Tech

The best gaming mouse in 2024

techhigNovember 14, 2024

0 10 31 minutes read

No gaming mouse will magically cease you from getting wrecked in Counter-Strike or Name of Obligation, however one can provide you a larger sense of management whereas making your playtime extra snug. Which one is “finest” will all the time be subjective: Form is king, because the adage goes, and everybody’s arms are completely different. That stated, we’ve examined dozens of well-reviewed gaming mice over the previous a number of months to search out those that stood out probably the most. After enjoying by means of numerous periods of CS2, Overwatch 2, Closing Fantasy XIV and extra PC video games, listed below are our picks for the very best gaming mice you should purchase, together with some basic buying recommendation to bear in mind earlier than you pull the set off.

The perfect gaming mouse

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If cash is not any object, the very best gaming mouse with a symmetrical design that we’ve examined is the Razer Viper V3 Professional. It prices a hefty $160, nevertheless it’ll provide you with little to complain about in case you play a ton of aggressive PC video games and may abdomen the worth.

With its calmly grooved sides, noticeable however not aggressive hump and delicate flare-outs towards the again, the Viper V3 Professional’s form needs to be snug for a variety of hand sizes and grip sorts. It’s a bit on the broader aspect, and it in all probability works finest with a claw or fingertip grip, nevertheless it’s not so brief or flat that it may possibly’t accommodate palm grippers. The primary mouse buttons are contoured in a manner that provides your fingers a pure resting place, and there are little ledges on both aspect to subtly nudge them to the fitting spot once you’re scrambling in-game. Put one other manner, this is without doubt one of the safer shapes we’ve examined.

The Viper’s construct high quality is superb. It’s impressively mild at 54 grams, which makes it a breeze to flick round in fast-paced video games, but its matte plastic body isn’t coated in dust-inviting holes like many different choices across the similar weight. We’ve seen zero hints of creaking, flexing or rattling after months of testing. The end picks up some finger smudges however is grippy and delightfully mushy to the contact. The primary click on buttons use sturdy optical switches however aren’t particularly loud. Although they aren’t fairly as full or crisp as the very best mechanical switches, they’re nonetheless snappy to press, neither too agency nor too mild. The 2 programmable aspect buttons are well-sized and straightforward to succeed in. The scroll wheel, in the meantime, is tight and quiet, with clearly outlined steps and a textured end.

Efficiency, as is the case with many high-end gaming mice as of late, is successfully flawless. Razer’s Focus Professional 35K Optical Sensor Gen-2 — say that 5 occasions quick — is principally overkill from a technological perspective however makes the mouse exceptionally correct and constant all the identical. It’s aided by amply-sized, smooth-gliding PTFE toes and a rock-solid connection to an included “HyperPolling” dongle. The latter lets the mouse attain a most polling fee of 8,000Hz, however as famous under, few individuals will really seen any profit from leaping that prime. Principally, it’ll simply zap battery life: Razer says the Viper V3 Professional can stand up to 95 hours at 1,000Hz, which is okay for this market and roughly according to our expertise, however that drops to only 17 hours at 8,000Hz.

If the worth didn’t make it apparent, the Viper V3 Professional is for gaming fans. As such, it offers up a number of the perks you’d discover on extra mainstream mice: There’s no RGB lighting or Bluetooth, whereas the ability button/DPI switcher is situated on the underside of the machine to make it tougher to hit accidentally. Because the machine makes use of a particular dongle as an alternative of a standard receiver, it nonetheless requires you run a separate USB-C cable out of your PC or gaming laptop computer. You possibly can join over that cable when the battery is low, fortunately, nevertheless it’s comparatively thick. And whereas Razer’s Synapse software program makes it easy sufficient to regulate settings, it’s one thing of a useful resource hog. It’s additionally Home windows-only. These are all nitpicks, although. The Viper V3 Professional is excellent, and it ought to really feel proper at dwelling within the arms of dedicated FPS gamers.

Professionals

Distinctive efficiency
Very good construct high quality
Snug for many grip sorts and hand sizes

Cons

Costly
Little bit of a fingerprint magnet
Thick charging cable

$160 at Amazon

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Proper-handed | Weight: 63 grams | Dimensions: 5 x 2.67 x 1.73 inches | Sensor: Razer Focus Professional 30K Optical Sensor | Switches: Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 | Most polling fee: 8,000Hz (“traditional base” mannequin requires elective dongle) | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 90 hours at 1,000Hz

If you would like a premium gaming mouse with a extra ergonomic form, get the Razer DeathAdder V3 Professional. It packs a lot of the similar strengths because the Viper V3 Professional however has a taller, barely wider and extra dramatically flared design that’s tailor-made to right-handed customers. Most individuals with medium to giant arms ought to discover it to be a pure match with a palm or claw grip, although it’ll in all probability be a contact too fats for smaller-handed people and fingertip grippers. This type of form isn’t as simple to whip round because the Viper, however its excessive, sideways-sloping hump ought to present a extra stress-free place to relaxation your hand over the course of the day.

