The Importance of DPI in Gaming Mice

Last Updated on July 26, 2023

In the world of gaming, where precision and accuracy can mean the difference between victory and defeat, every aspect of a player’s setup matters. One often-overlooked component that plays a critical role in gaming performance is the DPI (dots per inch) of a gaming mouse. DPI refers to the sensitivity of the mouse, determining how far the cursor moves on the screen in relation to physical movement. In this article, we will delve into the significance of Importance of DPI in Gaming Mice and explore its impact on gaming performance.

Understanding DPI

A. Definition and Concept

DPI, or dots per inch, refers to the measurement of sensitivity in a gaming mouse. It represents the number of individual dots or pixels the mouse cursor moves on the screen when the mouse is moved one inch. Higher DPI values indicate greater sensitivity, as the cursor covers more pixels for a given physical movement of the mouse.

B. DPI vs. CPI: Clarifying the Terminology

Sometimes, the term CPI (counts per inch) is used interchangeably with DPI. While both terms essentially measure sensitivity, there is a slight technical difference between them. DPI is a term more commonly associated with optical mice, while CPI is used for laser mice. However, in practical terms, they refer to the same concept of sensitivity adjustment in gaming mice.

C. How DPI Affects Cursor Movement Speed

The DPI setting of a gaming mouse directly affects the speed at which the cursor moves on the screen in response to physical mouse movements. Higher DPI values result in faster cursor movement, while lower DPI values offer slower cursor movement. This adjustment allows gamers to tailor the mouse sensitivity to their preferences, providing them with the control and precision required for different gaming situations.

DPI and Gaming Performance

DPI, or Dots Per Inch, is a crucial factor that influences gaming performance. It refers to the sensitivity of a gaming mouse and determines how far the cursor moves on the screen in relation to physical mouse movement. Understanding DPI and its impact on gaming performance is essential for gamers looking to optimize their aiming, tracking, and overall gameplay experience.

A. Precision and Accuracy in Gaming

Precision and accuracy play vital roles in gaming, especially in fast-paced and competitive genres. A gaming mouse with an appropriate DPI setting allows players to precisely target enemies, perform quick and accurate movements, and react swiftly to in-game situations. Higher DPI values can provide faster cursor movement, enabling gamers to navigate the screen with swiftness and efficiency.

B. DPI Settings for Different Gaming Genres

Different gaming genres have varying requirements when it comes to DPI settings. Let’s explore the optimal DPI ranges for popular gaming genres:

1. First-person shooters (FPS): In FPS games, where precise aiming and quick reflexes are crucial, a moderate DPI setting ranging from 400 to 800 DPI is often preferred by professional gamers. This range offers a good balance between accuracy and the ability to perform swift turns and flick shots.
2. Real-time strategy (RTS): RTS games require precise cursor movement for efficient unit control and resource management. A slightly higher DPI range, typically between 800 and 1200 DPI, is suitable for smooth and responsive cursor movement, facilitating precise clicks and actions.
3. Massively multiplayer online (MMO) games: MMO games often involve navigating large environments, interacting with various elements, and performing complex character movements. A medium to high DPI setting, typically between 1200 and 2400 DPI, can provide the necessary responsiveness and precision required for seamless gameplay.
4. Role-playing games (RPG): RPGs encompass a wide range of gameplay styles, from exploration to combat. The optimal DPI range for RPGs can vary depending on the specific gameplay elements. A DPI setting between 800 and 1600 DPI is commonly recommended for a balance between accuracy and versatility.

C. Finding the Optimal DPI for Individual Playstyle

While the recommended DPI ranges mentioned above serve as a starting point, finding the optimal DPI for individual playstyle and preferences is crucial. It is a personal preference that depends on factors such as hand-eye coordination, mouse sensitivity, and comfort.

Experimentation is key to finding the perfect DPI setting. Start with a DPI value within the recommended range for your gaming genre and gradually adjust it up or down to find the sensitivity that feels comfortable and allows for precise aiming and smooth cursor movement. Pay attention to how different DPI settings affect your accuracy, tracking, and overall gameplay experience.

It is also worth noting that individual mouse models may have slight variations in DPI accuracy and performance, so it’s essential to consider the specific capabilities and limitations of your gaming mouse when determining the optimal DPI setting.

