BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW  Mouse Review

Reviewed Jun 09, 2023 at 10:27am
Tested using Methodology v1.5.1 
BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW
6.5
Work 
8.4
Video Games (FPS) 
6.5
Video Games (MMO) 
9.2
Raw Performance 
 0

The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is a wireless gaming mouse that continues the BenQ ZOWIE's EC lineup. This mouse is the Medium-size option in the EC-CW Series, and along with its Small and Large-size variants, they're the first wireless mice BenQ ZOWIE have released. Like other mice in BenQ ZOWIE's catalog, this mouse is aimed mainly at competitive gamers and esports. This mouse is driverless, and its plug-and-play design means it has no customization software, but you can change sensor settings directly on the mouse itself. This mouse also includes what BenQ ZOWIE refer to as an Enhanced Receiver station, which acts as a charging dock and which they claim also provides better signal stability in congested wireless environments.

Our Verdict

6.5
Work 

Although not designed specifically for this use, the BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is okay for office work. It has excellent build quality and a comfortable ergonomic shape suitable for most hand sizes. However, this mouse lacks Bluetooth support and can't pair with multiple devices simultaneously. Also, there isn't any customization software for reprogramming buttons, and the scroll wheel lacks L/R tilt inputs and a free-scrolling mode.

Pros
  • Excellent build quality.
Cons
  • Scroll wheel lacks L/R tilt inputs and a free-scrolling mode.
  • No customization software.
8.4
Video Games (FPS) 

The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is an excellent FPS gaming mouse with a comfortable ergonomic shape suitable for most hand sizes. It has low click latency and outstanding all-around sensor performance. It's considerably heavier than many other FPS-focused mice, so it isn't as easy to move quickly and accurately. Furthermore, its stock feet also don't glide as smoothly as those on similarly priced gaming mice.

Pros
  • Excellent click latency.
  • Excellent build quality.
  • Exceptional sensor accuracy.
  • Amazing sensor latency.
Cons
  • Stock mouse feet don't glide as smoothly as those on most other gaming mice at this price point.
  • Heavier than many other dedicated FPS gaming mice.
6.5
Video Games (MMO) 

The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is okay for MMO gaming, but it doesn't have nearly as many side buttons as a dedicated MMO gaming mouse. It has excellent build quality and a comfortable ergonomic shape suitable for most hand sizes. It also has excellent click latency and all-around sensor performance, delivering a consistent and responsive in-game experience.

Pros
  • Excellent build quality.
  • Exceptional sensor accuracy.
  • Amazing sensor latency.
Cons
  • Not nearly as many side buttons as a dedicated MMO gaming mouse.
  • Stock mouse feet don't glide as smoothly as those on most other gaming mice at this price point.
9.2
Raw Performance 

The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW has outstanding performance overall. Its sensor provides amazing movement latency and exceptional accuracy that closely translates your physical mouse movements with those you see on-screen. It also has very low click latency, providing a snappy and responsive-feeling gaming experience. However, the click latency isn't as low as other wireless options around this price point.

Pros
  • Excellent click latency.
  • Exceptional sensor accuracy.
  • Amazing sensor latency.
Cons
None
  • 6.5
    Work
  • 8.4
    Video Games (FPS)
  • 6.5
    Video Games (MMO)
  • 9.2
    Raw Performance
  • Changelog

    1.  Updated Aug 19, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.5.1. This update removes less relevant or redundant elements, including several videos. We've also adjusted our Sensor Latency testing, resulting in minor score changes. See our full 1.5.1 changelog for details.
    2.  Updated Jun 19, 2025: 

      We've added a link to the newly reviewed successor to this mouse, the BenQ ZOWIE EC2-DW, in the Weight section.

    3.  Updated Aug 15, 2024: We've added a link to the newly-reviewed Vaxee ZYGEN NP-01S Wireless (4K) in the Hand Size Recommendation section.
    4.  Updated Jul 18, 2024: We've added a link to the GLORIOUS Model D 2 Wireless in the Wireless Versatility section of this review.

    Check Price

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    Differences Between Sizes And Variants

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is only available in a black colorway. This mouse is part of a wider lineup of EC-CW Series, which are wireless versions of BenQ Zowie's original EC Series mice. There are three different size variants available for this mouse.

