When it comes to gaming mice, the current trend seems to be the lighter the better. This allows for easier movement, less fatigue, and smaller brag numbers to put on the box. Mouse manufacturers around the world are looking for ways to reduce weight, even by just a few grams, and this is especially true for wireless mice, as batteries add weight. Still, companies like SteelSeries are doing their best to reduce that weight, even if it means imprinting diamonds on the plastic exterior of the mouse.

This is a big part of the aesthetics of the latest SteelSeries Aerox mouse models, including the Aerox 5 Wireless; the Aerox 5 Wireless continues this theme with a diamond cut on the back. This creates a cool effect with RGB lights shining through the plastic grating.

Despite the marketing emphasis on spectacular RGB lighting, we feel that you should see more of it during use; it is fully customizable in SteelSeries' GG software, but the RGB lights are most noticeable when held upside down or not in use, so it almost It feels like an afterthought. Many mice have this cutout style. Of course, when it comes to a good gaming mouse, RGB lighting is not that important, but if you look at these pictures and expect to see the Northern Lights in your hand, consider that dream a couple of well-steamed hams.

Speaking of feel, the Aerox 5 Wireless is a fairly long mouse with a high curve that arches over the back of the palm. This allows for a relaxed and comfortable fit when the hand is placed further back. From this position, the two main buttons, scroll wheel, DPI adjuster, and most side buttons are easily accessible; the two regular side buttons and one vertical switch button are positioned where the left-hand side thumb sits. These are really easy to use and can be programmed to bring out many functions.

The vertical buttons are particularly well suited for general use and browsing, but may feel a bit stiff for speedy touch during gaming.

However, there is one forward button for the thumb, which can only be reached if the mouse is held in a more claw-like style. This mouse has proven to be quite comfortable to use with either of the common grip styles, but those who prefer to sit their hands more back may have trouble without the extra side button in most cases.

In games, I found myself moving the mouse more because of the lighter form factor. This meant that I could react more easily and make flick shots in tingly shooters. I wouldn't say that this mouse made me a better shooter, but it did allow me to react more easily and take bigger action. The smooth tracking makes it glide well, and the easy-to-reach buttons are satisfying to click when it's my turn. I don't plan on doing a sweet high-skill kill spree anytime soon, but there's a chance I'll actually give it a try.

The SteelSeries Aerox 5 wireless mouse comes with a USB Type-A to Type-C cable for charging and a USB Type-C dongle. Both can be used with the included weighted desk adapter with rubber feet, which connects the end of the USB cable to the receiver. This mouse can also be used even if your PC does not have a USB Type-C port. This combination means that potential delays can be addressed by optimizing the receiver's position relative to the mouse.

Thankfully, latency has not been an issue in my experience, and it really shouldn't be, as today's wireless mice have come a long way. I moved the dongle around a bit for testing and have yet to experience any noticeable latency while gaming; the Bluetooth connection also seems very solid, but I mostly used it for low latency tasks.

There is also SteelSeries GG software. It can monitor the battery and change various settings such as RGB lighting options and mouse sensitivity. There are many options for different settings, and it is great for configuring the settings to your liking. It is not the most beautiful and feels a bit clunky, but there are enough options for those who need them.

However, the battery seems to suffer a bit, perhaps to keep this mouse light. If you're going to use this mouse seriously, you'll likely need to charge it daily. While the battery savings are great when idle, gaming and constant use can take its toll; SteelSeries' GG software often misrepresents the amount of charge, and the battery can run out sooner than expected. I have yet to have my battery run out while gaming, but you can never be too cautious.