Conclusion

The MX518 Gaming Grade’s selling points aren’t just gimmicks after all. The increased DPI and image processing made gaming much more enjoyable. I tested the MX518 and MX500 and found the MX518 to perform better even set to same 800DPI as the MX500 which I would attribute to the increased image processing.

The DPI sensitivity switching was actually useful when you know what kind of gun you’re going to handle or what situation is coming up. But when you’re just running through a fast paced game not knowing what to expect switching the DPI really isn’t a priority (and to some it may even be a nuisance).

The MX518 carries a retail price tag of $49.99 and is going to try and convince you that if you’re a serious gamer you’ll need the increased image processing and DPI sensitivity switching. But professional gamers did fine without these options so you don’t need them. But if you want to get all the benefits technology can give you and have a spare $50 burning a hole in your pocket then this mouse may be for you. For those of you who already have a MX500 or MX510 and were fragging just fine then there isn’t any real serious need to upgrade.

To sum it all up, for those of you with a buggy optical mouse or a trackball mouse looking for an upgrade and interested in being a serious gamer this mouse is for you. The sensitivity switching while not needed does make gaming life a little easier and the increased DPI and image processing make everything more accurate. If you already have a MX500 or MX510 and weren’t having any problems then don’t go rushing to your local retailer to buy the MX518.

Previous: Performance/Testing