In the ever-evolving world of gaming, Alienware, a heavyweight in gaming PCs, is set to revolutionize its peripherals game with the launch of its Pro line. Acknowledging the lukewarm reception of its previous gaming accessories, Alienware has taken a strategic leap into the realm of competitive eSports, aiming to cater to the discerning needs of professional gamers and enthusiasts alike.
The Pro line debuts with the Pro Wireless keyboard and the Pro Wireless mouse, both meticulously crafted with inputs from eSports athletes, including collaborations with Team Liquid. Alienware’s foray into eSports peripherals may seem overdue, but the company is poised to make a significant impact with a focus on functionality and performance.
At first glance, the Pro Wireless keyboard adopts a 75-percent layout, a popular choice that strikes a balance between compact design and essential functionality. The absence of spacing between key clusters and a minimalistic bezel design not only lends a futuristic aesthetic but also caters to the needs of gamers looking to optimize desk space—a crucial consideration for professional gamers who often adjust and angle their keyboards. Weighing in at 1.81lbs (819.73g), the keyboard boasts a robust build with a plastic chassis, aluminium top plate, and double-shot PBT keycaps for enhanced durability.
A standout feature of the Pro Wireless keyboard is Alienware’s first custom-built mechanical switches. With a 40g actuation force, these linear switches are meticulously tuned to meet the demands of professional gamers. The factory-lubed switches incorporate POM stems for reduced friction, transparent housing for vibrant lighting, and two layers of silicone sound dampening within the case. Enthusiasts will appreciate the hot-swappable PCBA for those who prefer a personalized switch experience.
Beyond the switches, the Pro Wireless keyboard embraces standard wireless gaming keyboard features such as tri-mode connectivity (2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C), 1,000 Hz polling rate, anti-ghosting, N-key rollover, and customization options through Alienware’s Command Centre. The keyboard’s battery life is commendable, boasting 72 hours over 2.4GHz wireless with lighting on, and an impressive 798 hours with lighting off. The Pro Wireless keyboard is set to redefine the gaming experience and will be available for purchase at $199.99.
Accompanying the keyboard is the Pro Wireless mouse, aligning with the trend of ultra-lightweight, high-polling-rate wireless eSports gaming mice. Sporting a simple, symmetrical design, the mouse caters to all grip types and hand sizes, measuring 4.9 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches (124.5 x 63.5 x 40.6mm). Weighing a mere 2.12oz (60g), the mouse falls into the ultra-lightweight category, promising optimal control and precision.
The Pro Wireless mouse’s standout feature is its impressive polling rates of 4,000 Hz wireless and 8,000 Hz wired, targeting competitive eSports gamers who demand top-tier performance. With six programmable buttons and a 26,000 DPI, 650 IPS optical sensor, the mouse delivers precision and responsiveness. Alienware’s exclusive “magnetic force” keyplates, boasting increased speed, stiffness, and durability, further enhance the gaming experience. The mouse ensures convenience with a storage compartment for its 2.4GHz wireless USB-C dongle.
While the Pro Wireless mouse supports high polling rates out of the box, the specs remain in line with Alienware’s current generation. A commendable 120 hours of battery life at the standard 1,000 Hz polling rate ensures extended gaming sessions. The Pro Wireless mouse will be available in black and white colourways at a retail price of $149.99.
Both the Pro Wireless keyboard and Pro Wireless mouse are set to hit the market on January 11, marking Alienware’s ambitious stride into the world of eSports peripherals. The pricing strategy positions Alienware in line with other gaming companies’ Pro-branded peripherals, demonstrating a commitment to delivering competitive products despite its previous underwhelming ventures in the gaming peripherals space. As gaming enthusiasts eagerly await the release, Alienware aims to capture the hearts of both pro gamers and aspiring competitors with its latest offerings.
