When it comes to finding the right fit for a keyboard, the battle isn’t easy. With plenty of brands at widely different price ranges, getting the best bang for your buck can be a tricky task. For those looking for a high-quality magnetic keyboard, the Arbiter Studio Polar 65 could be the perfect fit.

Magnetic keyboards take mechanical typing to a new level, with magnetic switches that provide an even more accurate typing experience. These extremely sensitive keys will ensure each button pressed responds, though it can take a bit to get used to. This can make investing in a magnetic keyboard a nerve-wracking leap. The Polar 65 is a great option for those new to mechanical keyboards, wanting a jump up from a standard mechanical keyboard to magnetic, or a seasoned fan of magnetic keys.

Key Details

• USB-C: Yes
• Brand: Arbiter Studio
• Price: 150 USD
• Customizable: Yes
• Repairable: Yes

The Arbiter Polar 65 Magnetic Keys Are The Best

When it comes to the best typing experience, the Polar 65 has the most options beat. The satisfying snap of the keys, when they are pressed, is exactly what to look for in a good mechanical keyboard. Additionally, I found the keys didn’t struggle to pick up strokes, even when hit on the edges.

In fact, the keys are so sensitive it took some time to get used to typing on them. If the user bumps a key beside the one they mean to hit, it’s easy to end up with a typo. While there is a slight learning curve, it only took me a few hours to adjust my typing style to gently land on the keys. Very little force was needed, and I was able to fly over the board as I worked on articles or played video games.

The Polar 65 Shines At Work Or When Playing Games

I was able to test the Polar 65 both at work and while gaming. As a keyboard for office work, it does lack some versatility. The missing 10-key option and the lack of F1 keys can make basic keyboard functions a bit difficult. That being said, when used specifically for typing, the keyboard’s responsiveness makes writing a joy. I particularly like using it for long-form article writing, as I can fly across the keys knowing there will be minimal typos or errors.

Where the Polar 65 shines is gaming. The compact keyboard is perfect for any desk setup, and it can be used on a lap desk alongside a desktop/TV rig with pleasant comfort. I have used the Polar 65 primarily while playing in the living room, with my mouse and the keyboard set up on my lap as I farm in Stardew Valley or battle monsters in BG3.

The Polar 65 Has RGB Software, But It Doesn’t Need It

Arbiter recently put out software for the Polar 65. When connected, the keyboard can be set up and toggled via the application, but personally, I find setting things up on the keyboard itself to be the most intuitive option.

Using preset keys, the user can toggle the RGB modes, with exciting options like key response flashing and rotating colors. The sensitivity of the keyboard can also be controlled this way. I loved this feature. I loved that I didn’t need to download anything to set the keyboard up, that I don’t have anything launching on startup causing slowness with the start of my day. I can just plug in, change and set things however I want, and then get right to business. I can’t stress enough how much I love this functionality, and wish more keyboards had it.

The Polar 65 Begs To Go On The Road

One surprising benefit of the Polar 65 is how portable it is. My Midnight Lilac keyboard has been to New York, LA, and Salt Lake City. I’ve found that I won’t travel without it. The ability to set my laptop up on a small hotel desk with the perfect, sensitive keyboard helps soften the blow of operating without my full desk setup at home.

For professional gamers who travel frequently, the Polar 65 isn’t just a good idea – it’s a requirement. I don’t think I will ever go anywhere again without this sweet little Magnetic keyboard tucked into my laptop bag. Even though it’s a bit heavy, it is completely worth the additional item on the packing list.

Verdict

The Arbiter Studio Polar 65 Magnetic keyboard is a fantastic option for gamers, professional travelers, and those looking for a compact and sensitive typing option. While I do miss the 10-key frequently, the pleasant, high-quality feel of the Polar 65 helps soften the blow.

The Polar 65 is worth the investment, and at $150 for any of the current color options in stock, those who pick one up will find it worth every penny. Compared to expensive options like Hi-Ground, it is definitely a keyboard worth trying, and one that will likely change the way you interact with you desk setup when sitting down to work or game.

