A big debate amongst gamers nowadays is whether or not they're using the best hardware. Some seem to favor the simplicity of Razer, while others like the familiarity of the old Logitech. Well, this argument cannot be settled with one measly review, but the new Sidewinder X8 surely tips the balance somewhat in favor of Microsoft. From first look, you know you're looking at one bad Mamma Jamma. What strikes you right up front is the fact that this is a wireless mouse. YES- A wireless gaming mouse that is claimed to have near zero lag.
What it has:
The mouse features Microsoft's blue track technology. This is apparently the next generation in mouse lasers, where the red laser at the bottom is replaced by a blue one with better performance (actually, upon inspection in the dark, it's a mixture of blue and red, which is quite cool to see). Apart from that, the mouse has a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, with a 500Hz USB reporting. This is all impressive, but wouldn't mean anything if the mouse didn't perform under gaming conditions. With image processing of up to 13000 images per second, it is virtually lag free.
The Sidewinder X8 felt quite well designed, whether due to personal preference or otherwise. It's not so large as to put off players with small hands, nor is it too small. The buttons are quite well placed, although the two buttons on the left under your thumb should've been made stiffer, because it is possible that you will accidentally press them during the heat of the game.
Seven out of the twelve buttons are programmable. As with most modern gaming mice, you can adjust your dpi settings at the touch of a button. The cool thing about the X8 is that it has a ‘on the fly' macro recording button as well, with which you can record macros while you're playing. Heck, there's even an LCD to show your dpi settings!
Another great thing about the mouse is the wire management ‘puck'. It is a round, nifty little piece of equipment which u wrap your wire around. Also, inside the puck are interchangeable Teflon feet, that you can attach to your mouse to vary the amount of glide that you have with the mouse. This is a cool, albeit needless addition.
The Microsoft Sidewinder X8 holds a single rechargeable NiMH AA battery, which goes for 30 hours (or is supposed to) after just 20 minutes of charging. The charging solution is brilliant, because the tip of the wire is magnetic and simply latches on to the mouse to charge. The whole system is quite portable and easy to manage, and this is a great plus point for the mouse.
What it doesn't have:
The most annoying thing about the mouse is the scroll wheel. Its loose, makes a creaky sound, and just feels wrong when you use it. The left and right tilt is also pretty awkward, since the whole movement is really small, and you can never be sure if you're using it right or not.
The mouse is not at all for the left handed gamer. If you're left handed, this mouse will give you nightmares.
The lack of adjustable weights is quite a surprise. Although the adjustable gliders are a nice touch, the weights would have been much better for the serious gamer, who wants just the right feel from their gaming mouse. The mouse also has the usual limitations on what kind of surfaces it can be used on. No breakthroughs were made in this department, since using it on coated glass, or reflective surfaces is a really bad idea.
The design fit my hand perfectly, but has been known to ‘not agree' with some people's personal choices. You should see the size of the mouse in store, and determine for yourself whether you're buying gaming goodness or Carpel Tunnel syndrome.
The retail price of the mouse is 100 USD, which is quite high for a gaming mouse. Maybe some people might think it is worth it because of the wireless freedom, but if you're not very excited about the wireless factor, then you are much better off going for a cheaper, wired gaming mouse.
The conclusion:
The sidewinder x8 is a great leap forward from Microsoft ‘s previous sidewinder gaming mouse. Although it does boast the ‘revolutionary' new blue track technology, it is not without its flaws. Sure they have made a great gaming mouse, but it is not without the small flaws. The hundred dollar price tag might appeal to the gamer who wants wireless freedom and ultra smooth sniping action under one package, but it certainly is not for the average computer user. If, however, you're a fan of the sidewinder series, and are looking to upgrade, then this mouse is definitely worth it.
Credit for this review goes to "Shah Naveed Choudhury".
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