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SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 Gaming Mouse — 2.4GHz and Bluetooth — 18000 DPI TrueMove Air Optical Sensor — 60 Million Click Durability — Light-Weight — 100% PTFE Feet — Black
SteelSeries

SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 Gaming Mouse — 2.4GHz and Bluetooth — 18000 DPI TrueMove Air Optical Sensor — 60 Million Click Durability — Light-Weight — 100% PTFE Feet — Black

4.3(267 reviews, all variants)
Amazon's Choicebudget$0-$49400+ bought in past month
#117 in Computer Mice
dpi
18000 DPI
sensor
Optical
weight
5.5 ounces
wireless
Wireless
battery life
200 Hours
connectivity
Bluetooth
special feature
Gaming

Want the best price and purchase timing?

Our AI advisor analyzes real-time pricing across all channels to find you the best deal.

AI Verdict

This is a 106g wireless gaming mouse with an 18000 DPI TrueMove Air optical sensor and 1.9ms click latency, ideal for budget-conscious gamers prioritizing long battery life over extreme lightness.

Situational Fit

This mouse is a situational fit because its 106g weight with two AAA batteries might be a drawback for some, but its 200-hour 2.4GHz battery life and 1.9ms click latency are strong points for budget gaming. The dual wireless modes also add significant flexibility for different devices.

If weight is a primary concern, look for mice under 80g with an integrated rechargeable battery.

Regret Score™

Low Risk

Lower is better — measures purchase-regret risk from real buyer complaints, review credibility, and product maturity

23/100
vs. 734 Mice we've analyzedSafer than 82%
Hidden Defects
10/35

Issues discovered after purchase

Achilles' Heel
0/25

Critically weak dimension

Expectation Gap
4/20

Amazon rating vs actual quality

Fit Risk
9/20

Chance this product isn't for you

BuyChoice Score
3.6

Pros

  • Offers dual wireless connectivity, allowing switching between 2.4GHz for gaming and Bluetooth for other devices.
  • Features a 1.9ms click latency for responsive gaming actions.
  • Equipped with a TrueMove Air 18K DPI optical sensor providing 1-to-1 tracking at 400 IPS and 40G acceleration.
  • Mechanical switches are rated for 60 million clicks, indicating long-term durability.
  • Provides up to 200 hours of battery life on 2.4GHz and 450 hours on Bluetooth with two AAA batteries.
  • Includes 100% PTFE feet for smooth gliding across surfaces.

Cons

  • Weighs 106g with two AAA batteries, which is considered heavy for a modern gaming mouse.
  • Requires a few seconds to wake up from inactivity when using the 2.4GHz connection.
  • Minimal RGB lighting, primarily serving as an indicator rather than for aesthetic customization.
  • Uses AAA batteries, necessitating regular replacement or the purchase of rechargeable ones.

Dimension Scores

Sensor Accuracy8/10

The TrueMove Air 18K DPI optical sensor provides 1-to-1 tracking at 400 IPS and 40G acceleration, ensuring precise movements without lost tracking.

Ergonomics & Comfort6/10

The mouse features a comfortable symmetrical design, but its 106g weight with two AAA batteries might be considered heavy by some users for extended gaming sessions.

Connectivity8/10

Offers dual wireless connectivity with a gaming-grade 2.4GHz connection (1.9ms latency) and Bluetooth 5.0 for broad device compatibility.

Build Quality7/10

Constructed from solid ABS plastic with no creaking under pressure, and features mechanical switches rated for 60 million clicks, indicating durability.

Best For

  • Gamers who prioritize long battery life for extended sessions without frequent recharging.
  • Individuals needing a wireless mouse that can easily switch between a gaming PC (2.4GHz) and a work laptop or tablet (Bluetooth).
  • Budget-focused gamers seeking a mouse with a high DPI sensor and low click latency for competitive play.
  • Users who prefer a symmetrical mouse shape and a solid, non-creaking build.

Not Recommended For

  • Competitive esports players who require the absolute lightest mouse possible for rapid, precise movements.
  • Users who expect extensive, customizable RGB lighting on their wireless mouse.
  • Anyone who dislikes using replaceable AAA batteries and prefers an integrated rechargeable battery.

Watch Out For

  • The mouse weighs 106g with two AAA batteries, which some users find heavy for a gaming mouse, though it can be reduced to 95g with one battery.
  • When idle, the mouse can take a few seconds to 'wake up' and respond when using the 2.4GHz wireless mode.
  • The wireless version has minimal RGB, mostly for connection indicators, unlike the more extensive RGB on the wired Rival 3 Gen 2.