DPI Sensitivity and Mouse Sensors

A. Optical vs. Laser Sensors: Pros and Cons

When it comes to gaming mice, two primary types of sensors are commonly used: optical sensors and laser sensors. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Optical sensors utilize an LED light source to illuminate the surface beneath the mouse and capture images. These sensors are known for their exceptional tracking accuracy at lower DPI (dots per inch) values. They are particularly well-suited for gamers who prefer lower sensitivity settings and demand precise cursor movement. Optical sensors also tend to perform better on textured or uneven surfaces, making them versatile for different gaming environments.

On the other hand, laser sensors use a laser beam instead of an LED light source. Laser sensors often offer a wider range of DPI options, including higher values, which can be advantageous for gamers who require faster cursor movement. They are generally more responsive and can track on a variety of surfaces, including glossy or reflective ones. However, laser sensors may exhibit some slight variations in tracking accuracy at lower DPI settings compared to optical sensors.

In summary, optical sensors excel in precise tracking at lower DPI values and textured surfaces, while laser sensors offer broader DPI range options and better adaptability to different surface types.

B. The Impact of DPI on Sensor Performance

DPI refers to the sensitivity of the mouse sensor and determines how much the cursor moves in relation to physical mouse movement. Higher DPI values result in faster cursor movement, while lower DPI values lead to slower movement. The DPI setting directly affects the performance of the mouse sensor.

With higher DPI settings, the sensor captures more data points per inch of movement, allowing for faster cursor movement on the screen. This can be beneficial in fast-paced games that require swift and precise aiming. However, excessively high DPI values can potentially introduce inaccuracies or jittery cursor movement due to the sensor’s limitations.

Conversely, lower DPI settings capture fewer data points per inch, resulting in slower cursor movement. This can be advantageous for tasks that demand fine control and accuracy, such as sniping in first-person shooter games. Lower DPI values also help minimize unintentional cursor movements and provide a more stable aiming experience.

It is essential to strike a balance between DPI sensitivity and the capabilities of the mouse sensor to achieve optimal performance. Choosing a DPI setting that complements the user’s gaming style and personal preference is crucial for achieving the desired level of control and accuracy.

C. Sensor Technology Advancements in Gaming Mice

Sensor technology in gaming mice has experienced remarkable advancements over the years, contributing to improved precision and tracking capabilities. Manufacturers continually strive to push the boundaries of DPI performance and enhance the overall gaming experience.

These advancements include:

1. Higher DPI Ranges: Gaming mice now offer higher DPI ranges, providing gamers with more options to tailor their sensitivity settings to their liking. It allows for faster and more responsive cursor movement when desired.
2. Enhanced Tracking Algorithms: Advanced tracking algorithms have been developed to improve the accuracy and smoothness of cursor movement. These algorithms compensate for irregularities in surface textures and minimize cursor jitter, resulting in more precise tracking.
3. Adjustable Lift-Off Distance: Some gaming mice feature adjustable lift-off distance, allowing users to fine-tune the height at which the mouse stops tracking when lifted off the surface. This feature enhances control and eliminates unintended cursor movements during quick repositioning.
4. Customizable Polling Rate: Polling rate refers to the frequency at which the mouse reports its position to the computer. Modern gaming mice often offer customizable polling rates, allowing users to adjust the rate according to their preferences. Higher polling rates result in more frequent updates, providing smoother and more responsive cursor movement.
5. Power Efficiency: Gaming mice have become more power-efficient over time, enabling longer battery life for wireless models or reducing the power consumption of wired mice. This allows gamers to enjoy extended gaming sessions without interruptions or the need for frequent battery replacements.

With these advancements, gaming mice are now equipped with more sophisticated sensors that offer improved precision, accuracy, and customization options. Gamers can choose from a wide range of options to find the perfect sensor technology that complements their gaming style and enhances their overall performance.

DPI Customization and Software

A. Gaming Mouse Software Overview

Gaming mouse software plays a crucial role in customizing the functionality and settings of a gaming mouse, including DPI sensitivity. This software provides users with a user-friendly interface to make adjustments and tailor their gaming experience according to their preferences. It enables gamers to unlock the full potential of their gaming mouse by accessing advanced features and settings.

