When it comes to gaming and esports, a multitude of factors come into play. These include ergonomics, build quality and materials, a thoughtfully designed shape, connectivity options, specialized technologies, and more. Among these crucial parameters is polling rate, a factor that can significantly impact both the experience and effectiveness of your gameplay. Let’s take a closer look at how it can make all the difference.
What is the polling rate
To start, let’s clarify what we’re discussing. The polling rate is the number of times per second that gaming peripherals (such as a mouse or keyboard) send data about their status (like cursor position or pressed keys) to the computer. It’s measured in hertz (Hz). The higher the polling rate, the more frequently the peripheral updates information about its actions.
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Why high polling rate is important for gamers
- Reducing latency: The lower the delay between your actions and the computer’s response, the more comfortable it is to play. A high polling rate helps minimize input lag.
- Higher accuracy: A high polling rate ensures smoother and more precise cursor movements. This is especially noticeable when aiming in first-person shooters or performing complex maneuvers in simulators.
- Better control: More frequent updates on peripheral status allow for better control over your in-game actions.
It’s worth noting that the advantages of a higher polling rate are much more noticeable when playing on a high-refresh-rate monitor. Reducing delays between movement data input and each new frame on the screen also minimizes uneven polling intervals. This contributes to smoother and more precise cursor movement, making it easier to track and control.
How polling rate affects different game genres
- First-person shooters: Here, a high polling rate is critical for fast aiming and accurate shots
- Simulators: In simulations, precision and smoothness of movement are essential. A high polling rate helps to achieve a more realistic sense of control.
- MOBAs and strategy games: In these genres, quick response to changes on the screen and precise control of units or heroes are key success factors
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What is the optimal polling rate?
The optimal polling rate depends on your personal preferences and gaming requirements. Most modern gaming mice support rates from 1000 Hz up to 8000 Hz and beyond. For most players, 1000–2000 Hz is sufficient. However, if you’re looking for maximum precision and speed, you might consider models with a higher polling rate.
The most classic option here would be to go with a ready-made solution—peripherals with an 8000 Hz polling rate, like the ROG Keris II Ace or ROG Azoth Extreme. However, ASUS ROG recently introduced a more interesting solution: the ROG Polling Rate Booster. This exclusive, compact ROG accessory delivers a true 8000 Hz polling rate, helping gamers achieve a new level of control and minimize latency on compatible mice and keyboards.
The ROG Polling Rate Booster provides a true polling rate of up to 8000 Hz in both wireless and wired modes. It further enhances the quality of the wireless connection when paired with technology that minimizes signal transmission latency.
Conclusions
A high polling rate is one of the truly important parameters for gaming peripherals. It directly affects your gaming performance by providing faster response times, greater accuracy, and a more comfortable gameplay experience. If you’re serious about gaming, it’s worth considering this aspect when choosing a new mouse or keyboard.
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