Whether you are a gamer looking for an additional touch screen, an artist bringing colorful illustrations to the world, or a just need a digital pad of paper to take notes, Wacom Tablets will have you covered. They are also the perfect holiday gift for a loved one.

As a life-long Wacom fan, I use my Wacom One for everything from graphic design at work to animation in my free time – sometimes I even prefer them to a mouse and keyboard. These fantastic, touch sensitive drawing tablets can be a bit of an investment, but this holiday season there are a handful of exciting deals, alongside some big releases, that make snatching one up worth it.

Related: Pokemon x Higround Mechanical Keyboard Reveal Has Fans Sweating With Anticipation

Get Started With The Wacom Intuos Pro

As someone who got started drawing digitally on the Wacom Intuos, this medium-sized tablet is perfect for artists just dipping their toes into digital art. The tablet boasts 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and a 10 inch active drawing area, offering an organic, accurate expirience when taking notes or sketching. While this tablet doesn’t have a built in screen, it is a solid investment for anyone looking to try tablets out at a more affordable price point.

• Wacom Store – $299.95 (normally priced at $379.95)
• Best Buy – $299.95 (normally priced at $379.95)
• Amazon – $299.95 (normally priced at $379.95)

Take Notes And Tackle Graphic Design With Intuos Wireless

While most tablets require at least a USB-C connected to a computer, the Intuos Wireless sets users free with a sleek, small design perfect for creators on the go. This is a particularly nice gift for college students, as the little tablet is just the right size to take notes during class. It is also a good option for very young artists looking to start exploring the world of digital art. To make them that much better, they come in black or Pistachio, and are very affordable. The Intuos Wireless is Chromebook compatible, offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity with it’s pen, and four express keys at the top for programmable comfort.

Wacom Store:

• 10″ Black $99.95 (Normally priced at $199.95)
• 10″ Pistachio Accent $99.95 (Normally priced at $199.95)
• 7.9″ Black $39.95 (Normally priced at $69.95)
• 7″ Black $59.95 (Normally priced at $99.95)
• 7″ Pistachio Accent $59.95 (Normally priced at $99.95)

Best Buy:

• 10″ Black $99.95 (Normally priced at $199.95)
• 7.9″ Black $39.95 (Normally priced at $69.95)
• 7″ Black $59.95 (Normally priced at $99.95)
• 7″ Pistachio Accent $59.95 (Normally priced at $99.95)

Amazon:

• 10″ Black $99.95 (Normally priced at $199.95)
• 10″ Pistachio Accent $99.95 (Normally priced at $199.95)
• 7.9″ Black $39.95 (Normally priced at $69.95)
• 7″ Black $59.95 (Normally priced at $99.95)
• 7″ Pistachio Accent $59.95 (Normally priced at $99.95)

Wacom MobileStudio Pro Is The Present For Professionals

The Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16 is the dream when it comes to portable drawing studios for professional artists. Sporting an i7 Intel processor, 16 GB of memory, a 516 GB SSD, and a stunning display panel, this is the gift to get for your graduating art student, pro artist family member, or anyone who uses a digital tablet as part of their daily workflow. Functioning as it’s own, standalone PC, you won’t need to worry about cables, a workstation, or any of the other hinderances of working at a desk. With the Wacom MobileStudio Pro, you are investing in artistic freedom.

• Wacom Store – $2,499.95 ( Normally priced at $3,499.95)
• Best Buy – Not available
• Amazon – $2,499.95 ( Normally priced at $3,499.95)

The Wacom One Is The Jump To Screen Tablets

The Wacom One Pen Display is the jump from an Intuos screenless tablet to a full display. Reminiscent of the older Cintiq displays, this tablet offers all the premium joys of a pen display tablet at an affordable price. It is also one of the more customizable tablet options, with different connections, drawing styluses, and sizes available.

This is currently my primary drawing tablet, and I use it for graphic design, drawing, animating, video gaming, and note taking. I can’t recommend it enough for those wanting to try out a pen display. The tablet has a fantastic, smooth surface, and the 4,096 levels of pressure capture my brush strokes and handwriting wonderfully. It’s also a particularly fun way to play Stardew Valley, as the 13 inch screen has a fully functioning touch surface. This is my pick of the year for helpful daily technology.

