Mountain Makalu Max mouse review - Introduction

Mountain Makalu Max + Nunatak M (mouse pad)

This article reviews the Mountain Makalu Max mouse (with the addition of the  Nunatak M mousepad). It is not the first product of this German company that we’re checking. Previously it was the keyboard called Everest Max: Makalu 67 mouse, 60% keyboard Everest 60, and the latest Display and Macro Pad. In December 2022, the Listan Group took over the Mountain (be quiet!). But getting back to the Makalu Max- the first product made under the new ownership - it’s an optical gaming mouse presented on 16.05.2023. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain globally at 8,485 meters (27,838 ft) and is considered one of the most challenging mountains in the world to climb. It targets gamers, no doubt about that, but not only (more about it later).

The optical sensor is PixArt PAW3370, with a sensitivity to 19,000 DPI, 1-2 mm lift-off distance, and a 0.5% error rate, so the same as used in the Makalu 67. The value of IPS is 400, the polling rate is 1000 Hz/1 ms, and the power draw is 1.5 mA. The wireless connection is possible via:

• Zero-lag 2.4 GHz RF

The Makalu Max has a built-in battery, which should achieve up to 80 hours of battery life. The mouse is charged using the included (1.8 m) USB cable. The ergonomic side grips are modular. A gravity control system enables you to adjust the weight (three discs are included – 10.6 g, 8.4 g, and 6.6 g) and re-adjust the balance. In Makalu Max, you’ll find eight customizable buttons:

• Left
• Right
• Mouse Wheel
• DPI +
• DPI –
• Back
• Forward
• Sniper DPI

These use the Kailh GM 8.0 switches, rated for at least 80 million actuations. The operating force is 65 +/- 10 gf, (min) releasing force 25 gf. Pretravel is 0.3 +/- 0.2 mm. The movement differential is 0.12 mm max. The mouse feet are made of 100% PTFE. Using the Base Camp software, it is possible to illuminate the mouse in one of 16.7 million colors. It’s possible to save your favorite configs in up to 5 profiles in Makalu’s internal memory.

The reviewed mouse is aimed at palm and claw grip users. The side grip is configurable to match the needs of gamers but also creative professionals. The extra-wide one (textured and made of ABS) supports the ring and pinky fingers. The other one has the additional thumb rest and rubberized texture. Strong magnets take care of firm and reliable connections. The dimensions are 127 x 70.2 x 42.2 mm (L x W x H). The weight is 110 g (with standard Side Grips and w/o weight discs) and 114 g (with wide Side Grips and without weight discs). The Mountain Makalu Max is available at 89.99 USD/89.99 EUR. The warranty is two years, so that’s pretty standard. Is this product worth its price, given the provided features and functionality? Let’s find out.