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| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 4 Jun (PC World)As Qualcomm-powered Windows on Arm PCs begin appearing here at Computex, ushering in a generation of AI-infused Copilot+ laptops, it seemed appropriate to interview a major player in the push.
No, not Qualcomm. (We’ve already spoken to them.) Instead, I mean Arm, the semiconductor design company that licenses CPUs to companies like Qualcomm, Apple, and Samsung. Arm dominates in smartphones and tablets, and now, true PC contention finally seems possible.
I sat down with chief executive Rene Haas in Taipei, touching upon everything from NPUs, to how Arm solved its Windows app gap, to why Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm don’t matter to the success of Windows on Arm PCs. And he has nothing but praise for Apple’s M-series Macs, which he says “woke up the industry on the art of the possible” with Arm laptops. “I think Apple silicon has really proven that you could build a first-class laptop and have no compromises,” Haas said.
This interview has been slightly edited for length and clarity.
Arm chip and AI discussion
Mark Hachman, PCWorld: Since AI is the big thing now, my first question is basically an AI prompt. Please explain what the your recent CSS for Client processor means to a PC-centric audience.
Rene Haas, Arm: The way I might describe it is if you think about the chip that goes inside your PC, and we have CSS today for mobile phones — we aren’t announcing CSS for PCs. The way to think about it would be just a chip that’s inside your laptop that’s running all of the application software, the display or the GPU. Even the NPU that all gets designed by different blocks of separate pieces of intellectual property.
So what we ended up doing with a CSS is we take everything that’s around the computer, the CPU, the GPU, the NPU, and all of the mesh network, the interrupt controllers, and we put that all together as a finished block, and deliver that to the person who’s building the system on a chip, and then they are able to get that shipped to market much faster. An analogy for the PCWorld audience: if you think about IP as individual Lego blocks and compute subsystems as the Lego blocks that allow you to build a Statue of Liberty. That’s kind of what we do.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
In the past Arm would simply license cores to companies like Qualcomm, Apple, Samsung and others. Is this an expansion of that?
It’s more that we would sell cores, but instead of PC where you might have eight big cores and four small cores, we would deliver that configuration. So what is the right mix and match of CPU cores to maximize performance? And then from implementing an actual system on chip we’ll take it all the way, with all the libraries you’d need for, say, three nanometer.
And with that we can literally assure you that you’re going to get, call it four-year performance. Everything is tuned. And the reason we do it is not only to save time to market, but we can almost assure that, built this way and configured this way, you’re going to get the maximum performance and power savings.
You mentioned an NPU before. But you don’t build an NPU, at least not in the CSS architecture. Did I miss something?
There isn’t an NPU today on the PC side. We have NPUs today on what I would call the entry-embedded line. But yeah, we haven’t gone public with our NPUs for the high end.
In your CSS announcement, you mentioned KleidiAI, which provides AI functions but for the CPU. Can you explain that to a PC audience that is just starting to understand what an NPU is?
Right. It’s a great question because the way that the software takes advantage of the NPU [today] is fairly high level. In other words, if the NPU has multiply-accumulates [a type of math] to run off a machine learning algorithm, the software will take advantage of that NPU. It will go off and run these complex instructions there.
What it’s not able to do is take advantage of anything unique in the NPU that might have been down to the metal layer or the hardware specific layer, because there’s no way for the application to know what’s inside that underlying hardware. That, by the way, is one of the disadvantages of everyone having their own NPU; the software ends up doing the least common denominator approach, but just making the most simple assumption about what’s there.
What KleidiAI does on the CPU is…. well, inside the CPU are very, very specific instructions that will accelerate performance. In the case of Arm V9, these are things like what we call SVE or SME, Scalable Vector Extensions, Scalable Matrix Extensions, these are things that can really, really speed up an AI algorithm.
But again, the software developer doesn’t really know whether the processor has SME. He maybe doesn’t know anything about it. So if you call that runtime library, the library is going to know — oh, this is what’s there. And I’m going to take advantage of it. So it allows for significant speedup of the performance of the software, without the developer having to know. That is really one of the probably the superpowers of those of those underlying libraries.
You may have just done this, but describe for me again what the advantage would be in the real world.
The way to think about it is an analogy — it’s not a PC analogy, but it’s a fun analogy, and it applies. When [Google] Gemini came out for Android phones, Samsung’s Galaxy had two chips underneath the hood. They had a Qualcomm chip and a Samsung Exynos chip. Both of those had NPUs, but they were a little bit different.
So from a application standpoint, Gemini was only able to run at a general level, and it wasn’t really optimized for the hardware. So fast forward, what’s going to happen with these agents, whether it’s Copilot or Gemini, they’re going to be part of the operating system. And if they’re part of the operating system, they really want to understand as much of the specifics of the low level hardware so they can be performant. But as long as these things are a little bit different, you’re not gonna be able to manage that.
So we think the library approach is not only in the right place for CPUs, but I think over time, that’s what happens with these entities.
And you’re going to have an NPU for these high-end processors. You just haven’t come to market yet.
You can extrapolate that.
That’s why when you see people benchmarking 50 TOPS versus 40 TOPS, it’s a benchmark.
And TOPS isn’t supposed to be a great benchmark or definition.
TOPS isn’t a great definition; it’s a crude benchmark of tera-operations per second. But what’s more important is, is the software able to take advantage of the hardware? And that’s the story of our libraries.
Snapdragon PCs and Windows on Arm
Arm’s CSS has a “traditional” mix of extreme cores, performance cores, and efficiency cores. But Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite just ditches all that for all performance cores. That’s it. OK, so what does that mean?
Qualcomm’s doing this mix and match but what we what we see is the direction of travel is such that the complexity of software is so high.
Respectfully, we work a lot more closely with the operating system vendors and the application community than we do with folks building the chip. When it comes to the software, the decisions in terms of what Microsoft or Google is going to put in the operating systems are made years in advance. Usually before the chip. Vendors decide which core to put inside it.
So the reason we think the CSS approach is going to be right over time is that it is going to allow us to work very closely with the application ecosystem, the developer ecosystem, the operating system vendors, to really ensure that we are delivering not only the most software-optimized platform, but because the time to develop these chips keeps getting longer, the manufacturing cycle times to build them keeps getting longer, that this idea of I’m gonna selectively pick all the bits and then figure out how to mix and match, no. People run out of time. And that’s why we’ve seen the CSS approach been so, so compelling for folks, it just saves a ton of time.
This is a good discussion. Let’s stick with the software. One of the historical problems with Windows on Arm is the software: it’s run slowly, with compatibility issues. Tell me how you’re helping to solve those problems.
We had a lot of benefit from the mobile ecosystem in really, really driving native applications. So just think about all the apps you run on your mobile phone: Adobe, Spotify, browsers, they now have all been natively ported to ARM and that’s the monster benefit.
When you go back go back to the Windows platform, you think about performance, because performance is really a function of both software compatibility but also software optimizations. So there are two bins.