Wacom Store:

• Wacom One 13 Inch Touch – $509.95+
• Wacom One 12 Inch – $309.95+

Best Buy

• Wacom One 13 Inch Touch – $229.99 (Normally priced at $509.95)
• Wacom One 12 Inch – $309.95

Amazon

• Wacom One 13 Inch Touch – $579.95
• Wacom One 12 Inch – $389.95

Wacom Cintiq Pro Tablets Are The Dream Gift

There are plenty of special gifts out there, but the Wacom Cintiq Pro is likely one of the best. Ranging in size from 17, 22, and 27 inches, this stunning pen display is on a different playing field from other tablets. The 4k resolution and easy-to-use buttons on the back of the unit provide streamlined, ergonomic workflow, while the Pro Pen 3 is customizable in weight and offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity. This is the best of the best for digital tablets, and it can double as a high-resolution dual monitor. This is the perfect gift to truly wow a loved one, and a tool that can completely alter daily workflow.

Wacom Store:

• Wacom Cintiq Pro 17″ – $2,499.95
• Wacom Cintiq Pro 22″ – $2,99.95
• Wacom Cintiq Pro 27″ – $3,499.95

Best Buy: Unavailable

Amazon: Unavailable

Wacom products are some of the best out there, and after trying many different brands, I can promise Wacom is worth the investment and goes the distance. Each tablet I’ve owned has been a core part of my daily work, and anyone looking for the perfect digital tablet to give as a gift won’t be disappointed if they grab one from this list.

There are few things Pokemon fans like less than swag, and the newly announced Pokemon x Higround mechanical keyboard collection is a treasure many are itching to jump on. The stunning lineup is an official collaboration, and one die-hard fans shouldn’t miss.

Mechanical keyboards, unlike membrane keyboards, operate on switches under the keys for a more accurate, speedy typing experience. While this is a plus for writing essays, it’s particularly important for pro gamers, who need keyboard responses to match breakneck gameplay. The wrong keyboard can be the difference between winning or losing. Unfortunately, many mechanical keyboards lack the style or flare that elevates a desk setup. Thankfully, Higround has gamers covered.

Related: Everest Max Mountain Keyboard Review – Type Like Velvet

Pokemon x Higround Collab Brings Pokemon Keyboards For The Holidays

In a stunning reveal on Twitter, Higround has given a sneak peak at the Pokemon mechanical keyboard collaboration set to release on December 8, 2023 at 12 PM PT.

The keyboards unveiled in two different tweets show Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur, and Mewtwo as featured options, as well as several designs covered in Pokeballs. The collection will include multiple keyboard types, as well as mousepads and jellybags. Pokemon fans looking to learn more can see the breakout on the Higround website.

Fans in the comments are losing it over the Pokemon x Higround mechanical keyboard collaboration, with some sharing gifs that contain a worrying amount of sweat. Others are proclaiming their need for such stylish keyboard options, eager to jump in and purchase one when they release later this week.

One fan has announced they “I NEED THEM SO BAD”, while another adds “Charizard X is so needed for this. Make a mega evolution collection too”. Many gamers have also vocalized a desire for keycaps, though at the time of writing, there hasn’t been a confirmation of keycaps as an option for the collaboration.

Mechanical Keyboards are a fantastic investment for any gamer, at-home worker, college student, or general computer enthusiast. Having the opportunity to switch out an old membrane keyboard or lackluster mechanical with a bright, colorful option from this Pokemon x Higround collaboration is the perfect way to spruce up a desk. With luck, fans will see an expansion of the collection, potentially adding other favorites to the lineup like Eevee, Lucario, or Sylveon.

This Pokemon x Higround mechanical keyboard collaboration could also be the perfect gift if someone is looking to add a practical, personalized present to their holiday list.

Microphones are an increasingly important part of office setups. From the work-from-home manager holding meetings to the professional podcasters and content creators, the need to be heard in a digital space is a key element of daily workloads. Because of this, excellent Microphones like the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP are a valuable investment to make.

