How Labs conduct tests on mice

AUTHOR:Onie T.
TESTED BY:James L., and Antoine L.
Published:

...computer mice that is. When setting up a computer it's easy to get caught up in the specs of the internal components. But let's not forget the peripherals - especially the mouse. A top-tier mouse can transform your experience, whether you're gaming, working, or just browsing. Sure, a mouse lets you move the cursor, but having one with precise control, quick responses, and extra programmable buttons can make all the difference. Factors like shape and weight also play a role, enhancing comfort during those marathon sessions at your desk.

At first glance, many mice may look identical, but beneath the surface, they're far from it. So, how can you tell if Mouse ABC, which looks just like Mouse XYZ, will perform the same? That's a puzzle we set out to solve in our soon-to-be published Razer DeathAdder and AliExpress Dupes project, where we compared a premium brand to its budget counterpart.

Our mice testing results offer insights that can guide you in choosing the right mouse without having to try them all yourself. But before we let you read that fun article, you'll need to know what mice testing involves. While hands-on testing is the best way to find your match, we'll gathered data to give you a head start.

Here's how our product pages break down the key features:

  • Hardware: What's In the Box, connectivity options (wired, wireless, Bluetooth), and build quality (battery type, materials).

  • Features & Software: Customization options, onboard memory, and compatibility.

  • Performance: Click switches, latency, sensor precision, and sound of each click.

  • Productivity & Efficiency: Ergonomics, comfort, and ease of use.

Latency & Sensor Tests

Our test bench is equipped to handle both latency and sensor tests. The latency test bench is shared with keyboard testing.

Latency Tests

Latency can make or break a gaming session. Imagine clicking to shoot, but your character responds a split second too late. That's why we test each mouse's latency across all connection types - wired, wireless, and Bluetooth. Low latency is crucial for competitive gaming, but also ensures smooth performance during everyday tasks like video editing or design work. We always update the firmware, crank up the polling rate, and setup the settings for peak performance before running out tests.

Latency Test Bench: A Beagle USB 480, and an Arduino Uno that controls a solenoid (12V, 5N, 10 mm stroke) to simulate clicks. We also use a high refresh rate monitor (500+ Hz with NVIDIA Reflex Analyzer) and a powerful PC to capture all of this. A secondary monitoring computer rounds out the setup.

Total Phase, the manufacturer of the Beagle USB 480 Protocol Analyzer, has published an in-depth case study exploring how we utilize the Beagle in our processes. We highly recommend checking it out for a closer look!

(Below: Latency test flow chart.)

The latency test involves measuring the time between a click and its registration using our Beagle USB 480 and Arduino Uno setup. A solenoid generates consistent, repeated clicks, and we average the results to provide a clear snapshot of the mouse's performance. The data is then transformed into easy-to-read graphs, giving a clear picture of how fast each mouse truly is.

Each mouse undergoes real-time latency tests, with video recordings capturing every click. We record our latency videos using a Chronos High Speed Camera.

(Right: 1. Photo of latency test station, 2. GIF of latency test in action.)

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Sensor Tests

Sensor accuracy is all about DPI (dots per inch), which determines how sensitive a mouse is. A higher DPI setting makes the cursor zip across the screen with less physical effort. We measure each mouse's DPI across various settings and timings - the most common being 800, 1600, and 2400 DPI - to ensure it delivers as promised. We then present the results in a DPI histogram, showing how close the actual performance is to the advertised settings.

Sensor Test Bench: Our setup includes a specialized mouse sensor tester and a test bench computer running dedicated software for precise DPI measurement. The sensor tester is a custom build comprised of a H2W Tech Single Positioning Stage Brush Linear Motor Driven Rail (SRS-036-05-017-01-EX) and a H2W Tech Programmable Motion Controller (MCSA-30011-1HP-10).

Our custom sensor tester was created with the intention of building something with minimal wear and tear on the machinery, and would not require much maintenance. There's not really an industry standard to sensor testing, many review outlets are using something similar to our previous setup, consisting primarily of 3D printed parts. With our build here, the rail allows for higher speeds and reliable positioning.