One is the apps are there. On Windows on Arm [in previous years] there were holes. The apps were simply not there. In this day and age, that’s table stakes. If you don’t have it, it’s a big, big deal. That has literally all gone away.
And now all the the apps are tuned. And to the question, well, how did that happen? It’s a combination of working very closely with Microsoft.
When Microsoft talks about their Prism interpreter for Windows on Arm, how does that intersect with your own efforts?
We work incredibly closely with Microsoft.
So how does this intersect with say, Qualcomm, who has a big stake in making Windows on Arm work. Do you sit down with them? Does one side take direction from the other?
I think when it when it comes to the compute platform, it’s more Arm with Microsoft, than it is arm with Qualcomm, if that makes sense. Android is a good example.
If I think about Android, we work very closely with Samsung who builds chips, Qualcomm who builds chips, MediaTek who build chips, but we’re closer to Google. And it’s not anything negative about the chip guys. But the compute platform is between Arm and the operating system, between Arm and the application developers. It’s not really the chip guys.
Is that just because a rising tide lifts all boats, and it makes more sense to work for the benefit of all of the chip vendors, and not just one?
If you go back to the first Android smartphone, the number one vendor developing the app processor was [Texas Industries] OMAP. And one of the other very large guys doing chips back then was Broadcom.
Fast forward to today, it’s MediaTek and Qualcomm. And if you go back to the handset vendors back in 2009, there was HTC and LG, Ericsson, Nokia. And you look at it and say well, Nokia is gone. Ericsson is gone. LG is gone. HTC is gone. Ti is gone. Broadcom’s gone. Yet, Arm is still dominant in Android. Why is that? Well, it’s because we create the environment. And you create the opportunity for different handset manufacturers and different chip people to enter the market.
I like this conversation and I want to continue it, but a rumor springs to mind: that there has been an exclusivity agreement in place between Microsoft and Qualcomm for Windows on Arm, and that agreement ended this year. Is this true?
Everything I’ve heard is that that is true. Okay. I’ve heard that rumor, exactly. I have also heard that times out this year. And that will allow other players to enter the market, which again, all the rumors I’ve heard, that’s true. And I think it’s going to be great because it’s going to allow for choice and it’s going to allow for diversity, which is kind of the theme of the Windows ecosystem.
How do you view the potential for Windows on Arm for Arm, versus something like, automotive?
Gosh, without getting into the [details]… for Windows on Arm, it’s a pretty significant revenue opportunity. Because 200 million units, and our market share is approximately zero.
Well, maybe not zero. But smallish.
Yeah, so I think there’s only upside for us there. And if I look at the other ecosystem for PCs, and I look at what Mac OS has done, at the silicon, it has been amazing. And the products are amazing.
Do you think Apple helped validate your approach, by making its transition from X86 to Arm?
They were, they were a great help. They were great. Apple’s a fantastic partner. And I think Apple silicon has really proven that you could build a first-class laptop and have no compromises.
We’re learning that Qualcomm has promised monthly drivers for Snapdragon X Elite PCs. That’s their commitment. Do you help out here?
Were they referring to GPU drivers?
I believe they were referring generically to monthly driver updates.
If it’s an OS driver, that’s actually Arm and Windows. So when you get that annoying. security patch — “Windows needs to update your machine” — that’s Arm and Windows, meaning Microsoft. Qualcomm is not involved in anything relative to the OS first.
From where you’re sitting, is the Windows on Arm community providing the right messaging to consumers and potential buyers?
Again, respectfully, I think the world has kind of moved on relative to Intel, AMD, Qualcomm inside and there’s probably less of a buying decision for folks any more.
I think the AI PC is good liftoff because it’s obvious with what Microsoft’s doing with Copilot and what runs locally and what runs at the cloud. And it’s obvious that AI is creating all kinds of differentiated use cases.
Let me say it this way. If there was no AI, I think it might have been a little harder for Microsoft in general to create buzz around this new category. I think AI PC gives a great kind of tailwind. And I think on top of that, that it creates the window for new machines.
I think the Windows on Arm machines are going to be when people say oh, I need it. It starts with AI PC. A new opportunity. Now let me see, what are the options I have with AI PC? Oh my gosh, these machines here look pretty good. The battery life is great. The thermals are great and mechanicals are great. I think it’s less about oh my gosh, what brand is it, Intel? AMD? No.
So let’s say Windows on Arm is a resounding success. What does that mean for future development of Arm processors? Or does CSS for Client anticipate that success?
Yes.
It’ll be good for us.
OK, final question. I know I’m probably going to get a biased answer, but did you expect what I’d characterize as a warm reception for Windows on Arm this time around, versus before?
I did. I did. I think it was time. And again, I would give thanks to the folks in in Cupertino [Apple]. I think they I think they woke up the industry on the art of the possible in terms of what can be done with an Arm-based PC.
I think a lot of things come into play relative to the right time. Microsoft making the investment. So maybe the timing is right. I mean, as I mentioned in the keynote, I was personally involved in the very first Windows on Arm PC. I was at Nvidia at the time; I was the GM [general manager] that was running that business.
I lived Surface RT. It had a kludgey version of [Microsoft] Office. It had no enterprise support whatsoever. If you were a CIO, an IT manager there was no way to do anything with it. All that’s gone.
Further reading: Surface VP sitdown: How is AI going to change Microsoft’s PCs?
CPUs and Processors Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | ![](/n.gif) |
| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 4 Jun (PC World)Now that wireless gaming mice are just as fast and feature packed as their wired counterparts, going wireless can be a smart move, giving you greater flexibility as a gamer. But before you cut loose and buy one, it’s worth noting they’re not all alike. You’ll still need to consider factors like weight, dots per inch (DPI), and battery life which can be telling factors in how your gaming mouse performs and ultimately how you will perform in games.
Our expert reviewers have put these mice through their paces, testing them across a range of scenarios, and over extended periods of time — you can find out all about our extensive testing process in the article “How we test gaming mice at PCWorld.”
Below are the results of that effort. While these are the current best wireless gaming mice available, for a no holds barred list, including both wired and wireless models, be sure to check out PCWorld’s all-inclusive selection of the best gaming mice.
Why you should trust us: We aren’t just tech enthusiasts we’re also keen gamers and we’re always on the lookout for better gaming gear to get an edge in our favorite games. We know that we’re adding our expertise to a large body of PCWorld product news and reviews that goes back 40 years — that’s credibility we’ve built up over four decades. Consequently, we want to tell you exactly what we find in a product — the good, the bad and the in-between.
Updated May 28, 2024 to add the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Editon. This mouse is compact, so ideal for gamers with small-to-medium sized hands. It also benefits from an ultralight weight and a quick 4K wireless polling rate. The M3 mini 4K Metal Editon is also very tough thanks to its chassis which is made from magnesium.
