The SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL: A Comprehensive Review
Sometimes, you get something because it’s pretty, and then discover that you love it. This is the experience I’ve had with the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL. It’s a lightweight gaming mouse with a lot of nifty features, a nice aesthetic, and the specs to back it up. At AU$269 RRP, it is pretty expensive. So, let’s dive into our comprehensive review to see if it’s worth it for you.
Exploring the Comfort and Ergonomics of the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL
Comfort is kind of the whole thing when it comes to gaming mice. The size and shape of your hand compared to the mouse can greatly impact your gaming experience. For me, with large hands, the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL feels like it was molded specifically for me. It’s the perfect shape and fits comfortably. However, users with smaller hands might struggle to reach all the buttons and could experience wrist pain due to the mouse’s large and light design.
One design aspect that could be improved is the clustering of buttons at the top. The three buttons on the left-hand side are so close together and lack distinguishing features, making it challenging to press the correct button on the first try. If you rely heavily on extra buttons for MMOs, this could be a drawback. However, for those who only need a few extra buttons, the Aerox 5 WL can still meet their needs.
The honeycomb cutouts on the back of the mouse might seem like they could be irritating, but they actually provide a comfortable grip and become part of the mouse’s overall feel.
Performance Analysis: How does the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL Measure Up?
Using the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL requires a bit of adjustment, as the sensor placement is slightly further back compared to other mice. This means you need to be a little more enthusiastic with your movements and lift the mouse slightly higher. However, once you get used to it, the adjustment provides more control over your movements. The primary buttons have a satisfying clickiness due to the TTC Gold switches, and the mouse glides smoothly thanks to its feet.
While the Aerox 5 WL is marketed as a lightweight mouse, it is not the lightest available, which is a bonus for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Overall, the performance of the Aerox 5 WL is reliable and doesn’t require much thought once you adjust to the sensor position.
Aesthetics and Design: The Stylish Appeal of the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL
The SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL has a sleek and attractive design. It stands out on a black desk and pairs well with the SteelSeries Destiny QCK Prism Cloth mouse mat. The mouse is available in a black color option as well. It features the expected RGB lighting, though the placement of the lights is peculiar. You can only fully appreciate the light effects when the mouse is not in use or when looking at the bottom of it. The lights also shine through the honeycomb cutouts, providing a visually appealing glow. However, for those concerned about battery life, turning off the lights is an option.
Verdict: Is the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL Worth the Investment?
The SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL is not a perfect gaming mouse, but it caters well to users with large hands and specific play styles. It is suitable for a wide range of gaming genres but may not be the best fit for MMO players who heavily rely on extra buttons. The mouse’s comfort, performance, and stylish design make it worth considering, especially for those who value aesthetics and enjoy a lightweight feel. However, due to its higher price tag at AU$269 RRP, it may not be the ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Analyst comment
Positive news. As an analyst, the market for the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL gaming mouse is expected to perform well among users with large hands and specific play styles. Its comfort, performance, and sleek design make it worth considering for gamers who value aesthetics and enjoy a lightweight feel. However, its higher price tag may limit its appeal among budget-conscious gamers.