    Name Size
    EC3-CW Small
    EC2-CW Medium
    EC1-CW Large

    We bought and tested the Medium-sized EC2-CW, but we expect the results of our tests to broadly apply to all three size variants. You can see the label of the unit we bought and tested here.

    Popular Mouse Comparisons

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is the Medium-size variant in the EC-CW Series, and along with its Small and Large-size variants, they are the first wireless mice BenQ ZOWIE has released. This mouse is advertised for Esports players. Unlike many gaming mice, they don't have customization software which is typically not allowed for tournament play—instead, you can change settings on the mouse itself. This mouse also includes what BenQ ZOWIE calls an Enhanced Receiver, which they claim provides better wireless stability, especially in environments with lots of wireless signal interference, like LAN events or competitions. However, compared to other flagship gaming mice at this price point, like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro or Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT, the BenQ ZOWIE isn't pushing the same technological boundaries as it's significantly heavier and doesn't perform as well.

    For more recommendations, see our picks for the best mouse, the best gaming mouse, and the best wireless gaming mouse.

    Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro

    The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro and the BenQ ZOWIE EC3-C are wireless gaming mice with similar right-handed shapes. The Razer is significantly lighter and performs somewhat better. It also has higher-quality feet and has software for adjusting settings. On the other hand, the BenQ doesn't have software but allows you to customize settings directly on the mouse itself.

    BenQ ZOWIE EC2-DW

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-DW is the successor to the BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW. While keeping the same shape, the DW improves on the CW with some small, yet meaningful changes that add up for a better overall experience. Namely, it's significantly lighter, has better mouse feet, and has a new sensor with a higher maximum polling rate of 4000Hz.

    Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT

    The BenQ EC2-CW and the Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT are wireless gaming mice. The BenQ has a right-handed shape and doesn't have customization software. However, you can change sensor settings on the mouse itself. On the other hand, the Logitech has a symmetrical shape and has software for customization. It's also significantly lighter and performs better overall. Additionally, it has higher-quality feet and feels a bit sturdier.

    Pulsar Xlite V3

    The Pulsar Xlite V3 is a better wireless gaming mouse than the BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW. The two have similar right-handed shapes, but the Pulsar is significantly lighter. The Pulsar has better performance, too, with lower click latency, better mouse feet, and a lower minimum lift-off distance.

    BenQ ZOWIE EC3-C

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC3-C and the BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW are related gaming mice within the wider BenQ ZOWIE EC lineup. Both mice have the same basic shape but have different size variants. The EC3-C is a wired-only model and a Large size variant within the series. On the other hand, the EC2-CW is a wireless model and a Medium-size variant.

    ASUS ROG Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition

    The ASUS ROG Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition and the BenQ ZOWIE EC2-C are wireless gaming mice. The ASUS has a symmetrical shape, is significantly lighter, and performs better overall. It also has higher-quality feet, supports Bluetooth, and has software for adjusting settings. On the other hand, the BenQ has a right-handed shape. It doesn't have customization software but allows you to adjust settings directly on the mouse itself.

    Pwnage StormBreaker

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW and the Pwnage StormBreaker are wireless gaming mice with very similar shapes. The BenQ has a solid plastic body. On the other hand, the Pwnage has a magnesium alloy body with weight-saving cutouts. It's significantly lighter and has better overall gaming performance. It also supports a higher wireless polling rate of 4000Hz and has an unusual feature that allows you to adjust the sensor position.

    BenQ ZOWIE U2

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW and the BenQ ZOWIE U2 are models in BenQ ZOWIE's broader ecosystem of wireless gaming mice. These mice share the same design approach and internal components; the only major difference is their shape. The EC2-CW has a right-handed 'ergo' shape and is best suited for palm or claw grip types. On the other hand, the U2 has more narrow sides and is designed specifically for claw grip.

    Test Results

    perceptual testing image
    Sort:
    RATINGS
    Category:
    All
    Design
    Style
    Type
    Standard
    Coating
    Matte
    Lighting ColorNo Lighting

    The body of this mouse is made of matte black plastic, and the two side buttons on the left are made of glossy black plastic. There's a red ZOWIE logo on the bottom of the palm area and a reflective BenQ logo on the left side towards the rear. There aren't any RGB lighting zones, but a small set of LEDs below the scroll wheel and between the left- and right-click buttons show the current battery level.

