DPI vs In-Game Sensitivity: Which to Adjust

DPI (dots per inch) is hardware-based and set on your mouse. In-game sensitivity is software-based, configured in CS2 settings. Both achieve the same end result (cursor movement speed) but with subtle differences. Most experts recommend keeping hardware DPI constant and adjusting in-game sensitivity for testing, ensuring your hardware baseline remains consistent.

Ideally, set your mouse to a fixed DPI (commonly 400, 800, or 1600) and adjust in-game sensitivity to fine-tune. This approach keeps hardware constant, ensuring you're only changing one variable. If you test different eDPIs, modify in-game sensitivity rather than physically accessing mouse settings repeatedly.

Hardware polling rate (how often mouse reports position, typically 125Hz-8000Hz) should be set to maximum in mouse settings. Higher polling rates reduce input latency. This is separate from DPI but similarly important for consistent aiming.

Some players adjust DPI between roles: lower DPI for AWPing, higher for SMG roles. This works but is less efficient than maintaining constant DPI and adjusting in-game sensitivity. The reason most pros maintain fixed DPI is to preserve muscle memory—changing DPI midstream disrupts established muscle patterns.