Cooler Master MasterMouse Pro L – Hardware Review
Cooler Master initially divided their gaming peripherals in a separate line named CM Storm, but as time passed, they simply rebranded it into Cooler Master again. This was probably because they received more than enough affirmation that their gear was simply top notch. Several months ago we were able to try out the MasterKeys Pro L RGB, which proved to be a great asset to your gaming setup, but let’s be honest, what’s a great keyboard without a superb mouse to accompany it? Cooler Master decided to fill the void with the MasterMouse Pro L, also a part of their Master series, and we were curious to see how well this keyboard and mouse combo would work. Nonetheless, it’s all about the mouse today.
Design
The design of the MasterMouse Pro L is actually, just like other items from the Master series, rather simplistic, reminiscent of an old school mouse, albeit with a slightly different dented shape, and a few minor whistles and bells. Other than the somewhat thicker and fancier mouse wheel, you’ll see a small LED strip on the backside of the device, minor notches on either side of the device with some LED lighting and of course, the mouse wheel itself is illuminated as well. Overall things remain clean, stylish and simple, making the mouse look great during your gaming sessions, as well as for working purposes.
Comfort
Even though as it may seem like not many comfort features were implemented due to the simplicity of the design, the curving and shape of this device actually end up being very comfortable. Nonetheless, as the ‘L’ in the name may imply, this model is the Large variant, as it is slightly longer than other mice on the market, but even people with smaller hands will have no issue properly piloting this device. You’ll be able to easily reach all of the buttons on this device, which is clearly ambidextrous, thus also pleasing left-handed gamers.
Only one small feature proves to be a slight discomfort, as the dpi profile button is on the bottom side of the mouse, thus you’ll actually have to flip over the device in order to switch profiles. Even though it’s great that Cooler Master implemented such a button, only its location is a rather odd choice.
Upkeep of the device is rather simple, but because of the matte finish of the plastic, stains will still require a fair amount of cleaning in order to wipe them off completely. Nonetheless, the hard plastic remains easier to clean compared to many other devices nowadays where their respective developers opt for a soft rubberized coating around the plastic.
Specs
- Ergonomic design and feel
- Interchangeable side panels and shell
- Customizable RGB lighting
- 400 – 12000 dpi range
- Cable length: 1.8 meters
Overview
The MasterMouse Pro L is, like many products, a matter of plug and play, and with the preinstalled profiles on the mouse, you’ll probably be good to go. Nonetheless, if you wish to customize this device further, you should certainly get the software, which you can find on the official website. The software allows for you to change the LED colors, dpi settings, key bindings and of course macros and other slightly more moderate settings. Many gamers will already have plenty of items to plow through with the first three options alone.
With the dpi settings ranging from 400 to a whopping 12000, this device will have you covered for every occasion, and while the 12000 setting may be too much for many gamers, who just stick to shooters or genres that don’t require you to scan through entire screens, the software will allow you to save four profiles. Thus, if you want to create profiles that only have a small gap between them, it’s done in a matter of moments.
Even though the mouse already has two additional buttons on each side, Cooler Master implemented the Storm TactiX function, which you’ll have to bind to one of the keys. When doing so, you’ll be able to add a second function to all other buttons, which can be activated when pressing your chosen TactiX button. While most games may not require that much of your mouse, it’s an especially great function when playing strategy/simulation games, where a proper amount of management is needed.
Perhaps one of the mouse’s most interesting features is the ability to change the side panels, as well as the shell of the device. Inside the box you’ll get a set of spare ones, thus if something should happen to your device, which caused a certain amount of damage, you can switch the side panels in less than a minute, and the shell is also easily switched by removing the small piece of rubber on the bottom of the mouse and unscrewing the screw that’s attached to the shell.
Conclusion
Cooler Master’s MasterMouse Pro L is a great addition to your gaming setup, and looks especially great in combination with CM’s MasterKeys series, giving you a sleek, and design-ish gaming rig. If you’re looking for an affordable, sturdy and versatile tool to aid you during your gaming sessions, the MasterMouse Pro L will certainly offer you said things. Be sure to check this one out when in need of a new gaming mouse, or simply because you want something new to spice up your gaming life.
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