July Extreme Gaming PC Buyer's Guide
By Thomas Soderstrom :
July 31, 2007
Mouse: Logitech G5 Laser Mouse
Current Cost: $45
Consecutive Guides: 4
Price Change: +$5
The latest advancements in gaming mice have all gone into cordless versions, but there's not much room for improvement when it comes to top-end corded mice. With its incredibly fine 2000 dpi laser sensor, low-friction PFTE mouse feet, on-the-fly sensitivity switching, and adjustable weights, the Logitech G5 Laser Mouse is as good a mouse now as it was when we first picked it.
Keyboard: Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard
Current Cost: $64
Consecutive Guides: 3
Price Change: +$4
Most of us would settle for a nice solid keyboard with good actuation "feel", but Logitech's G15 goes a few steps farther. Starting with a flip-up LCD panel capable of displaying a variety of things, from system statistics to player status and communications (depending on the applet employed), it goes on to offer backlit keys for playing in dark rooms, 18 added programmable keys, media player and volume controls, and a built-in USB hub for convenient connection of a mouse and game controller.
The G15 has been at the top of our list for three consecutive guides, and we're always looking for the next improvement that can meet the needs of most gamers. Once again, we're open to suggestions.
Game Controller: Saitek P3000 Wireless Pad & Docking Station
Current Cost: $30
Consecutive Guides: 13
Price Change: $0
Some games are just easier to play with a handheld controller or joystick, such as racing and several sports games, so it's a good idea to have one around even if rarely play these types of games. One might even consider that complicated keyboard controls are one reason why so many PC owners game on consoles.
Controller selection is dwindling so much that even Saitek's top model P3000 is no longer on its product list, but many online retailers have new "old stock" parts available. Wireless freedom and the inclusion of two rechargeable batteries with charging base differentiate this "obsolete" part from the older and cheaper models Saitek still produces. Get one now, before they're gone!
