Cougar has recently introduced a new gaming mouse, which, according to the manufacturer, offers even smoother and more precise control in addition to an unusual design. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly is interesting about AirBlader Tournament and what innovations await us compared to the first generation.
Read also: Review of A4Tech Bloody Naraka accessories: Bloody S98 Naraka, W95 Max, G575 and BP-45
Specification
- Sensor: optical PixArt PMW3399 (as opposed to PAW 3389 in the first AirBlader)
- Resolution: 20,000 DPI
- Game type: FPS/MOBA/RTS
- Software: COUGAR PIX
- Programmable buttons: 6
- Resource of switches: 80 million clicks
- Maximum tracking speed: 650 IPS
- Maximum acceleration: 50G
- Interface: USB
- Cable length 1.8 m
- Dimensions: 117.0 x 62.8 x 37.8 mm
- Weight 62 g (without cable)
Package contents
The AirBlader Tournament comes in a black box with an orange brand logo, the name and image of the device, and the main features. In general, everything is standard. In addition to the mouse itself, the package includes a 1.8 m long flexible cable and gripping pads. You can attach them yourself if necessary. Speaking of the cable, it is bright orange. It looks quite stylish.
Read also: Review of the Cougar E-DEIMUS 120 gaming table
AirBlader Tournament design
The mouse is available in two classic colours: white and black. The body is made of matte rough plastic. There is no RGB backlighting, which is standard for this class of devices, but Cougar has relied on an aggressive design and light weight.
The mouse measures 117.0 x 62.8 x 37.8 mm and weighs only 62 g (without cable).
The cable has a stretchy nylon braid and superior flexibility, allowing for faster and smoother movements for better control.
There are two additional buttons on the left side. A part of the 1.8-metre cable can be coiled and secured with a rubber band, which is quite convenient.
The mouse fits comfortably in your hand and is a pleasure to control. Despite its light weight, the AirBlader Tournament body is quite sturdy. It is almost invisible and very comfortable to work with thanks to its Teflon surfaces.
Software
You can connect and configure AirBlader Tournament using the proprietary COUGAR PIX software (download link). The easy-to-use software allows you to customise the mouse to your personal needs and preferences.
You can set commands for all buttons in COUGAR PIX. To bind a function, simply select the desired key and use the list in the Tasks -> Mouse functions tab.
The app allows you to manually adjust the response (from 400 to 2000) and the polling frequency (from 125 to 1000 Hz). You can also switch the DPI on the bottom surface of the device itself. Why not on the top, as on most mice of this design? This is done to prevent accidental clicks. Yes, the DPI switch on top near the wheel is evil.
To simplify the performance of tasks that you often repeat, you can record and playback macros. By the way, there is no Ukrainian localisation in the software.
Impressions and results
First, let’s talk about the advantages of the AirBlader Tournament – I would like to highlight the following:
- Extremely lightweight design that supports 50G acceleration
- 80 million clicks – AirBlader Tournament is equipped with high-quality mechanical switches (the first AirBlader had 50 million)
- Cougar promises a lifespan of 5 million cycles
- Ratchet feedback when scrolling
- The mouse is equipped with the exclusive COUGAR BOUNCE-ON tensioning system, which uses a metal spring to eliminate accidental rattling between the button and the switch. This way, you can maintain a stable, consistent click feel for enhanced performance during intense gaming
- Optical sensor 20,000 pixels per inch
The mouse keys have a low and dull click, they are pressed clearly and quickly. There are no issues with the build quality – no backlash or creaks were detected during testing. The price of the AirBlader Tournament by Cougar is approximately $50. Considering the whole range of features, this mouse fully justifies it.
In conclusion, the company has really pleased us with this new product. The mouse has a lot of advantages over its competitors. From an affordable price to a range of features and an attractive design that will not leave users indifferent. The lightweight AirBlader will undoubtedly be the best partner for gamers on a budget.
Read also:
- WriteMage review: Handy ChatGPT client for macOS
- ASUS ROG STRIX FLARE II ANIMATE mechanical keyboard review