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The Endgame Gear XM1r is the latest iteration of the XM1 mouse and it is a clear improvement on the original XM1 that we looked at almost two years ago.
The first thing you need to know is that all XM1 variations use the same core design, so we're not seeing anything new here in terms of the shape. The XM1r, however, does sport new Kailh 8.0 primary switches, and while I always really like the Omron switches in the XM1, I do find the Kailh switches to be an improvement, with a great amount tactility in each click.
In fact, the buttons have been improved across the board, with the side buttons also feeling a lot tighter and more crisp compared to the XM1, while the scroll click is also noticeably lighter. At the time, I loved the buttons on the original XM1, so to see improvements in every area with the XM1r's buttons is high praise indeed.
Build quality is just as good too, though Endgame Gear has improved the coating applied to the shell – to me it feels grippier than before, while also does a much better job at hiding any grease or skin oil residue left on the plastic. Add in the PAW 3370 sensor, capable of a lower lift-off distance than the PMW 3389 used in the XM1, and the XM1r really does feel like the complete package.
That is, until we come to the software. For reasons I can't quite fathom, the software is still in beta months after the mouse first launched. Compounding that is the fact that you can't even find a link to download the beta software on the downloads section of Endgame Gear's website, and instead you have to join the company's Discord server. I really can't quite wrap my head around why that is the case, it certainly isn't a great reflection on Endgame Gear and I know they can – and should – do better here.
My only other issue is with the cable. Granted, compared to the rubber cable on the original XM1, the Flex Cord 2.0 used here is miles better. However, compared to the 1st generation Flex Cord that debuted when the XM1 was re-released, I do feel like this is a slight backwards step just in terms of overall flexibility and stiffness. Endgame Gear says the new design is more durable, and it's great if that is the case. I just feel giving users a great paracord-style cable, but then making it slightly less flexible with the next iteration, isn't the best outcome.
Still, the XM1r is a fantastic mouse overall and I'd definitely call it the definitive XM1 model. It may seem harsh, but for me the bizarre and honestly quite frustrating software experience means I can't fully justify giving this our top award, even if I know I am going to use the XM1r as my daily driver going forward. it still earns a strong recommendation though, especially if you are a claw grip user. I, for one, am excited to see what comes next from the company.
You can buy the XM1r from Overclockers UK for £49.99 HERE.
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Pros
- Great shape for claw grip.
- Very cool translucent design.
- Buttons have been improved across the board compared to the original XM1.
- Build quality is excellent.
- New coating is grippier and shows less grease/skin oils.
Cons
- Software is still in beta and has to be downloaded via Discord.
- Flex Cord 2.0 is slightly less flexible than the 1st generation Flex Cord.
KitGuru says: The XM1r is a fantastic all-round gaming mouse. I just can't quite wrap my head around why the software is still in beta months after the launch of this mouse.
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