What it is:
The sensor is one of the components that translate the mouse movement into a cursor movement.
Our tests
Minimum CPI (DPI)
What it is:
The minimum CPI (DPI) the mouse can be set to. CPI (count per inch) or DPI (dots per inch) represent the number of steps the mouse sensor reports when moving one inch. A lower CPI (DPI) has the effect of reducing the distance the cursor moves onscreen when moving the mouse a fixed distance. We display the manufacturer's value. If the CPI (DPI) isn't given by the manufacturer, we test it and round the value to the closest hundredth.
When it matters:
When your comfortable CPI is low and you want to know if the mouse can achieve it.
Good value:
400 CPI (DPI)
Maximum CPI (DPI)
What it is:
The maximum CPI (DPI) the mouse can be set to. CPI (count per inch) or DPI (dots per inch) represents the number of steps the mouse sensor reports when moving one inch. A higher CPI (DPI) has the effect of augmenting the distance the cursor moves onscreen when moving the mouse a fixed distance. We display the manufacturer's value. If the CPI (DPI) isn't given by the manufacturer, we test it and round the value to the closest hundredth.
When it matters:
When your comfortable CPI is high and you want to know if the mouse can achieve it.
Good value:
2000 CPI (DPI)
CPI (DPI) Adjustment Steps
What it is:
The minimum gap between each CPI (DPI) adjustment settings.
When it matters:
When you want to precisely adjust the CPI (DPI) of your mouse to your preference.
Good value:
50 CPI (DPI)
CPI (DPI) Variation
What it is:
The average variation of CPI (DPI), in percent, when moving the mouse 1 inch at fast speed versus at low speed. The CPI (DPI) used for this test is the closest value possible to 1000 DPI (CPI) moved on a 1-inch distance.
When it matters:
When you're looking for a mouse with consistent cursor movement.
Good value:
Between -10% and 10%
Minimum Lift Off Distance
What it is:
The distance between the mouse and the surface where the sensor can't detect movement anymore. Values are in increments of 1.2 mm due to the fact that we use CD thickness to measure it.
When it matters:
When you're used to a low lift-off distance, switching to a high lift-off distance could be bothersome when you're trying to lift the mouse to re-position it without any unwanted cursor movement. When gaming, a low lift-off distance is usually better so you don't have to lift your mouse high to re-position it without any cursor movement.
Good value:
2.4mm or lower
Maximum Polling Rate
What it is:
Polling rate represents the amount of time per second the mouse reports its position to the computer.
When it matters:
When playing a fast-paced game, a higher polling rate offers a smoother cursor movement.
Good value:
500 Hz or higher