While I am not recording myself playing too many video games these days, the ability to get good audio for meetings, interviews, and recording material for my team is more important than ever, and I can firmly say that the AT2020USB-XP was a fast, easy way to make a huge improvement in my day-to-day routines.

Key Details

• Style: Fixed-Charge Back Plate/ Permanently Polarized Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
• Connection Type: USB-C
• Wireless: No
• Price: $169 on the Audio-Technica website.

Audio-Technica Makes Setup Simple

Setting up accessories like keyboards and microphones can be a daunting task. RGB settings can be complicated, mapping mouse buttons can be cumbersome, and getting the adjustments on a mic can be frustrating. Thankfully, Audio-Technica doesn’t struggle with these issues – and the AT2020USB-XP is no exception.

To use the microphone, it simply needs to be unboxed, plugged into the desired PC or laptop, and then powered on. From there, users can simply adjust their microphone input on their PC or application settings and get moving. The ease of use for the AT2020USB-XP was a delight for me, as I often have to unplug and hide accessories like these from my two-year-old while not at my desk.

Additionally, the interface of the microphone is fantastic. A large power button can be used to start the mic up and mute, with the indicator light inside the body turning blue for “on” and red for “off”. This makes it easy to know when the mic is picking up sound. Additionally, the mic’s volume and mix control can be toggled via dials on the front of the device.

Clear Recording On Your Desk

The AT2020USB-XP also comes with basic desk-stand accessories that allow you to set the microphone up at an optimal angle close to your workspace. The direction and angle can be controlled by two tightening knobs, making tweaks to the cordial sound pattern field easy.

However, the mic sits quite low on my desk using the provided stand, and I found myself wishing for a way to raise it. I ended up using an item on my desk to raise the height of the mic for optimal distance for recording, improving the sound pickup dramatically. Because of this, it might be good for streamers or podcasters to invest in a mount to ensure that the mic is at the correct height and distance for performances.

The AT2020USB-XP Provides Crisp Sound And Mellow Warmth

For those looking for high-quality recordings with minimal background interference, the AT2020USB-XP is a fantastic choice. In daily use during meetings, my voice picks up clear and crisp over both Zoom and Google Meet calls. Additionally, when using the microphone in interviews, it ensures that my vocals are clean and professional while taking out background noise from outside my office.

The most satisfying thing when playing back recordings taken with the Audio-Technica mic is how warm everything sounds. The rich tones in voices are brought to life, making the mic the perfect option for podcasters. There are no sharp or echoing effects – just clear, high-fidelity audio that is a pleasure to listen to.

Verdict

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP microphone lives up to the brand’s reputation, providing a high-quality sound that is fantastic for daily or performance use. While the price tag of the microphone may put some users off, the inclusion of the base stand, as well as the overall ease of use, make it more than worth spending the money on.

I can easily say I would purchase the mount for this microphone, as it is a joy to use on any occasion I can pull it out. It is the perfect blend of convenience and quality, and I can’t recommend it enough.

The significance of an excellent keyboard is an easy thing to overlook when setting up a desk space. We’ve all been there, using the membrane keyboard that came with a desktop long past its life, slowly collecting crumbs and cat hair beneath keys rubbed clean of their letters and numbers. However, updating to an exceptional keyboard can change both gaming and daily work dramatically – and the Everest Max mechanical keyboard by Mountain will have you reaching heights you never knew were possible.

Mountain is known for innovative computer accessories. Earlier this year, we had the opportunity to review the Makalu Max mouse, and the Everest Max keyboard offers similar features. Ergonomics are combined with simplicity and RGB flair, all while providing the sleek, velvety click of mechanical keys. It is a fantastic choice for those wanting to upgrade their keyboard setup.

Key Details

• Base Colors: Gunmetal Gray & Midnight Black
• Stabilizer: Cherry
• Backlight: RGB (Programmable)
• Key Rollover: NKTO over USB
• Polling Rate: 1000Hz
• Keycap Options: ABS or PBT
• 10-Key Numpad: Included (Detachable)
• Wrist Wrest: Included (Detachable)
• Media Control: Included (Detachable)
• Switch Customization: Yes
• Price: $289.99 – $299.99

Programmable Interfaces Make Everest Max Use A Breeze

One of the first things gamers will notice when tugging the Everest Max out of its box is how customizable it is. From the detachable media control center and wrist rest to the freestanding 10-key Numpad with programmable buttons, players can set their keyboard up however they like. The media control center is particularly fantastic, as it can be programmed to show the time, weather, volume, or even just a little personalized picture.

