Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite Wired

Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite Wired Review

Brand: Corsair
Released: February 13, 2020
Updated: 3 weeks ago
3.9
Overall review score Expert score: 3.9
260
Review evidence points
48
Scored features
19
Expert reviews

Bottom Line

Choose the Scimitar RGB Elite for MMO/MOBA macros, palm comfort, and precise tracking. Skip it for left-handed use, competitive FPS play, or plug-and-play simplicity.

Best for

Best for right-handed MMO and MOBA players who want many thumb-accessible macros, strong palm comfort, and a precise wired sensor. It also suits users who enjoy configuring profiles and shortcuts in software.

Not for

Not for left-handed users, fingertip-grip players, or competitive FPS-focused gamers who need a lighter, narrower mouse. It is also a poor match for anyone who dislikes required configuration software.

Verdict

Reviewers frame the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite as a specialized MMO/MOBA mouse whose biggest advantage is also its main tradeoff. The adjustable 12-button keypad, strong macro support, precise sensor, and palm-oriented comfort make it unusually powerful for hotkey-heavy games and even creative shortcuts. Build quality, grip texture, RGB, and long-session comfort also earn repeated praise. The downsides are context-specific but important: the mouse is heavy and wide, side buttons can feel crowded or hard to reach, iCUE can be clunky or required, and FPS players often find the shape less natural. Its value is strongest when the macro pad is used heavily.

Compared in Reviews

Products reviewers directly compared with this model, grouped into quick takeaways.

  • Better: hand width and slim feel The reviewer says the Logitech G502 feels slimmer, though the Scimitar is not uncomfortably wide.
  • Alternative: wider appeal TechGearLab recommends the Razer Basilisk V3 35K as a similar-price alternative with broader appeal.

Corsair Dark Core RGB Pro Wireless

  • Alternative: non-MMO feature set TechRadar suggests the Corsair Dark Core RGB Pro Wireless may be better if the Scimitar's side buttons will not be used.

Feature Scorecards

Summary

48 reviewed features
  • Very positive 4.5-5.0 31% 15 features
  • Positive 3.5-4.4 48% 23 features
  • Neutral 2.5-3.4 10% 5 features
  • Negative 1.5-2.4 10% 5 features
  • Very negative below 1.5 0% 0 features

