I hear you, but I'm not that picky and I don't think the mouse matters all that much, it's more about the skill of the player in my mind. I got the G500 today, along with a Func F10.s... pretty amazing combination.

I love how the mouse pointer tracks compared to the MX518 I just replaced. The gripping areas of the G500 are textured and I can see that getting gross with dead skin cells after extended play. Otherwise it's smooth as silk and feels great, particularly once you've gotten the weights right so it feels just right under your hand. I thought the weights were gimmicky, but they do make a difference in the feel and movement of the mouse.

The VE248H 24" LED I got also reveals a difference over the 24" LCD I replaced. The LED backlight makes the image pop and everything is more vivid and bright. I think it will make my eyes more tired after long viewing periods, or maybe I just need to get used to it.

Best $300 I've spent in a while.