best-known mice in the XTRFY portfolio, but in the V2 it is completely enclosed and coated with a matte UV finish. UHMW-PE mouse feet ensure smooth gliding; this material is typically slightly more durable than the PTFE usually used.

Cherry has most recently made a name for itself in its XTRFY series with keyboards, such as the Cherry XTRFY K63W Pro Compact, which is the first gaming keyboard to use ultra-wideband wireless technology. Our review of the K63W Pro Compact demonstrates just how well the brand currently balances value and build quality.

Technical Specifications of the Cherry XTRFY M42V2

Specifications Value
Weight 45 g (without cable)
Sensor Pixart 3327
CPI Range 400–6,200 CPI
Polling rate 125 / 250 / 500 / 1,000 Hz
Tracking Speed up to 220 IPS, max. 30 G acceleration
Switches Huano Transparent Blue Shell Pink Dot, up to 80 million clicks
Cable 1.8 m CHERRY XTRFY EZcord
Connector USB-A, plug-and-play
Price (MSRP) 39.99 euros

Configuration directly on the mouse; no software required

CPI, polling rate, lift-off distance, and debounce time can be adjusted directly on the M42V2 using a switch and a button on the bottom. Anyone who’s ever set up a gaming mouse complete with drivers, cloud profiles, and mandatory updates will appreciate this minimalist approach. The sensor itself isn’t anything out of the ordinary: The Pixart 3327 is a solid mid-range option and is also found in other budget mice, such as the Lioncast LM25, which we’ve also reviewed.

There’s a simple reason why a mouse in this weight class remains wired: A rechargeable battery would immediately push the weight past 45 grams. Anyone who opts for a wireless solution with a rechargeable battery instead is familiar with the trade-offs from mice like the Logitech G305, where the battery noticeably adds to the weight.

What a CS World Champion Says About the M42V2

In the announcement, Cherry also features Emil Christensen, better known by his gaming name HeatoN and an eight-time Counter-Strike world champion. His verdict is brief: “The shape, weight, and click feel are just right,” says Christensen, especially for a mouse in this price range.

Price, Availability, and Classification

The Cherry XTRFY M42V2 costs 39.99 euros and is available in stores now. As of the market launch, there’s no listing yet on Amazon, but that’s likely to change in the coming weeks. This positions the mouse in the same price segment as other newly introduced entry-level models, such as the MSI Clutch GM30, which also features a symmetrical design suitable for both hands.

Conclusion

With the Cherry XTRFY M42V2, Cherry is launching a straightforward, lightweight gaming mouse that relies on proven technology for its sensor and switches and achieves customization through interchangeable side panels rather than software bells and whistles. Whether the mouse can deliver in everyday use what the initial announcement promises remains to be seen in more extensive testing. At 39.99 euros, the combination of weight, sensor, and configuration options certainly sounds like a fair deal for anyone looking for an affordable, ultra-lightweight mouse without compromising on cable weight.