One thing I can tell you for sure, gold-plated USB does absolutely nothing for you
None.
Ideazon Reaper's Edge.
http://www.amazon.com/Ideazon-Reaper-Edge-Gaming-Mouse/dp/B000VZJA78If you haven't heard of it, you're not alone. It's a very underrated mouse and I find it to be the best mouse I've ever used. Reliable, good weight and shape, two easily clicked thumb buttons, scroll wheel (tilt wheels suck), and a button for on the fly sensitivity changes.