Microsoft Habu Gaming Mouse

I mentioned that this mouse was all about Razer, and it really is. There is a huge Razer logo on the CD-Rom, so it gives you a hint as to what to expect after installing.

The software is identical for the most part to the software that Razer themselves include with all their mice.

There is a -lot- of customization to be had here. Each of the buttons can be configured to perform a variety of functions.. even the scroll wheel. As you can see to the left of the application, you can get into the sensitivities for all of the axis, if you are just that hardcore.

Really, I love this application. I like most the fact that everything you need is right there, no need to sort through various tabs to get to the function you need. For those who do not enjoy the LED inside the mouse, you can turn off the scroll button and glow-pipe, or both.

The mouse when first installed uses both version 1 of the software and firmware, but there were updates on Razers website, so I promptly downloaded it. It’s a simple process, but you need to pay close attention to the instructions in order to accomplish the update successfully. When done, as you can see in the picture, I was left with version 2.01 of the firmware.

One last thing I will touch on is the fact that you can set up to five different profiles within the software. Reasons could be that you enjoy different response-times or button configurations for some games, or you have a family member who wants their own profile.

Overall, great software that’s easy to use. They even allow you to alter your axis sensitivities! I couldn’t really see anything that was left out.

I tested out the mouse using two games that I am very familiar with: Half-Life 2 and Oblivion. At first, I found the Habu took a little getting used to. It’s not that it was uncomfortable, but I’ve been used to using Logitech G5 and similar mice for the past two years. All of the gaming mice from Logitech tend to have the same base design, so to say I was in tune with it would be an understatement.

After some time though, the Habu grew on me. In fact, I might actually enjoy it a tad -more- than the G5 that I have been using. It’s simply a comfortable mouse to use. I liked the way my hand covered the mouse compared to the G5.. it felt more natural. So in that regard I was quite pleased.

The buttons are also well placed. As you can see in an earlier picture, you have the option between to side panels, which change the position of the buttons slightly. After testing with both, I found the default layout to be the most comfortable, but your experiences may vary.

With regards to the on-the-fly DPI buttons, I was not keen on the location of those at first either, since they are indented into the mouse a bit. After switching between the Habu and G5 though, I realized how much better it actually was. It felt more natural, once again, on the Habu to lift the index finder and push the buttons there, than on the G5.

As a quick test, I wanted to see how much I had to bend my index finger to push those buttons, on both mice in question. Without a doubt, I did not have to bend my index finger as much on the Habu as I did the G5. Depending on the size of your hand, this again may vary.

The Habu’s average retail price hovers around $55, so it’s not exactly cheap. After using the mouse though, I am confident in recommending it to anyone who’s looking for a new mouse or someone who’s looking for something a little different. I’ve been used to using Logitech G mice for the past few years, so I found the Habu to be a refreshing change.

That said, I found the Habu to be an excellent gaming mouse, but I didn’t enjoy it as much for desktop work. I deal a lot with Photoshop and have to be precise with a few photos I edit, and I just didn’t find this mouse to be the best for that job, so I plan to switch between the Habu and G5 depending on what I need to do.

As it stands, this is a great product. It costs a little more than a few other mice on the market (but less on average than Razers own DeathAdder) and offers a lot to the consumer. How many mice allow you to alter your sensitivity on a per axis basis?

As for this being a Microsoft Habu, I am not sure just how much part they had in the design process seeing as Razers name is plastered everywhere, but the only fact that matters is that it’s a product worthy of receiving a nine out of ten on our scale.

Pros
• Well designed product, comfortable to use
• Blue LEDs implemented well
• Software offers much customization
• Backed by Razer quality

Cons
• Might not be perfect for desktop work

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