B. Adjusting DPI Settings via Software

Gaming mouse software allows users to adjust DPI settings with ease. By launching the software and accessing the settings section, users can modify the DPI sensitivity to their desired value. Typically, the software provides a range of DPI options and allows users to select their preferred sensitivity level.

The software often offers incremental adjustments, allowing users to fine-tune the DPI sensitivity with precision. This flexibility enables gamers to find the perfect balance between cursor speed and accuracy, catering to their individual playstyle and gaming requirements.

C. Creating Profiles for Different Gaming Scenarios

One of the key advantages of gaming mouse software is the ability to create and save profiles for different gaming scenarios. This feature allows users to define specific settings, including DPI sensitivity, for various games or gaming genres.

By creating profiles, gamers can seamlessly switch between different DPI settings depending on the game they are playing. For example, a player may prefer a higher DPI for fast-paced first-person shooter games, while opting for a lower DPI for precise aiming in strategy games. The software allows for easy switching between profiles, ensuring the optimal DPI sensitivity is automatically applied for each game.

D. Syncing DPI Settings Across Multiple Devices

For gamers who use multiple devices, such as a gaming laptop and desktop, gaming mouse software often provides the capability to sync DPI settings across these devices. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers who want to maintain consistent DPI sensitivity across different platforms.

By syncing DPI settings, users can save time and effort by avoiding the need to manually adjust DPI sensitivity for each device. This synchronization ensures a seamless transition between devices, enabling gamers to maintain their preferred DPI settings regardless of the device they are using.

In conclusion, gaming mouse software offers a range of features that enhance the customization and flexibility of DPI settings. It provides an intuitive interface for adjusting DPI sensitivity, creating profiles for different gaming scenarios, and synchronizing settings across multiple devices. With the help of gaming mouse software, gamers can optimize their DPI settings to achieve the perfect balance of speed, accuracy, and comfort, thereby enhancing their overall gaming experience.

DPI and Mouse Sensitivity Curves

DPI (dots per inch) and mouse sensitivity curves play a significant role in the gaming experience, allowing players to customize their mouse movements and achieve optimal precision. Let’s delve into these concepts in more detail:

A. Exploring Mouse Sensitivity Curves:

Mouse sensitivity curves determine how the cursor or crosshair on the screen moves in response to physical mouse movement. Different sensitivity curves can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the mouse, ultimately impacting aiming accuracy in games.

B. Linear vs. Non-linear Sensitivity:

1. Linear Sensitivity: A linear sensitivity curve maintains a consistent ratio between physical mouse movement and cursor movement on the screen. This means that for every inch or centimeter the mouse is moved, the cursor moves a proportional distance on the screen. Linear sensitivity curves offer predictability and consistency in cursor movement, making it easier for players to develop muscle memory and improve their aiming accuracy over time.
2. Non-linear Sensitivity: Non-linear sensitivity curves introduce variations in the ratio between physical mouse movement and cursor movement. In other words, the cursor’s speed on the screen can increase or decrease based on the speed and distance the mouse is moved. Non-linear curves can provide different aiming experiences, such as acceleration or deceleration. Some players may prefer non-linear curves as they offer more dynamic control over cursor movement, especially for tracking fast-moving targets or making quick, precise adjustments.

C. Tailoring Sensitivity Curves to Individual Preferences:

Every gamer has their own unique preferences and playstyles, which is why the ability to tailor sensitivity curves is essential. Here are a few key considerations when customizing sensitivity curves:

1. Aim Style: Different games and genres may require varying degrees of precision and speed. For example, first-person shooters often benefit from consistent and linear sensitivity curves for precise aiming, while games with fast-paced movement might benefit from non-linear curves to enable quick adjustments.
2. Mouse Grip: The way you grip your mouse can affect how you move it and interact with the game. Whether you use a palm grip, claw grip, or fingertip grip, finding a sensitivity curve that aligns with your grip style can enhance comfort and control.
3. Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in sensitivity curve customization. Some players may enjoy the predictability and consistency of a linear curve, while others may prefer the added control and responsiveness of a non-linear curve. Experimentation and fine-tuning are key to finding the sensitivity curve that feels most comfortable and natural for you.