Razer sells two variants of the DeathAdder V3 Professional: one with an identical soft-touch end because the Viper V3 Professional, and one with a extra textured matte plastic coating. We examined the latter; it’s not as grippy or {smooth} to the contact, nevertheless it’s nonetheless good, and it’s a lot much less of a fingerprint magnet. Additionally, the aspect buttons are greater, nearer collectively and a smidge much less tight, however they’re nonetheless troublesome to hit accidentally. The design is heavier at 63 grams, too, however nonetheless severely light-weight. The PTFE toes are smaller however nonetheless glide reliably. And whereas the sensor is technically a technology older, efficiency is successfully flawless.

In any other case, you’re taking a look at an identical characteristic set. The optical predominant buttons are satisfying and constant however not overly delicate. The calmly notched scroll wheel is mushy, quiet and resistant sufficient, if not agency. Battery life is rated at a good 90 hours, and you’ll join a lighter and extra versatile USB-C cable in a pinch. Each variations of the mouse additionally assist polling charges as much as 8,000Hz, although solely the SKU with the “smooth-touch” texture comes with a wi-fi dongle that permits these greater charges within the field. The textured “traditional base” mannequin comes with a smaller USB receiver that “solely” goes as much as 1,000Hz, however because it’s usually out there for much less at third-party retailers, it’s in all probability a greater worth. Normally, the most important knock in opposition to the DeathAdder V3 Professional is that it’s costly, with the 8,000Hz mannequin priced at $160.

The newer DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed, which prices $99, is a “1B” choose right here. Though it’s positioned under the Professional in Razer’s lineup, it’s extra of a “DeathAdder V3 Professional Mini” than a transparent downgrade. It doesn’t surrender the rechargeable battery, cutout-free shell, optical switches and mushy (if smudge-heavy) coating of its greater sibling, and whereas its sensor is technically worse, it nonetheless performs splendidly. Its battery life score is definitely 10 hours greater at 1,000Hz, plus it has a built-in storage compartment for its USB receiver. The main distinction is that it’s lighter (55g) and extra compact, with a lower-profile scroll wheel and a slightly shorter hump. In case your arms are on the smaller aspect, it’s value grabbing as an alternative.

Professionals

Prime-shelf efficiency
Light-weight
Snug for these with medium to giant arms

Cons

Costly
Naggy software program
Not ideally suited for smaller arms

$115 at Walmart

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Endgadget

For those who don’t thoughts connecting over a cable, our favourite wired gaming mouse with a symmetrical design is the Endgame Gear OP1 8K. It weighs simply 50 grams and has a easy design with flat sides and a reasonably-sized hump sloping down the again. It’s a bit smaller and extra slender than most mice we’ve examined, so it’ll be comfiest with a claw or fingertip grip, although a palm grip also can work in smaller arms. The entire thing is extremely sturdy, with no flex or rattle, whereas the sleek matte plastic coating offers a good bit of grip. The built-in cable is mild, versatile and cleverly titled upwards on the base of the mouse, all of which helps scale back any dragging sensation as you throw your hand round.

The OP1 8K makes use of mechanical switches, however the mouse is designed in a manner that makes them (comparatively) simple to swap out in a worst-case situation. Normally, the machine’s openness to customization is commendable — there are readily uncovered screws on the underside and a screwdriver, elective aspect grips and bigger PTFE toes within the field.

By default, the principle clicks are on the stiffer aspect however quick to actuate and noticeably crisp. You possibly can really set these switches to make use of a “pace mode” that reduces click on latency even additional, however both manner the buttons are simple to spam. The fitting mouse button on our unit does sound somewhat sharper than the left, however the distinction isn’t extreme and you’ll pop in quieter switches on a budget in order for you a special noise profile. The notched scroll wheel and two aspect buttons are well-tensioned, too. The latter really feel considerably hole, however they’re exhausting to hit accidentally.

