Polling rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the frequency at which a mouse reports its position to the computer. A polling rate of 1000Hz signifies that the mouse sends its positional data 1000 times every second. For example, a mouse set at 500Hz provides updates every two milliseconds, while a 1000Hz mouse updates every millisecond. This factor plays a role, albeit often a subtle one, in responsiveness and input lag perceived by the user.
The significance of a higher reporting frequency lies in the potential to reduce input latency and improve tracking accuracy, particularly in fast-paced scenarios. Early mice often had significantly lower polling rates, leading to noticeable delays between movement and on-screen action. Increased processing power in modern computers has enabled higher reporting rates to become commonplace, offering a theoretically more responsive and precise experience. However, the benefits of excessively high rates can diminish beyond a certain point due to human perception limitations and potential CPU overhead.
