Design and Build Quality
The SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 maintains the familiar ergonomic shape of its predecessor whilst introducing subtle refinements that enhance the overall experience. I found the 120.6mm length and 67mm width creates a comfortable form factor that suits both claw and palm grip styles, though those with larger hands may prefer more substantial alternatives.
SteelSeries has implemented a slightly textured surface finish that immediately impressed me during testing. This bumpy plastic texture provides excellent grip and prevents the clammy feeling often associated with matte finishes during extended gaming sessions. The build quality feels remarkably solid for a £55 mouse, with no creaking or flexing when pressure is applied to the sides or main body.
The removable battery compartment underneath houses two AAA batteries, with a translucent panel that offers a glimpse into the mouse's internals - a nice retro aesthetic touch. Weight distribution feels well-balanced despite the rear-mounted batteries, though at 106g with both batteries installed, it's noticeably heavier than modern ultra-light alternatives.
Dual Connectivity and Versatility
Where the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 truly distinguishes itself is through its exceptional connectivity options. The inclusion of both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.0 represents outstanding value at this price point - most competitors offer only one wireless mode or charge significantly more for dual connectivity.
I found the 2.4GHz connection provides responsive, lag-free gaming performance with the included USB receiver, whilst Bluetooth mode proves invaluable for laptop gaming or scenarios with limited USB ports. The ability to switch between modes via an underside toggle makes transitioning between different devices seamless.
SteelSeries includes useful software features like Bluetooth smoothing and wireless stability enhancement, which proved beneficial during testing in environments with multiple wireless devices. The lack of an included receiver extender disappointed me slightly, as direct USB hub connections occasionally suffered interference.
Removable Battery Innovation
The Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2's removable battery system initially seemed antiquated, but extensive testing revealed genuine advantages over built-in rechargeable alternatives. The mouse accepts standard or rechargeable AAA batteries, with the flexibility to operate using either one or two batteries depending on weight preferences.
Battery life proves exceptional, with SteelSeries claiming up to 200 hours on 2.4GHz or 450 hours via Bluetooth using two batteries. My testing confirmed approximately 4% battery drain every five hours of continuous use with a single battery - extrapolating to roughly 80 hours total usage, which exceeds many rechargeable alternatives.
The true advantage emerges with rechargeable AAA batteries - you can charge one set whilst using another, creating essentially infinite battery life without ever needing to plug in the mouse. This system proves particularly valuable for users who prioritise always-wireless operation over the convenience of USB charging.
Sensor Performance and Gaming
The TrueMove Air 18,000 DPI optical sensor represents a significant upgrade from the wired version's more modest specifications. Based on the modified PixArt 3335, this sensor delivers reliable tracking across various surfaces and gaming scenarios, though it feels somewhat dated compared to newer alternatives.
During extensive testing in competitive titles like Apex Legends and Counter-Strike 2, I found tracking remained consistent and accurate. The 400 IPS capability handled rapid movements without skipping, whilst the 1,000Hz polling rate provided responsive cursor movement. However, the fixed 2.4mm lift-off distance felt high compared to adjustable alternatives.
Gaming performance proved solid across genres, from precise aiming in FPS titles to sweeping camera movements in strategy games. The 1.9ms click latency, whilst higher than premium wired alternatives, remained imperceptible during gameplay and represents excellent performance for a wireless mouse at this price point.
Software and Customisation
SteelSeries GG software provides comprehensive customisation options that exceed expectations for a sub-£60 gaming mouse. I found the interface intuitive for adjusting DPI settings, polling rates, and button assignments, with useful features like wireless stability enhancement and Bluetooth smoothing proving genuinely beneficial.
The ability to create multiple profiles for different games adds genuine utility, whilst macro recording functionality works seamlessly. Advanced settings include angle snapping adjustment and acceleration curves - features typically reserved for more expensive gaming mice.
Battery monitoring through the software provides clear remaining charge indicators, though I wished for more granular percentage displays rather than basic level indicators. The scroll wheel LED provides helpful battery alerts and connection status, partially compensating for the lack of RGB lighting elsewhere.
Value and Competition
At £54.99, the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 occupies an interesting position in the wireless gaming mouse market. This pricing places it below premium options like the Logitech G Pro X Superlight whilst offering features that many similarly priced alternatives lack - particularly the dual connectivity options.
Compared to alternatives like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Hyperspeed or NZXT Lift Elite Wireless, the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 offers superior connectivity versatility and potentially longer battery life with rechargeable AAAs. However, it trails in weight optimisation and sensor sophistication.
The removable battery system creates unique value for users who prioritise always-wireless operation. When combined with the dual connectivity modes and solid build quality, the £55 investment becomes increasingly justified for versatile gaming setups.
Verdict
The SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 successfully carves out a unique niche in the competitive wireless gaming mouse market. The removable battery system, initially seeming outdated, proves genuinely advantageous for users seeking maximum wireless flexibility and exceptional battery life.
Whilst the 106g weight and older sensor technology represent compromises compared to premium alternatives, I found the dual connectivity options and solid build quality create compelling value at £54.99. The textured surface and comfortable ergonomics enhance the overall experience significantly.
For users seeking a versatile wireless mouse that works seamlessly across multiple devices without the constraints of built-in batteries, the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 represents excellent value.