Before we go further in the test, I have found specifications through BenQ's website.
Specifications and features Zowie EC3-CW
All about the Zowie EC3-C
BenQ is a bit sparse about some of the information on the Zowie EC3-CW. Among other things, it is not possible to find information about the sensor. The information that I can obtain is very similar to the Zowie EC3-C. It has a maximum DPI of 3200 and a polling rate of 1000 Hz. Like other Zowie mice, the settings can be adjusted from the mouse itself, and no software comes with it.
If we take a look at the contents, in addition to the mouse itself, we get some extra pads, dongle, USB-A to USB-C cable, receiver/charger and manuals.
If we put all the extra stuff aside and look at the mouse, we can see that it is primarily aimed at right-handed users. Both with the two buttons, but also the shape itself, which is optimized for right-handed use.
On the opposite side of the mouse, we have rounding in the design, which should provide a better grip.
The Zowie EC3-CW has a normal size in shape. Even though it is a wireless mouse, BenQ has still managed to get it down to a weight of 76g. That's only 6 grams more than the EC3-C. The weight is so far down that it is difficult to feel the difference when it is used, and the EC3-CW just creates better comfort because it is also cordless. The turning wheel has a reasonable height and feedback. However, it makes a bit of noise when used, the click from the buttons is very noticeable, and can feel a bit noisy.
As previously mentioned, the Zowie EC3-CW is wireless. It offers a number of possibilities for connection. Because next to the dongle, we also receive an "enhanced receiver". So it is both possible to connect either via the dongle or the receiver. Next to that, the receiver can also charge the mouse by laying it on top of.
At the bottom of the mouse we have 100% PTFE pads on the front, around the sensor and on the back of the mouse. I have not been able to find information about the sensor, but previously tested model EC3-C has 3360, where it can be assumed that it is the same or similar. At the bottom, the DPI can be changed between 400/800/1600/3200, and it is possible to change the polling rate 125/500/1000.
The test – Use and comfort
Since we don't have to use software, we can also quickly get started with the test. I have attached the mouse to the computer, and put my primary mouse aside. During the test, I use the receiver, which allows me to charge the mouse when I am not using it. .
If we start with the comfort, the Zowie EC3-CW has a good size and fits very well in the hand. With my hand size, I have the option of using both claw and palm grip with the mouse.
The buttons themselves have a relatively loud but soft click when pressed, and they are quick in response. It is also possible to set the speed of clicks, but in practice I find it difficult to feel the big difference.
I've switched from a mouse with a little more weight, and this has also resulted in me running with a slightly higher DPI to compensate for this. However, the low weight of the EC3-CW means that I can easily settle for using 1600 DPI, which worked really well, and only half of what I normally use.
Price
I have found a price for the Zowie EC3-CW from BenQ of 200$.
If you want to find more information about the Zowie EC3-CW from BenQ, you can click on the banner above.
Conclusion
It's time to finish the test on the Zowie EC3-CW from BenQ. There is no doubt that the mouse, like others in the series, is aimed at the Esports market, especially in that the mouse does not need software and the light weight.
Of course, the mouse can also have some limitations, for example if you want to be more specific about your settings, such as DPI. Where you are locked to the preset options. However, I would assume that very few would be fine with what the Zowie EC3-CW offers, and especially with the low weight, it still provides a good combination of speed and precision.
If we look at the actual performance and comfort, it is difficult to put a finger on the Zowie EC3-CW. The mouse is very similar to the EC3-C, which I also had for testing, where I couldn't find anything other than a good experience of the mouse either. The same applies with the EC3-CW, where it just provides more flexibility in relation to not having to use a cable, and has a receiver that can also charge the mouse when it is not in use.
If we look at the price, at a quick glance it may seem a bit high. But if we compare it to other models which are wireless and also come with a charging stand, the price seems reasonable and offers a lot of value for money.
To put an end to the conclusion, BenQ would like to develop more on their spinning wheel. For me, it is something that is often used, and here the noise can be reduced to create a more general comfort of the mouse during use.
I finish the test of the Zowie EC3-CW with a score of 9 out of 10. The mouse itself is really good and if you are looking for a mouse without software that is also wireless then the Zowie EC3-CW is definitely the one worth a look. Even if you are limited in some areas, I still feel it is outweighed by being a stable mouse that is pure plug and play, especially if you play Esport, where you have to sit at a computer other than your own.
Pros
Cons
Score: 9