Pulsar is a pretty new name in the gaming mouse scene, with about 2 years of experience under its belt. The Pulsar X2 Mini is the second mouse after the Xlite, and it also comes is a regular size if you have medium to large hands. The Pulsar X2 Mini retails for S$159.
Unboxing
In the box, you’ll find the following:
- X2 Mini Wireless Mouse
- Wireless Receiver adapter
- Wireless Receiver
- Superflex Paracord USB-C Cable
- Sticker
- User manual
It would have been nice if Pulsar included grip tape in the box.
Tech specs
| Dimensions | Length: 4.56in (116mm) Width: 2.4in (61mm) Height: 1.45in (37mm) |
| Weight | 52 grams |
| Sensor | PAW3395 26000 DPI 650 IPS 50g Acceleration 1000Hz/1ms Polling Rate |
| Buttons | 1. Left click 2. Right click 3. Back button 4. Forward button 5. Scroll click 6. DPI button (underside) |
| Switches | Kailh GM 8.0 (main) TTC Gold Encoder (scroll) |
| Feet/Skates | PTFE |
| Battery life | 70 hours per full charge |
| Charging port | USB-C |
Build quality and weight
Despite its light weight of 52g, the Pulsar X2 Mini feels very solid in my hand. There is no rattle heard when shaking the mouse horizontally, but I do hear slight rattling when shaking it up/down. When applying pressure on the shell of the mouse, I don’t hear any creaking of the plastic.
The 52 grams weight of the Pulsar X2 Mini is delight when using in competitive shooter games. And it is lighter than the ever popular Logitech G Pro Superlight of 63 grams. I did not experience any accidental clicks when slamming the mouse.
Buttons
The main buttons utilises Kailh GM 8.0 switches that offers a snappy and satisfying clicks. There is minimal pre-travel and very slight post-travel. I would categorize the weight of actuating the switch as ‘medium’ if you are press them at the main buttons. But if you have an aggressive claw grip with fingers tucked further back, then it will feel heavier. Comparing to the Logitech G304/305, the buttons on the G304 are just a tad lighter.
I also like how the main buttons have slight grooves to provide a nicer resting spot for your fingers. And the button placement of the Pulsar X2 Mini are also lower than other mice that I’ve tried. This also makes it a more comfortable experience especially for claw grip as your fingers won’t be curled up too much.
As for the side buttons, they are great to use. Pulsar equipped a Huano switches in these and they feel responsive and crispy. The size and placement of the side buttons are good, conveniently located right under my thumb for accurate clicks when desired.
You can check out the clicks and scroll wheel sounds below:
Scroll wheel
The scroll wheel has a rubberised texture to it for grip, and offers defined tactility in each steps for controlled scrolling. When scrolling, noise levels are on the low side for my ears. The click for the scroll wheel do require some force to actuate.
Coating
Pulsar X2 Mini has a smooth matte surface that is consistent across the entire shell. I would say that there is some amount of coating to it, but it will instantly feel minimal if your hands starts to sweat. The surface is easy to clean and does not leave fingerprints lingering. I’d recommend getting a grip tape (unfortunately not included in the box) for better grip when gaming.
Shape and fit
The Pulsar X2 Mini is a symmetrical mouse with straight sides that has a very slight inward curve. The back also has a slight flare out, with the hump located more towards at the mid-back area which slopes down. I’d say that the Pulsar X2 Mini will mainly suit claw and fingertip grip styles. The lack of a pronounce hump at the back will make it hard for a palm gripper.
My hand size measure 18cm * 8.5cm, and the Pulsar X2 Mini fits my hand pretty well in a claw grip. The lower hump height allows me to pull the mouse back into my palm while maintaining the ability to do micro-adjustments. If you prefer some sort of support at the back of your palm then the Mini size might a too small to provide that unless you use an aggressive claw grip.
Performance
The stock feet on the Pulsar X2 Mini are PTFE with rounded edges. The glide on these feet is smooth. If you want to switch them out to Superglide feet for example, there are small indents at the sides of the feet to make it easier to remove. Pulsar X2 Mini is equipped with the PAW3395 sensor, which is ahead of the 3370 variant that comes in the Pulsar Xlite V2. The sensor supports up to 26,000 DPI.
With the Pulsar Fusion software, you can adjust the polling rate of the Pulsar X2 Mini between 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, and 1000Hz. You can also change the minimum lift-off distance (LOD) to its lowest 1mm. Pulsar X2 Mini has a feature called ‘Motion Sync’ which aims to deliver more consistent motion tracking. Lastly, you can adjust the debounce time as well. I’d experienced some double clicking issues when setting the debounce time to 0ms. I found 4ms to be a good middle ground from the 8ms default setting. All these settings made in the app are saved on-board the mouse, so it retains your adjustments wherever you use the mouse.
As for battery life, the Pulsar X2 Mini is rated at 70 hours per full charge. I got about 2-3 weeks of use before seeing the battery indicator flash red.
Conclusion
If you have small to medium hands and main a claw or fingertip grip, the Pulsar X2 Mini is a solid choice for consideration. It has great build quality and excellent sensor. I like the shape of the Pulsar X2 Mini as it fits my relaxed claw really well, and the lightweight 52g makes it a joy to play with.