    Shape
    Length4.8" (123 mm)
    Width2.6" (66 mm)
    Height1.7" (42 mm)
    Grip Width
    60 mm
    Ambidextrous
    No
    Left-Handed Friendly
    No
    Finger Rest
    No

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW has the same ergonomic, right-handed shape as the previous-generation BenQ ZOWIE EC2.

    The EC2-CW is a Medium size variant in BenQ ZOWIE's lineup of wireless EC-CW mice. There is also a Large size variant called the BenQ ZOWIE EC1-CW and a Small variant called the BenQ ZOWIE EC3-CW. You can see images of the dimensions of these variants on BenQ ZOWIE's website here.

    8.0
    Build Quality

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW has excellent build quality. It feels very solid in hand, and there's no creaking or flexibility on the top or sides. That said, the bottom plate is somewhat flexible, and you can actuate the right-click button by applying enough pressure to the underside, but this doesn't present any issues when using the mouse normally.

    7.7
    Weight
    Lowest Weight
    77.5 g
    Default Weight
    77.5 g
    Weight Distribution
    Centered
    Extra Weights
    No

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW is somewhat lightweight and reasonably easy to move quickly and accurately. However, it's heavier than many other dedicated FPS gaming mice at this price range. If you want a lighter mouse with a similar right-handed shape, check out the Pulsar Xlite V3.

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-DW is the successor to this mouse, and is significantly lighter while keeping the same shape and feature set.

    Hand Size Recommendation
    Palm Grip Hand Recommendation
    Claw Grip Hand Recommendation
    Fingertip Grip Hand Recommendation

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC1-C has a very comfortable right-handed shape with a full, rounded hump towards the middle. This mouse is a good fit for medium and larger-sized hands and is best suited for a palm or claw grip.

    This mouse is the Medium variant in a lineup that also features a Large and Small size. If you have smaller hands, you may prefer the smaller-sized BenQ ZOWIE EC3-CW, or if you have extra-large hands, you'll be more comfortable using the BenQ ZOWIE EC1-CW. If you'd prefer another option in BenQ ZOWIE's wireless ecosystem with a symmetrical shape and narrower sides, check out the review for the BenQ ZOWIE U2. Or, for an alternative with a slightly smaller shape, flatter top, and less pronounced rear hump, see our review for the Vaxee ZYGEN NP-01S Wireless (4K).

    7.2
    Wireless Versatility
    Maximum Of Paired Devices
    1
    Bluetooth
    No
    Receiver
    Yes
    Battery Type
    Rechargeable
    Use When Charging
    Yes
    On/Off Activation
    Auto Off And On/Off Switch
    Receiver Extender
    Yes
    Receiver Storing
    No
    Battery IndicatorYes

    BenQ ZOWIE advertises this mouse has a maximum battery life of 70 hours of continuous use.

    This mouse also includes what BenQ ZOWIE calls an Enhanced Receiver, which also acts as a charging dock for your mouse. BenQ ZOWIE claims this device provides better wireless stability in environments with lots of wireless signal interference, like LAN events or tournaments. Our test bench doesn't currently test for wireless stability, but if you have this mouse and would like to share your experience with using the Enhanced Receiver, feel free to reach out to us in the comments.

    If you're interested in a gaming mouse with a very similar right-handed shape and added Bluetooth connectivity, see our review of the GLORIOUS Model D 2 Wireless.

    Cable
    ConnectivityWireless
    Cable Length
    6.9 ft (2.1 m)
    Cable Type
    Paracord-like
    Permanent Kink
    Yes
    Port Type: Mouse End
    USB-C
    Port Type: PC End
    USB-A

    This mouse has a lightweight and flexible paracord-like charging cable that glides smoothly across desks and mousepads. However, the cable does retain some slight kinks from its packaging.

    7.5
    Mouse Feet
    Gliding Experience
    Good
    Material
    PTFE
    Extra Included
    Yes

    This mouse has good feet that glide fairly well but drag slightly on mousepads, making noticeable scratching sounds when used directly on a desk. The feet are mostly rounded, but some sharp edges on the top feet may dig into softer mousepads. BenQ ZOWIE also sells virgin-grade PTFE feet separately on their website. We expect these feet to glide more smoothly, but they're only available for an additional purchase.

