Aerox 5 WL: Sleek, comfy mouse delivering strong gaming performance. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL is a gaming mouse that captivates users with its aesthetic charm and promises an immersive gaming experience. Priced at AU$269 RRP, it positions itself as a premium choice, but does it truly deliver value for the investment? In this comprehensive review, we delve into its specifications, comfort, performance, and aesthetic features to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your gaming needs.
Specifications:
| Sensor | SteelSeries TrueMove Air |
| Sensor Type | Optical |
| CPI | 100–18,000 in 100 CPI Increments |
| IPS | 400, on SteelSeries QcK surfaces |
| Acceleration | 40G |
| Polling Rate | 1000Hz / 1 ms |
|  Number of Buttons | 9 |
| Illumination | 3 RGB zones |
| Weight | 74g |
| Water resistance rating | IP54 – AquaBarrier™ technology |
| Connection | 2.4GHz / Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Battery life | Up to 80 hours 2.4GHz Up to 180 hours Bluetooth |
The Aerox 5 WL boasts a lightweight design accompanied by a range of features. With an IP54 rating, it offers limited splash resistance, making it resilient to minor liquid mishaps. However, it’s important to note that it’s not entirely spill-proof. The dust resistance feature adds another layer of protection, though it falls short of being completely dust-proof due to the presence of visible holes in the mouse body. The mouse’s dual connectivity options, Bluetooth and 2.4 Wireless, provide flexibility for use with both a home gaming PC and a laptop.
Battery life is commendable, supporting prolonged usage without frequent recharging. The inclusion of both Bluetooth and 2.4 Wireless connectivity adds versatility to its functionality. Despite its impressive specifications, the high price tag may raise eyebrows, prompting further exploration to determine if the features justify the cost.
Comfort:
Comfort is a pivotal factor in the gaming mouse experience, influenced by the mouse’s size and shape. The reviewer, with larger hands, found the Aerox 5 WL to be an ideal fit, offering easy access to all buttons and a comfortable grip. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that users with smaller hands may face challenges reaching all the buttons and may experience wrist discomfort due to the mouse’s large and lightweight design.
The button placement, particularly the cluster of three buttons on the left side, may pose issues for some users. The close proximity and lack of distinct features make it easy to press the wrong button, potentially impacting the user experience. For those desiring more button options, the Aerox 9 WL, designed for MMOs with 12 shortcut buttons, could be a preferable alternative.
The honeycomb cutouts on the mouse’s back, initially a concern, turned out to be a unique way to orient the hand and seamlessly integrated into the overall feel of the mouse. Aerox 5 WL: Sleek, comfy mouse delivering strong gaming performance.
Performance:
Adapting to the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL’s sensor placement may require a brief adjustment period, as the sensor sits slightly further back in the mouse body than some alternatives. This adjustment impacts the mouse movement dynamics, requiring a more enthusiastic approach to moving and lifting the mouse.
The TTC Gold switches in the primary buttons contribute to a satisfyingly clicky feel, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The smooth glide of the mouse, facilitated by well-designed feet, adds another positive dimension to its performance. While labeled as a lightweight mouse, it strikes a balance, avoiding the excessively lightweight feel that some users find insubstantial.
The reviewer appreciates the improved control achieved after the adjustment period, highlighting the positive impact on overall movement precision. The performance of the Aerox 5 WL shines through, making it a compelling option for users willing to adapt to its unique characteristics.
Aesthetic Appeal:
The aesthetic allure of the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL adds an extra layer of appeal to potential buyers. While the reviewer wasn’t drawn to the mouse for its associations with Destiny or the bisexual flag, its visual appeal stood out on a black desk and complemented the Destiny SteelSeries QCK Prism Cloth mouse mat. The RGB lights, a staple in gaming devices, contribute to its aesthetic appeal, although the placement may limit the full effect unless the mouse is viewed from specific angles.
The honeycomb cutouts allow the lights to create an attractive glow when not in use, occasionally casting vibrant colors on the user’s hands. The SteelSeries GG software facilitates customization of lighting effects, providing users with control over the visual aspects of their gaming setup.
Verdict:
In conclusion, the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL is not without its flaws, and its suitability largely depends on the user’s hand size and gaming preferences. Users with larger hands may find it to be an excellent fit, offering a blend of comfort and performance across various gaming genres. However, those with smaller hands may encounter challenges, and the placement of buttons may not be optimal for everyone.
While the mouse comes with a premium price tag, its features, including splash resistance, dual connectivity, and customizable RGB lighting, contribute to its appeal. For users who prioritize aesthetics alongside functionality, the Aerox 5 WL stands out with its eye-catching design. Aerox 5 WL: Sleek, comfy mouse delivering strong gaming performance.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in the SteelSeries Aerox 5 WL depends on individual preferences and requirements. If its unique combination of aesthetic charm, comfort, and performance aligns with your gaming needs, the Aerox 5 WL could prove to be a worthwhile addition to your gaming setup.
