VGN Dragonfly F1 Series Mouse Review Roundup
If you are in search of a new gaming mouse while on a budget, you have probably seen the VGN Dragonfly F1 pop up as one of the first recommendations on online forums, youtube reviews, and other peripheral enthusiast spaces – and for good reason! The VGN Dragonfly F1 Series is a lineup consisting of high quality, lightweight wireless mice with a single shape. There are four models with different switches, battery, chipset, and weight configurations. VGN Lab announced these right before the start of 2023, and were a relatively unknown brand at the time, yet their enticingly low price-to-high performance entry into the market caught the attention of enthusiasts around the world.
So what exactly does high performance mean? Well, their main flagship models, the F1 Pro Max and MOBA, both sport top-of-the-line Nordic chipsets with 4000Hz polling rate capabilities, normally found in premium gaming mice worth nearly twice the price – though it does require the separately purchased 4K Dongle. They all feature a nice matte coating, huano, or kailh switches depending on the model, and premium build quality. To top it all off, there is even grip tape and an extra pair of skates included in the box. We have provided a chart directly on the product page to help simplify the differences. However, if you wish to hear more about these mice in detail, we have compiled a list of well-respected reviewers to tell you about the VGN Dragon F1 series!
Boardzy Review: A Mouse Worth Vouching For
Review Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kQB6krBPlE
Review Summary:
Boardzy, a peripheral reviewer who is no stranger to great mice, starts off by introducing the VGN Dragonfly F1 as being less than half the price of other top tier gaming mice. He mentions how there have been many chinese-branded mice entering the scene. While picking up the F1, he briefly comments: "This is one of the best in terms of value." At the time of the review, there was a lack of english language support for the software, and some hiccups with 4k polling. However, VGN have since updated the firmware for both, so setting it up should be straightforward, and performance will work flawlessly. He considers the shape to be unique, safe, and on the smaller end of medium-sized mice – noting the extreme comfort for the ring finger on the sides. A great mouse for claw grip, and with a low enough profile for fingertip. The mouse isn't without some imperfections, of course. For example, he noted the weight balance, coating, and some button behavior are not completely tuned to the extent of top mice, but also nothing that would make one disregard the mouse. Truly a mouse deserving of the Boardzy seal of approval.
TechPowerUp Review: Worth Writing Home About
Review Link - https://www.techpowerup.com/review/vgn-dragonfly-f1-pro-max
Review Summary:
Pzogel from TechPowerUp provides a well-written, technical review of the F1 Pro Max with the 4K dongle. He goes through the many standard procedures and tests that his reviews are known for, which include shape measurements, comparisons, quality inspection and switch evaluation, and so much more. You can find side-to-side images of the F1 with popular mice from G-Wolves, XTRFY, Pulsar, LAMZU, etc. When it comes to the meaty parts of the review, "Sensor and Performance", the F1 shows no deviation in CPI (counts per inch), and some instability below 1000Hz. As mentioned in our Boardzy review summary, these have most likely been addressed with the latest firmware update. The polling rate at 1000Hz is fine though, and the click latency is middle of the pack at the lowest debounce setting. With the 4000Hz, this latency almost cuts in half and beats the Logitech G Pro X Superlight by a fraction of a second. Truly an impressive mouse for the price. It's no surprise the F1 earned Editor's Choice and the Great Value award.
Gen3d Tech Review: Exceptional Price, Exceptional Mice
Review Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaM4Szhwipk
Review Summary:
Dave, who goes by Gen3d Tech, is a very kind reviewer who we have had the honor to be in contact with. In his extensive review of the F1 series, he breaks down the major differences between the regular F1, F1 Pro, and Pro Max models. We really recommend watching through the video for all the proper details of each mouse. There's multiple aspects covered such as their mcu, battery life, weight, – everything you can think of honestly. We guarantee you will leave the video knowing exactly which model suits your interests. As for Dave, he personally seems to prefer the Pro Max as its larger battery provides a more solid feel in the hand. All three of his models have shown great build quality during his testing. With his sharp perception, he notices the F1's packaging and mouse aesthetics resemblance with the Ninjutso Sora, an exceptional mouse known for its quality. Although seeming like a small detail, it gives us a point of reference in the quality and value of these mice.
Mioni (ミオニ) Review: Deep Break Down of the Shape
Review Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qx2Gezm2XjU
Review Summary:
Mioni, a large reviewer from Japan, starts the video off with a concise break down of the various F1 models VGN has to offer. He owns the F1 Pro Max himself, and recommends it if you value battery life over having a lower weight. Just like Gen3d Tech, Mioni recognizes some similarities with the Ninjutso Sora –in his case, the texture of the mouse, and its power and dpi button location– and observes them to be from the same manufacturer. The surface finish doesn't work the best for his hands and he considers grip tape a must. When it comes to shape, he believes its size falls between the Razer Viper and Viper Mini, and elaborates on their differences. In short, the simple shape makes it easy to use, and the deep button grooves improve tracking with your fingertips. One of his strengths as a reviewer is his ability to express how shape characteristics affect in-hand feel and usage. There is a lot to take away from his observations. For this alone, we recommend tuning into the review.
AimAdapt Review: An Incredible Mouse
Review Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCOPkF29Y-s
Review Summary:
AimAdapt, an amazing reviewer who has grown exponentially in channel size over the past year, gives us his comprehensive thoughts on the F1 Pro Max. As we have seen from other reviewers already, this is a mouse deserving of its praise. While going over the quality and feel of the mouse, AimAdapt confidently states, "This is on par with some of the best mice out there."
That's only one aspect of the mouse though, as he does mention not being a fan of the stock skates. We recommend trying aftermarket skates if you end up sharing this sentiment. He also notes that the button grooves on the mouse may cause issues if you aren't holding it with the fingers centered – i.e. at an angle, or placed at the button's extremities. The kailh 8.0s featured in the Pro Max also aren't quite to his liking, however, he is optimistic about the huano switches in the Moba version. With those aside, Aimadapt is a fan of smaller mice, and considers the F1 a top shape. And doing what he does best, we get a deep dive on the F1, and its many contenders in shape with great visuals to help demonstrate the differences – a definite watch if you haven't already!
Final Words
As you have heard by now, the F1 series is no slouch despite starting at such a low price point. It is no wonder that the mouse made waves throughout the community once people caught wind of its exceptional quality, execution, and in-demand features. Even a year after, the F1 Series continues to break the mold and raise the question: How much should a good wireless mouse cost?
