What is dpi in a mouse?

Today, gaming-focused mice are released with high DPI and polling rates. But what do these specifications really mean and what high values ​​are really useful?

These specifications are generally more important to gamers, which is why the values ​​tend to be seen prominently in the advertising and packaging that gaming mice bring. Know that you don't need high precision or fast reaction time when browsing the web or working on a spreadsheet. And you don't even have to worry too much, unless you're playing those typical games where a competitive advantage matters.

Arguably, however, a mouse with good precision can also be important to graphic artists and designers. Let's see what these specifications mean.

Index of contents

Basics of modern mice

There was a time when PC mice contained a rubber ball that rolled (and picked up dirt) as it moved through a pad. The movement of the ball was picked up by mechanical rollers that translated the movement of the mouse into something that your computer could understand. Those days are over, and today we have optical and laser mice.

Modern optical mice contain a light, usually red, and a small camera. As the mouse moves, the light shines on the surface below the mouse and the camera takes hundreds of photos per second. The mouse compares the images and determines the direction in which the mouse moves. The mouse then sends this motion data to the computer and the computer moves the cursor across the screen. Laser mice work similarly, but they use infrared light instead of visible light.

What is DPI in a mouse

Points per inch (DPI) is a measure of the sensitivity of a mouse. The higher the mouse DPI, the farther the screen cursor will move when you move the mouse. A mouse with a higher DPI setting detects and reacts to smaller movements.

That doesn't make you more precise; it does the exact opposite. A higher DPI in a mouse doesn't offer much value, and it's not a benchmark for calculating the precision or quality of a mouse. It is simply a measure of sensitivity.

What DPI should I set my mouse to?

It is recommended to try different configurations. Different mice have different DPI, and we also have different screen resolutions, operating systems, and games, which interpret mouse signals differently. All of the above affects the optimal setting of the sensor.

Also, all people have their own mouse holding habits and different motor skills Gamers have been debating about DPI ever since Microsoft popularized the optical mouse in the late 90's as it has become a cult topic.

Physical specifications

It is common to come across a physical button at the top (below the Scroll), bottom or side of the mouse. Press or slide the switch to adjust the mouse sensitivity. The LCD of the mouse shows the DPI setting or a message appears on the monitor informing of the change. The mouse may have more than one specific button, although some mouse models only have one switch.

Optional DPI control

If the mouse sensitivity is what you want, leave the switch alone and continue using the device. Like other controls, you can adjust the switch, as well as return it to its original settings, as it suits you. Any change in the mouse's DPI is effective immediately and does not require you to restart the computer.

DPI mouse models

Not all mouse models contain specific buttons for adjusting mouse speed, including models that come with computers from major retailers and electronic resellers. DPI-enabled mouse models are available from a variety of manufacturers, including Corsair, Microsoft, CM Storm, Logitech, and Razer, among others. Note that you cannot add a DPI button to a mouse that does not contain one (logical thing).

Adjustment through Windows

You can also adjust the mouse sensor settings through Windows, even if the mouse doesn't have a physical DPI switch.

Press the Win + X key in Windows 10, click on " Control Panel ". Then scroll to the " Mouse " option. A window will open. Go to the "Pointer Options" tab .

Once there, in the "Movement" section , choose "Slow" or "Fast". Click "Apply" and then click "OK" to accept the settings.

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