Turtle Beach Kone II Air Mouse Review: Features and Compromises

Turtle Beach has long been recognized for its high-quality gaming headsets, but the company has expanded its product line to include a variety of gaming peripherals, including mechanical keyboards, controllers, and gaming mice. One of the latest additions to their lineup is the Kone II Air mouse, which is a wireless version of the previously released Kone II. While the Kone II Air shares a similar design and comfort level with its wired counterpart, it comes with some compromises that may affect its desirability for serious gamers.

The Kone II Air features a bold design, complete with sharp contours and RGB lighting strips that signal its gaming pedigree. Although the design is eye-catching, some users may find the RGB lighting a bit muddied due to the slightly opaque material used. However, the mouse is designed to fit comfortably in the hand, especially for those who prefer a full palm grip. It is important to note that the Kone II Air is heavier than the wired version, weighing in at 110 grams compared to 90 grams. This added weight can make it more challenging to use for claw or fingertip grips, which may be a drawback for some gamers.

One of the notable differences between the Kone II and Kone II Air is the weight distribution. The Kone II Air's added weight is primarily located at the back, which can affect balance and control during intense gaming sessions. While this may not be a dealbreaker for everyone, it is a significant factor to consider for those who prioritize precision in their gameplay. The mouse is equipped with deep-set grooves that provide a comfortable grip for the thumb and pinky fingers, and the material offers just enough stickiness to prevent slipping during use.

The Kone II Air also includes two side buttons that are easy to access, along with an additional button for the Easy Shift feature. This feature allows users to program extra functions to the mouse buttons, enhancing its utility for both gaming and productivity tasks. The scroll wheel is another highlight, offering a “4D” scrolling capability that allows for left and right flicks in addition to traditional up and down scrolling. However, users may notice that the scroll wheel feels loose, which can be a minor annoyance.

For those who value versatility, the Kone II Air supports Bluetooth connectivity, making it suitable for casual use beyond gaming. It also includes a storage slot for the 2.4GHz wireless dongle, ensuring optimal responsiveness even when on the go. The accompanying Swarm II software is user-friendly, allowing for easy customization of button mappings, RGB lighting profiles, and DPI settings. Users can set DPI points up to 26,000, which is impressive for a gaming mouse.

Battery life is another important aspect of the Kone II Air. It is rated for up to 350 hours when using Bluetooth and 120 hours with the 2.4GHz wireless connection. In real-world testing, the mouse performed well, maintaining around 60% battery life after 40 hours of use with RGB lighting at full brightness.

The Kone II Air is a comfortable and ergonomic mouse that offers a range of features suitable for both gaming and everyday use. While it may not be the best choice for competitive gamers due to its weight distribution and slight design compromises, it still provides a solid performance for casual gaming and general tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the Kone II and Kone II Air will depend on individual preferences and gaming styles. For those who prioritize comfort and versatility, the Kone II Air is a worthy contender in the gaming mouse market.