Pros

  • 5.0
    based on 1 review
    button responsiveness: 5.0, based on 1 review
    Button responsiveness was strongly positive where tested, especially for the mechanical side buttons in game use.
  • 4.8
    based on 6 reviews
    MOBA gaming suitability: 4.8, based on 6 reviews
    MOBA suitability was also strong, with reviewers praising the button-heavy layout for Dota-style ability access and macro-heavy games.
  • 4.8
    based on 2 reviews
    long-session comfort: 4.8, based on 2 reviews
    Long-session comfort was a standout for palm users, with reviewers reporting comfortable long matches and no hand fatigue.
  • 4.7
    based on 7 reviews
    Accuracy and tracking precision: 4.7, based on 7 reviews
    Reviewers consistently praised tracking precision, smooth aiming, and lack of lag or consistency concerns across gaming tests.
  • 4.7
    based on 7 reviews
    programmable buttons: 4.7, based on 7 reviews
    Programmable buttons were repeatedly praised as the main attraction, giving deep control for games and productivity.
  • 4.7
    based on 13 reviews
    MMO gaming suitability: 4.7, based on 13 reviews
    MMO suitability was the product's clearest strength; reviewers repeatedly called it excellent, advantageous, or among the best for MMO play.
  • 4.7
    based on 5 reviews
    build quality: 4.7, based on 5 reviews
    Build quality was one of the strongest themes, with reviewers describing the mouse as solid, sturdy, reinforced, and well finished.
  • 4.6
    based on 11 reviews
    button customization: 4.6, based on 11 reviews
    The sliding keypad and customization options were repeatedly praised for adapting the 12-button grid to different hands and workflows.
  • 4.5
    based on 9 reviews
    sensor performance: 4.5, based on 9 reviews
    Sensor performance was strongly praised across reviews, with comments about flawless behavior, strong responsiveness, and excellent tracking.
  • 4.5
    based on 3 reviews
    polling rate: 4.5, based on 3 reviews
    Polling-rate evidence was positive, with reviewers calling 1,000Hz responsive and suitable for gaming.
  • 4.5
    based on 2 reviews
    click latency: 4.5, based on 2 reviews
    Click latency evidence was positive, with reviewers reporting no noticeable latency and latency similar to a comparison mouse.
  • 4.5
    based on 2 reviews
    profile switching: 4.5, based on 2 reviews
    Profile switching was praised where evaluated, especially for swapping game/app configurations and DPI/profile setups.
  • 4.5
    based on 1 review
    left and right click quality: 4.5, based on 1 review
    Left and right click quality evidence was limited but positive, with reviewers finding the main clicks smooth and non-janky.
  • 4.5
    based on 1 review
    motion consistency: 4.5, based on 1 review
    Motion consistency was praised in the clearest test, with no unpredictable movements despite the large body.
  • 4.5
    based on 1 review
    skate durability: 4.5, based on 1 review
    Skate durability evidence was limited but positive, with one reviewer seeing no discernible wear after weeks of use.
  • 4.4
    based on 9 reviews
    grip texture: 4.4, based on 9 reviews
    Grip texture was widely liked, especially the rubberized right-side rest and textured side-button rows that improved hold and navigation.
  • 4.4
    based on 9 reviews
    macro support: 4.4, based on 9 reviews
    Macro support was a major strength, especially for MMO/MOBA hotkeys, though one older review noted software macro limitations.
  • 4.4
    based on 7 reviews
    palm grip comfort: 4.4, based on 7 reviews
    Palm grip comfort was consistently strong, with the shape, ring-finger rest, and wide body suiting palm users particularly well.
  • 4.3
    based on 3 reviews
    balance and weight distribution: 4.3, based on 3 reviews
    Balance was praised as centered and predictable despite the mouse's asymmetric MMO shape and heavy body.
  • 4.3
    based on 4 reviews
    DPI range: 4.3, based on 4 reviews
    Reviewers viewed the high DPI range and sensitivity options as impressive, though not always practically necessary.
  • 4.3
    based on 2 reviews
    lift-off distance: 4.3, based on 2 reviews
    Lift-off distance was praised where tested, with one reviewer calling it impressive and another saying it was good enough for MMO use.
  • 4.1
    based on 10 reviews
    shape comfort: 4.1, based on 10 reviews
    Shape comfort was mostly positive for medium-to-large right hands, but some reviewers found the width or hand fit odd.
  • 4.1
    based on 7 reviews
    RGB features: 4.1, based on 7 reviews
    RGB was generally liked as customizable, crisp, and tasteful, though lighting control was not always best-in-class.
  • 4.0
    based on 16 reviews
    value for money: 4.0, based on 16 reviews
    Value was context-dependent: reviewers liked the price for MMO users, but questioned the upgrade value and cost if the side buttons go unused.
  • 4.0
    based on 5 reviews
    materials quality: 4.0, based on 5 reviews
    Materials were often described as premium and sturdy, but soft-touch coating and glossy surfaces raised wear and fingerprint concerns.
  • 4.0
    based on 2 reviews
    surface compatibility: 4.0, based on 2 reviews
    Surface compatibility evidence was positive where mentioned, especially through iCUE surface calibration and added precision.
  • 4.0
    based on 1 review
    click noise: 4.0, based on 1 review
    Click and scroll noise evidence was limited but positive, with one reviewer specifically calling the scroll wheel quiet.
  • 4.0
    based on 1 review
    ecosystem integration: 4.0, based on 1 review
    Ecosystem evidence was limited but positive, centered on iCUE syncing the mouse with other Corsair parts.
  • 4.0
    based on 6 reviews
    switch feel: 4.0, based on 6 reviews
    Switch feel was mostly positive for click resistance and tactile feel, though one FPS-focused reviewer wanted snappier clicks.
  • 3.9
    based on 9 reviews
    glide smoothness: 3.9, based on 9 reviews
    Glide was generally smooth, with some reviewers praising easy movement and others finding the stock feet merely standard or in need of improvement.
  • 3.8
    based on 5 reviews
    ergonomic design: 3.8, based on 5 reviews
    Ergonomics were mostly praised for the right-hand palm-oriented shape, though one long-term reviewer found it imperfect.
  • 3.8
    based on 2 reviews
    premium feel: 3.8, based on 2 reviews
    Premium feel was positive overall, though one reviewer felt some cheaper-looking areas held it back.
  • 3.7
    based on 9 reviews
    scroll wheel quality: 3.7, based on 9 reviews
    Scroll wheel quality was mixed: some praised its texture and smoothness, while others found it average, noisy, stiff, or prone to failure.
  • 3.7
    based on 5 reviews
    onboard memory: 3.7, based on 5 reviews
    Onboard memory was useful but mixed: reviewers liked storing settings, while one found three profiles low for such a configurable mouse.
  • 3.7
    based on 12 reviews
    software usability: 3.7, based on 12 reviews
    Software usability was split between deep, powerful customization and complaints that iCUE is clunky, required, or unintuitive.
  • 3.6
    based on 16 reviews
    side button quality: 3.6, based on 16 reviews
    Side button quality was the most divided core feature: reviewers liked texture and tactility, but some struggled with crowding, reach, or accidental presses.
  • 3.5
    based on 1 review
    acceleration control: 3.5, based on 1 review
    Acceleration evidence was limited but positive: one reviewer found sensor acceleration behavior within an acceptable range during testing.
  • 3.5
    based on 7 reviews
    claw grip comfort: 3.5, based on 7 reviews
    Claw grip comfort was context-dependent, working well for some larger-hand reviewers but feeling compromised or secondary to palm grip for others.

