When comparing Microsoft Intellimouse Explorer 3.0 vs Cougar 450M, the Slant community recommends Cougar 450M for most people. In the question“What is the best gaming mouse?” Cougar 450M is ranked 47th while Microsoft Intellimouse Explorer 3.0 is ranked 68th. The most important reason people chose Cougar 450M is:
The cable is braided so it doesn’t bend easily.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Great tracking
Although only a 400 DPI mouse, it tracks accurately without acceleration, angle snapping or prediction.
Pro 1.2mm lift-off distance on every surface
Pro Wider base gives more wrist support
Pro Programmable buttons
Side buttons can be programmed.
Pro Customization software is easy to use
Pro Customize sensitivity settings
With Precision Booster feature.
Pro Resistant braided cable
The cable is braided so it doesn’t bend easily.
Pro DPI button binding can be configured
The DPI button, which is located on top of the mouse, is actually a profile changing button and can be tied to button configuration or lighting options.
Pro Long list of customization options, for a budget mouse
This mouse has some basic sensor-related customization.You can modify the polling rate, DPI amount, lift-off distance and even angle snapping. The angle snapping is an on/off choice instead of a slider. Its UIX companion software has an extensive list of customization options, notably long for a budget mouse. It includes lighting options, button rebinding, macros, DPI changing, multiple profiles and several other smaller features that even other non-budget mice don’t have.
Pro Good performance for fluid gaming
The Cougar 450M uses the Avago 3310 sensor and presents no jitter, acceleration or smoothing. The DPI choices ranges from 50 all the way up to 5000 with increments of 50. For this sensor, every DPI step of 50 should work equally well, so you don’t have to worry about keeping track of native DPI settings.
Pro Easy to manipulate
Being an ambidextrous mouse, it avoids unconventional shapes and stay true to the classic mouse design. To facilitate control and finger grip, it has a slight incline located at the side and its sides are covered in textured plastic.
Pro Good for left hands and right hands
The mouse has an ambidextrous design, making it a possible choice for left-handed users. It also has extra buttons on both sides, so they can be used on both use cases.
Pro Sensor is able to reliably track precise movements
It’s Avago optical sensor is a solid performer recognized many mouse enthusiasts. You can rely on it to track precise movement without worrying about acceleration or jitter.
Pro Great value
Despite the low price point, this mouse still maintains a respectable list of features. It has a good shape, reliable sensor and plenty of customization options. It bridges the gap between low cost and high quality while still being well built.
Cons
Con Minor sensor rattle can be slightly annoying
There is some minor sensor rattle which is common with cheaper mice but otherwise has no effect in performance.
Con Companion software is only available for Windows
The UIX companion software is only available for Windows.
Con Feels somewhat cheap and gets dirty easily
The body of the mouse is covered with smooth, glossy plastic that feels cheap and can easily get greasy from sweat after prolonged use. Some people might find it uncomfortable to use and a hassle to clean often.