The panorama of gaming mice under 50 Euros has been enriched a few weeks ago with a new proposal from MSI, the Clutch GM31 Lightweight in the wired version (there is also a wireless variant, which you can find here). It is an ultralight mouse (it weighs only 58 grams) and quite compact, even if not on a par with some "mini" versions of competing products; this affects ergonomics, which will greatly depend on both the type of handle you have and the size of your hand.
Technical features
The MSI Clutch GM31 Lightweight is equipped with OMRON switches certified for over 60 million clicks and a PixArt PMW-3360 optical sensor that reaches up to 12000 DPI and 1000Hz polling rate. On the left side there are two other configurable buttons (the mouse is not symmetrical, therefore not suitable for left-handed people), while below there is a key to quickly change the DPI. The MSI logo on the back is illuminated by RGB LEDs, configurable (like all other mouse settings) from the MSI Center.The mouse measures 120 x 64 x 37 mm and is made of good quality plastic, furthermore on the sides there is a non-slip rubber coating with diamond texture, which always ensures an excellent grip. The same texture is taken up by the rubber coating of the wheel, which offers good feedback during use. To complete the technical equipment, we find 100% PTFE feet and a FrixionFree cable, designed by the Taiwanese company to minimize friction on the mat, preventing it from negatively affecting movements.
Experience d 'usage
We used this MSI Clutch GM31 Lightweight for some time in our gaming sessions, to better evaluate its capabilities. We mostly focused on MOBA and FPS, types of games where the mouse moves a lot and precision is essential. The overall experience is good, the mouse performs well at different DPI levels (400 for FPS, 1600 for MOBA) and with the polling rate set to 1000Hz.After years of wireless mice we are back to the cable with some reservations, promptly dissolved by use in play. The cable slides very well on the mat and, while not guaranteeing the total freedom of a wireless solution, it does not result in a weight that slows down or strains movements, even the widest ones. The merit also goes to the PTFE feet, which slide very well, guaranteeing the right friction and ensuring precise movements. The diamond texture on the sides is another plus that offers perfect grip for several hours and in any situation, even the most hectic ones.
Ergonomics was another element on which we had some doubts, since we have large hands and this mouse, by MSI's own admission, is designed more for those with small hands. Precisely because of this feature, our experience was not the best: the mouse is too small for our hand, the ring and little fingers have no support and rest on the mat, an element that creates some discomfort in the long run. However, we emphasize that this does not mean that the mouse is rejected from an ergonomic point of view, simply that it is more suitable for those with small hands. Nothing to report instead regarding the types of grip: the classic shape allows you to use palm, fingertip and claw indifferently.
Verdict
The wired MSI Clutch GM31 Lightweight has a list price of €49.99, in line with the features offered but which positions it in a very crowded segment in which it is not always easy to emerge. MSI's solution has interesting features (such as the cable, the non-slip surface and the PTFE feet) that make it stand out over some of the competing products, but which at the same time make it suitable only for a certain niche of the public.In fact, ergonomics is an element to which particular attention must be paid: as we have told you, the mouse is suitable for those with small hands, while it is more uncomfortable for those with larger ones. If you are among these users, looking for a good value for money and don't necessarily want a wireless solution, this MSI Clutch GM31 Lightweight is undoubtedly an option to consider.