Sensor efficiency is predictably glorious; we noticed no accuracy or movement delay points throughout a spread of video games. With its mild weight, quick clicks and {smooth} inventory skates, every thing about it feels tailored for snapping round in esports-style video games like Counter-Strike 2 that prioritize fast reactions. The mouse additionally helps polling charges as much as 8,000Hz — that’s nonetheless removed from important, nevertheless it’s a minimum of simpler to activate when there’s no battery drain to fret about. We additionally like Endgame Gear’s configuration software program, which appears to be like like one thing out of the Home windows 95 period however is easy to grok and takes up subsequent to no sources.

At $75, the OP1 8K definitely isn’t the most cost effective wired mouse, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a great way lower than wi-fi high-performance fashions. Essentially the most urgent situation could also be that it may possibly fall out of inventory now and again, as Endgame Gear is a comparatively small firm out of Germany.

Professionals

Quick to click on and flick
Sturdy, ultralight design
Mild and versatile cable
{Hardware} is customizable

Cons

A bit small for giant arms
Aspect buttons really feel considerably hole
Occasional inventory points

$75 at Endgame Gear

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

It’s just a few years outdated, however the Razer Basilisk V3 stays our favourite wired gaming mouse with an ergonomic design. This one is extra aggressively contoured than “ergo” mice just like the DeathAdder V3 Professional, with a big rubberized thumb relaxation, lengthy predominant buttons and a rounded, moderately-sized hump working down its center. It’s fantastically comfortable for palm grippers with medium- to large-sized arms, nevertheless it’ll additionally play effectively with claw grips. Those that want a fingertip grip or simply have smaller arms will doubtless discover it too chunky, nonetheless.

The design as a complete feels strong; there’s some minor flexing on the bottom-right aspect once you press down exhausting, however you’d should exit of your option to discover it. The matte plastic end is pleasingly textured and sufficiently grippy. The cable is lots versatile, whereas the PTFE toes glide easily. We additionally dig the fun-but-not-garish RGB lighting across the mouse’s underside and scroll wheel. There are 11 customizable buttons in complete, together with two easy-to-reach aspect buttons and a devoted “sensitivity clutch” that permits you to momentarily drop to a decrease DPI for moments the place chances are you’ll have to intention extra exactly. The latter will probably be significantly robust for the smaller-handed to succeed in comfortably, although.

The Basilisk V3 makes use of older optical switches than our different Razer high picks, however we haven’t had any double-clicking points after effectively over a 12 months of testing. Whereas predominant clicks aren’t practically as quick as these on the Endgame Gear OP1 8K, they strike an agreeable stability between firmness and pace. They aren’t all that loud, both. Just like the Viper V3 Professional, the buttons are grooved in a manner that naturally invitations your index and center fingers.

The scroll wheel is likely to be the weakest ingredient: It has clearly outlined steps and an simply identifiable texture, nevertheless it’s pretty loud and a bit wobbly. That stated, it may possibly tilt side-to-side — which helps clarify the wobbliness — and there’s a built-in toggle that permits you to swap between a traditional ratcheted scroll and a free-spin mode. That may be helpful outdoors of video games — say, when it’s worthwhile to scroll by means of an enormous doc or Excel sheet.

Razer’s Synapse software program continues to be naggy with updates and Home windows-only, nevertheless it makes customizing DPI ranges, macros and RGB results easy sufficient. It can save you as much as 5 completely different profiles to the mouse itself, although your lighting customizations received’t carry over.

We haven’t had any main points with sensor accuracy, both, however at roughly 100 grams, the Basilisk V3 is clearly heftier than the ultralight mice we spotlight above. When you completely can go off in Counter-Strike or Valorant with it, the mouse’s weight and extensive body imply it’s not expressly designed for video games like these. It can also’t go above a 1,000Hz polling fee. In some ways, that is the precise reverse of the OP1 8K, a tool that feels designed from the bottom up for aggressive fare. As a substitute, the Basilisk V3 is smart for righties who desire a comfortable and dependable mouse they will flip to for extra informal gaming throughout genres. Razer sells it for $70, however because it’s often out there for lower than $50 at third-party retailers as of late, you may contemplate it our choose for the very best price range gaming mouse as effectively.

It’s value noting that Razer launched a barely refreshed mannequin referred to as the Basilisk V3 35K since our final replace. That one comes with a technically improved sensor and newer optical switches, although the load and general form are nearly equivalent. On condition that we didn’t have many points with the tech within authentic V3, we’d nonetheless suggest getting the older model whereas it’s nonetheless in inventory and out there for much less. For those who see the V3 35K on sale for the same value, nonetheless, it needs to be secure to only get that one as an alternative.

