Weight is a defining factor for the performance and handling of a gaming mouse, and the Rival 310 by SteelSeries stands out for its notably lightweight design. The Rival 310 is crafted with serious gamers in mind, blending durability and functionality while maintaining a weight that is conducive to swift, precision-based movement. At just 88.3 grams, the mouse boasts an impressive balance between a robust build and a light frame, which is particularly beneficial during extended gaming sessions where fatigue could become a factor.
My experience with the SteelSeries Rival 310 resonates with the idea that an ergonomic design doesn’t have to come at the cost of increased weight. The mouse’s lightness complements its comfortable shape and rubber pads, which combine to ensure smooth, effortless movement over various surfaces. Despite its minimalistic design, the Rival 310 doesn’t skimp on performance, housing a TrueMove3 optical sensor that provides high precision without the need for unnecessary weight.
Design and Ergonomics
In my examination of the Rival 310, I’ve found that its design is a major contributor to its ergonomic success. The device is tailored for right-handed users, featuring a modified version of the Rival 300’s shape, with a subtle size reduction to enhance comfort.
Grip Style and Comfort
The Rival 310 is specifically crafted for a palm grip style, accommodating all hand sizes. Its ergonomic form allows for prolonged gaming sessions without discomfort. The mouse’s design includes silicone side grips that aid in maintaining control and preventing slippage during intense gameplay.
- Recommended Grip: Palm
- Suitable for Hand Sizes: All
When we talk about comfort for large hands, the Rival 310’s shape and form factor offer ample space, allowing for a natural rest of the hand on the mouse, ensuring steady and precise movements.
Build Quality and Materials
The Rival 310 is built with durability in mind, housing Omron switches rated for 50 million clicks, demonstrating a commitment to longevity. The materials used for the Rival 310 include a matte finish that adds a premium texture, resisting fingerprints and smudges.
- Switches: Omron, 50 million clicks
- Texture: Matte finish
In terms of materials, the Rival 310 promotes a sturdy and pleasing tactile experience with its rubber grips. These rubber grips are not only beneficial for maintaining a firm hold under various conditions but also augment the overall steady feel.
Knowing the Rival 600’s place in the market as a high-end alternative, I appreciate that the Rival 310 stands on its own with a focus on ergonomic design suitable for esports professionals and gaming enthusiasts who prefer a more streamlined mouse.
Performance and Sensor Technology
In discussing the Rival 310’s capabilities, it’s essential to focus on the sensor technology, which underpins its precise tracking and high-speed responsiveness.
Sensor Specifications
The SteelSeries Rival 310 comes equipped with the SteelSeries TrueMove3 optical sensor. This sensor is the result of a partnership between SteelSeries and industry leader PixArt and is tailored for pinpoint precision.
- Sensor Type: Optical
- Model: TrueMove3
- CPI (Counts Per Inch) Range: 100 – 3500 CPI with true 1-to-1 tracking
- Polling Rate: 1 ms (1000 Hz)
- Maximum Acceleration: 50G
- Maximum Speed: 350 IPS (Inches Per Second)
- Lift Off Distance: Customizable
Tracking and Accuracy
My analysis of the Rival 310’s performance shows that it boasts 1-to-1 tracking, ensuring that movement on the screen reflects the exact motion of the mouse on your desk. The TrueMove3 sensor is engineered specifically for jitter reduction, providing natural mouse movement without artificial latency or error.
- 1-to-1 Tracking: Yes, at CPIs up to 3500
- Jitter Reduction: Integrated
- Precision: High precision offering minute adjustments
Speed and Responsiveness
The Rival 310’s TrueMove3 optical sensor provides a high polling rate and swift response times to handle rapid movements and intense gaming sessions.
- Polling Rate: 1000 Hz, delivering a 1 ms response rate
- Acceleration: Capable of handling up to 50G
- Deceleration: Responsive to rapid stops
- Speed: Maintains accuracy at up to 350 IPS
My experience with the Rival 310 confirms its top-tier performance that caters to fast-paced gaming and consistent accuracy crucial for competitive play. Its sensor technology stands out, providing the backbone for its responsive and reliable tracking capabilities.
Customization and Features
In my experience with the Rival 310, I’ve observed that its customization is robust, centering on its programmable features and seamless software integration.
