Here’s one option that Windows puts on by default that you’ll definitely want to turn off! I’ve noticed Logitech Gaming Software (LGS) also has this option on by default. It seems a bit deceiving with its name, “Enhance pointer precision.” Hell yeah I want more precision! Don’t be fooled though! What this feature actually does is accelerate your mouses speed from point A to your assumed landing point B.
Let’s break it down so it’s a bit easier to understand. If your mouse pointer is standing still, let’s call that point A. You want to move your pointer 800 pixels to the right. We’ll call the landing/stop location point B. As your pointer takes of from point A heading towards point B, the faster/further you move towards point B Windows begins to increase the speed your mouse pointer moves. Because the computer doesn’t know where you plan to go and stop at (Point B), it doesn’t stop the accelerated speed boost until you begin to slow down/stop your pointer yourself.
FPS games are huge with muscle memory. Knowing just how much hand/arm movement is required to move your mouse physically to equal an exact amount of movement on screen is key. The Enhance pointer precision option throws off your sense of muscle memory by accelerating your mouse at an undefined pace/distinance making you over or undershoot your target.
To access your Mouse Properties, first go to your Control Panel, then select “Mouse” among the many options. Within the new window that pops up select the Pointer Options tab and you should see the same screen as shown below.
Hi, thank you for explaining how we can manage our mouse speed. I need some more help, I have changed my mouse speed from the mouse setting, but my mouse is still moving too fast when I play CS. Do I need to change mouse speed from the CS setting as well
Hey David, you’re definitely going to want to adjust the mouse speed within CS. You want to keep your windows(and mouse software if you’re using any such as Logitech Gaming Software or SteelSeries Engine 3) at one level like 800dpi. Thankfully games almost always come with their own settings to further adjust your mouse speed while in game. Everytime I load up a new game, especially an FPS, I open up the settings and begin fine tuning the mouse settings to something I’m comfortable with. Often times the default speed setting is too fast. To summarize: Leave your desktop/mouse software speed settings alone once placed where you’d like it at. Always use a game’s built in mouse settings to fine tune your precision where its most relevant to the game while taking game mechanics, features, and objectives into consideration.
Quick Tip: When I’m adjusting my in game mouse settings, I try and place it at a level where I’m naturally and comfortably able to do a quick 180 degree spin in one smooth, slightly extended, mouse swipe. If I’m over shooting the 180 then I reduce the mouse speed setting, if I’m under then I increase it. By turning and stopping exactly at 180 degrees, I’m able to comfortably spin at any angle (30, 60, 100 anything) like it is second nature.