Professionals

Tremendous snug for medium to giant arms
Nicely-built, with versatile cable
Versatile scroll wheel
Good worth

Cons

Too heavy to be ideally suited for FPS video games
Too cumbersome to be ideally suited for small arms
Scroll wheel is noisy
Naggy software program

$44 at Amazon

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If you would like a mouse particularly designed for MMO and MOBA video games, get the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. It does an important factor any MMO mouse can do, which is allow you to entry a number of in-game actions with minimal effort. That’s because of its 12 programmable aspect buttons, all of which ship a cushty, firm-but-not-stiff sensation when pressed. Two of the panel’s 4 button rows are textured, which makes them simpler to tell apart with out having to look down. Uniquely, you may bodily reposition this aspect panel with an Allen key included within the field, so in case you discover the buttons troublesome to succeed in by default, you may deal with that. Both manner, having a number of buttons proper underneath your thumb makes it a lot simpler to play MMOs like Closing Fantasy XIV and even single-player RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3, which ask you to navigate a number of “hotbars” of instructions at any given time.

Like most MMO mice, the Scimitar RGB Elite is on the bigger and heavier (108g) aspect, nevertheless it’s not the bulkiest mannequin we’ve seen. Its form needs to be accommodating to palm and claw grips, and most hand sizes. The center has a rounded, not-overly-aggressive hump, whereas the underside is extra gently sloped than rivals like Razer’s Naga lineup. The general building feels well-built, with a {smooth} matte end, a grippy pinky relaxation and first rate PTFE toes. Internally, its optical sensor (the Pixart PMW3391) isn’t precisely superior as of late, nevertheless it’s greater than constant sufficient for MMOs and MOBAs, which don’t depend on exact, quick-twitch actions. It has no important points with latency, both.

Nonetheless, there are just a few downsides. The braided cable feels sturdy however considerably stiff. The scroll wheel is grippy and correct sufficient, nevertheless it’s a contact too recessed between the principle buttons, and it may very well be firmer. These predominant buttons by no means really feel mushy, however they use mechanical switches, in order that they carry extra of a long-term sturdiness threat than optical alternate options. (Corsair charges them at 50 million clicks.) And Corsair’s iCue software program is, frankly, the worst: You can use it to customise key bindings, assign macros, modify the (gentle) RGB lighting and save profiles to the mouse, however determining how is wildly unintuitive.

However, the MMO gaming mouse market doesn’t actually have one killer choice as of late. At a value that often hovers within the $60 to $75 vary, the Scimitar RGB Elite presents higher worth than most. For those who hate cables, Corsair sells a wi-fi model of the machine too.

Professionals

Cleverly textured aspect buttons make MMOs simpler to navigate
Typically snug and well-built
Respectable worth relative to MMO mouse market

Cons

Stiff cable
Scroll wheel is just too recessed
Annoying software program

$59 at Amazon

Lamzu

Whereas our high wi-fi picks are nice, we notice that they aren’t low-cost. If you would like a performance-focused mannequin with a symmetrical form that isn’t as dear, contemplate the Lamzu Atlantis OG V2 4K. Clunky identify apart, it tracks precisely and feels well-built. Its mechanical clicks are crisp and full, whereas its scroll wheel is quiet and sufficiently tight. The light-weight wi-fi design (57g) is mushy within the hand, although it’s one other one that may choose up smudges pretty simply. It has a wider and lower-profile form than the Viper V3 Professional, significantly towards the entrance, with a centered hump that isn’t fairly as aggressive. It’ll really feel at dwelling with a claw grip for any hand dimension, however fingertip grippers ought to discover it snug too. (Simply stick to the Viper in case you use a palm grip.) Past that, Lamzu’s companion software program is ugly however practical, and the included charging cable is suitably versatile.

The primary knock in opposition to the Atlantis is the set of cutouts strewn about its baseplate, which scale back the load however go away the mouse’s inside open to mud and particles. It’s higher to have these holes on the underside than the highest in the event that they have to be there, however the Viper avoids this threat totally. That stated, the Atlantis prices $60 much less, so it’s a good worth for a premium mouse.

Professionals

Satisfying clicks and quiet scroll wheel
Comfortable for claw or fingertip grips
Respectable worth

Cons

Holes in baseplate go away inside open to mud and particles
Not ideally suited for palm grips
Ugly software program

$102 at Amazon

Pulsar Gaming Gears

The Pulsar Xlite V3, in the meantime, is a superb different to the DeathAdder V3 Professional in order for you a right-handed design. It has an identical contoured form, so it’s nice for palm and claw grips, nevertheless it’s a pinch lighter. Notably, Pulsar sells mini, medium and huge variants, so you may select a dimension that matches your arms finest. Every have inflexible outer shells and snappy optical buttons, although the sleek plastic coating isn’t as grippy as both of the DeathAdder’s finishes and the aspect buttons aren’t as crisp.

