Claw vs palm grip in VALORANT, which one is better?
At the very beginning, using a computer starts with holding a mouse and typing on a keyboard and that goes for everything you do on your PC, even if it is gaming. Players choose between two main styles: the claw grip and the palm grip. The shortest answer is no. There are no factual winners in this comparison, but just like the best crosshair in VALORANT, strictly depends on a player’s comfort and style, the mouse grip is no different. Each style has its benefits, and the best choice can depend on the player's style and what feels comfortable. In this guide we delved into everything you need to know about these two grip styles.
What are claw grip and palm grip in VALORANT?
The claw grip is a popular choice among pro gamers. This grip involves arching your fingers like a claw over the mouse buttons, with only the back of your palm touching the mouse. This setup lets you move quickly and responsively, which is great for games that need fast reflexes like VALORANT. The claw grip uses more wrist movement and less from your forearm, which can be good for both short games and long gaming sessions.
The palm grip involves placing your whole hand flat on the mouse. This style uses more of your forearm and elbow to move the mouse, not just your wrist. Many professional FPS players use this grip because it provides a lot of control and precision, thanks to the larger muscle groups involved.
Each grip also influences the type of mouse you might choose. If you use a palm grip, you'll likely prefer a bigger mouse that supports your whole hand. If you prefer a claw grip, a smaller and lighter mouse might be better because it lets you make quick movements with less of your hand touching the mouse.
Which one is better, claw or palm grip?
Now that you know what claw and palm grips are, you may be wondering which one is better or if there is actually a winner in this comparison. Let’s take a look at the common advantages and disadvantages of both claw and palm grips. Claw grip advantages and disadvantages
In the claw grip, your hand forms a claw-like shape that allows for agile and quick movements. Here are the pros and cons of using the claw grip:
Advantages:
- Quick-twitch responsiveness allows for rapid movements.
- Minimal hand contact with the mouse enhances speed.
- Ideal for scenarios requiring fast reflex actions.
Disadvantages:
- Can lead to quicker fatigue and potential strain.
- Less precision compared to the palm grip due to less stability.
- High-tension posture may result in discomfort over time.
Palm grip advantages and disadvantages
The palm grip involves the entire hand resting comfortably on the mouse, providing smooth and controlled movements. Below are the pros and cons of using the palm grip:
Advantages:
- Provides natural, ergonomic comfort, reducing fatigue.
- Offers high precision and stability, ideal for aiming better.
- Comfortable for long gaming sessions due to low tension.
Disadvantages:
- Slower response time compared to claw grip.
- Not ideal for rapid, repetitive mouse clicks.
- Large muscle use may lead to fatigue in long, intense gaming sessions.
Choosing between the claw and palm grip in VALORANT depends on what feels most natural to you and fits your gaming needs. Each grip has its strengths and might suit different players. If you need speed and are okay with less stability, the claw grip might be right for you. If you prefer comfort and precision over speed, the palm grip could be better.
The best way to find out is to try both grips and see which one helps your performance and feels better during long gaming periods. The right grip is the one that feels best to you and helps you play your best in VALORANT. If you enjoyed reading our guide, here are more for you to check out:
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