There’s no one way to go about finding the best mouse. And there’s no area in which this is more true than gaming. Finding the best gaming mouse can be incredibly difficult, as gamers need to strike a perfect balance between speed, accuracy, and comfort. And in many cases, gamers have options: Use a mouse at all, or stick with the console controller? With every game, the answer could be different. So, to help shine a small ribbon of light into the often confusing void, we’ll explain the longstanding debate of playing Overwatch with a controller vs mouse.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Overwatch is a first-person shooter game allowing mouse and keyboard, and controller players to battle in crossplay mode.
- Mouse and keyboard setups are recommended for improving accuracy, aiming speed, and reaction time.
- Console controllers benefit from aim assist settings, which automatically focus a user’s aim onto their target.
If Overwatch isn’t you’re thing, we’ve got more content covering other games. We have guides comparing controller vs mouse for Apex Legends or playing Warzone with a controller or mouse. We also have a helpful resource comparing the ergonomics of a trackpad vs a mouse.
Insider Tip
The alignment and position of your keyboard and mouse greatly increase the reaction time and accuracy while gaming.
Comparing Overwatch with a Controller vs a Mouse and Keyboard
Overwatch came out in 2016 as a first-person shooter game and has garnered a considerable following. With its popularity, there’s a lot of debate over how to play the game best. The disagreement is because the game creators allowed console controllers and mouse and keyboard (M&K) players to battle head-to-head.
Ultimately, there is no right way to play the game. Each has its benefits and drawbacks; how you play will always come down to personal preference. However, there are a few apparent differences to help you understand which might appeal to you.`Ultimately, there is no right way to play the game. Each has its benefits and drawbacks; how you play will always come down to personal preference. However, there are a few apparent differences to help you understand which might appeal to you.
Speed
It’s commonly known that mouse and keyboard setups are better for speed, especially for a first-person shooter game like Overwatch. In addition, regarding reflexes and reaction time, a gaming mouse and keyboard give users much more control over their input device.
The reason for this is because of the physical difference. Mouse and keyboard players have a fuller range of motion because they use their whole arm to direct their aim, while console players are limited to moving the analog stick with their thumbs.
Warning
Playing any high-intensity game, like Overwatch, with a mouse and keyboard for an extended period can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Aim Assist
The one benefit that controllers have is the ability to use aim assist. Aim assist is a function that automatically focuses a user’s reticle on their target, generating a better chance at a kill shot.
STAT: Many pro-M&K gamers like to play with a DPI between 800-1,600. (source)
Many M&K users groan over the fact that controller players practically have a cheat code with aim assist. But it can make a huge difference, especially in close-range situations.