Additionally, the keycaps of the Everest Max can be customized from the base ABS to PBT, with Mountain offering colored caps for those wanting a bit of a snap. Personally, the sleek Black PBT caps mixed beautifully with the RGB backlighting, giving the entire setup a clean, professional look.

My only frustration with the Everest Max’s overall design comes with the 10-Key Numpad. The accessory is attached via a USB-C cable that connects on either side of the pad. However, instead of fitting snuggly alongside the keyboard, it has a gap. While some typists may find this more ergonomic, I found myself wishing I could magnetically snap it in like the wrist rest. The cable distance can sometimes make using the pad awkward.

Everest Max Switch Customization Creates A Smooth Typing Experience

The Everest Max has five different Switch options to pick between when purchasing your model. For this review, we tried the MX Speed Silver, which, once unboxed, types like warm butter on bread. The keys still have that mechanical “snap,” but the speed of the switches is perfect for my fast typing, offering accuracy I will never hit with a membrane keyboard.

Additionally, when using the MX Silver Switches, I could feel the difference between the ABS and PBT keycaps. The ABS is smoother and lighter, and I found I liked the texture of the PBT much better. They feel more durable and have a luxurious grip when typing.

Everest Max Keyboards Pair Perfect with The DisplayPad

While users will have access to a few programmable buttons on the Numpad, the addition of the Mountain DisplayPad is game-changing for busy content creators, gamers, or PC workers. On my customizable buttons, I have quick keys to open important apps and to put my PC to sleep. However, on the DisplayPad, I’ve linked up all my programs and web pages like the Gamepur homepage. Now I can open them with the click of a button, shaving time off my already busy schedule.

However, it should be noted that the DisplayPad isn’t a device for novice PC users. All the buttons need to be programmed in the Mountain software Base Camp, and I found myself relying on old programming knowledge to set up icons and links. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend it for those who just want a quality gaming keyboard with minimal setup.

Band Camp Is Not A Fun Program to Use

Sadly, despite the Everest Max’s overall quality, Mountain’s software Band Camp does not exude the same ease and style. The program interacts badly with some antivirus software. In my case, Avast rejected it upon installation without telling me, and I couldn’t get the Band Camp to open or load on any of my devices until I fully uninstalled Avast.

Once I had swapped anti-virus protection, I found Band Camp’s interface to be a bit clunky. It isn’t entirely clear how to save modes, and the multiple profiles are difficult to organize. Additionally, it doesn’t always reliably activate after waking or rebooting my PC, requiring a hard reset of the media center and the DisplayPad when they glitch.

With an upgrade to Band Camp, all Mountain products would get a huge boost especially because the frustrating interface makes programming aesthetic aspects like the RGB a bit of a pain.

Verdict

The Everest Max mechanical keyboard and its accessories are not a cheap investment, but for those looking to upgrade to a high-end option, it is more than worth the price. As a professional gamer, as well as a writer, I didn’t know what I was missing until I’d had the joy of writing an article and playing Baldur’s Gate 3 on the snappy, luxurious keys.

While the software is a frustrating setback, every other aspect of the Everest Max makes it a delight to use, and its high-quality presentation is sure to elevate any desk it happens to perch on.

The Sony DualSense and Nintendo’s Joy-Cons have a lot going for them, but they can’t match Microsoft’s controllers regarding connectivity across many devices – as most PC gamers can attest. However, those looking for a controller they can use with multiple systems in their home and on the go have a new option, as PowerA has worked with Microsoft to produce the Moga XP-Ultra wireless controller that is the first third-party wireless controller to work on Mobile, PC, and Xbox Consoles.

The Moga XP-Ultra isn’t just compatible in terms of software, as the controller can be taken apart and adjusted like a Transformers toy to fit the user’s needs better. This makes it ideal for home use and traveling, especially for those with limited space when on the go, as the controller can be stripped down to its core with the flick of the switch and turned into a mini controller that can fit in your pocket.