Just like the Atlantis, the Xlite V3 additionally has cutouts throughout the underside, making it extra inclined to gunk. Nonetheless, it is a mild, snug and extremely responsive ergo mouse. For a typical road value of $70, it’s a robust purchase.

We’ll observe that Pulsar has launched a revised model of this mouse referred to as the Xlite V4 since our final replace. We haven’t been capable of take a look at it simply but, although it doesn’t seem like an enormous refresh, primarily including a more recent sensor in successfully the identical form. We’ll replace this suggestion as soon as we’re capable of get our arms on the V4, however for now we stand by our present choose, particularly when it’s out there for a cheaper price.

Professionals

Strong worth
Nicely-suited for palm and claw grips
Accessible in several sizes

Cons

Holes in baseplate go away inside open to mud and particles
Coating may very well be grippier

$100 at Amazon

Different gaming mice we examined

The new Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 wireless gaming mouse. — The Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2. (Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

Notice: The next is a number of particularly noteworthy mice we have examined, not a complete listing of each single mannequin we’ve put by means of its paces.

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2

The Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 is an in depth rival to the Razer Viper V3 Professional for many who desire a no-frills, high-end wi-fi gaming mouse. It has an identical “potato”-style form, its monitoring is equally great and its optical-mechanical switches have a definite really feel. Not like the primary Superlight, it additionally costs over USB-C. However the Viper’s predominant clicks are crisper and extra pleasant-sounding, its aspect buttons aren’t as mushy and its scroll wheel is each firmer and grippier. It’s additionally barely lighter.

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX

The G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX is the ergonomic model of the Superlight 2, packing the identical sensor and hybrid switches in a chunkier, right-handed form. We discovered its proper aspect to flare out somewhat an excessive amount of, although, usually leaving our pinky finger in a less-than-comfortable place. These with medium-sized arms might discover its heart hump to be too aggressive for constant aiming as effectively. The DeathAdder V3 Professional’s predominant buttons are nonetheless extra invitingly curved and constant to press past that, whereas its coating isn’t as slippery. The DEX’s scroll wheel is tighter, and all of its inner tech is nice, so on no account is that this a poor selection. However at $159, there are higher values on the market.

Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed

Very similar to the DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed, Razer’s Viper V3 HyperSpeed is a lower-cost variant of the top-end Viper V3 Professional. (Complicated, we all know.) At $70, it’s a strong worth. Its symmetrical form and soft-touch end are nearly equivalent to the extra premium mannequin, and although it technically has a worse sensor, the drop-off is hardly noticeable. The primary trade-off is that it’s heavier (about 82g), because it requires a AA battery for energy. That doesn’t make it outright hefty, however you may really feel the distinction in twitchier video games. It makes use of older mechanical switches and smaller PTFE toes, too, plus it lacks a port for connecting a cable. So it’s not as near its massive sibling because the mid-tier DeathAdder. Some might want that its DPI button is situated on the highest of the mouse, although, and its easier on-off swap is sweet.

Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed

The Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed is a extra reasonably priced wi-fi model of the Basilisk V3 with the identical snug form and structure, plus a quieter scroll wheel. As a result of it requires a AA battery for energy, although, it weighs round 115g. That is not nice for fast-paced video games. The scroll wheel can’t tilt left or proper, both, nor can it swap between a ratcheted and free-spin mode. It additionally makes use of much less sturdy mechanical switches and solely helps one onboard profile. All that stated, it’s a good worth at $70.

Pulsar X2 V2

The Pulsar X2 V2 is an efficient different to the Lamzu Atlantis OG V2 4K in order for you a high-performing symmetrical mouse for lower than the Viper V3 Professional. It has a broadly related form as Lazmu’s mouse however is marginally lighter. Its plastic shell is sweet and durable, however we discover its flatter sides and hump make it rather less inviting to palm and claw grips. It does use optical switches, however its predominant clicks aren’t as quiet or full-feeling as these of the Atlantis. It, too, has cutouts throughout the underside shell. We’ve seen the X2 V2 go for $70 on Amazon in current months — at that value, it’s nonetheless higher for FPS gamers than the Viper V3 HyperSpeed, however we want the Atlantis when each are at their regular MSRP of $100.