Razer Cobra Pro – Best wireless gaming mouse overall
Pros
Its Razer Focus Pro 30K sensor is superb
Dedicated DPI up/down buttons makes switching DPI on the fly easy
Having all 11 zones of RGB is brilliant
Cons
The dimensions won`t suit large hands
Buying the Cobra Pro with a Hyper polling dongle costs extra
It`s a little heavier than its stablemate the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
Best Prices Today:
$116.90 at Amazon$129.99 at Best Buy
What I like about the Razer Cobra Pro
While some mice have fantastic sensors but fall short in the connectivity department, the Razer Cobra Pro seemingly has it all. It sports both a very high-resolution 30,000 DPI sensor as well as dual wireless connectivity. Not only is its 30K Razer Focus Pro sensor exceptionally smooth and accurate it also allows me to set my preferred lift-off distance from a total of up to 26 granular settings—that’s 23 more than most mice with this functionality.
There’s little to fault about the Cobra Pro’s design either—it’s symmetrical and feels balanced and I also get the benefit of dedicated DPI up/down buttons, which is a rare luxury in pro-grade mice. This allows me to change DPI settings on the fly so I can get the drop on opponents in an instant. To top all that off, the Razer Cobra Pro looks fantastic thanks to 11 programmable RGB lighting zones.
Who should buy the Razer Cobra Pro
Serious gamers looking for a do-it-all mouse with some of the best specs you can currently get. I’d also strongly recommend this mouse to gamers that tend to lift their mouse and want to have precise control over their mouse’s tracking when they do.
Read our full
Razer Cobra Pro review
Logitech G502 Lightspeed – Best overall runner-up
Pros
Very comfortable design
Weighs less than the wired version
Compatible with Powerplay wireless charging mouse pad
Cons
Scroll wheel feels less substantial
Weight customization is hampered by Powerplay
Expensive
Best Prices Today:
$91.33 at Amazon$149.99 at Logitech
What I like about the Logitech G502 Lightspeed
The Logitech G502 Hero was a hit with PCWorld reviewers before it went wireless because of its comfortable design, well-thought-out button layout and convenient dual-mode scroll. Thankfully all these features return in the update, but the G502 now has Powerplay compatibility — a feature we can’t speak of highly enough.
The Powerplay system trickle-charges the mouse as you play, freeing you from having to charge it manually, and ensuring you’re never without power (read more about Logitech’s Powerplay Wireless Charging System.) The redesigned wireless G502 also sports a new rubber-coated wheel instead of the metal one we saw in the wired version. This change reduces its weight down to just over 4 ounces (114 grams), making it the lightest version you can get.
This mouse’s 11-button selection places it in-between mice like the 18-button SteelSeries Aerox 9 and the smaller 6-button HyperX Pulsefire Haste, which makes it ideal as a do-it-all mouse that doesn’t shirk on functionality but won’t overwhelm you with having to remember too many commands.
Who should buy the Logitech G502 Lightspeed
Players looking for more customizable buttons than a standard six- or five-button FPS gaming mouse can provide, so ideally gamers who like to play games in different genres.
Read our full
G502 Lightspeed review
Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition – Best value for money
Pros
An excellent sensor that syncs movements precisely
4K polling rate
Strong and lightweight metal chassis
Cons
Perforated back won`t suit claw grippers
Smaller size isn`t great for large hands
Battery life isn`t great in 4K polling mode
Why I like the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition
It’s lightweight, weighing just 2.25 ounces (64 grams), yet it’s made of a robust magnesium that’s built to last and also shimmers beautifully under the light. The mouse’s sensor is extremely well honed for very quick tracking in games — it has a sensitivity of 26,000 DPI and supports up to 4K wireless polling via its 4K receiver. This 4K Metal Edition also won’t break the bank; yes, it costs $99, but compared to rivals with similar specs that’s a whole $50 less.
Who should buy the Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition
Esports players or serious gamers who want to track opponents at a blisteringly quick 4K in wireless mode should buy this mouse. One caveat is that its chassis is quite compact, so it’ll best suit players with small-to-medium sized hands.
Read our full
Keychron M3 mini 4K Metal Edition review
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless – Best value for money runner-up
Pros
The solid top back is comfortable and stylish
Its 26,000 DPI sensor can target at lightning speeds
Bluetooth functionality makes it one of the most versatile esports mice
Cons
The compact buttons can feel a bit cramped at times
There`s just the one RGB zone to play with
It`s more expensive than its predecessor
Best Prices Today:
$79.99 at Amazon$89.99 at HyperX
Why I like the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
Shipping for $89.99 the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless isn’t so much a cheap mouse as it is an excellent value-for-money proposition. By that I mean you’d be very hard pressed to find an esports mouse that weighs just 2.15 ounces (61 grams), with a 26,000 DPI sensor, dual wireless functionality, RGB lighting, and a compact symmetrical shape for this price. But beyond that, the Haste 2 Wireless is just a stellar performer that will handle even the fastest FPS action with ease.
In regard to its sizing, it’s quite a versatile mouse, easily fitting small to large hands. Although, medium-sized hands will undoubtedly feel the most comfortable on its moderate-sized body.
Who should buy the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless
Players on a budget who want a lightning-quick mouse with pointer-like precision for FPS games or general-purpose gaming. The DPI switcher button on top also makes it a great option for players who like to switch DPI on the fly.
Read our full
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wireless review
Razer Naga V2 Pro – Best wireless gaming mouse for MMO / MOBA games
Pros
The Swappable button plates let you tailor your button setup to your game`s command load
The sensor is very accurate and without a hint of lag
There`s tons of comfort and the build quality is excellent
Cons
The Razer Gen 3 Optical Switches are a little stiff at first and need wearing in
It weighs 134 grams which is quite heavy even for an MMO mouse
It`s currently very expensive
Best Prices Today:
$179.99 at Amazon$179.99 at Best Buy$179.99 at Razer
Why I like the Razer Naga V2 Pro
The Razer Naga V2 Pro follows in the footsteps of the Razer Naga Trinity, featuring magnetic swappable side-button plates that let you customize your button setup to match your gameplay. The side-button plates include a 12-, 6-, and 2-button option. It’s also stacked with upgrades such as a sporty 30,000 DPI pro-grade Optical Sensor, wireless connectivity, and Razer Gen 3 Optical Switches for lighting-fast button responses.
Admittedly, at 4.72 ounces (134 grams) the Razer Naga V2 Pro does weigh a lot even for an MMO mouse. But in my playtesting, I found the weightiness provided a nice authenticity to weapons play that I scarcely ever get from wireless gaming mice. At its current price of $180 USD, it’s not cheap. But considering how well it performed for me, it’s unlikely you will regret shelling out for such a capable mouse.
Who should buy the Razer Naga V2 Pro
The Razer Naga V2 Pro is perfect for gamers needing lots of buttons for MOBA and MMO games. With the mouse’s 12-button plate attached you get a maximum of 22 programable commands, which is just ideal for letting fly spells and other commands in games like WoW.