Mega XP-2 Wireless Key Details

• Developer: PowerA
• Accessory: Controller
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Battery: 2000 mAh Rechargeable Battery
• Price: $129.99 USD

What Is The Moga XP-Ultra?

The Moga XP-Ultra is a controller for mobile devices, PC, and Xbox systems. As such, it has a layout based on the Xbox Series X/S controller, which means it has the Share button that older Xbox controllers lack. The Moga XP-Ultra connects wirelessly through Bluetooth and has an expected full charge time of around 30 hours, though it can be plugged in and used as a wired controller if necessary.

This controller is like a two-in-one, or it might be better to describe it as a Transformer. In its full form, the Moga XP-Ultra looks like an Xbox Series X controller with some additional buttons, but if you slide a switch at the bottom (near the audio jack), the hand grips come off, leaving the controller in its mini form. The mini form disconnects the remappable buttons, but everything else is still there for a roughly half-sized controller. 

On top of the standard Xbox buttons, the Moga XP-Ultra has two remappable buttons on the back and a button on the front that activates the Battery Level Meter, an LED display with four bars. When pressed, the LED bars will light up, estimating how much power remains in the controller. The Moga XP-Ultra also has rumble features in both of its forms. 

The Moga XP-Ultra also comes with a Mobile Gaming Clip, which can be used in full and mini forms. This grip clips to the controller on one end and has a sliding adjustable grip on the other, which holds your phone. In addition, two adjustable wheels let you align the phone to your preferred height.

Compatibility

The Moga XP-Ultra is compatible with PC, Xbox systems, and Mobile devices. Linking the controller to these devices is incredibly simple and only takes a few seconds, with PC and Mobile devices pairing it through their respective Bluetooth settings and with Xbox systems using the button on the front of the console. Unlike similar controllers, the Moga XP-Ultra doesn’t require a dedicated dongle on Xbox, and switching connectivity between devices is simple. 

The Good – A Fantastic Controller To Use Across Multiple Gaming Systems

Like most premium controllers, the Moga XP-Ultra is sturdy and incredibly comfortable, with durable analog sticks that feel more responsive than the standard Xbox Series X/S controllers. The additional buttons are a nice bonus for those who use them, and they’re not obtrusive in any way to those who don’t. What makes this controller so good is how simple it is to connect to devices and how quickly it can transition between the different modes and attaching/removing the clip. It’s a seamless process that takes seconds to complete.

The Moga XP-Ultra would be high on the list of items I would take on an extended trip, especially if I had my work laptop and phone. The extensive battery life and the mini mode make it ideal in these circumstances, while the full mode is a high-quality controller for daily use at home.

In an era where consoles wait until the last second to warn the player about the battery on the controller dying, the Battery Level Meter is a godsend, especially as you don’t have to mess around with a system menu to learn how much power is left, as it works even when the controller is switched off. It’s such a simple concept, yet it’s an amazing addition to the Moga XP-Ultra, allowing you to find out if it needs charging before starting a game.

The Bad – The Heaviness Of The Phone In Relation To The Grip In Mini Mode

My only issue with the Moga XP-Ultra involves the mini mode when used with a phone in the grip. For the purposes of this review, I used a Samsung Galaxy A13 and played titles using Xbox Game Pass’ cloud streaming service. When the controller was in its full form, it felt comfortable to hold, and it was easy to put the setup down without fear of it falling over. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case with the mini form, as the size of the controller meant that I struggled to hold up the phone while also holding the controller comfortably in instances where a game required me to use the shoulder buttons. Notably, this is less of an issue with games that primarily use the face buttons. 

The mini controller form does have its benefits, especially for someone traveling, and it’s recommended for wireless use with devices with their own stands, as it cuts down on how much you need to carry, but it’s not ideal for using a mobile phone on its own. I preferred using the full controller setup in this instance, which was way more comfortable and would be worth taking up the extra bit of space for me if I was on the go. 