Cons

  • 3.4
    based on 6 reviews
    software stability: 3.4, based on 6 reviews
    Software stability was mixed: some reviewers called iCUE stable and reliable, while others reported hassle, crashes, or frustrations.
  • 3.2
    based on 6 reviews
    cable flexibility: 3.2, based on 6 reviews
    Cable impressions were mixed: some reviewers found it flexible and unobtrusive, while others criticized the braided cable as stiff or impeding.
  • 3.2
    based on 3 reviews
    durability over time: 3.2, based on 3 reviews
    Durability evidence was mixed: short-term build and feet impressions were positive, but long-term reviews reported scroll-button and button-softening issues.
  • 2.6
    based on 8 reviews
    weight: 2.6, based on 8 reviews
    Weight was frequently criticized as heavy or sluggish, though a few reviewers found it acceptable for MMO play.
  • 2.5
    based on 8 reviews
    FPS gaming suitability: 2.5, based on 8 reviews
    FPS suitability was mixed-to-negative: several reviewers found it usable, but most said weight, width, and side buttons make it poorly suited to competitive shooters.
  • 2.3
    based on 2 reviews
    fingertip grip comfort: 2.3, based on 2 reviews
    Fingertip grip comfort was weak, with reviewers saying the weight and side keypad made fingertip use fatiguing or awkward.
  • 2.0
    based on 2 reviews
    weight tuning: 2.0, based on 2 reviews
    Weight tuning was a clear weakness where mentioned, with reviewers wishing the Scimitar offered adjustable weight.
  • 2.0
    based on 1 review
    switch durability: 2.0, based on 1 review
    Switch durability evidence was limited and negative from long-term use, where buttons reportedly became soft over time.
  • 2.0
    based on 1 review
    tilt gesture controls: 2.0, based on 1 review
    Tilt controls were a noted limitation in one review, which said the absence of tilt scroll could be a deal breaker for editing use.
  • 1.5
    based on 4 reviews
    handedness options: 1.5, based on 4 reviews
    Handedness was consistently negative for left-handed users because the design is right-hand only.

Compared With Category Average

Compared with other Gaming Mice, this product is above average in MMO gaming suitability, MOBA gaming suitability, below average in switch durability, FPS gaming suitability, weight.

Summary

8 compared features
  • Above average 0.4+ pts higher 25% 2 features
  • Same as average within 0.3 pts 0% 0 features
  • Below average 0.4+ pts lower 75% 6 features
Attribute This product Category average Difference
switch durability 2.0 4.2 -2.2
FPS gaming suitability 2.5 4.2 -1.7
weight 2.6 4.1 -1.5
MMO gaming suitability 4.7 3.5 +1.2
fingertip grip comfort 2.3 3.7 -1.5
tilt gesture controls 2.0 3.2 -1.2
handedness options 1.5 2.6 -1.1
MOBA gaming suitability 4.8 3.9 +0.9

FAQ

Is the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite good for MMOs?

Yes. Reviewers repeatedly praised the 12-button side keypad, macro support, and adjustable position for MMO hotkeys and skill-heavy games.

Does it work well for MOBAs?

Mostly yes. Reviewers found the programmable button layout useful for MOBA abilities, though the dense keypad can take practice to navigate confidently.

Is it a good FPS mouse?

It can work for casual FPS use, but most reviewers said the weight, width, and side-button layout make it less ideal for competitive shooters.

Are the side buttons easy to use?

They are powerful but polarizing. Reviewers liked the texture, tactility, and adjustable position, while some struggled with crowding, reach, or accidental presses.

How is the iCUE software?

iCUE offers deep control over macros, DPI, RGB, and profiles, but reviewers were split: some found it easy and stable, while others called it clunky or a hassle.

Is the mouse comfortable for long sessions?

For many right-handed palm-grip users, yes. Multiple reviewers praised the broad shape, ring-finger rest, and long-session comfort, but fingertip and left-handed users were poorly served.

Is it worth the price?

Reviewers generally found the price fair for users who will use the MMO keypad heavily, but questioned the value for anyone who does not need the extra buttons or already owns a similar Scimitar.

Sample Expert Reviews We Analyzed

These are a few of the reviews included in our analysis.

Video Reviews

Article Reviews

Consider This Instead

If you want better handedness options

Choose Corsair M75 Wireless. It scores 4.7 vs 1.5 for handedness options, with a 3.9 overall score.

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If you want better switch durability

Choose Turtle Beach Kone II. It scores 5.0 vs 2.0 for switch durability, with a 4.3 overall score.

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If you want better tilt gesture controls

Choose Razer Naga V2 HyperSpeed. It scores 5.0 vs 2.0 for tilt gesture controls, with a 4.0 overall score.

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