By adjusting DPI settings and sensitivity curves, gamers can achieve a more personalized and precise gaming experience. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, so take the time to explore different options, experiment with settings, and find the perfect combination that allows you to excel in your favorite games.

Finding the Right DPI for You

Finding the right DPI for your gaming experience requires considering several factors and experimenting with different settings. Here are the detailed explanations for each aspect:

A. Factors to Consider When Choosing DPI:

1. Gaming Setup and Display Resolution: Your gaming setup, including the display resolution of your monitor, plays a significant role in determining the optimal DPI setting. Higher display resolutions, such as 1440p or 4K, generally benefit from higher DPI values to ensure smooth and precise cursor movement across the screen. On the other hand, lower display resolutions may require lower DPI settings for better control and accuracy.
2. Mousepad Surface and Size: The surface and size of your mousepad directly influence the mouse tracking and response. Different mousepad textures, such as cloth or hard surfaces, can affect how the mouse glides and tracks. Additionally, the size of the mousepad impacts the distance covered by the mouse for a given physical movement. Experimenting with different DPI settings allows you to find the optimal sensitivity that works harmoniously with your specific mousepad characteristics.
3. Personal Hand and Grip Style: Each individual has a unique hand size and grip style, which affects the comfort and control of the mouse. It is crucial to find a DPI sensitivity that caters to your hand size and grip style to ensure ergonomic comfort during extended gaming sessions. Some players with larger hands might prefer lower DPI settings to accommodate their natural hand movements, while others with smaller hands may opt for higher DPI settings for greater cursor speed.

B. Experimenting with Different DPI Settings:

Once you have taken the above factors into account, it’s time to experiment with different DPI settings to find the one that suits you best. Start by trying a DPI setting within the recommended range for your gaming genre. For example, first-person shooter (FPS) games often benefit from lower DPI settings (400-800 DPI) for improved precision, while real-time strategy (RTS) games may require slightly higher DPI values (800-1200 DPI) for quicker cursor movement.

Begin with a baseline DPI setting and gradually increase or decrease it to see how it affects your aiming, tracking, and overall comfort. Take note of how each DPI adjustment impacts your gameplay, and be sure to give yourself enough time to adapt to each setting before making further changes. Through this iterative process, you will gain a better understanding of your preferred DPI sensitivity.

C. Balancing Speed, Accuracy, and Comfort:

Finding the right DPI is all about achieving a balance between speed, accuracy, and comfort. A higher DPI setting allows for faster cursor movement, enabling quick reflexes and swift camera panning. However, excessively high DPI values may compromise accuracy due to increased sensitivity. In contrast, lower DPI settings provide finer control and precision but may sacrifice speed.

It’s essential to find the DPI setting that allows you to strike the perfect balance between these factors. Aim for a sensitivity that enables you to react swiftly in intense gaming situations, while maintaining precise aim and comfortable mouse control. The ideal DPI sensitivity will vary from person to person, so take the time to experiment and fine-tune until you find the optimal setting that maximizes your gaming performance and comfort.

By considering the gaming setup, mousepad characteristics, personal hand and grip style, and experimenting with different DPI settings, you can discover the perfect DPI sensitivity that enhances your gaming experience and gives you a competitive edge.

Common Myths and Misconceptions

A. Myth: Higher DPI always means better performance

One common myth surrounding DPI (dots per inch) in gaming mice is the belief that higher DPI automatically translates to better performance. While it’s true that higher DPI values result in faster cursor movement, it does not necessarily guarantee improved gaming performance. The misconception stems from the assumption that faster cursor movement equates to better aiming and overall gameplay.

In reality, the optimal DPI setting for gaming varies from person to person and depends on individual playstyle and preferences. Some gamers may find that lower DPI values offer more precise control and accuracy, allowing for smoother and more controlled movements. On the other hand, some players may prefer higher DPI settings to accommodate their fast-paced and twitch-based playstyle.

It’s important to note that excessively high DPI values can lead to diminished accuracy and control. When the sensitivity becomes too high, it can become challenging to make precise movements and accurately target opponents in games. Therefore, finding the right balance between speed, accuracy, and comfort is key when choosing the appropriate DPI setting.

B. Myth: Maximum DPI is necessary for competitive gaming

Another prevalent myth surrounding DPI in gaming mice is the belief that maximum DPI is necessary for competitive gaming. This misconception implies that gamers must strive for the highest possible DPI values to gain an advantage over their opponents.