Verdict

There’s a lot to recommend about the Moga XP-Ultra, and much of it depends on the user’s needs. This is a fantastic choice if you need a controller for different circumstances and devices, thanks to its adaptability and flexibility. If you play a cross-progression game across multiple platforms, like Genshin Impact, this is a great choice, as you can keep using a familiar control scheme. The various modes give you all kinds of customization options and help you to never be separated from the game.

Gamepur team received a review sample for the purpose of this review.

Finding a good mouse that offers solid control and quick command buttons is difficult for any gamer or casual computer user. From everyday struggles like sore wrists to the need for precise control in games, getting it right can be the difference between long days at work and a productive computer session. Thankfully, MOUNTAIN has created an option that is both attractively designed and uniquely customizable – the Makalu Max Mouse.

The Makalu Max has a mixture of features that aren’t expected when purchasing a mouse. From the ability to customize side attachments for improved ergonomics, to weight control for the perfect blend of smooth movement and hand feel, the Makalu has no shortage of ways to fit into your daily computer usage.

MOUNTAIN Makalu Max Mouse Key Details

• Developer: MOUNTAIN
• Accessory: PC Mouse
• Ergonomic: Yes
• RGB Capable: Yes
• DPI: Up to 19000

Makalu Max Mouse Features Customizable Side Panels

One of the first things that stands out about the Makalu Max Mouse is its customizability. Not only can users set the color of their RGB pattern through software like Base Camp, but the mouse also poses magnetic side panels that can be changed out for ergonomic styles.

I tried all of the different attachments and found they each had their uses. The extra wide, rubberized thumb grip was excellent for playing fast-paced games, as it offered extra stability. The side grip with ring and pinky finger grooves also ensured good wrist posture.

However, at the end of the day, the Makalu MAX with the standard side panels was my favorite. The attachments felt like they were built for bigger hands, and sometimes my little, skinny digits just didn’t want to sit correctly on the grooves. With the standard panels, the entire unit fits perfectly to my palm, with the smooth, texturized body preventing slips or drops when working or playing games.

My absolute favorite attachments are the weight rings that can be slipped into the bottom of the mouse. There are three different weights to try, and the middleweight is perfect for me. Without them, the mouse is very light, and I like the added heft for overall use and feeling secure that I won’t accidentally fling it off my desk.

The Makalu Max utilizes both Bluetooth Wireless & USB-C

Bluetooth isn’t always the most reliable feature for gaming mice. Between lag and battery life, many are likely to opt for the wired model to save the hassle. Despite this, the Makalu Max mouse offers a competitive edge with its Bluetooth capabilities.

Utilizing 2.4 GHz RF connectivity speeds, the mouse definitely doesn’t have lag when disconnected from the PC. The movements are clean and zippy, and don’t stutter as you play games or click through spreadsheets.

Unfortunately, it does suffer the classic issue many Wireless mice struggle with when it comes to battery. Because of this, I’ve found I keep it plugged in using the USB-C cable more frequently than I have it disconnected. It’s easier, and I don’t accidentally lose power halfway through the workday.

The Makalu Max Boasts high DPI and stunning RGB

Getting the right DPI on a gaming mouse is a must-have for most invested gamers. The need for accuracy can be life or death, and because of this, I can’t recommend the Makalu Max enough for reliability. The mouse allows you to toggle your control speeds with a DPI button at the top of the device. The four settings make the adjustments easy to do both in and out of gameplay.

Additionally, the Makalu Max has one of the most vibrant RGB rings I have ever seen in a mouse. When I first powered it on, it was the first thing I noticed. After weeks of use, it is still my favorite bit about powering my PC on every day.

The saturated ring of color can also be customized. I’ve had it all shades of blue, and then purple and pink, as well as keeping the original pulsing rainbow to try out the options. They are all beautiful, and add a personalized flair to any desk setup.

Verdict

The Makalu Max mouse by MOUNTAIN is a stunning, well-made, unique gaming mouse that offers more customization than most competitive options. The quality of the device mixed with the ability to adjust it to your own needs makes it a fantastic choice for gamers, pc and desktop workers, or even casual browsers wanting a fun and ergonomic mouse option.

Gamepur team received a review sample for the purpose of this review.