With the “Rival 650 Wireless”, gaming specialist SteelSeries introduced the first wireless mouse with a quick-loading mechanism. Not only this announcement makes the common user curious about what the new mouse has to offer in practice. We also wanted to know what we could expect – after all, SteelSeries is raising hopes for an extremely interesting peripheral device with the announcements for the Rival 650 Wireless*. We have tested the mouse consistently.
Design and Workmanship
Optically the mouse does not knock over connoisseurs of SteelSeries. It can only be distinguished externally from the “Rival 600” already presented some time ago by the missing cable and therefore has the typical SteelSeries gaming look.
The appearance is simple, but not boring. So the mouse knows how to draw attention to itself through its corners and edges. The RGB lighting, divided into eight zones, also provides a noticeable loosening of the otherwise rather simple appearance.
Altogether SteelSeries manages the balancing act between eye-catching exterior and discreet elegance well. Our assessment of the design of the Rival 650 Wireless is particularly positive when compared with products from other manufacturers. SteelSeries doesn’t keep the body of the mouse too simple and unobtrusive, so the new mouse differs pleasantly from the countless other gaming devices that are increasingly focusing on everyday usability in terms of design.
The mouse is processed as well as usual and we have no criticism to express.
Technical Data
| Sensor | SteelSeries TrueMove3+ system with two sensors |
| Sensor type | Optical |
| CPI | 100-12000, in units of 100 CPI |
| Acceleration | 50G |
| lift-off distance | Customizable, 0.5-2 mm |
| Material | Black Soft Touch |
| Form | Ergonomic for right-handed users |
| Number of keys | 7 |
| switch | SteelSeries switch, designed for 60 million clicks |
| Weight | 121 g without cable, adaptable up to 153 g |
| Length | 131 mm |
| Width | 62 mm (front), 62 mm (middle), 69 mm (rear) |
| Height | 27 mm (front), 43 mm (rear) |
| Cable | 2 meter, removable, rubberized |
| Features | RGB illumination (8 zones), eight additional weights, wireless |
| Price | € 86.30 * |
Equipment
The equipment with two optical sensors is the big highlight of this mouse – as long as you are willing to ignore the advertising related to the wireless quick load function. The sensors already used in the Rival 600 have not been revised – they still convince to the same extent.
In addition to an optical sensor with a maximum resolution of 12,000 DPI, a second sensor is used to measure the lift-off distance. As soon as the mouse takes off even minimally, which can happen in the heat of battle, the normal sensor is blocked so that the mouse pointer does not slip wildly. The lift-off distance can be adjusted individually. In the test this works wonderfully.
In addition, it should be said that the main sensor, by the way this is a “TrueMove 3”, is extremely strong even without the support. It provides 1-to-1 tracking and executes all commands without noticeable latencies. Demanding gamers will definitely be happy with the Rival 650 Wireless.
Overall, the cursor always reacts almost ideally. Hectic movements, fast changes of direction, numerous commands within the shortest possible time and the said lifting of the input device – nothing poses a problem for the sensors in the test, so we are more than satisfied.
The optional weights, which can be attached to the sides of the mouse, are also part of the equipment. The possibility of adapting the weight of the device to individual needs in this way is very pleasing to us and proves to be extremely practical. The mounting of the weights under the removable silicone pads is easy. The scope of delivery includes eight weights of four grams each, so that probably every user will find the ideal weight for himself.
Wireless, however, is the only difference from the Rival 600. SteelSeries promotes the new model offensively with the quick load function – allegedly it is the first wireless mouse that has this function. The promised charging and holding times are actually achieved more or less reliably in the test. After only fifteen minutes of charging, the mouse can be used for almost ten hours. Fully charged – the complete charge is reached after about two hours – the mouse should last 24 hours. Also here we can state that the information is quite realistic.
Ergonomics
With regard to the ergonomic properties of the mouse, it should first be noted that SteelSeries is less focused on best ergonomics than on design requirements. Nevertheless, ergonomics is not neglected.
The mouse feels good in the hand and is pleasant to the touch. Basic ergonomic needs are met in every case. Subjectively, we find a good compromise between design and ergonomics in the test. Obvious disadvantages – bad posture, pain, etc. – cannot be determined.
However, the device is not suitable for left-handers.
Software
The software belonging to the mouse can be downloaded free of charge from the manufacturer’s website and offers several ways of influencing the device. From programming all seven available keys and adjusting the sensitivity of the second sensor to controlling the DPI, almost anything is possible.
The engine is comparatively clear and allows quick orientation. Due to the variety of options, however, a short familiarization is necessary – after a few minutes, however, the orientation was available in our test.
The lighting options can be customized down to the smallest detail. Compared to the offerings of other manufacturers, the SteelSeries engine is very comprehensive overall and offers the user extensive freedom.
All settings and profiles are stored in the mouse’s internal memory, making it computer-independent.
Result of the SteelSeries Rival 650 Wireless Review
Overall, there are only a few points of criticism. The Rival 650 Wireless is an excellent gaming mouse that already convinces at the first impression.
With its angular design and eight-zone lighting, it stands out pleasantly from the masses in the gaming market.
Furthermore, it is equipped with two very high-quality sensors that work together to deliver first-class performance and enable latency-free gaming without slipping the cursor.
The mouse’s range is rounded off by basic ergonomic features, a wireless quick-loading function and a wide variety of options for influencing various settings in the associated, easy-to-use software.
In our test we could not find any significant points of criticism. Overall we are very satisfied and can call the Rival 650 Wireless* an excellent gaming mouse.
SteelSeries Rival 650 Wireless
Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Software
Value for Money
Great!
An all around convincing wireless gaming mouse.
