Akko Dash V9 Ultra review: I tried out this ultra-light gaming mouse, and it made my tasks easier as well.

      **Akko Dash V9 Ultra**

      **MSRP**: $59.99

      “Feels like a toy. Moves like a ninja.”

      **Pros**

      - Lightweight design

      - Reliable sensor

      - High polling rate

      - No unnecessary software

      - Affordable price

      **Cons**

      - Uncomfortable for larger hands

      - Average scroll wheel

      - Lacks a DPI switch

      - 8K mode can be demanding

      I have smaller-than-average hands, and size is my main consideration when selecting a mouse. Thanks to my delicate wrists, weight also plays a significant role. After trying numerous ultra-lightweight gaming mice, I often find myself bracing for the creaks, rattles, and flimsy plastic that may break under pressure during a crucial moment.

      When the Akko Dash V9 Ultra arrived, I expected disappointment, but I was pleasantly surprised. After weeks of flicking, tracking, and testing my reflexes, I see this mouse as the "sports car" of its category. It trades everyday comfort for sheer speed, all for the competitive price of $59.99, undercutting many competitors like Razer and Logitech that are priced much higher.

      Equipped with a top-tier PixArt PAW3950 sensor, it offers an 8,000Hz polling rate for both wired and 2.4GHz wireless modes. This allows for near-zero latency and tracking that feels almost telepathic in fast-paced games.

      However, it’s not flawless, so let me clarify who might not find it suitable. The compact and symmetrical shape is designed for small to medium hands, making it less appealing for users with larger palms. The scroll wheel is reminiscent of mediocre options. These are real compromises, but for suitable users (like me), they’re worth it for something truly exceptional.

      **Design and Palm Ergonomics**: Suitable for Most Grips, Except for Larger Hands

      The design of the Dash V9 Ultra is distinctly industrial, embracing minimalism. It maintains a symmetrical shape, aside from the left-side navigation buttons, and influences how the mouse is held. Akko openly states that it's optimized for small to medium hands, which I appreciate.

      Those with larger hands who generally use a full palm grip may feel cramped during extended use. A friend of mine, an avid shooter player with moderately sized hands, noted that while the mouse's lightweight facilitates quick movement, its size is somewhat restrictive. Adapting to it means retraining muscle memory for a claw or fingertip grip, which is indeed where this mouse shines.

      The primary buttons feature a subtle concavity that I found to be more beneficial than anticipated. My fingers naturally settle into the right clicking position without slipping or needing adjustment. This locked-in sensation is crucial during intense gameplay. What impressed me the most was the button consistency; the click response feels the same whether I press near the base or the edge, indicating good switch tensioning—a common area where budget mice fall short.

      Aesthetically, the design is both understated and sharp. It comes in two color options: a matte black version weighing 40 grams and a white model with purple accents that weighs 41 grams. There are no flashy RGB lights here; just a single functional LED above the wheel indicating connection status and DPI level. Surprisingly, I didn’t miss the RGB lighting at all.

      However, one drawback to mention before purchasing this sleek and lightweight mouse is the absence of a dedicated DPI switch. To keep the weight down, Akko removed additional buttons, meaning changing DPI on the fly requires a clunky three-button combination (left click, right click, and middle scroll click). While this keeps the design tidy, it can be bothersome during gameplay. Adjusting DPI requires a web dashboard, which means having a browser open continuously, but I prefer this method as I often use Chrome for work.

      **Score: 9/10**

      **Build and In-Hand Feel**: A Refreshing Change

      Reducing a wireless mouse down to 40 grams usually means compromising on durability. Typically, you end up with a shell that feels fragile and creaky. However, the Dash V9 Ultra manages to avoid this fate. Despite its lightweight nature, it feels solid with no hollow sounds when tapped or rattling inside, even when shaken vigorously during game play. I'm pleased to report that there's no chassis flex unless subjected to extreme pressure, which is uncommon in regular usage.

      Most brands have taken to drilling holes in the mouse shell to reduce weight, but Akko opted for a uniquely thin plastic shell combined with an open-bottom design, showcasing part of the internal framework for weight savings. The exterior features an Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) finish, providing a matte texture that offers both slip resistance during sweaty sessions and resists the glossy wear seen in cheaper plastics over time.

      If the bare plastic isn’t secure enough for your preferences, Akko includes custom-cut grip tapes that combine rubber and synthetic leather, offering