CS2 Sensitivity vs eDPI Explained

Understanding the relationship between mouse DPI, in-game sensitivity, and eDPI is essential for finding your ideal CS2 aim settings. This guide explains how these values work together and what professional players recommend.

What is eDPI?

eDPI stands for effective dots per inch. It combines your mouse hardware DPI with your CS2 in-game sensitivity into a single number that represents your actual turning speed. The formula is simple: eDPI = Mouse DPI x In-Game Sensitivity.

For example, a player using 800 DPI with 1.0 in-game sensitivity has the same eDPI (800) as a player using 400 DPI with 2.0 sensitivity. Both will turn at the same speed in CS2, even though their individual settings differ.

Why eDPI Matters

eDPI is the only fair way to compare sensitivity between players. Saying you play on 2.0 sensitivity is meaningless without knowing the DPI, because 2.0 at 400 DPI (eDPI 800) is completely different from 2.0 at 1600 DPI (eDPI 3200).

Professional Player eDPI Ranges

eDPI Range	Category	Playstyle
400-600	Very Low	Extreme precision, AWP specialists. Requires large mousepad.
600-900	Low (Pro Average)	Most professional players. Best balance of precision and mobility.
900-1200	Medium	Good for entry fraggers and aggressive playstyles.
1200-1600	Medium-High	Comfortable for wrist aimers. Less common among pros.
1600+	High	Rarely used in competitive CS2. Very hard to aim precisely.

How to Find Your Ideal Sensitivity

There is no universally perfect sensitivity, but here is a practical method for finding yours. Start with an eDPI around 800 (the professional average). Play a few deathmatch sessions and pay attention to two things: can you make small, precise adjustments to hit headshots? And can you comfortably turn to check angles and respond to flanks?

If you overshoot your target consistently, lower your sensitivity. If you feel like you cannot turn fast enough or your arm gets tired, increase it slightly. Make small adjustments and give yourself time to adapt before changing again.

Common DPI and Sensitivity Combinations

DPI	Sensitivity	eDPI
400	2.0	800
800	1.0	800
1600	0.5	800
400	2.5	1000
800	1.25	1000
400	1.5	600
800	0.75	600

DPI vs In-Game Sensitivity

Since eDPI is what determines your actual turning speed, you might wonder whether it matters if you use 400 DPI with 2.0 sensitivity or 800 DPI with 1.0 sensitivity. In practice, higher mouse DPI can provide smoother cursor movement because the mouse reports more data points to the computer. Many players recommend 800 or 1600 DPI on the mouse with a lower in-game sensitivity, rather than using 400 DPI with higher in-game sensitivity.

However, the difference is subtle and many professional players still use 400 DPI out of habit. Use whatever DPI feels comfortable for your desktop workflow and adjust CS2 sensitivity accordingly.

Related Console Commands

sensitivity 1.0
m_rawinput 1
zoom_sensitivity_ratio 1.0

Always enable raw input (m_rawinput 1) to bypass Windows mouse acceleration and get consistent aiming behavior.

Related Tools & Guides

Sensitivity FAQ

What is eDPI in CS2?

eDPI (effective DPI) is calculated by multiplying your mouse DPI by your in-game sensitivity. For example, 800 DPI with 1.0 sensitivity gives an eDPI of 800. It standardizes sensitivity comparison across different DPI values.

What eDPI do CS2 pros use?

Professional CS2 players typically use eDPI between 600 and 1200, with the average around 800-900. Lower eDPI allows more precise aim but requires a larger mousepad.

Is higher or lower sensitivity better for CS2?

Lower sensitivity is generally better for precise aiming in CS2. However, it needs to be high enough that you can comfortably check corners and do 180-degree turns when needed.

Should I change my DPI or in-game sensitivity?

Either works since eDPI is what matters. Many players prefer 400 or 800 DPI on the mouse and adjust in-game sensitivity. Higher DPI can feel smoother for desktop use.