Pwnage Stormbreaker

The Pwnage Stormbreaker is a superlight (51g), exceptionally sturdy and premium-feeling wi-fi mouse that’s largely made out of magnesium alloy as an alternative of plastic. It performs about on par with our high picks, which is superb, whereas its right-handed, medium-sized form ought to go well with palm and claw grippers effectively. (If you already know BenQ’s Zowie EC line, the form is principally that.) Nonetheless, the intensive cutouts everywhere in the sides and high shell are noticeable within the hand and make the machine extra inclined to mess buildup than the DeathAdder V3 Professional. Whereas the buttons and scroll wheel are impressively tight, the principle clicks are a bit too stiff and high-pitched for our liking. We additionally seen extra connection stutters than normal on our take a look at PC, and it’s costly at $169.

BenQ Zowie U2

Talking of BenQ, its Zowie U2 is a wonderfully first rate different to the Viper V3 Professional that prices about $30 much less. It tracks nice, it’s light-weight (60g) and its mechanical clicks really feel effective. It additionally comes with two receivers, one in all which doubles as a helpful charging dock. It has a symmetrical form with sides that curve inwards and a decently-sized hump on the again; BenQ says it’s designed for claw grips, and it’s certainly good for that, nevertheless it also needs to work for fingertip grippers with bigger arms or palm grippers with smaller ones. Alas, the scroll wheel is gratingly loud and the plastic coating picks up smudges and hand oils prefer it’s its job. There’s additionally no configuration software program, which might make adjusting settings somewhat cumbersome, although some might want not having to put in any further bloat on their PC. This mouse additionally maxes out at a reasonably fundamental 1,000Hz polling fee — that’s not an enormous deal in observe, nevertheless it is technically behind many different mice on this value vary.

Logitech G309 Lightspeed

There isn’t a lot fallacious with the Logitech G309 Lightspeed in a vacuum. It’s constructed like a tank, its sensor is correct and its egg-like form ought to really feel OK, if not superlative, in most hand sizes and grip sorts. It makes use of the identical hybrid switches because the G Professional X Superlight 2, so the clicks don’t sound nice however are quick. It additionally has a supercapacitor inside, which supplies it successfully infinite battery life in case you personal Logitech’s (expensive) PowerPlay charging mat. That’s neat! Most individuals, although, might want to pop in a AA battery, which pushes the load up round 85 grams. As most of that weight is felt towards the again, the mouse can really feel comparatively clunky to fling round in FPS video games. We’re not followers of the ugly recess throughout the center of the machine, both, because it creates an area for mud to gather. At $80, the G309 continues to be effective for extra informal sorts who’ll solely purchase from a reputation model. However except you utilize PowerPlay, it doesn’t do a lot to face out from different choices across the similar value.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is a good wired mannequin for many who desire a flatter ambidextrous form. It performs effectively for aggressive play, and it’s lots mild (53g) because of a intelligent design with cutouts on the underside which can be coated by the mouse’s label. However the Endgame Gear OP1 8K is better-built and extra snug, so we predict it’s value the additional money. The Razer Viper 8KHz was one other strong, albeit heavier, choice with an identical form, nevertheless it’s now not out there for buy.

A few of the gaming mice we tested for our latest update. Left to right: the Glorious Model I 2 Wireless, the Razer Cobra Pro, the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed and the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2. — A number of extra gaming mice we have examined. Left to proper: the Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi, the Razer Cobra Professional, the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed and the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2. (Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wi-fi

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wi-fi is a budget-friendly wi-fi variant of the Haste 2. It might be OK in case you should go wi-fi and solely have $50 to spend, as its shell feels sturdy and its low-profile form is well-suited to claw or fingertip grips. It’s a bit weightier than the wired Haste 2 (about 70g) because it runs on a AAA battery, however that’s nowhere close to heavy. That stated, its predominant buttons really feel considerably mushy, and we noticed just a few sensor hiccups and inconsistencies, significantly once we had HyperX’s Ngenuity software program open.

Logitech G502 X

The Logitech G502 X has a typically related form because the Razer Basilisk V3, with a decrease weight (84g) and extra aspect buttons. Nonetheless, its predominant buttons are noisier, it’s a barely extra awkward match for many arms, its rubber cable isn’t as versatile and it lacks RGB.

Logitech G203 Lightsync

The Logitech G203 Lightsync is our former price range choose. It’s usually out there within the $30 vary as of late, and at that value it’s nonetheless effective in order for you a reliable gaming mouse for as little cash as potential. You possibly can really feel the price slicing in its rubbery cable and mushy scroll wheel, nonetheless, and its form is a bit too small and flat for bigger arms. The Logitech G305 Lightspeed is a wi-fi mannequin with kind of the identical form, nevertheless it requires a AA battery to work and thus weighs simply over 100g. It, too, feels considerably outdated in 2024.

