We are using a new addition to our scoring system to provide additional feedback beyond a flat score. Please note that the final score isn't an aggregate average of the new rating system.

Winning ergonomic characteristics; Self-calibration for any surface; EasyShift on-the-fly macro system; Voice feedback for (some) of the features is a definite plus

None; The only minor issue that did not reflect on the final scoring is the startling quality of the voice feedback

Roccat has let a new mouse loose on the gaming world, the Roccat Kone [+] ($79.99 list)-and this one knows how to talk. With Roccat's Talk technology, the mouse can be used in conjunction with the Roccat Isku illuminated gaming keyboard ($89.99 list, 3.5 stars), sharing functions for more intuitive...

Comfortable design with adjustable weight; 6000dpi sensor; EasyShift[+] and programmable macros add huge functionality; RoccatTalk lets it team up with a keyboard

No wireless option

German peripheral manufacturer ROCCAT recently upgraded its gaming mouse line-up with the release of the Kone XTD. Based entirely on Kone [+] from an ergonomic viewpoint, but now touting an upgraded sensor, beefed-up processor and better-built buttons, the £75 XTD is designed to appeal to the...

Excellent software; Cool lighting effects; Super-accurate sensing; Top-class gliding

Hard-to-reach button below scroll wheel; Minor improvements over Kone [+] for most users; Feels a little too big in small/medium-sized hands

A good gaming mouse boasts a few key features: comfort, accuracy and a healthy dose of kick-ass. With a 6,000 DPI laser sensor, a nice soft-touch body and some customizable lighting, the $79 Roccat's Kone[+] mouse has all that and more.

Attractive design; Nice comfortable grip; Customizable LEDs

Some awkward button placement; Confusing software

In a market segment rife with choice, any manufacturer which wants to stand out must innovate their way past the rest of the crowd or use clever marketing techniques to dupe their target market.

6000dpi Pro-Aim Laser Sensor; EasyShift[+] and EasyAim are game changers; Roccat Talk compatible; Loads of color customisation and effect options; 22 functions thanks to EasyShift[+; 8 programmable buttons; solid 4D scroll wheel; Tracking and Distance Control Unit; Low friction mouse feet really...

Scroll wheel bug; Takes 28 seconds to apply settings; Too light without supplied weights; Drivers not included; Must be downloaded from Roccat website; Macro creation is over complicated

Roccat's Kone Pure Owl-Eye can be considered a revamped Kone Optical or Military, using an updated PixArt 3361 sensor and more compact dimensions. This $70 mouse is also lighter and delivers outstanding precision and tracking performance.

Gamers are a total different computer user than most of us. As they are pickier than most and they need to be, when it comes to their gear, it most be comfortable and precise. And if you consider yourself a gamer, you know there are many companies out there bidding for your business.

Conclusion There must be a goal that ROCCAT has where they take a product that on first glance isn't that impressive to keep you expectations low and blow you out of the water with the final result. I did the same thing with the ISKU.

The Roccat Kone+ is an updated version of the original Kone, so it already has made a name for itself on the market. The upgrade brings the model back to the top of the game, with its 6000 DPI sensor and some other tweaks.

Tracking; Weight system

Shape/size; Quality of the surface finishing

Roccat's American debut is nothing short of awe inspiring. With amazing products like the Kone+, you can expect to start hearing their name more frequently.