People usually scoff when they hear the words, “Gaming Peripherals”. If you don’t game, or you have never tried them, they look to be expensive and unnecessary. However, having used many high-end accessories, I can state they are game-changing and mind-blowing. One of my favourite brands is ROCCAT, and I love them because of their excellent design, their build quality, and the out-of-this-world RGB lighting. Fortunately, their latest toy, the ROCCAT Kone XP Air, outperforms any of its predecessors, and it has a funky docking station included.
The incredibly light and versatile mouse is great for everyday use, as well as being an awesome gaming tool. Thanks to its programmable inputs, monstrous battery life, ergonomic design, and 19k dpi optical sensor, this is a market-leading product. What’s more, its responsive nature will help you to beat every elite gamer you face. However, I know the marketplace is saturated, so will the ROCCAT Kone XP Air stand out amongst its peers?
What’s in the box of the ROCCAT Kone XP Air?
- The sturdy cardboard packaging highlights the key selling points of this phenomenal gaming mouse. Inside, however, I was disappointed to see plastic being used to protect the contents. It’s a minor thing, but I’d prefer ROCCAT to be more mindful of the environment.
- The ROCCAT Kone XP Air. This beautifully lightweight mouse is comfortable to hold and looks fantastic. It comes in a choice of black or white, and I reviewed the black version. Unlike its predecessors, this mouse moves away from the honeycomb RGB lighting grids. But, it has 5 key lighting areas that can be customised to your liking.
- Rapid charge docking station. A small but powerful docking station for your mouse. Never run out of juice and keep your mouse safe by docking it in this stylish and secure charging station.
- PhantomFlex Charging cable. Use this USB-A to USB-C cable to run the mouse hardwired, or to charge the docking station.
- User guide. With many programmable inputs, it is advised that you read this helpful user manual.
Technical aspects.
Having a stylish mouse is all well and good. But what you want is a comfortable, well-built, and responsive device that sets you apart from the crowd. Luckily, the ROCCAT Kone XP Air does just that, and using it will change the way you game, forever more.
The combination of the Owl-Eye 19k DPI optical sensor and the Titan Optical Switches makes this a super accurate and lighting-fast mouse. This uber-fast experience stands out whenever you play FPS titles or attempt any sporting game. Because of its flawless movement, your mouse will feel like an extension of your body. As such, you will excel in any competitive environment and will feel comfortable gaming against the best the industry offers. Alongside this, the quality is assured thanks to the 100 million click life cycle guarantee. Yes, you read that right, 100 million clicks make this a robust and hard-wearing mouse.
So, we know it is rapid as hell, but what about connectivity? Well, ROCCAT has spoilt us with 3 options to choose from. You may forgo the wireless method and use the PhantomFlex cable instead. This method is great if you are lacking battery life, or don’t fancy moving into the 21st century. The other 2 options are 2.4Ghz Stellar Wireless via a USB adapter or Bluetooth wireless with a low latency guarantee. I tested every option available and found the difference to be negligible. As such, I’d recommend wireless gaming for a sleek and professional touch.
If you go wireless, you may worry about the battery life of your device. Well, worry not, as the ROCCAT Kone XP Air has a phenomenal 100-hour + battery. Alongside this, the excellent RGB docking station has a rapid charging facility that’ll keep you in the game. Not only is this a handy accessory, but it complements the RGB aesthetic of the device.
Wonderful and useful aesthetics.
Not only does the ROCCAT Kone XP Air look spectacular, but it is also amazing for MMO titles because of its 29 programmable inputs. On top of this, there is a 4D wheel and an easy shift[+]TM duplicator. Now, this latter statement may confuse the hell out of you, but this is a simple but effective layer of technology. Effectively, this mouse allows you to map other key inputs or macros to your device. Consequently, you can outgun, out manoeuvre and outperform the best gamers at the click of a button.
As well as the extra buttons, ROCCAT has focussed on a wonderfully ergonomic design that feels comfortable in your hand. This is incredibly important when gaming for extended sessions. However, of equal importance is the PTFE gliding plates that allow the mouse to glide effortlessly. These buttery smooth pads reduce friction and ensure your experience is accurate and precise.
Finally, the ROCCAT Kone XP Air syncs with any AIMO-related technology you own. This creates a truly spectacular lighting display that is eye-opening and professional to look at. What’s more, the translucent shell enables each of the 5 RGB colour zones to be customised and easily seen.
Is the ROCCAT Kone XP Air worth it?
I asked whether this would stand out amongst its peers! The answer, it absolutely destroys its rivals. Thanks to its incredible design quality, programmable inputs, vivid RGB, optical sensors, amazing battery life, and quick charging facility, this is head and shoulders above its counterparts.
Alongside all of this, you have to admire its 100 million click guarantee, the Owl-Eye 19k DPI sensor, and its ergonomic approach. If you love FPS, racing, or MMO titles, then this mouse will make all the difference. I adored the ROCCAT Kone XP Air, and I recommend you buy it here!
(More information on ROCCAT can be found here!)