Razer Cobra

The Razer Cobra is one other value-oriented wired choice with a compact form. It’s a lot lighter (58g) than the Logitech G203, with a extra versatile cable and optical switches as an alternative of mechanical ones. It’s priced at $40, although, placing it in one thing of a no man’s land between the G203’s and Basilisk V3’s normal going charges. The Endgame Gear OP1 8K nonetheless feels higher-quality throughout the board, however if in case you have smaller arms, use a fingertip grip and desire a symmetrical mouse on a budget, go for it.

A blue Logitech G203 Lightsync gaming mouse rested on top of a black mouse pad on a desk. — The Logitech G203 Lightsync (Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi

There’s lots to love in regards to the Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi: an ergonomic form that’s paying homage to the Basilisk V3/Logitech G502 X however lighter at 75g, 4 customizable aspect buttons, the flexibility to attach over a USB receiver or Bluetooth, a {smooth} scroll wheel and tasteful RGB lighting, all for $100. Nonetheless, its honeycomb-style design and mechanical switches each increase considerations about its long-term sturdiness.

Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Wi-fi

The Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Wi-fi additionally has holes throughout its shell but doesn’t carry out or really feel considerably higher than different mice across the $100 mark. Critiques from different websites say it has latency points, too. The ergonomic Mannequin D 2 Professional and symmetrical Mannequin O 2 Professional aren’t loaded with cutouts, however their predominant buttons are comparatively loud and sticky-feeling.

Razer Naga Left-Handed Version

The Razer Naga Left-Handed Version isn’t practically nearly as good of a worth because the Scimitar RGB Elite, nevertheless it’s one of many few MMO mice that’s really constructed for lefties.

Logitech G600

We’d proceed to suggest our former MMO choose, the outdated however splendidly versatile Logitech G600, however sadly it’s been discontinued.

What to search for in a gaming mouse

Wired vs. wi-fi

Shopping for a wi-fi gaming mouse used to imply sacrificing a sure stage of responsiveness, however fortunately, that’s now not the case. Over the previous few years, wi-fi connectivity has improved to the purpose the place the distinction in latency between wi-fi mannequin and a tried-and-true wired gaming mouse is barely perceptible.

Notice, nonetheless, that we’re strictly speaking about mice that use a 2.4GHz connection (over a USB dongle), not Bluetooth. Lots of the finest wi-fi gaming mouse fashions assist each connection choices, which is nice for journey, however Bluetooth’s latency is mostly too excessive to be dependable for gaming.

Going wi-fi nonetheless has different trade-offs, too. Battery life is enhancing on a regular basis, however with their greater efficiency calls for and RGB lighting, most wi-fi gaming mice often do not final so long as “regular” wi-fi fashions. You shouldn’t count on various days of energy from a chargeable gaming mouse you utilize commonly. Some gaming mice provide wi-fi charging too, which makes issues a bit simpler. Good wi-fi gaming mice often come at a a lot greater value than their wired counterparts as effectively.

That’s to not say the premium is rarely value it: Who needs but one other cable on their desk? You might want a wi-fi mannequin in case you hate the texture of “cable drag” or in case your gaming PC is situated in an ungainly spot. Many wi-fi gaming mice include a cable you may hook up in a pinch as effectively. But when value is your major concern, wired mouse could also be a greater worth.

Consolation and grip sorts

Everybody’s arms are completely different, so on the finish of the day, calling one mouse “extra snug” than one other is generally subjective. Making certain your consolation is probably the most important step when shopping for any mouse, although, so we’ve finished our greatest to contemplate how every machine we examined works with smaller, average-sized and bigger arms alike.

We additionally thought of how every peripheral accommodates the three grip kinds most individuals use whereas holding a mouse: palm, fingertip and claw. As a refresher, a palm grip is when your entire hand rests on the mouse, together with your fingers resting flat on the principle buttons. A fingertip grip is once you steer the mouse solely with the ideas of your fingers, together with your palm not in touch with the machine in any respect. A claw grip is when your palm solely touches the again fringe of the mouse, together with your fingers arched in a claw-like form towards the buttons.

Normally, most individuals use a palm grip, which tends to supply the best sense of management — although, relying on the scale of your hand, chances are you’ll want your mouse to be a particular size to make use of it comfortably. A fingertip grip can enable for extra fast actions, whereas a claw grip is one thing of a stability between the 2. Change and Click on has breakdown in case you’d like a bit extra element, however we’ve famous above if a mouse isn’t well-suited for a selected grip model. For what it’s value, yours really is a claw gripper more often than not.

