SteelSeries has announced the launch of two new gaming mice, the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2. These new models expand the Rival 3 lineup, which originally debuted in 2013, and come as part of the brand’s lead-up to its 25th anniversary in 2026. The updated models aim to deliver reliable performance and durability while maintaining an affordable price point.
The Rival series has long been positioned as an entry point for gamers looking for dependable peripherals without stepping into the high-end price bracket. With the Gen 2 refresh, SteelSeries is introducing both wired and wireless options that bring improvements in sensor technology, latency, and overall build quality.
Rival 3 Gen 2 – Improved Speed and Durability
The Rival 3 Gen 2 maintains the familiar form factor of its predecessor but adds several key upgrades under the hood. The mouse is equipped with a TrueMove Core optical sensor that supports up to 8,500 DPI, providing better precision across a wide range of sensitivity settings. Click latency has been reduced to 1.35 milliseconds, aiming to provide quicker response times during gameplay.
The mouse features mechanical switches rated for 60 million clicks, which should support years of regular use. Weighing in at 77 grams, the mouse keeps things light without compromising on stability. It also includes 100% PTFE glide feet for smoother tracking across surfaces. SteelSeries has also integrated its Prism RGB lighting, which now includes a 360° underglow effect.
Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 – More Flexibility and Battery Life
For those looking for a wireless solution, the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 brings notable updates over the previous model. It introduces the TrueMove Air sensor with up to 18,000 DPI and a maximum acceleration of 40g. Click latency has also been optimized to 1.9 milliseconds.
SteelSeries’ Quantum 2.0 Dual Wireless technology enables connectivity through both a 2.4 GHz USB dongle and Bluetooth 5.0. This dual-mode support caters to gamers and multitaskers alike, allowing seamless switching between devices without the hassle of replugging receivers.
Battery life has also seen a major boost. The Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 can deliver between 45 to 200 hours of use on 2.4 GHz wireless, and up to 450 hours when connected via Bluetooth. It operates on a single AAA battery, with support for rechargeable batteries. Despite the wireless hardware and battery, the mouse weighs between 95 and 106 grams, depending on the battery used.
New Colors and Availability
In addition to the performance improvements, SteelSeries is offering more aesthetic options. Both mice will be available in four color variants: black, white, aqua, and lavender. This gives users the ability to personalize their setups with more than just functionality in mind.
The Rival 3 Gen 2 is priced at $34.99 USD, while the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 will retail for $59.99 USD. Both models are now available through SteelSeries.com and other global retailers.