In reality, the DPI requirement for competitive gaming varies among players and is highly subjective. Many professional gamers actually prefer lower DPI settings that allow for precise and controlled movements. These lower sensitivities provide better accuracy, especially in games that require precise aiming, such as first-person shooters.

Choosing the optimal DPI setting is not solely about reaching the maximum DPI value. It’s about finding the sensitivity that complements your playstyle and allows you to perform at your best. It’s essential to consider factors such as personal comfort, accuracy, and the ability to consistently hit targets.

C. Debunking misconceptions surrounding DPI

To debunk the misconceptions surrounding DPI, it’s crucial to emphasize that DPI is a personal preference that should be customized based on individual playstyle, ergonomic comfort, and the specific demands of the game being played. The focus should be on finding the DPI setting that enhances performance rather than blindly pursuing the highest DPI numbers.

Rather than fixating on maximum DPI or assuming that higher DPI always leads to better performance, gamers should experiment with different DPI values to find what works best for them. It’s about striking the right balance between speed and accuracy, ensuring that the mouse sensitivity allows for precise aiming while maintaining comfort and control.

Ultimately, the goal is to find the optimal DPI setting that maximizes your gaming performance and enhances your overall experience. It’s important to remember that DPI is just one aspect of gaming mouse customization, and factors such as sensor technology, ergonomic design, and personal preferences all play a role in achieving the best possible gaming performance.

By debunking these misconceptions and understanding the true role of DPI in gaming, players can make informed decisions about their mouse sensitivity settings and optimize their gaming performance accordingly.

The Role of DPI in Gaming Mice Technology

A. DPI Advancements Over the Years

DPI (dots per inch) is a crucial specification in gaming mice that determines the sensitivity of cursor movement. Over the years, there have been significant advancements in DPI technology, revolutionizing the gaming experience.

Gaming mice have seen a steady increase in maximum DPI values, allowing for higher precision and faster cursor movement. Older gaming mice typically offered DPI ranges of around 800-1600, while modern gaming mice can reach DPI values of 16000 or even higher.

These DPI advancements have been made possible by technological improvements in sensor design and manufacturing. Sensor technologies, such as optical and laser sensors, have become more advanced, allowing for more accurate tracking and higher DPI capabilities. Additionally, manufacturers have focused on optimizing the firmware and software algorithms to ensure smoother and more responsive cursor movement.

Higher DPI values enable gamers to achieve faster and more precise movements, especially when playing fast-paced games that require quick reactions. Whether it’s pixel-perfect aiming in first-person shooters or rapid cursor movement in real-time strategy games, DPI advancements have played a significant role in enhancing gaming performance.

B. Innovations in Gaming Mouse Design

In addition to DPI advancements, gaming mouse design has witnessed remarkable innovations to complement the evolving needs of gamers. Manufacturers have focused on creating ergonomic shapes and customizable features to provide comfort, control, and improved gaming performance.

Ergonomic Design: Gaming mice now come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different hand sizes and grip styles. The ergonomic design ensures that gamers can comfortably hold the mouse for extended periods without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.

Customizable Buttons: Gaming mice often feature additional programmable buttons that can be mapped to specific in-game commands or macros. This customization allows gamers to execute complex actions or commands quickly, providing a competitive edge in intense gaming scenarios.

Adjustable Weight: Some gaming mice offer the ability to adjust the weight distribution by adding or removing weights. This feature allows users to fine-tune the mouse’s balance according to their preferences, enhancing control and accuracy.

Improved Sensor Technologies: Sensor technologies have undergone significant advancements, leading to more precise and reliable tracking. Optical sensors and laser sensors are now capable of delivering accurate and consistent cursor movement across a wide range of surfaces.

