Razer Boomslang CE 2007

Razer launched its hardware peripheral division back in the 1990s, and the Boomslang was the first mouse released that set the standard for all those to follow. To honor that mouse, Razer has released a limited edition (only 10,000 shipped) version of the Boomslang, called – appropriately – the Razer Boomslang CE 2007.

Here are the specs for the mouse:

• 1800dpi Razer Precision 3G infrared sensor

• 32KB Razer Synapse onboard memory KB Razer Synapse onboard memory

• Classic ambidextrous design

• 1000Hz Ultrapolling / 1ms response

• Five independently programmable Hyperesponse buttons

• On-The-Fly Sensitivity adjustment

• Always-On mode

• Ultra-large non-slip buttons

• 16-bit ultra-wide data path

• 6400 frames per second (5.8 megapixels per second)

• 60-120 inches per second and 15g of acceleration

• Zero-acoustic Ultraslick Teflon feet

• Gold-plated USB connector

• Seven-foot, lightweight, non-tangle cord

• Approximate size: 139 x 82 x 35 mm (150g)

Where to begin in reviewing the product? Well, for starters, this is not your sleek little mouse appropriate for small hands. The Boomslang is a large mouse that fits well in bigger hands. Indentations on either side secure the grip, but there is also buttons secreted in there, so a death-grip on the mouse is neither desired nor necessary.

But whereas the original Boomslang sported a ball under the mouse to create the traction for the cursor, the new edition goes with Razer’s optical infrared sensor technology.  

Of course, the price point ($99.99) is a little higher than most of Razer’s products but the limited edition has a special case, which is rather nicely designed. But the packaging is not the determination when it comes to performance.  

The design of the Boomslang will suit either left- or right-handed individuals, has five configurable buttons, 32 KB of onboard memory (with the ability to store five profiles) and on-the-fly sensitivity settings. What this translates to is a mouse that is highly responsive, and can be configured for individual games.

Taking the mouse into reflexive player-versus-player arenas, like NCsoft’s Exteel or Guild Wars, proved to be wonderful experience. The mouse moved smoothly, even at the higher sensitivity settings, and allowed for responsive input of commands.

The bigger mouse format was comfortable in the hands and all the buttons were easily accessible.

From the aspect of gaming history, the Boomslang captures the design of the original while implementing the functionality of the current technology. All in all, a nice melding of the past and present. If there is a drawback to this mouse, it would be that it is a limited edition and might not be available for long.

Pros:

• Comfortable design and great Collectors’ Edition packaging

• Responsive button inputs

• Solid onboard memory and profile capture settings
   

Cons:

• The recessed side buttons are easy to trigger, but once you get used to the placement, they can be used with discretion

Overall: 9.0
A nice tribute to the past with all the functionality of a mouse in the present, the Boomslang CE is a solid product. The larger size is very comfortable and a huge selling point for people with bigger hands who find the sleeker, smaller mice to be a bit constrictive. This is a very good product.