Full Specifications

ASINB0F69R79PH
BrandSteelSeries
ColorBlack
Batteries3 AAA batteries required. (included)
Item Weight5.5 ounces
ManufacturerSteelSeries
Power SourceBattery Powered
Special FeatureGaming
Operating SystemWindows, macOS, Linux
Item model number62687
Connectivity TechnologyBluetooth
Movement Detection TechnologyOptical
Average Battery Life (in hours)200 Hours

What Buyers Say

The weight of this mouse, at 106g with two AAA batteries, is a recurring point of discussion, with some users finding it heavy for a gaming mouse, though the option to use one battery to reduce it to 95g is appreciated. Users consistently praise the click feel of the mechanical switches, describing them as crisp and responsive with no mushiness. The 1.9ms click latency in 2.4GHz mode is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage for gaming. However, the mouse sometimes takes a few seconds to 'wake up' from inactivity in 2.4GHz mode, which can be a minor annoyance. The 100% PTFE feet are also noted for providing a very smooth glide.

“Okay, so it's a bit chunky with both batteries, but man, those clicks are satisfying and it just tracks everything perfectly, even if I have to wiggle it a bit to wake up sometimes. Worth it for the price, honestly.”

Common Praise

  • Mechanical switches feel super clicky and responsive, without mushiness.
  • The 1.9ms click latency in 2.4GHz mode is nearly indistinguishable from a wired connection.
  • TrueMove Air 18K DPI sensor is reliable and accurate, with no lost tracking during use.
  • 100% PTFE feet provide extremely smooth gliding with no catching or scraping.
  • Battery life is extensive, reaching 200 hours on 2.4GHz and 450 hours on Bluetooth.
  • Side buttons are clickier and stick out more, making them easier to find and activate compared to the previous generation.

Common Complaints

  • The 106g weight with two AAA batteries is considered heavy by some users, particularly for competitive gaming.
  • The mouse can take a few seconds to wake up from sleep mode when connected via 2.4GHz.
  • RGB lighting is minimal, mainly serving as an indicator rather than offering aesthetic customization.
  • Reliance on AAA batteries means either frequent replacements or investing in rechargeable ones.

Ownership Tips

  • Using rechargeable AAA batteries is a must to avoid constantly buying disposables.
  • The dongle storage slot inside the battery compartment is super handy for travel.
  • Removing one AAA battery actually makes a noticeable difference in weight, though you sacrifice some battery life.
  • The scroll wheel has a lot more grip than other SteelSeries mice, which is a small but welcome improvement.
  • The symmetrical shape feels comfortable, even for longer sessions, once you get used to the weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this mouse have RGB lighting?

The wireless version of the Rival 3 Gen 2 has minimal RGB lighting, primarily used for indicators like battery status or connection. It does not feature extensive customizable RGB like some other gaming mice.

What kind of batteries does it use?

This mouse uses two AAA batteries. SteelSeries includes two in the box, but many users recommend purchasing rechargeable AAA batteries for long-term cost effectiveness.

Can I use it with only one battery to make it lighter?

Yes, you can remove one AAA battery to reduce the mouse's weight from 106g to 95g. This will, however, reduce the overall battery life.

Is the sensor accurate for gaming?

The TrueMove Air 18K DPI optical sensor is designed for 1-to-1 tracking with 400 IPS and 40G acceleration, providing reliable and accurate performance for gaming without lost tracking.

What is the click latency?

The mouse boasts an ultra-low 1.9ms click latency when using the 2.4GHz wireless connection, making it very responsive for gaming.

Buying Guide

When looking at gaming mice, you need to think about how you play. If you're into fast-paced competitive games, every gram matters, so a lighter mouse is usually better. For casual gaming or productivity, a slightly heavier mouse with longer battery life might be more practical. Also, consider how you connect: 2.4GHz is for gaming with minimal lag, while Bluetooth is for convenience with multiple devices.

DPI (Dots Per Inch)

This tells you how sensitive the mouse sensor is. A higher DPI means the cursor moves further on screen with less physical mouse movement. While 18000 DPI sounds high, most people use a much lower setting, but it indicates a capable sensor that can track fine movements accurately.

Click Latency

This is the delay between when you click the mouse button and when the computer registers that click. A 1.9ms latency is extremely low, meaning your actions in-game will feel almost instantaneous, which is crucial for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts.

Battery Life

For a wireless mouse, battery life dictates how often you'll need to replace batteries or recharge. 200 hours on 2.4GHz and 450 hours on Bluetooth means you can game for weeks or even months without interruption, which is a huge convenience.

Weight

The mouse's weight affects how quickly and effortlessly you can move it. Lighter mice (under 80g) are preferred by esports pros for quick flick shots, while heavier mice (over 100g) can feel more planted and offer more control for some users, but might cause fatigue over long sessions.

Alternatives

If you need a lighter mouse for competitive FPS, search for wireless gaming mice under 80g. If integrated rechargeable batteries are a must, look for mice that specify a built-in lithium-ion battery.

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