September High-end Gaming PC Buyer's Guide - Page 6

Mouse: Logitech G7 Laser Cordless Mouse

Cost: $67
Months on list: 2
Price Change: +$4

Although it has a limited effect on the actual budget, the mouse and keyboard hardware have the potential to make or break an otherwise killer gaming system. This represents the primary user interface (mouse, keyboard, and other controllers), and should always be as transparent as possible and not be a hindrance to performing desktop or gaming tasks. Logitech has us covered again this month, and although its retail price did increase slightly, the G7 Laser Cordless Mouse continues to be our top choice.

The Logitech G7 Laser Cordless Mouse may be a wireless model, but don't let an old bias creep in, as this is a killer gaming controller in its own right. The G7 Laser Cordless Mouse has a 2000 DPI laser sensor, as well as a full-speed, bi-directional USB connection over a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, which is capable of 500 reports/second. It even has the same polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) mouse feet/pads as the Logitech G5. This is serious hardware, and it's backed up with an innovative "hot swappable" lithium-ion battery pack system - Logitech includes two batteries, along with a recharge base station, so you'll never be left powerless again.

Logitech has also expanded their G7 Laser Cordless line to include not only the standard two-tone green model, but also an attractive "carbon fiber" black mouse as well. This model has also changed the side grips to a rougher feel, and moved away from the almost-ceramic look and feel of the original two-tone mouse.

For those who prefer a standard wired model, the Logitech G5 Laser Mouse is a high-end mouse controller with a 2000 DPI laser sensor, full-speed USB (12Mbps) support, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) mouse feet/pads, on-the-fly sensitivity switching, and a set of adjustable weights. The adjustable weights are a very nice feature, as these allow users to custom-tune their controller weight from ultra-light (no extra weight) to very sturdy (up to 36 grams of extra weight), or anywhere in between.

Also, make sure you have a proper mousing surface with an optical/laser mouse. Although the sensor improves tracking and the laser engines makes it more seamless, you will still have the best luck on darker non-solid color surfaces, especially checkered or rough patterns, and specialized mouse pads from fUnc, Ratpadz, or Everglide are still a good bet.

Keyboard: Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard

Cost: $68
Months on list: New
Price Change: N/A

This month we've taken the next step up in keyboards, and are selecting one that has been specially designed for that purpose. The Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard is a real departure from conventional designs, but manages to retain the look and feel of a standard unit, while adding a ton of new features to the mix. The GamePanel LCD display is the most visible change, and it allows for adjustable tilt and is backlit for easy viewing. Depending on the software loaded, this can display the time, multimedia settings, and even information about your processor or system. There is also GamePanel support for displaying stats or settings in certain games, like Prey, UT 2004, WoW and others.

In terms of layout and features, the Logitech G15 offers a few extras as well. It includes multimedia keys underneath the LCD panel, and a set of 18 programmable G keys that allow users to assign keystrokes or even macros. This keyboard can be a real geek-fest if you so choose, but one of its coolest features is rather pedestrian by comparison. The G15 features backlit keys, and it has been so long since we've seen that feature on a high-end keyboard, that it was real awakening. Gaming with the lights turned low and the volume cranked allowed the keyboard to really stand out, and definitely increased the immersion level.

We realize that not everyone will need the features of the Logitech G15, and a great alternative is the Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000. This is a very stylish unit, with its black keys and hand rests accented by grey outer shell. It is also very functional, and offers an excellent combination of performance and durability. Microsoft has also gone back to the black enamel keys with this model, which is a welcome change from the see-through jobbies on other MS keyboards. Overall, this is a great keyboard from Microsoft, and at $40-$45, is less expensive than the G15.