As a reminder, the American brand Mad Catz, for economic reasons, had to close its doors in 2017. The good news is that it made its comeback in 2018, but this time, in Great Britain. If the brand has developed a new catalog since its launch, it has also put old updated models back on the market, which respect the tastes of an ever more demanding clientele.
On this site, we provide a complete review of products from specialized High Tech brands. The RAT 8+ was no exception. This model designed by Mad Catz is an improved version of the RAT 8. Is it worth the detour? Discover our detailed and impartial opinion without further delay.
Packaging and unpacking
As soon as we unboxed the Mad Catz RAT 8+ gaming mouse, we quickly realized that the appearance of the packaging is different from that of its younger sister MAT 8. The packaging is intended to be transparent, which lets the product, even before handling it. Inside the packaging, we find a user guide, perfect for beginner players. Even professional players can use it in an aspect that escapes them. Stickers, two elements for the right side of the mouse as well as two wrist rests are also available in the packaging.
However, we deplore the fact that there is no bag or box that allows you to store the product and its main accessories. The product is priced at €99.99 and for this price, Mad Catz could have made an effort in terms of presentation rather than opting for plastic paper, which is not professional and serious enough for our taste.
Design and design
In terms of design, the brand does not bring anything new. It remained in the same design as that of the previous generation RAT 8. The RAT 8+ sports an original and completely futuristic design just like the RAT 8 gaming mouse. If the model in our test is black, be aware that it is available in several other variants, namely red and white. . Regardless of the color chosen, the design is of remarkable quality.
With its modular formula, you will be able to modify this gaming mouse so that the grip is more comfortable, which makes it a perfect product whether you have large or small hands. All in black metal, the chassis is bordered by shiny and matte plastic, a coating that breaks the codes of the Mat Catz with models with Soft Touch coating. This is also a positive point since this type of covering is obsolete and going out of fashion. Still, the brand has set the bar high when it comes to the quality of materials. Soft to the touch, the plastics benefit from a certain robustness and you will not see fingerprints on them.
The M.AT. 8+ still wants to be eccentric with its adjustable RGB lighting points. What is certain is that this unique futuristic look will not leave anyone indifferent. Whether you're a novice or a gamer looking for flexibility and multiple buttons, this M.AT gaming PC mouse. Catz will do the trick.
Handling and ergonomics
When it comes to handling the Mad Catz RAT8+, the brand has taken no trouble in putting its RAT8 model back on the surface. Due to its various buttons, the mouse is intended to be extra-large. Although the size could not be more eccentric, you will have no trouble handling it. The good news is that you will be able to change quite a few things, namely the length. Like certain products from the brand, the RAT8+ gives the possibility of moving the palm rest back up to 5 notches.
This feature is certainly welcome for people who have large hands. People more comfortable with compact mice will feel better with the current form. With the RAT8+, you will also be able to change the palm rest in 3 variations. Knowing that the current material is plastic, you can move on to the second which retains its same shape, but offers a rubberized surface with excellent grip. The last variant is made of plastic, but the curve is much more pronounced and will fill the palm of the hand perfectly.
Just as it is possible to change the palm rest, it will also be possible to change the right side of the mouse. Furthermore, in terms of weight, unlike the RAT8 which offered up to 3 removable weights, the product in our test only offers 3 of 6gr each.
Buttons and Features
Like the previous version, the RAT8+ has a total of 11 programmable buttons. The next/previous navigation buttons are of course available, supported by a sniper button which allows you to temporarily adjust the sensitivity. A notched wheel is also present and can be programmed using the thumb.
This button is worth existing, since it is versatile and allows you to adjust the audio volume, scroll laterally and change audio tracks. The positioning of the buttons is no problem. They are well placed and operate very easily. There is also the Profile key on the edge next to the left click. It allows you to juggle between 4 profiles, which allows the button to light up in red, blue, purple or remain off depending on the profile chosen. If the buttons are of unquestionable quality, they also promise a better feeling.
Precision
When it comes to gaming mice, the latest trend belongs to optical sensors. Despite this, Mad Catz designed a model with a Pixart DNA laser sensor. If this technology is appreciated, it is certainly because it is able to support several surfaces at the same time. Many demanding players will appreciate the various features offered by the sensor.
The latter is able to support a speed of up to 3.81m/s as well as an acceleration of 30g. This feature is beneficial since it gives you the opportunity to play more challenging games without the risk of dropping out. Lift Off is the drop-off height which is intended to be very low to limit movement of the pointer when the mouse is lifted.
Furthermore, the maximum sensitivity of 8200 ppi is more than sufficient whatever your player profile. This will be the same, even if you use very high definition screens or if you play with increased sensitivity. Also note that the frequency of interaction with the PC may vary from 250 to 1000 Hz, gaming mouse required.
Sensor and glide
As stated above, the sensor of the Mad Catz RAT8+ gaming mouse has been updated compared to the previous model. With a new Pixart PWN 3389 sensor, the mouse offers better performance. Having proven itself time and time again compared to the numerous models that we have had the opportunity to test, like the HyperX Pulsefire Surge, this mouse, at this level, ticks all the boxes. On the other hand, the glide is the same as for its predecessor.
Software
Wishing to design a model above the Mat Catz RAT8, the brand thought about reviewing its software which, since its configuration, has been available in French. The new version offers a refined and much less detailed character than the old version.
And as there are all the possible functionalities of a gaming mouse, you will be able to make several settings such as modifying the button options, managing profiles, creating macros as well as controlling various sensitivity levels. You will also be able to modify the backlighting by choosing from the 4 available effects the one that suits you best. The software will only allow you to do the essential things.
We still deplore the fact that managing profiles is a real chore with this software. Additionally, nothing is intuitive when it comes to profile management. Furthermore, to manage the backlight, you must navigate in rainbow mode. Other modes will not offer you this possibility.
If you want to know more about the Mad Catz RAT 8+ gaming mouse, we invite you to watch the Cowcotland video!
