Corsair Katar Pro XT Gaming Mouse Review

The Corsair KATAR PRO XT is a lightweight, ambidextrous mouse with two buttons on its left hand. The only difference between it and the Corsair KATAR PRO Wireless is that it’s a wired mouse with RGB stripes on the scroll wheel. It’s well-made and convenient, with a compact scale that’s best for a claw or fingertip grip. It has a short click lag, a short lift-off distance, and a broad CPI range that can be fine-tuned in 1 increments. Unfortunately, the sensor is erratic, and when running quickly, it undershoots the set CPI rather than when moving slowly.

The $29.99 Katar Pro XT is a wired version of last year’s Katar Pro, and it optimizes one of Corsair’s basic gaming mice for competitive gaming. Since it’s such a straightforward build, its claim to fame is simple and understated: a chassis with symmetrical sides that taper dramatically at the middle. This ergonomically unfriendly style will fit for you if you have a different handle, but it will be troublesome for anyone else. And so, a niche style isn’t really a negative thing. The Katar Pro XT can please someone who uses their fingers to push a mouse, unlike smaller mice who end up being “claw-only” mice because they’re so tiny and badly formed.

Basically, this is about professionals.

The Katar Pro XT is a straightforward gaming mouse for right-handed users. It has six keys, all of which are located in standard locations. Two press panels, a scroll wheel, and a DPI-cycle button are located in the middle column on the left. Back and forward keys are located on the thumb side. The mouse is made of nondescript, shaped black plastic and is rather sturdy. A RGB scroll-wheel part, raised, plastic side grips, and the name “/ KTXT” written in a tiny, thin font are the only distinguishing features.

It does, though, have a distinctive size and form. The chassis of the Katar Pro XT tapers on all sides to a thin point. Because of its small base, the mouse can miss thumb protection if you use a normal grip. This forces you to hold the mouse closely, making it uncomfortable to use for lengthy periods of time while PC gaming. A symmetrical configuration is typically reserved for an ambidextrous cursor, such as the Razer Viper, which compromises ergonomics to fit right- and left-handed users.

The emphasis seems to be on reducing weight whilst providing a space for claw- and fingertip-style players to create contact with the mouse in this scenario. At its height, the mouse is still reasonably large, providing natural resting points for your thumb and pinky (in claw grip). Though there has been a spike in the number of tiny, lightweight “micro” mice unofficially built for claw-and-fingertip players, this is one of the first I’ve seen with a concept that actively caters to that audience. To be honest, I believe you can stop using these grips to avoid strain accidents, but if you insist on using one, this mouse can feel more comfortable than others.

With dimensions of 1.5 by 2.5 by 4.5 inches (HWL), the Katar Pro XT is smaller than the average mouse. However, a quarter of an inch will make a significant difference. My mitt barely suits on the Katar Pro XT while held palm style, and I have average-sized paws. Not to mention the fact that the Katar Pro XT is slightly thinner at the middle, making it feel much thinner.

The advantage is that it is significantly lighter than the competition. The Katar Pro XT falls into the esports-focused “ultralight” range, weighing just 2.7 ounces. This is particularly crucial if you’re a claw-and-fingertip gamer who prefers to control the mouse with your digits rather than your whole arm. Normally, I’d think this is just another case of a mouse maker going too hard to reduce a mouse’s weight for spec-obsessed, professional gamers, but considering the mouse’s clear preference for alternative handles, it makes a little more sense here.

The Katar Pro XT is equipped with a Pixart PMW3391 sensor, which is often used in Corsair’s other, more costly mice. It tracks at a maximum of 400 inches per second and a resolution of up to 18,000 DPI. It’s a powerful sensor, particularly for a mouse that costs less than $50.

Don’t Forget Your iCue

The Katar Pro XT, like all Corsair goods, can be customized using the excellent iCue configuration software. The app has a comprehensive collection of controls that are simple to use. Given that the Katar Pro XT only has six buttons and one tiny RGB feature, you’re unlikely to use it much. You should be assured, however, that making improvements is easy.

Season of the Claw

The $29.99 Corsair Katar Pro XT is a budget-friendly mouse with a decent sensor, including its polarizing design. The mouse’s claw-and-fingertip grip nature allows it a niche choice, but one worth considering if you like the play style. The $49.99 HyperX Pulsefire Haste is a lightweight, budget-friendly Editors’ Choice option that’s worth your time and resources if you’re searching for a more conventional gaming mouse.

Originally posted 2021-11-11 12:56:41.