The MSI Clutch GM41 lightweight wireless mouse feels like MSI is trying to recreate the magic of the Razer Viper Ultimate. This lightweight full-shell gaming mouse features a symmetrical design, clicky Omron switches, a high-performance 20,000 DPI sensor, and excellent battery life. MSRP is $95, about $50 less than the Viper. [I've been using the GM41 exclusively for the past few weeks and enjoy the great feel in my hand, quick response to in-game commands, and precise control when aiming. Lately I've been obsessed with Dying Light 2 and Lost Ark, and the GM41 has performed flawlessly with both. I also used it on my work MacBook for precision design work, and even there it played comfortably without the odd behavior that is common when using Windows-only peripherals on a Mac.
However, I noticed a few issues that might explain its low price: the GM41 is indeed an ergonomic mouse that is gentle on the hand, but the build quality is not as good as Razer's rodents. For starters, on my individual unit, there was noticeably greater rattling when the scroll wheel rotated, and one of the thumb buttons on the side was quite loose.
However, the rest of the GM41 is quite solid. The hard plastic shell doesn't creak, and we're big fans of the textured rubber side grips. Theoretically, the symmetrical design allows left-handed people to use this mouse, but unless you have very dexterous little fingers, you'll have to forgo the side buttons.
At 74 grams, the GM41 is not the lightest rodent you can lay your hands on, but it is light enough not to get in the way, yet heavy enough to remind you that you are holding a gaming mouse. There are plenty of PTFE skates on the bottom that allow the GM41 to move smoothly on most surfaces.
The overall design of the GM41 is simple and understated. The only flourishes are the Mystic Light Powered Dragon logo on the back and the distinctive textured rubber sides. Because Mystic Light is single-zone, customization is very limited, with options limited to changing colors or pulsing.
For switches, MSI used Omron mechanical switches, which MSI says are guaranteed to last over 60 million headshots. However, most gaming mice in this price range have similar switches.
The same goes for the 20,000 DPI Pixart PAW3370 optical sensor with 400 IPS tracking. For most people, anything over 4,000 DPI is useless for both gaming and work, and I still don't understand why manufacturers keep trying to increase this zero number. Thankfully, you are not forced to use all DPIs; you can set them as you wish using the MSI Center software and switch between them with a button at the base of the mouse.
The GM41 is a wireless mouse that uses the 2.4Ghz band and a small USB dongle that connects to a PC or the included charging pack; MSI claims a 1ms response time, but honestly, we could not tell the difference compared to a wired mouse. There is also a convenient indentation on the front of the mouse to store the dongle for travel.
The GM41 works perfectly with the included USB cable if you absolutely want to avoid delays and interference or simply want to charge the battery. Quite frustratingly, however, MSI has chosen to use a Micro-USB connector on the GM41. Why MSI?" Literally every modern device in 2022 uses USB Type-C. It is not inconceivable that you may need to charge your device on the go and suddenly find yourself without a Micro-USB cable at hand.
Thankfully, given the excellent 80-hour battery life, you should never find yourself in that situation - especially if you keep your mouse docked in the charging pack overnight. The battery could always be used up for a week before needing to be recharged. The GM41 also recharges quickly in just 10 minutes and has a great 9-hour battery life.
The MSI Clutch GM41 is a good, safe wireless gaming mouse. It won't blow your socks off, but it won't let you down either. There are some nagging issues with how well this mouse will hold up in the long run, and the Micro-USB. But it fits well in your hand, has good battery life, and performs close to the best wireless gaming mice, but without the same high price tag. If you're looking for a rodent without a tail, be sure to check out our guide to the best wireless gaming mice.
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