    In The Box

    • BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW
    • USB-A receiver
    • Receiver adapter
    • Enhanced receiver (also acts as a charging dock)
    • USB-A to USB-C charging cable
    • Extra mouse feet
    • User documentation
    Control
    Main Button
    See details on graph tool
    See details on graph tool
    Switch Type
    Mechanical
    Switch Model
    Not Specified
    4.3
    Additional Buttons
    Total Number Of Buttons
    7
    Number Of Side Buttons
    2
    Number Of Programmable Inputs
    0
    Profile Switching Button
    No
    Gesture Support
    No

    There are two buttons on the bottom of the mouse, one of which cycles between polling rate options and the other cycles between the four fixed CPI settings. This mouse has no software, so you can't reprogram any of the buttons without using third-party software.

    8.1
    Click Latency
    See details on graph tool
    Expected Connection
    7.4 ms
    Wired
    7.2 ms
    Receiver
    7.4 ms
    Bluetooth
    N/A

    The BenQ ZOWIE EC2-CW has excellent click latency, providing a responsive-feeling gaming experience for casual or competitive gaming in all genres. You can adjust the "Click Response Time" (which is more commonly referred to as "Debounce" or "Debounce Time") using a button combination listed in the user manual. This mouse was tested with the "Fast" click response time setting selected.

    9.5
    CPI
    See details on graph tool
    SRAV @ 1600 CPI
    -0.27%
    SRAV @ 800 CPI
    -0.21%
    SRAV @ 400 CPI
    -0.33%
    SRAV @ Fixed CPI
    N/A
    Precision Error Between Speeds
    0.31%
    Precision Error Between CPI
    0.32%
    Worst Tracking Error
    -3.38%
    Minimum CPI
    400 CPI
    Maximum CPI
    3,200 CPI
    CPI Adjustment Steps
    N/A

    This mouse has exceptional CPI performance. Its sensor delivers outstanding tracking accuracy, and the physical movements you make with your mouse translate extremely close to your cursor movements on-screen.

    8.9
    Sensor Latency
    See details on graph tool
    Delay To Start Of Movement
    16.0 ms
    Delay At Half Movement
    3.6 ms
    Delay To End Of Movement
    3.3 ms

    This mouse has excellent overall sensor latency performance. The sensor reacts very quickly when you move your mouse, and these movements closely match the timing of the movement of your cursor on-screen.

    Sensor Specifications
    Sensor Technology
    Optical (LED)
    Sensor Model
    PixArt PAW3370
    Works On Glass
    No
    Minimum Lift Off Distance
    2.4 mm
    Maximum Polling Rate
    1000 Hz

    The available polling rate options are 125Hz, 500Hz, and 1000Hz. You can also choose between High, Medium, or Low lift-off settings and fixed CPI settings of 400, 800, 1600, and 3200 CPI. The button combinations used to adjust these settings are listed in the user manual. If you're interested in a mouse that shares the same shape but is significantly lighter, has a higher maximum polling rate of 2000Hz, and has a unique feature that allows you to adjust the sensor position, check out the Pwnage StormBreaker.

    Mouse Wheel
    Scroll Wheel Type
    Notched Wheel
    Scroll Wheel Tilt
    No
    Thumb Wheel Type
    No

    The mouse wheel has a rubber grip with well-defined grooves for added grip. It feels precise, has pronounced steps, and the middle click doesn't require too much force to actuate. While the scroll wheel doesn't make as much noise as the one on the older BenQ ZOWIE EC2, it's still a bit on the louder side compared to many similar gaming mice.

    Noise
    Click Noise
    Quiet

    This mouse has fairly quiet buttons that are unlikely to bother those around you. However, the scroll wheel is a bit louder and may be inappropriate for noise-sensitive environments.

    Operating System And Software
    Configuration Software
    Software NameNo software
    Software Windows Compatibility
    No
    Software macOS Compatibility
    No
    On-Board Memory
    No
    CPI (DPI) Adjustment
    No
    Polling Rate Adjustment
    No
    Profile Configuration
    No
    Profile Auto-Switching
    No
    RGB On/Off
    No

    There isn't any customization software for this mouse, but you can change expected settings, including polling rate, CPI, lift-off distance, and click response time, directly on the mouse itself. The button combinations for changing these settings are listed in the user manual. You can see an online version of this manual on BenQ's website here.

    10
    Mouse Compatibility
    Windows CompatibilityFully
    macOS CompatibilityFully

    This mouse is fully compatible with both Windows and macOS.