Introduction
SteelSeries is a high-end computer gaming peripherals company that has been supplying gamers all over the globe with peripherals ranging from high performance mice, sleek & smooth mouse pads, crisp sounding audio devices and keyboards.


Due to popular demand - SteelSeries Ikari [Optical Version] Review.

The Ikari is SteelSeries' latest flagship in mice, built from the ground up with input from professional players. SteelSeries have focused on meeting the two main needs of these professional players - which are precision, and comfort. SteelSeries have also mentioned that unlike some other mice on the market, the Ikari features no gimmicky lights or functions which may distract during gaming.

In depth look

Starting at the top, we can see the Ikari is made of two pieces, the large top piece which includes the mouse 1 and 2 buttons, and the palm rest which has the SteelSeries logo. Unlike some other mice such as the Deathadder and the Salmosa (which have an elevated back for the palm to rest on), we can see the Ikari's back is rather low, rendering use of the 'claw-grip' quite difficult. The reason for this is that SteelSeries built this mouse specifically for 'palm-grip' users, and to support this idea we see the base of the Ikari is elongated on both sides of the mouse for your thumb and little finger to rest on. This ensures your hands will not be fatigued after prolonged hours of gaming. The top and side areas of the Ikari are also coated with rubber for optimum grip for when hands get a bit sweaty.



Moving around to the front, we can see the mouse 1 and 2 buttons with the scroll wheel in between, and you'll also notice SteelSeries have included a DPI switch under the scroll wheel for when you want to change your DPI setting on-the-fly.


On the left side of the mouse, SteelSeries have provided two side buttons and also an LED indicator as to whether you are using High or Low DPI.


Switching over to the other side, we get a closer look at the elongated base and how it supports the ring finger and little finger.


Turning over the Ikari to reveal the bottom, you'll find SteelSeries' Optical Gaming Grade Engine in the middle and 4 Ultra Teflon feet situated at the 4 corners of the mouse for optimum glide.


SteelSeries have also gone to the lengths of providing us with 6ft long braided cable, topped off with a gold plated USB connector, which ensures maximum connectivity and longevity.

Drivers

Once installed, you will find the Ikari Optical's drivers are very simple as they only let you change the DPI
to set increments, and they also only allow two onboard profiles. As for changing sensitivity, you are forced to use Windows sensitivity in Control Panel. This is something I was disappointed with as changing the Windows sensitivity from the default 6 can cause some minor problems with some games.


Performance and Comfort

After using the Ikari for a while in several different games such as Call of Duty 4, Team Fortress 2 and Counter Strike: Source, it was apparent that SteelSeries definitely knew what they were doing, and put their resources into the right areas.

During my time using the Ikari I found the tracking was very precise and on par with all other top optical mice on the market. I did not encounter any kind of skipping which has been rumored, though I thought the lift off distance was abnormally high, and was forced to pick the mouse up higher than I was usually comfortable with. As for comfort, I found the Ikari to be likely one of the most comfortable mice I have come across yet, leaving no fingers hanging off the edge. The Ikari cups your hand like a glove.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ikari is a high quality mouse with good tracking and an ergonomic design, especially accommodating to those who use the 'palm-grip.' The Ikari is also very affordable, and at the same time is of a high build quality with no flimsy buttons or cords. If you are on a slightly tight budget and you're looking to replace your old mouse, then I'd recommend looking into purchasing an Ikari Optical.

Thanks for reading and I hope the review helps. Feel free to comment below.

Beautiful kenjz0r.

Excellent review

ily

WD, kenji, got any approximate prices for aus/nz? Next MX518!!!

sweet review

Laser Version of Ikari next ?

Nice review there Kenj. Makes me want to buy one and i would, but i already have my MX Rev

Was good read. GJ Kenji 8)

woop woop

Nice work. Keep em coming!

nice review !.MOAR!!11

Really nice review kenj


Just a question, do you use high/mid/low/very low sensitivity? Because tracking sucks on a lot of mice at really low sens, but feels great at mid

Best mouse, getting this in a couple of weeks )))

great review

Excellent review for an equally excellent mouse.