Programmable Buttons and Lighting
My Rival 310 is equipped with six programmable buttons, including a tactile scroll wheel, each configurable through the SteelSeries Engine software. Here is how they break down functionally:
- Left and Right Click: Main input buttons with a durable mechanical switch.
- CPI (Counts Per Inch) Button: Allows on-the-fly sensitivity adjustment.
- Side Buttons: Typically assigned for backward and forward navigation, customizable for varied functions.
- Scroll Wheel: Responsive for scrolling and as an additional clickable button.
Utilizing the SteelSeries Engine, I have the capability to assign complex macros using the built-in macro editor. The ample onboard memory ensures my configurations are saved directly to the mouse.
Regarding the RGB lighting, it’s subtle yet offers a personal touch. The SteelSeries Engine grants me full control over the lighting effects, with the option to synchronize them with other SteelSeries devices.
Software Integration
SteelSeries Engine 3 software is central to the Rival 310’s feature management. I find it intuitive and user-friendly. Below are the key points of interaction:
- Device Recognition: It automatically detects the connected Rival 310.
- Customization Suite: Enables me to tailor the mouse buttons, adjust the CPI, and fine-tune the acceleration and deceleration.
- Lighting Settings: I can select from numerous RGB lighting effects and millions of colors for a customized look.
- Performance Tuning: Offers real-time sensitivity settings and tracking configurations to cater to my gaming style.
In summary, my Rival 310’s ability to customize through SteelSeries Engine is comprehensive, enhancing both its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Compatibility and Connectivity
In assessing the Rival 310’s functionality, I’ve found that its compatibility and connection options are key features that enhance its performance in gaming and esports environments.
Supported Games and Platforms
Gaming and esports: My experience with the Rival 310 has shown it accurately tracks movements in fast-paced titles, making it a solid choice for games like Overwatch and PUBG.
- PC
- Xbox
- PlayStation
- Nintendo Switch
- Mac
Each platform supports the Rival 310 without the need for additional drivers, which is beneficial for gamers who switch between systems frequently.
Cable and Connectivity Options
Cable Type: The Rival 310 comes equipped with a non-braided, rubberized cable. This choice is a departure from the more common braided cables, which are often preferred for their durability.
Cable Length: With an ample cable length, the Rival 310 provides enough reach to accommodate a variety of gaming setups.
- Cable Length: Typically around 2 meters (6.5 feet)
Connectivity: As a wired mouse, the connectivity of the Rival 310 relies on its USB connection, ensuring consistent and low-latency performance crucial for esports competitiveness. The USB connector, while not gold-plated, offers a stable connection without impacting performance.
Specifications and Pricing
Drawing from my understanding and the search results provided on the Rival 310, it’s clear that the mouse is designed with precision and agility in mind, aimed at those in the esports arena. My focus here is to detail its weight, dimensions, and pricing, aligning with what a competitive gamer might consider before making a purchase.
Weight and Dimensions
The SteelSeries Rival 310 is a gaming mouse that emphasizes a lightweight design, making it essential for esports where every millisecond matters. It weighs in at just 99 grams (3.5 ounces), which facilitates swift movements. The mouse dimensions are approximately 127.6mm in length (5.02 inches), with a width of 70.1mm (2.76 inches) and a height that does not exceed 44mm (1.73 inches). These attributes contribute to the Rival 310’s reputation for comfort and high performance during extended gaming sessions.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Weight | 99 grams (3.5 ounces) |
| Length | 127.6mm (5.02 inches) |
| Width | 70.1mm (2.76 inches) |
| Height | Under 44mm (1.73 inches) |
Price and Value for Money
The Rival 310’s pricing is competitive relative to other gaming mice with similar specifications. While prices may vary depending on the retailer and regional availability, you can typically expect to find the Rival 310 in the range of USD 50 to 70. Given its pinpoint CPI range adjustable from 100 to 12,000 in 100 CPI increments, durability with high-grade materials, and a sensor that tracks at 350+ IPS (Inches Per Second) on SteelSeries QcK surfaces, its price represents a fair exchange for the value it provides to serious gamers.
| Price Range | CPI Range |
|---|---|
| USD 50 to 70 | 100-12,000 CPI |
Comparative Analysis
In this section, I’ll present a focused comparison of the SteelSeries Rival 310’s weight against its counterparts and discuss its standing in the current market.