Read our full
Razer Naga V2 Pro review
SteelSeries Aerox 9 – Best for MMO / MOBA games runner-up
Pros
18 easily programmable buttons
Weighs only 89 grams
Dual Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless
Cons
Some buttons on the side grid are hard to reach
Best Prices Today:
$137.99 at Amazon$137.99 at Best Buy
Why I like the SteelSeries Aerox 9
SteelSeries Aerox 9 is a rare find among wireless gaming mice in that it packs a whopping 18 programmable buttons but weighs just 3.13 ounces (89 grams). I also like the Aerox 9 for its fast 18,000 CPI sensor and dual Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity that I found super convenient for switching between laptops in an instant.
With an open-top honey-comb design and internal RGB lighting, the Aerox 9 sports a slick, futuristic look that won’t go unnoticed in any group gaming session. It also has the added benefit of being extremely comfortable on hot days, circulating plenty of cool air for your hand.
Although punctuated by a multitude of holes, this mouse is also very sturdy: The top mesh didn’t show any give during my most frantic gameplay. According to SteelSeries, the mouse’s internal hardware is protected against dust and spillage by an IP54-rated Aquabarrier, which is reassuring for gamers like me who like to keep hot beverages close at hand.
Who should buy the SteelSeries Aerox 9
The SteelSereis Aerox 9 is an excellent option if you like to tinker with commands and macros in MOBA and MMO games but don’t want to compromise on speed using a heavier gaming mouse.
Read our full
SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless review
Corsair M75 Air Wireless – Best ambidextrous grip
Pros
Its narrow high-backed design enables superior control
The 26K Optical Sensor is quick and reliable
Up to a quick 2000Hz / 0.5ms default polling rate
Cons
One button for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi can be confusing
There`s just one on-board memory profile
No DPI switcher button
Best Prices Today:
$69.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Corsair M75 Air Wireless
Corsair’s M75 Air is a FPS performance dynamo just based on how smooth and precise its 26K Optical Sensor was in my playtesting, but it also felt really comfortable too. It boasts a symmetrical chassis with a high back and narrow front that allows it to work equally as well with all the major grip types. The mouse’s five-button configuration sports two buttons on the left-hand side that are very low-set, which along with its symmetrical body, means it’s a great mouse for switching hands with.
With no DPI button, the M75 Air doesn’t give you the option of switching DPIs on the fly. But it does have a not-so-vanilla 2,000Hz default polling rate, which I was super happy with, since it’s an improvement on the default 1,000Hz sensor reporting rate I often get in FPS mice. Thanks to extremely well-placed horseshoe shaped PTFE feet, this mouse also glides over a mouse mat or tabletop like a dream.
Who should buy the Corsair M75 Air Wireless
The Corsair M75 Air Wireless is the epitome of minimalism in an FPS mouse. Its perfect symmetry, high 2,000Hz polling rate and high-back, narrow front design works well with all the major grip types. If you like to switch grip types or hands and like the most precise control over your movements you can get, then the Corsair M75 Air is the best mouse you can buy.
Read our full
Corsair M75 Air Wireless review
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro – Best pro-grade wireless gaming mouse
Pros
Ultra light and quick off the mark
Perfectly chiseled to the contours of your hand
The 30,000 DPI sensor is very impressive
Cons
It`ll cost you extra to upgrade to 4000Hz hyper polling
Has fewer buttons than its predecessor
DPI button is located on the underside
Best Prices Today:
$131 at Amazon$149.99 at Razer
Why I like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro has everything you need to perform at your best in quick, competitive matches, including a comfortable ultra-lightweight 2.22-ounce (63 grams) design that’s perfectly chiseled to the contours of your hand, a flawless 30,000 DPI optical sensor, and very quick Razer Gen 3 Optical Switches in the buttons, which incidentally are some of the quickest I’ve used.
Better still, the V3 Pro incorporates a few sweetener technologies that can provide big performance boosts if you’re willing to take the time to apply them. Two of these are, Asymmetric Cut-off distance, and hyper polling. The former lets you set a very precise landing distance up to 26 granular levels of adjustment — that’s 23 levels more than what you get in some pro-grade gaming mice. The latter, ramps up the V3’s default 1,000Hz polling rate to a lightning-quick 4,000Hz, although you will need to shell out an extra $29.99 for a HyperPolling dongle for the privilege.
And therein lies the biggest drawback with the V3 Pro — its cost. It’s currently wearing a $150 USD price tag which makes it quite an investment. Still, if you’re looking for the very best performance you can get, it’s totally worth it.
Who should buy the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
When I’m talking the absolute best of the best esports mice that money can buy, there’s only a few mice that come to mind, and the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro is one of them. Yes, it’s expensive but if you’re a pro gamer or just seriously into your competitive FPS games, you won’t regret buying this mouse.
Read our full
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro review
Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 – Best pro-grade wireless gaming mouse runner-up
Pros
Symmetrical body provides nice accuracy
Ultra lightweight – it weighs over just 2 ounces
Quick and accurate 32,000 DPI sensor
Cons
The mouse wheel feels a bit flimsy
No Bluetooth connectivity
It`s expensive
Best Prices Today:
$135 at Amazon
Why I like the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 is the successor to one of the most favored mice by big-name esports athletes. Consequently, it sports some kick-ass functionality. A premium-level, very accurate 32,000 DPI sensor, and a lightweight symmetrical body are its best assets, that make it a cinch to move and aim. It also comes in a range of stylish colors.
The mouse’s high back is also as comfortable as they come, it presses into your palm providing lots of support for long gaming sessions, where you just want to immerse yourself in your gaming and not have to worry about how your wrist or arm feels. If quick jerky firefights in FPS games are your jam, search no more — this mouse is just what you need.
Read our full Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 review
Who should buy the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
The Superlight 2 is another big-name mouse perfect for esports and competitive gamers. The fact that it keeps appearing as the mouse of choice for esports athletes says it all. If that’s your jam, then you need this mouse.
If you want to size up every FPS option before you buy, two other excellent FPS gaming mice we recommend are the Logitech G Pro X Superlight and the ROG Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition.
Roccat Burst Pro Air – Best RGB lighting
Pros
Owl-Eye sensor is very precise and quick
You won`t find a mouse with more stunning RGB lighting
Dual wireless as well as wired connectivity
Cons
81-gram weight can feel heavy if you`re used to a lighter mouse
Mouse wheel lacks left and right lateral clicks
Pricey compared to some rivals
Best Prices Today:
$49.99 at Amazon$69.99 at Best Buy79.99 at ROCCAT
Why I like the Roccat Burst Pro Air
While some gaming mice only have limited RGB lighting around their buttons or periphery, the Roccat Burst Pro goes all out with four dedicated programmable RGB lighting zones that light up the whole mouse like a firecracker. Suffice to say, with 16.8 million color options in Roccat’s Swarm software app to play with, you can get some dazzling lighting effects on this mouse.
But while the Pro Air is genuinely stunning to look at, it’s equally as proficient in games, thanks to its comfortable eight-button configuration, powerful 19,000 DPI Owl-Eye optical sensor, and low-latency switches, which have a 100-million-click durability rating.