Our tests also include a look at precision, which matters if you need your mouse movements to be consistent and repeatable, and accuracy, which is vital for preserving muscle memory when switching between different devices. We also test for lift-off distance, the height at which a mouse loses tracking when lifted, which can be a game changer for those who frequently reposition their mouse.

(Left: 1. Sensor test mouse holder on the H2W rail, 2. GIF of sensor test in action.)

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Switches and Sound

When it comes to clicks, not all mice are created equal. Just like keyboards, mice rely on switches for the main buttons, and these can be either mechanical or optical. Mechanical switches are known for their satisfying tactile feedback and durability. They use physical components to register clicks, giving users that classic, reliable "click" feel with consistent actuation force. Depending on the switch type, users can choose from different levels of resistance, tactile feedback, and sound.

Optical switches, on the other hand, use light beams to detect clicks. When the light is interrupted, the mouse instantly registers the action, leading to quicker response times. Because there's no physical contact optical switches tend to last longer. The choice between optical and mechanical is a matter of personal taste - some crave the satisfying click of a mechanical switch, while others prefer the silent efficiency of optical.

We record the click sounds to help you decide if a mouse is suited for quiet environments or if those rapid clicks might drive everyone around you crazy. Some models, like the ASUS ROG Chakram, even let users swap out the switches, giving you the flexibility to switch between optical and mechanical.

3D Scan

A picture might be worth a thousand words, but a 3D scan is worth even more when it comes to understanding a mouse's shape and feel. We use an EinScan Pro 2X V2 and EinScan Turntable to create interactive 3D models that let you examine the mouse from every angle. These scans, processed through Blender, are uploaded to our Content Management System (CMS), and users can explore them through the "View Interactive" tab.

Android and iOS mobile users can also click "View in AR" to see how the mouse would look on their own desk. This feature is particularly useful for getting a sense of mouse's size and ergonomics, ensuring it won't be too bulky or awkward in your workspace. We're continually refining this feature, and hope to expand it to other categories.

(Below: 1. 3D scan station, 2. GIF of 3D scan in action, 3. GIF of interactive 3D scan viewer on product pages.)

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Additional Testing Considerations

Our evaluations don't stop at latency and sensors. We also test the smoothness of the mouse feet across different surfaces and the flexibility of any cables, especially for wired models. A light, flexible cable can reduce drag and make the mouse feel more responsive. We assess RGB lighting options, grip styles, and overall size to see how well the mouse fits different hand sizes. And don't be fooled by ambidextrous designs - just because a mouse looks symmetrical doesn't mean it's truly usable with both hands.

Side button placement can make or break functionality for left-handed users. Scroll wheels are another important feature, and we test different styles, from notched wheels to ergonomic trackballs. Finally, we evaluate the materials used, such as rubberized grips for added comfort or smooth plastic shrouds for a sleeker design.

Limitations and Challenges

Every type of testing has limitations and obstacles. One of our primary restrictions for mice testing is that we do not disassemble the unit being tested. Without doing so, we are unable to entirely isolate the processing latency. Another constraint is our 3D scanning capabilities. It is difficult to scan clear products, and while our current setup is adequate, we have plans on upgrading it in the future.

We hope to increase the number of tests in our test suite. Expect acceleration tests, interference resistance (e.g. Radio Frequency), various sensor drift tests, sensor latency, feet friction, and mouse click profiles. Before we can publish any of the tests, we must first ensure that the process is established and that the results are consistent and reliable.

No Mouse Traps in Our Testing

With so many options out there, testing is the key to finding a reliable mouse that fits your needs. While gaming mice can often double as office peripherals, not every office mouse is cut out for gaming. There's a mouse for every type of user, and preferences can vary widely. For example, this author prefers an ergonomic, heavier mouse like the Logitech MX Master 3S for everyday tasks, but switches to the Razer DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed for gaming because of its lightweight design and quick response.

Ultimately, the right mouse comes down to your own needs and how you plan to use it. Do you want a wired mouse with tactile mechanical switches and lots of programmable buttons? Or maybe a wireless, sleek, and silent optical mouse without the extras? Perhaps you're a fan of the minimalist design of Apple mice. Whatever your preference, choosing the right mouse means finding that perfect balance between functionality, comfort, and personal style.


Want to find your perfect mouse? Take a look at all of the mice that we have tested 🐭🖱️