Rival 310 vs. Other Models
The SteelSeries Rival 310 sets itself apart with a weight of 88 grams (3.10 ounces), distinguishing it as a lightweight option among gaming mice. This feature is quite beneficial for those who favor a mouse that allows rapid movement without sacrificing precision. Comparatively, the Rival 600 weighs in at around 96 grams (3.39 ounces) before any additional weights are added.
In the realm of weight and feel, the Rival 310 takes a different path than the Rival 700, which is heftier at 135 grams (4.76 ounces), aiming for a sturdier presence in the hand. Notably, the Rival 310’s weight supports both claw grip and palm grip styles, making it adaptable across various user preferences.
For players who require speedy clicks, the Rival 310 boasts Omron mechanical switches and a low click latency, ensuring that each action is registered with minimal delay. Additionally, its split-trigger system on the main buttons is engineered to deliver a consistent and reliable click performance.
In contrast, the SteelSeries Sensei 310, which shares the same TrueMove3 sensor and boasts ambidextrous design, also strikes a balance with its weight similar to the Rival 310.
Market Position and Alternatives
The Rival 310’s weight positions it comfortably within the lightweight category of gaming mice, which is often preferred by esports aficionados and serious gamers seeking agility and ease of movement. The mouse’s PTFE feet further enhance its smooth gliding capabilities on various surfaces, contributing to the overall experience.
The Pixart TrueMove3 sensor promises zero hardware acceleration, delivering true 1-to-1 tracking that’s crucial for gamers who rely on precision. With a CPI switch that allows on-the-fly sensitivity adjustments, the Rival 310 effectively caters to gamers needing quick adaptability.
Alternative models on the market, such as the Sensei 310, offers a similar sensor but with a design meant to cater to both left- and right-handed users. The Rival 600 introduces a more customizable weight system and additional side buttons for users who prioritize a heavier mouse or more programmable options.
The Rival 310’s distinguished lightweight profile, combined with its colorshift capabilities and side grip materials, secures its place in the market as a mouse that doesn’t compromise on the essentials of competitive gaming or the aesthetic appeal. Other manufacturers may offer different features such as customizable weights, but these mice often end up heavier than the Rival 310. Thus, for users who require a high-performing, no-frills lightweight mouse, the Rival 310 remains a prominent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addressing frequently asked questions about the Rival 310’s weight, I aim to clarify its impact on gaming performance and how it compares to other mice.
What is the weight of the SteelSeries Rival 310 mouse?
The Rival 310 has a weight of just 88.3 grams. This lightness is designed to reduce hand fatigue and enable quick movements.
Does the weight of the Rival 310 affect its gaming performance?
Yes, the weight of the Rival 310 directly contributes to its performance. Its light weight allows for swift movements and prolonged gameplay without causing significant hand strain.
How does the weight of the Rival 310 compare to other gaming mice?
The Rival 310’s weight is on the lower end compared to many other gaming mice, which can often weigh over 100 grams. This positions it as a lightweight option within the gaming community.
Can the Rival 310’s weight be adjusted or modified?
No, the weight of the Rival 310 is fixed and cannot be adjusted or modified. It’s designed to strike a balance between lightweight construction and durability.
What are the benefits of the Rival 310’s weight for FPS games?
For FPS games, the Rival 310’s weight allows for precise and rapid cursor movements. Its light weight ensures that I can react quickly and with greater control during gameplay.
Is the SteelSeries Rival 310 heavier than the Rival 3?
No, the Rival 310 is not heavier than the Rival 3. In fact, the Rival 3 is known to be slightly lighter, usually by a small margin. The exact weight difference can vary depending on the specific model of the Rival 3.
I’m Marcus Bextor, a seasoned software engineer passionate about demystifying technology. With over a decade in the tech industry, my journey began with a Computer Science degree, evolving through various roles in software development, system architecture, and project management. At MWTA, I leverage my expertise to provide in-depth, unbiased reviews of the latest tech products, from smartphones to smart homes. My blogs aim to be accessible to all, breaking down complex jargon into simple language. Besides reviews, I share insights on tech trends and practical tips. Connect with me for questions and suggestions as we explore the tech world together.