THE ULTIMATE EC2? | VAXEE E1 Review
The VAXEE E1 is a refined wireless gaming mouse that caters to fans of the EC2 shape. It’s a product made with a clear vision, designed by the original creator of the EC2 and slightly adjusted to meet modern standards. Here’s everything you need to know about this mouse.
The unboxing experience is straightforward and eco-friendly. Inside the box, you’ll find the mouse, a 4K dongle, and a silicone cable. The cable is flexible enough for wired use but not ideal for regular play. The mouse weighs 61 grams with skates installed and exhibits exceptional build quality. Even under pressure, there is no flexing. The only minor issue is slight grinding of the plastic studs during extreme side-to-side movements, but this is not a quality control problem.
The E1 closely resembles the EC2 in shape but includes slight adjustments for comfort. The slope now reaches closer to the base of the mouse, making it feel more ergonomic. For those accustomed to the EC2, the E1 will feel familiar and even more comfortable. With a slightly longer profile, the E1 supports aggressive claw grips well, particularly for hands around 19×10 cm. Compared to other ergonomic mice, like the Lamu Thorn, the E1 offers a more mellow and versatile design. While the Thorn’s protruding hump is tailored for aggressive claw grips, the E1’s shape supports multiple grip styles comfortably.
The E1 lacks software, making adjustments slightly inconvenient. The mouse settings, such as DPI, polling rate (up to 4K), and debounce time, are adjusted via a single button on the bottom. A user manual is essential for accessing advanced settings, though it’s challenging to locate. VAXEE plans to release software for their mice in the future, which will significantly improve usability. The coating on the E1 is excellent, offering consistent grip regardless of hand conditions. The stock dyed-white skates are decent, but aftermarket options like Cor Pads may enhance performance.
The button tensioning on the E1 feels premium, with light and tactile clicks. While the lighter click force may take some adjustment, it ultimately enhances usability, especially in fast-paced games. The side buttons exhibit minimal post-travel, and the scroll wheel, while functional, feels less premium. The scroll click is light and spammable, adding versatility.
Battery performance is strong, lasting up to two weeks at a 1K polling rate. On 4K polling, expect to recharge every three days. These figures align well with modern wireless gaming mice.
The E1 is ideal for gamers who loved the EC2 and want a modernized version of the classic design. It’s best suited for users with small to medium hands and aggressive claw grips. If you’re an EC1 or EC3 fan, this may not be the right choice, but VAXEE may introduce different sizes in the future.
The VAXEE E1 is a masterfully crafted wireless mouse that elevates the EC2’s iconic shape. Its lightweight design, ergonomic improvements, and esports-grade build quality make it a standout choice for competitive gamers. However, its price—especially outside the EU—may deter some buyers. If you can find the E1 at a reasonable price, it’s a solid investment. For fans of the EC2 shape seeking a perfected, modernized version, the E1 delivers in spades.
Unboxing and Build Quality
The unboxing experience is straightforward and eco-friendly. Inside the box, you’ll find the mouse, a 4K dongle, and a silicone cable. The cable is flexible enough for wired use but not ideal for regular play. The mouse weighs 61 grams with skates installed and exhibits exceptional build quality. Even under pressure, there is no flexing. The only minor issue is slight grinding of the plastic studs during extreme side-to-side movements, but this is not a quality control problem.
Shape and Ergonomics
The E1 closely resembles the EC2 in shape but includes slight adjustments for comfort. The slope now reaches closer to the base of the mouse, making it feel more ergonomic. For those accustomed to the EC2, the E1 will feel familiar and even more comfortable. With a slightly longer profile, the E1 supports aggressive claw grips well, particularly for hands around 19×10 cm. Compared to other ergonomic mice, like the Lamu Thorn, the E1 offers a more mellow and versatile design. While the Thorn’s protruding hump is tailored for aggressive claw grips, the E1’s shape supports multiple grip styles comfortably.
Performance and Features
The E1 lacks software, making adjustments slightly inconvenient. The mouse settings, such as DPI, polling rate (up to 4K), and debounce time, are adjusted via a single button on the bottom. A user manual is essential for accessing advanced settings, though it’s challenging to locate. VAXEE plans to release software for their mice in the future, which will significantly improve usability. The coating on the E1 is excellent, offering consistent grip regardless of hand conditions. The stock dyed-white skates are decent, but aftermarket options like Cor Pads may enhance performance.
Buttons and Scroll Wheel
The button tensioning on the E1 feels premium, with light and tactile clicks. While the lighter click force may take some adjustment, it ultimately enhances usability, especially in fast-paced games. The side buttons exhibit minimal post-travel, and the scroll wheel, while functional, feels less premium. The scroll click is light and spammable, adding versatility.
Battery Life
Battery performance is strong, lasting up to two weeks at a 1K polling rate. On 4K polling, expect to recharge every three days. These figures align well with modern wireless gaming mice.
Who Is This Mouse For?
The E1 is ideal for gamers who loved the EC2 and want a modernized version of the classic design. It’s best suited for users with small to medium hands and aggressive claw grips. If you’re an EC1 or EC3 fan, this may not be the right choice, but VAXEE may introduce different sizes in the future.
Conclusion
The VAXEE E1 is a masterfully crafted wireless mouse that elevates the EC2’s iconic shape. Its lightweight design, ergonomic improvements, and esports-grade build quality make it a standout choice for competitive gamers. However, its price—especially outside the EU—may deter some buyers. If you can find the E1 at a reasonable price, it’s a solid investment. For fans of the EC2 shape seeking a perfected, modernized version, the E1 delivers in spades.