The Pro Air is also an extremely versatile mouse, thanks to its multiple connectivity options, which include a low-latency 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and a USB-A to USB-C cable for wired connectivity.
Who should buy the Roccat Burst Pro Air
This is a great choice for gamers who like to really make a visual impact in their gaming dens. What you see in my photo is just one example of the dazzling affects you can get with this mouse, the sky’s the limit really!
Read our full
ROCCAT Burst Pro Air review
Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse – Most versatile esports mouse
Pros
4KHz wireless polling rate
The buttons are soft and have a quick debounce
The Alienware styling looks awesome
One of the most precise mouse wheels I`ve used
Weighs just over 2 ounces
Cons
The back could do with more height
There`s no RGB lighting
It`s quite large so won`t suit everyone
Best Prices Today:
$149.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse
Gaming mice manufacturers are gradually releasing their premium-grade esports mice to include 4KHz polling rates, a reporting rate so quick that previously only tethered mice had it. The Alienware Pro Wireless isn’t the first to have this functionality, but it is one of the first to make it a feature right out of the box, without you needing to pay for an additional hyper-polling dongle.
That functionality alone means you’re going to get the quickest wireless reporting rate for aiming and tracking players in FPS games that you can in a wireless mouse. But it’s not the only thing that makes the Pro Wireless such an excellent performer for esports. It also has a very precise 26,000 DPI sensor, very soft buttons with a very quick debounce, and a comfortable symmetrical grip that is perfectly molded to your hand. If you need more speed and precision in your game, one of these speed demons is just what the doctor ordered.
Who should buy the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse
Pro gamers who want the quickest wireless polling rate that you can currently get in a mouse. It’s also a red-hot performance dynamo so if you want to perform at your best, this mouse can get you there. If you’re a fan of Alienware laptops, as I am, you’ll also get a big kick out of having an Alienware mouse; it’s one-of-a-kind among pro gaming mice.
Read our full
Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse review
Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless – Most versatile for esports runner-up
Pros
Very good sensor
Ultra-flat front
Very light
Fast wireless connection
Eco-friendly design
Long battery life
Cons
Unusually placed charging socket
Design might take some getting used to for some users
Best Prices Today:
$99 at Amazon
Why I like the Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless
With an ultra-light four-button design weighing just 1.94 ounces (55 grams), the Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless mouse is an optimal weight for esports gaming. It comes equipped with a Pixart 3395 optical sensor with a maximum resolution of 26,000 DPI and super-quick Kailh GM 8.0 mouse switches in its buttons. Both of these pieces of hardware are highly suitable for pro-grade gaming: The sensor proved extremely precise in our playtesting, offering precise control and accuracy. The switches feature a high durability rating of 80 million clicks.
The M8 Wireless features the convenience of 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity with a low-latency response time of less than 1ms. On the whole, this mouse has a comfortable and practical design. It does, however, have an unusually placed charging socket located on its right-side. Cherry claims the M8 Wireless’s housing is made from 60 percent recycled plastic, which makes it one of the eco-friendlier gaming mouse options on the market today.
Who should buy the Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless
The Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless is a great option for gamers who like fine control of their mouse’s actuation speed, since you can adjust the debounce time to 2, 4, 8, or 12 milliseconds. Raising the debounce time can help prevent double clicks, while lowering the debounce time allows you to get more clicks in per second, which is ideal for click-intensive games.
Read our full
Cherry Xtrfy M8 Wireless review
MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless – Easiest to recharge
Pros
Charging dock included
Long battery life
Current high-end sensor from Pixart
Omron switches
Three connection modes (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, wired)
Good price-performance ratio
Cons
A bit heavy for `Lightweight`
Software is a little convoluted
Best Prices Today:
$84.99 at Amazon
Why I like the MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless
The MSI Clutch GM51 is flanked by unique RGB Diamond Lightgrips that bestow a drool-worthy gamer-centric look. These grips also provide your hand with excellent grip and precision control of movement. For hardware, this mouse boasts quick Omron Switches in its buttons and a 26,000 DPI Pixart PAW-3395 sensor supporting three-pronged connectivity — 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a wired connection.
In our playtesting we found the sensor to be very fast and precise. It was also extremely smooth thanks to an MSI technology called “Motion Sync” that kept our mouse movements precisely in sync with our game.
By far one of the best features of the GM51 is its excellent rechargeability. Not only does it come with a convenient charging dock, but it’s also one of the fastest USB charging mice you can buy, with 15 minutes charging time being all that’s needed for 27 hours of wireless play.
Who should buy the MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless
Gamers who want a lightning-fast FPS gaming mouse, but also don’t want to compromise on how their gaming mouse looks — you simply don’t see many FPS gaming mice with stunning RGB accents like this one. It also suits gamers who like the convenience of having a charging dock to charge between games.
Read our full
MSI Clutch GM51 Lightweight Wireless review
SteelSeries Rival 650 – Best for lifters
Pros
Gets 10 hours of charge in only 15 minutes
Comfortable and attractive design
Removable weight system provides plenty of options
Cons
Heavier than some might like
Expensive
Third thumb button is small and awkwardly placed
Best Prices Today:
$59.99 at Amazon$79.99 at SteelSeries
Why I like the SteelSeries Rival 650
On the surface, the SteelSeries Rival 650 could be any other wireless gaming mouse, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find it has two big advantages over rivals — its dual-sensor hardware configuration and its fast-charging capability.
To improve your accuracy, the Rival 650 pairs a primary sensor, the PWM3360 TrueMove 3, with a dedicated depth sensor whose job is solely to cease input when your mouse leaves your mousepad. If you mainly keep your mouse flat on your mouse pad or table top, chances are you won’t notice much difference in your gaming accuracy. However, if you do lift your mouse a lot, this feature should make aiming a tad easier.
SteelSeries claims 15 minutes fast charging is all the Rival 650 needs to run for 10 hours straight. We put this claim to the test and found it to be mostly true; 15 minutes or sometimes just a few minutes more was enough to power it through more than a day of gaming, which made us very fond of this mouse.
Who should buy the SteelSeries Rival 650
If you’re prone to lifting, then this mouse is just the ticket. It helps eliminate the kind of jumping and jittering that lifting can cause in your mouse’s movement, which ultimately is going to have payoffs to your gaming performance.
Read our full
SteelSeries Rival 650 review
Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed – Best replaceable battery option
Pros
Quick and accurate sensor
High sensor positioning
Very long battery life
Hyperpolling support
Cons
No RGB lighting
2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity only
Weighs less than 3 ounces
Best Prices Today:
$69.50 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed
It may sport modest looks, but the six-button Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed is a real performance juggernaut. With its extremely quick and accurate 30K Razer Focus Optical Sensor, 1,000Hz polling rate, and a chassis that weighs less than 3 ounces, this mouse is built for speed right out of the box. But what really made it cook with fire in my playtesting was the mouse’s high sensor positioning, which registered my hand’s movements at its origin point, so a little quicker than I’ve experienced with some other six-button FPS mice.
The Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed is also unique in its class in that it houses a single AA battery instead of a rechargeable one. That means you get a little extra battery life than some FPS mice in Razer’s lineup; Razer says it gives you up to 280 hours with the default 1,000Hz polling rate, or 75 hours at the maximum 4,000Hz HyperPolling rate. That outdoes the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro by 190 hours at 1,000Hz and by 51 hours at 4,000Hz. A downside is that if you want 4,000Hz HyperPolling functionality, you’ll need to buy an additional part from Razer’s website. This mouse also lacks Bluetooth connectivity.
Who should buy the Razer V3 Hyperspeed
If you travel a lot for work or take your gaming mouse with you when you’re on the road, then the Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed is the perfect companion. With an insanely long battery life of 280 hours at 1,000Hz polling mode and 75 hours at 4,000Hz HyperPolling mode, it’s a great fit for players who want a low maintenance mouse with premium specs.
Read our full
Razer Viper V3 Hyperspeed review
How we test wireless gaming mice
To make sure our wireless gaming mice picks are the best of the best, the PCWorld team puts them through a legion of tests. We look at everything from how well they’ve been designed and perform in games, to the suite of software that helps you personalize them. Here’s a list of the main categories our tests fall under:
Design and ergonomics: Here we factor in the mouse’s physical characteristics, including its shape, styling, buttons, and RGB lighting (if any). We also consider how comfortable it is, what size hands it fits and, importantly, what grip type it will ideally suit (palm, fingertip, or claw). Last of all, we consider how tough it is, including how likely it is to survive the rigors of gaming life.
Wireless performance: This is the fun part of our testing where we get to try out our mouse in a bunch of games, while at the same time evaluating factors like its tracking accuracy, sensitivity, and how fast it reacts to our movements. We’re testing the mouse’s sensor in a big way here, but also our mouse’s wireless, and or Bluetooth connectivity.
Software support: What you can actually achieve with your wireless gaming mouse sometimes comes down to what its supporting software allows. When testing our mouse’s software app we consider how easy it is to navigate, change settings, program buttons, set up profiles for games, and make changes to RGB lighting (if any).
For more details about our evaluation process, see our article on how we test gaming mice at PCWorld.
FAQ
1.
Does having a gaming mouse really matter?
If you plan on doing any gaming, it absolutely is better to opt for a gaming mouse over a regular office mouse. That’s simply because gaming mice boast hardware and design benefits over regular office mice that make them eminently faster, more comfortable, and more accurate. The sensor and the buttons are the two most obvious features that have been enhanced in gaming mice.
For example, while the average office mouse is lucky to have just a measly 8,000 DPI resolution sensor, we’re now seeing gaming mice with sensors that have resolutions of more than 26, 000 DPI, which makes them a lot faster and more accurate.
In mice like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro the buttons feature 3rd-generation Razer Optical Switches, which actuate in less than 0.2 milliseconds—much less than the typical 1 millisecond average in office mice. What’s more, gaming mice are usually more customizable, allowing you to program specific commands to your buttons so that you can just fire them off at will in games.
2.
Connectivity: Wireless or Bluetooth or both?
Some wireless gaming mice have Bluetooth as well as 2.4GHz wireless connectivity and let you switch between the two. Having Bluetooth is considered a luxury that gives you the versatility of being able to use your mouse with more devices, like your tablet or gaming console. It also offers you the advantage of a dongle-less connection on the go, which can be very handy for school or work.
Still, there are at least two good reasons why you might still opt for a mouse with only Wi-Fi connectivity. Number one is Bluetooth-capable gaming mice tend to be slightly heavier than mice with just Wi-Fi connectivity alone. Also, a Wi-Fi connection is ultimately a lot faster and more stable, so if you do a lot of competitive gaming, Bluetooth won’t be the best option for that.
3.
Do esports players use wireless mice?
At one time it would have been unheard of for an esports players to use wireless mice because of the slight millisecond or so lag that they used to have compared to conventional wired options. Nowadays, however, thanks to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, any such latency difference has all but been eradicated. That said, it’s now not uncommon for most professional esports teams to have at least one player using a wireless mouse.
One example is team Natus Vincere that includes Ukrainian professional CounterStrike: Global Offensive player Oleksandr Kostyliev, aka S1mple, who has achieved spectacular results with his wireless Logitech G Pro X Superlight.
4.
Are there any disadvantages to using a wireless mouse?
While the difference in latency between top-level and wireless mice is almost imperceptible these days, there can still be disadvantages to choosing wireless gaming mice over wired ones. One is that the lightest wireless gaming mice tend to be slightly heavier than the lightest wired gaming mice. This weight difference is usually only a few grams. Still, for esports professionals even a few grams can make a difference to their overall performance.
The other obvious thing worth noting, is you’ll need to ensure you don’t lose the mouse’s wireless dongle. Wireless dongles can be small and easy to misplace. Losing your dongle could render your gaming mouse essentially useless—something that you needn’t worry about in wired gaming mice.
5.
Is my mouse’s sensor really important?
A gaming mouse’s sensor is the number one hardware component that determines how well a mouse performs in games. The sensor decides the mouse’s tracking speed and accuracy, two factors we scrutinize in our tests. The main spec to look for in any sensor is dpi (dots per inch), which tells you how well the mouse’s sensor reports movement per inch of physical movement. The newest wireless gaming mice have dpi ranging from 12,000 to 30,000, with higher numbers indicating mice with greater sensitivity.
While a lot of fuss is made about dpi in manufacturer brochures, there’s really no perfect dpi for gaming, it being largely a personal choice. While it can’t hurt to have the best, unless you’re a professional esports gamer you probably won’t need a 30,000 dpi sensor. In reality, even 12,000 dpi provides decent performance in games.
6.
Orientation: right, left, or ambidextrous?
Are you left or right-handed, or ambidextrous? For practicality’s sake the answer to this question should inform your choice when buying a wireless gaming mouse. That way you’ll get a better fit for your hand shape and the buttons will be within reach of your fingers. While most of our wireless gaming mice reviews are of right-handed mice, simply because that’s what most people use, we’ll endeavor to bring you left-handed and ambidextrous mice reviews when possible.
7.
What grip type do I use?
How you grip your mouse is not something you’ve probably given much thought to—just like you don’t give much thought to how you hold your fork when you eat. Still, it can be important since you’ll want to get a mouse that fits your specific grip type. The three main grip types are:
Palm grip: This is the most common type of mouse grip among gamers. It’s also the most comfortable for long gaming sessions since it puts more of your hand in contact with your mouse and prevents tension in your wrist. For palm grippers, long, flat mice tend to be a better fit and more comfortable.
Claw grip: If you use a claw grip, you’re arching your palm over the mouse to make a claw shape. This grip is popular in the e-sports community, especially among FPS players, since it allows you to make quick wrist movements—useful for sweeping attacks on targets. It does however clench the wrist and cause some tension there. Narrower and smaller mice suit a claw grip.
