Microsoft is quite well known for launching advanced and reliable computer peripherals, including some pretty interesting gaming mice. And that's exactly the type of product we'll talk about as follows, namely the SideWinder X5, a proud successor of the famous SideWinder model, which provides improved tracking features, customizable buttons, support for macros and much more.



The fact that the X5 has been created especially for gamers is obvious right from its design. Thus, the mouse's shape was specifically adapted for quick, balanced, precise gaming action, while the vertical side buttons allow gamers to locate them easier and reduce the inadvertent actuation risk.



As mentioned earlier, besides it's special shape, the SideWinder X5 also packs a very advanced tracking system, built around the 2000 DPI laser engine. The device attain a maximum image processing speed of up to 7080 frames per second, supports a maximum acceleration of 20 Gs, a maximum speed of over 45 inches per second (114.3 cm / s or 4.11 kilometers per hour) and an USB reporting rate of 500 Hz (full speed).



Microsoft's gaming mouse offers some pretty interesting features as far as its buttons are concerned as well. Thus, the peripheral includes 5 programmable main buttons, which can be customized according to the user's needs, and also supports macros, the included software allowing users to create and assign macros for enhanced programmability.



Just in the same way as most other modern gaming mice, the X5 can also be switched from low DPI for accuracy to high DPI for fast movement. Three buttons instantly switch between 400, 800, and 2000 DPI. Furthermore, the SideWinder also comes equipped with a Quick Launch Button (one-touch access to Microsoft PC Gaming features), a Quick Turn feature (allowing users to check out their entire perimeter by simply pressing a button) and a Wide Rubber Scroll Wheel with detent clicking action.



The Microsoft SideWinder X5 mouse sells for an estimate 50 – 60 US dollars, which is actually a pretty decent price point, given the features and specs this thing can provide.