Sensei [Raw] (Hardware) Review

To most people a mouse is often just a mouse. The average computer user isn’t concerned with a mouse’s CPI or how many programmable buttons it has. However, in the world of PC gaming these factors and more are very important indeed. Steel Series makes no claims about how their mice will make you a better gamer, but they do feel that a mouse is a tool, and like any other, if you want to be the best, you need to have the best tools.

The Sensei [RAW] is essentially a less flashy version of Steel Series’ Sensei mouse and while it may be less flashy, it’s certainly not inferior. Yes, the Sensei has more features that then Sensei [RAW] but most of those features are for those pro-level players who need to fine tune their mouse until it’s exactly perfect. Those are the people that bring home big cash prizes from gaming tournaments, but for the average gamer who just wants to play some games with a decent mouse the Sensei [RAW] is a really good fit. Personally, I have no use for things like on-board profiles, or illumination in 16.8 million colours, or an LCD menu system. I just want a mouse that is responsive, comfortable, and easy to use and the Sensei [Raw] is all of those.

The Sensei [Raw] features an ambidextrous design, an anti-tangle cord, seven programmable buttons and a very comfortable rubberized finish. I have used many mice over my gaming career featuring all sorts of strange ergonomic designs, but nothing has been as comfortable as the Sensei [RAW]. It might be the rubberized finish, or the simple design, but so far I’ve yet to experience any hand cramping and have been able to move my cursor, reticle and crosshairs with precision and purpose. Comfort is key when playing for long periods of time and the Sensei [Raw] is one of the most comfortable mice I’ve ever used.

One design choice I could have done without was the location of the two buttons on the side of the mouse. On each side of the mouse right above where you thumb would go there are two buttons, being right-handed the two located on the left side of the mouse didn’t bother me, in fact, they’re very useful for switching between weapons. However, those same two buttons are also found on the right side of the mouse and I did have a problem with my ring and pinky fingers accidentally hitting those buttons. So far that seems to be the only flaw because otherwise the mouse glides as smooth as silk and is a joy to play with.

A lot of research has gone into this mouse as well as the whole Sensei line. Steel Series consulted with pro gamers across many different leagues to ensure that this was a mouse capable of dealing with any situation. Pro players of games like League of Legends, StarCraft II, and Counter-Strike had input on the Sensei’s design and it shows. This is a quality mouse, and will suit the needs of any one who plays games on their PC. While the Sensei [RAW] may not have as many of the bells and whistles you’ll find on the other mice in the Sensei line, it gives you just as much mouse while coming in at a more modest price point. If you’re in the market for a new mouse and are looking for something beyond a device that just goes click, the Sensei [RAW] from Steel Series is definitely worth picking up.