Fingertip grip: This grip provides you the least amount of control but the most dexterity for aiming. Gamers who use this grip mainly use just their fingertips on the left and right clicks, putting a lot of strain on their wrists. Because of the added strain, lighter mice are often preferred by fingertip grippers.
8.
Should I buy a light or heavy mouse?
A mouse’s weight can have a big impact on how accurately you can target and position its curser or crosshairs. Gamers these days tend to go for the lightest mice available since they require less effort to move and are also naturally faster.
Lighter mice also lend themselves to longer gaming sessions, since gamer hands (and arms) aren’t as easily fatigued by them. Wireless gaming mice are among the lightest available because they are unencumbered by wires.
One thing to note about a mouse’s weight is that whether it’s considered light is relative to how many buttons it has. For example, the 18-button SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless might seem like a heavyweight at 89 grams compared to the six-button / 61-gram HyperX Pulsefire Haste, yet for an 18-button mouse it’s considered exceptionally lightweight.
9.
How many buttons do I need?
The type of games you play should help you decide how many buttons you need. If you’re mainly into FPS (first-person shooters) a wireless gaming mouse with six buttons—which tends to be the minimum number we see in wireless gaming mice these days—should be more than enough.
On the other hand, if you play games where you need to quickly deploy lots of commands—like MOBA and MMO games—a mouse with between 6 and 18 buttons will provide you with more versatility.
10.
Why is software so important?
If your mouse is your weapon in games, then the mouse’s support software is its armory. The best software apps for wireless gaming mice allow you to change and customize settings like your mouse’s sensitivity and acceleration and deceleration. They also let you set commands and macros and save your preferences in profiles that you can easily switch to when you want to play specific games.
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| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)The Computex trade show starts in Taipei next week, and it’s kind of a big deal. While CES tends to get headlines for general tech, Computex is where manufacturers pull out all the stops for desktops, laptops, and all the PC stuff that goes along with them. And we’re going there, of course. Wanna come along? You can, by following PCWorld’s social media accounts.
For instant, easy-to-snack-on coverage of the coolest stuff at Computex, you can check out our short-form videos on TikTok. These shorts will give you bite-sized info on the coolest stuff at Computex, from the biggest names to the smallest niches.
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For more in-depth coverage, check out PCWorld’s YouTube channel, where new videos covering the latest hardware from the show floor will be posted. If you want to see hands-on exploration of new laptops, motherboards, PC cases, and all that jazz, this is the place to do it. Oh, and we’ll also probably have some other tech YouTubers on just for some different perspectives. Subscribe to make sure that you don’t miss anything.
Want something a little more meaty? Then the next stop is The Full Nerd podcast, which now has its own dedicated YouTube channel for easier subscriptions and backlog binging. We’ll have at least one episode from Computex, including interviews with big players in the PC and gaming space you won’t want to miss.
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| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 1 Jun (PC World)The Nerubian army floods the beach of Tranquill in the first minutes of World of Warcraft: The War Within. Thousands of magical projectiles whizz across the horizon, arachnoid infantry hack the armor of our troops to pieces.
As Orc Warlocks, we throw ourselves into battle, a water spirit at our side pushing back the enemy troops, but General Thrall can barely hold the line.
The intro to The War Within is a strongly staged invasion on the beach, which then leads into a siege battle around a dwarven fortress.
The intro to The War Within is a strongly staged invasion on the beach, which then leads into a siege battle around a dwarven fortress.
IDG
The intro to The War Within is a strongly staged invasion on the beach, which then leads into a siege battle around a dwarven fortress.
IDG
IDG
He gives us orders to bring the wounded to a protected assembly point, while easily 100 arachnoids attack us in close formation. It’s a bit like Starship Troopers. If you’re having a lot of fun with Helldivers 2, you’ll get your money’s worth here.
It feels like Blizzard is finally ready to throw off the shackles of the old WoW and take World of Warcraft into the next generation.
In recent years, WoW has seemed too old-school, too unambitious, too little staged. Why couldn’t we have Game of Thrones-style aerial battles between dragons in Dragonflight?
Blizzard had hardly any competition in the MMO segment for many years, but now Funcom wants to saw at their chair with the most powerful blockbuster brand that Hollywood can currently muster. Dune Awakening, a work in Unreal Engine 5 with the directorial power of Oscar-winner Greg Freiser in barreling in fast — and it looks like Blizzard is up for the challenge. The War Within blew us away during a one-day hands-on event in London and made a lasting impression.
Reading tip: Exploring Azeroth is one of the most beautiful WoW novels about the area where The War Within starts.
The War Within: A new era of staging
Right at the beginning, an exciting intermediate boss awaits – the Queens Guard Zitrix, who leads the troops for the beach invasion.
Right at the beginning, an exciting intermediate boss awaits – the Queens Guard Zitrix, who leads the troops for the beach invasion.
IDG
Right at the beginning, an exciting intermediate boss awaits – the Queens Guard Zitrix, who leads the troops for the beach invasion.
IDG
IDG
First we are confronted by hundreds of Arachnoid infantry who slash the armor of our soldiers. There’s also a tough intermediate boss fight not long in coming, against the Queens Guard Zitrix.
She gathers a whole line of Warspinner bodyguards around her – time to hop on our trusty Dragonflight dragon to get an overview of the battlefield and find weak points in the enemy’s defense.
Based on this screenshot, fans will already be able to imagine what actually happened on the beach. A floating city has crashed there ..
Based on this screenshot, fans will already be able to imagine what actually happened on the beach. A floating city has crashed there ..
IDG
Based on this screenshot, fans will already be able to imagine what actually happened on the beach. A floating city has crashed there ..
IDG
IDG
It is striking how well The War Within works for solo players. It’s less hard grind, more fun action and emotion, where Blizzard has taken inspiration from the great fantasy pop culture.
As we fly towards the fortress city of Dornogal on Stormgrasp, a majestic metropolis emerges that feels a little like Minas Tirith – only built by machine dwarves with titan technology. Like Minas Tirith, it is carved directly into the stone, with pillars rising above the city streets and piercing the azure sky.
Dornogal is a fortress that is partly carved in stone and stretches across many levels. Powered by Titan technology, it is the scene of an exciting siege battle.
Dornogal is a fortress that is partly carved in stone and stretches across many levels. Powered by Titan technology, it is the scene of an exciting siege battle.
IDG
Dornogal is a fortress that is partly carved in stone and stretches across many levels. Powered by Titan technology, it is the scene of an exciting siege battle.
IDG
IDG
There are nooks and crannies in every alleyway, the city stretches across many levels that combine a classic dwarven design where a Gimli would feel at home, with glowing blue veins of magical energy that power many defenses and guns.
It’s also nice to see how varied this battle is, and not just on the ground. We also hurl lightning bolts and launch orbital bombardments from our assault attack on the attacking arachnoids.