C. Future Trends and Predictions for DPI Technology

The future of DPI technology in gaming mice looks promising, with several trends and predictions on the horizon:

1. Enhanced DPI Capabilities: We can expect further advancements in DPI values, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries to offer even higher sensitivity options. This will enable gamers to fine-tune their cursor movement with unprecedented precision.
2. Improved Sensor Accuracy: Sensor technologies will continue to improve, ensuring accurate tracking across different surfaces and minimizing any potential tracking issues. This will result in smoother and more reliable cursor movement, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
3. Customizable DPI Profiles: Gaming mice software will likely provide more advanced customization options, allowing users to create and save multiple DPI profiles for different games or scenarios. This feature will provide gamers with seamless transitions between games and optimal sensitivity settings tailored to specific gameplay requirements.
4. Integration with Gaming Ecosystems: Gaming mice will likely become more integrated with broader gaming ecosystems. This may include compatibility with cloud-based settings synchronization, allowing gamers to access their customized DPI settings across multiple devices seamlessly.
5. Sensor Power Efficiency: Manufacturers will continue to focus on improving sensor power efficiency, allowing gaming mice to offer high-performance tracking without draining the battery excessively. This will ensure extended gaming sessions without interruptions.
6. Haptic Feedback: Haptic feedback, which provides tactile sensations, may be incorporated into gaming mice. This feature could enhance immersion by providing physical feedback during in-game actions, further blurring the line between virtual and real-world experiences.

In conclusion, DPI plays a vital role in gaming mice technology, allowing gamers to customize cursor sensitivity and achieve the desired level of precision and responsiveness. With ongoing advancements and innovations in DPI capabilities, sensor technologies, and gaming mouse design, the future holds exciting possibilities for enhanced gaming experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is the Optimal DPI for Gaming?

The optimal DPI for gaming varies among individuals and is influenced by factors such as gaming genre, display resolution, and personal preferences. It is recommended to start with the recommended DPI ranges for specific gaming genres and adjust accordingly based on individual comfort and aiming accuracy.

Does DPI Affect Gaming Performance?

Yes, DPI does affect gaming performance. The right DPI setting can enhance precision, accuracy, and responsiveness in games, allowing players to aim precisely and execute actions swiftly. However, finding the optimal DPI for individual playstyle and preferences is crucial.

Can I Change DPI On-the-Fly?

Many gaming mice come with buttons or software that allow users to change DPI settings on-the-fly, without exiting the game. This feature is particularly useful in situations where different sensitivity levels are required for different in-game scenarios.

Is Higher DPI Always Better?

Higher DPI is not always better, as excessively high DPI settings can lead to decreased accuracy and control. It is important to find a balance between speed, accuracy, and comfort when choosing DPI settings, rather than focusing solely on the highest DPI numbers.

Conclusion: Importance of DPI in Gaming Mice

In the world of competitive gaming, where split-second reactions and precise movements can make all the difference, DPI plays a crucial role. DPI, or dots per inch, is a measurement of mouse sensitivity that directly affects cursor movement speed. Throughout this article, we have explored the significance of DPI in gaming mice and its impact on gaming performance.

The Impact of DPI on Gaming Performance

DPI has a profound impact on gaming performance. The right DPI setting can greatly enhance precision, accuracy, and responsiveness, allowing gamers to navigate virtual worlds with unparalleled control. By adjusting the DPI sensitivity, players can fine-tune their aiming, execute actions swiftly, and gain a competitive edge in fast-paced gaming environments.

Emphasizing the Need for Personalized DPI Settings

While there are recommended DPI ranges for specific gaming genres, it is crucial to recognize that every player is unique. Personal playstyle, comfort, and individual preferences play a significant role in determining the optimal DPI setting. Experimentation and fine-tuning are key to finding the perfect balance between speed, accuracy, and comfort.

By taking into consideration factors such as gaming setup, display resolution, mousepad characteristics, and personal hand and grip style, players can tailor their DPI settings to their specific needs. It is through this customization that gamers can achieve the optimal sensitivity for their gaming experience, allowing them to unleash their full potential on the virtual battlefield.

In conclusion, DPI is a critical aspect of gaming mice that should not be overlooked. It directly influences cursor movement speed, precision, and overall gaming performance. By understanding the concept of DPI, distinguishing it from CPI, and exploring its impact on gaming, players can make informed decisions when choosing and customizing their gaming mice to suit their preferences.

Remember, finding the right DPI setting is a personal journey. It requires experimentation, trial and error, and a deep understanding of one’s own playstyle. So, embrace the power of DPI customization, and embark on the quest to find the perfect sensitivity that elevates your gaming prowess to new heights.