The Model D- is exactly what you'd expect it to be: a sized-down Model D. Although the shape is marginally different—the front flares out slightly more—the Model D- is essentially a lightweight variant of the classic EC2 shape. All the things that made the Model D a success are also firmly in place this time around: PixArt's PMW3360, very low click latency, high button quality across the board, high quality switches and components used, extensive RGB lighting, an option-rich software, and great handling because of the low weight, highly flexible cable, and excellently gliding mouse feet.

Ahead of release, Glorious had promised some improvements to the overall construction, and the scroll wheel in particular. Based on my sample at least, I can report success: The build is very solid all over, without any flexing, creaking, or loose parts. And the scroll wheel feels just great in practice—scrolling is quiet and has just the right amount of tactility. I'm also pleased to report the lack of sensor lens rattle. The only flaw (so to speak) I could find was with the included supplementary feet: Much like on the Model D, the glide isn't entirely even. This is subject to sample variance, however, and since these are just an added bonus, I wouldn't rate it as a con.

The biggest contender for the Model D- is the Sharkoon Light² 200. Not only do they share the shape and price, everything else is pretty much the same, too. The only difference lies in the sensor, which on paper is slightly better on the Sharkoon, and the cable, which is better on the Glorious. The choice between these two comes down to availability and preference. There's the Xtrfy M4, too, which is excellent in its own right, but more expensive than either the Model D- or Light² 200. The same is true for the ROCCAT Kone Pure Ultra, which is the smallest and most expensive of the bunch.

All in all, the Model D- is another great release from Glorious and gets the Editor's Choice and Budget awards from me.