The Delves: mini-dungeons as a 15-minute snack
Blizzard itself describes the Delves as “snackable content”, the Snickers of the WoW world, so to speak. But it has a lot of depth, its own currency and unlocks Bronzebeard’s propeller plane.
Blizzard itself describes the Delves as “snackable content”, the Snickers of the WoW world, so to speak. But it has a lot of depth, its own currency and unlocks Bronzebeard’s propeller plane.
IDG
Blizzard itself describes the Delves as “snackable content”, the Snickers of the WoW world, so to speak. But it has a lot of depth, its own currency and unlocks Bronzebeard’s propeller plane.
IDG
IDG
Delves are the Snickers of the MMO world: instead of a long grind, they’re a quick snack for anyone who loves WoW but doesn’t have the time for a big raid. We are all busy and generally have more responsibilities as we get older, which Blizzard has recognized:
“We keep hearing from players who say, ‘I have a family, I have a job, I can’t play WoW for three hours every day anymore,`” Executive Producer & Vice President Holly Longdale tells us during our interview in London.
A delve takes around 10 to 15 minutes, and we can tackle it solo with an AI companion or in a team of up to 5 players.
As Game Director Ion Hazzikostas also tells us, Blizzard already tested and trialled this feature in the Zaralek Caverns in its May 10.1 patch. Zaralek Caverns is basically a huge underground landmass, the likes of which WoW has never seen before.
“When we go in with our NPC companions, it feels like an epic solo quest with a really cool buddy,” explains the Game Director.
As an Ultimate, Brann Bronzebeard can swing on his battle grapple and throw lightning hammers, supporting us from the air. And he also levels up with us, unlocking new skills and weapons.
As an Ultimate, Brann Bronzebeard can swing on his battle grapple and throw lightning hammers, supporting us from the air. And he also levels up with us, unlocking new skills and weapons.
IDG
As an Ultimate, Brann Bronzebeard can swing on his battle grapple and throw lightning hammers, supporting us from the air. And he also levels up with us, unlocking new skills and weapons.
IDG
IDG
By buddy, he means Brann Bronzebeard, for example, a legendary historian with the epic dwarf beard. At the beginning, we choose a tier, i.e. a difficulty level – the higher the tier, the better the XP yield and loot.
We can specialise Brann as a healer or sniper, which unlocks different ultimates for him – as a damage dealer, he summons his combat grip and hurls lightning hammers at the arachnoids on the ground. The longer we play with him, the more he levels up and unlocks new abilities.
For delve kings: Fully level up Bann Bronzebeard and unlock a damn cool golden airship as a mount
All right Blizzard, now we have this cool propeller plane. Let’s fight with it too. That was such a huge missed opportunity in Dragonflight.
All right Blizzard, now we have this cool propeller plane. Let’s fight with it too. That was such a huge missed opportunity in Dragonflight.
IDG
All right Blizzard, now we have this cool propeller plane. Let’s fight with it too. That was such a huge missed opportunity in Dragonflight.
IDG
IDG
“Dungeons have so often been these epic, important places, but we had to deliberately separate them and make them offshoots of the main storyline… Now we can, if it makes sense, run the main storyline right through these places, which is very cool and gives us a lot of freedom in the storytelling,” Game Director Ion Hazzikostas explains.
The same 12 delves await us at launch, with a different story NPC accompanying us each season, and there are even delve bosses such as the armoured mutant crab Zevzik.
At the end of each delve, a majestic treasure chamber awaits us, where we can sometimes unlock very special delve armour and items. Blizzard has really put a lot of love into this.
At the end of each delve, a majestic treasure chamber awaits us, where we can sometimes unlock very special delve armour and items. Blizzard has really put a lot of love into this.
IDG
At the end of each delve, a majestic treasure chamber awaits us, where we can sometimes unlock very special delve armour and items. Blizzard has really put a lot of love into this.
IDG
IDG
Delves are also designed to be replayable and change dynamically: one day we might have to save dwarf miners from the Nerubians. The other day we might have to work with the Arathi in the same place to burn down all those Nerubian nests.
At the end of the delve, a treasure chamber awaits with chests. Everyone gets guaranteed rewards, but there are also special delve currencies that can only be used for special skills for “delving”, as Blizzard calls it.
The machine dwarves use mechs – not only militarily, but also to mine resources deep underground. It is exciting to travel to these areas and research technologies.
The machine dwarves use mechs – not only militarily, but also to mine resources deep underground. It is exciting to travel to these areas and research technologies.
IDG
The machine dwarves use mechs – not only militarily, but also to mine resources deep underground. It is exciting to travel to these areas and research technologies.
IDG
IDG
And then there’s a particularly cool mount to unlock – Bronzebeard’s golden propeller plane. We have not yet been able to try out how it flies. And ultimately it’s just a cosmetically customizable aircraft. But there will certainly be some cool races and who knows, we would still like to see a lot more action and aerial combat in WoW. Maybe they’ll surprise us with The Last Titan. It would certainly fit thematically.
Warbands: Account-wide levelling and banking
We all love our alts – our secondary heroes. They can now be levelled up much more quickly and all share a bank slot in which we can store armour, weapons, runes etc.
We all love our alts – our secondary heroes. They can now be levelled up much more quickly and all share a bank slot in which we can store armour, weapons, runes etc.
IDG
We all love our alts – our secondary heroes. They can now be levelled up much more quickly and all share a bank slot in which we can store armour, weapons, runes etc.
IDG
IDG
Hands up, who feels the need to constantly create alts? Now we no longer have to level them up individually. Warbands is that much desired account-wide levelling and banking that WoW has been wanting for many, many years.
Our warband not only shares a level, but also a bank – so we can simply move items, weapons, mounts etc. back and forth.
Incidentally, this even applies to Delve progress, which is pretty cool. Fancy switching to Master Panda and want Mr Orc to go on holiday? No problem – thanks to Warband you can continue in the same delve.
This is also a real game changer for all transmog fans: completing quests unlocks every transmog option for our account, regardless of the weapon or armor type. So if we receive a pair of leather boots as a quest reward, we automatically unlock the corresponding equivalents for chainmail, plates or cloth armor.
Here we can see the new bank, where we can store many different types of items to equip them for other heroes. Blizzard also wants to pick up Transmog fans this way.
Here we can see the new bank, where we can store many different types of items to equip them for other heroes. Blizzard also wants to pick up Transmog fans this way.
IDG
Here we can see the new bank, where we can store many different types of items to equip them for other heroes. Blizzard also wants to pick up Transmog fans this way.
IDG
IDG
A bit of a shame: Blizzard insists on its current system, i.e. an Evoker can’t just run around with a cool golden plate armour because it doesn’t match his class. Blizzard could go a few steps further here and open up all armor sets to all classes, even retroactively. We all have plenty of powerful transmogs from past expansions that we would like to have as a complete set.
World of Warcraft: The War Within will launch exclusively for PC in 2024 and can now be played in alpha.
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