Construct high quality and design

A very good gaming mouse feels sturdy and received’t flex or creak when used strenuously. We valued mice with none overly sharp angles or grooves that may very well be awkward for most individuals to carry. And whereas most gaming mice have plastic exteriors, not all plastic is created equal, so we appeared for finishes that had been {smooth}, not too slick and able to withstanding the sweaty palms that usually include aggressive gaming periods.

The gaming mouse market is generally break up between two design kinds: ergonomic and ambidextrous. Ergonomic mice are nearly all the time made with right-handed customers in thoughts and infrequently characteristic devoted thumb rests. Ambidextrous mice are extra symmetrical and designed for use with both hand (although they could not have further buttons on each side). Whether or not an ergonomic or ambidextrous gaming mouse works finest for you is essentially a matter of private desire.

A gaming mouse’s toes, in the meantime, ought to present a constant glide and scale back the friction between your mouse and mouse pad beneath it as a lot as potential. For the very best efficiency, search for toes made out of PTFE (aka Teflon). All toes will ultimately put on down, however many mice include spares, and most producers promote replacements if wanted.

As for flashy RGB lighting, it’s a pleasant bonus, however little greater than that. Nonetheless, in case you’ve already kitted out your setup with RGB, having a mouse with adjustable lighting results can add to the gaming expertise (and extra shopper tech may stand to do issues for pleasure’s sake). Extra virtually, some mice allow you to assign customized lighting settings to separate profiles, which might make it simpler to see which one you’re at the moment utilizing.

Weight

Gaming mice have gotten lighter and lighter through the years, with some current releases weighing lower than 40 grams. Your mouse doesn’t want to be that feathery — something underneath 80g continues to be fairly mild, and it’s not like a 100g mouse looks like a complete anchor. Regardless, a light-weight mouse makes it simpler to drag off quick actions repeatedly, with much less inertia. That stated, some gamers nonetheless get pleasure from somewhat little bit of bulk of their gaming mouse (comparatively talking), particularly with video games that aren’t as reliant on twitchy reactions.

To achieve these lightest weights, some producers have launched gaming mice with “honeycomb”-style designs, which characteristic an array of cutouts within the outer shell. These mice can nonetheless carry out nice, however having a bunch of holes that expose the inner circuit board to potential sweat, mud and detritus isn’t the very best for long-term sturdiness.

Switches, buttons and scroll wheel

A rising variety of gaming mice use optical switches as an alternative of mechanical ones. Since these contain fewer bits making bodily contact, they need to typically be extra sturdy and fewer susceptible to undesirable “double-clicks” over time. Many players nonetheless discover good mechanical switches extra satisfying to press, so it isn’t like you need to keep away from mechanical mice altogether. They simply carry somewhat extra long-term threat in a vacuum.

Since most individuals will use their gaming mouse as their mouse-mouse, you might have considered trying predominant buttons which have a softer really feel when pressed, with sufficient journey to make inadvertent actuations much less frequent. However even that could be a matter of desire: You might have considered trying lighter buttons in case you play video games that decision for fixed clicking. We additionally appeared to testing from websites like Rtings to make sure every mouse we suggest has a sufficiently low click on latency, which means your clicks will register with minimal lag.

Past the usual click on panels, gaming mouse also needs to have programmable buttons for fast macros or shortcuts. For many video games, shoot for a minimum of two further buttons on the thumb-side panel which can be simple to succeed in and troublesome to press accidentally. Many mice have extra buttons, which generally is a plus, however not in the event that they power you to contort your fingers to keep away from hitting them. For MMO mice, having a minimum of 12 aspect buttons is preferable as a way to entry as many hotbar instructions as potential.

As for the scroll wheel, it ought to have distinct, ratcheted “steps” that aren’t too resistant however make it clear once you’ve really scrolled. Its texture needs to be grippy, and it should not make a distracting quantity of noise when used. The wheel also needs to be clickable, providing you with one other enter to customise for sure video games (e.g., to regulate the zoom on a sniper rifle).

Sensors and efficiency

Some are more adept than others, however typically talking, the optical sensors constructed into most trendy gaming mice are greater than quick and correct sufficient for most individuals’s wants.

Whereas searching for gaming mice, you’ll see plenty of phrases associated to sensor efficiency. To be clear, a gaming mouse’s responsiveness doesn’t come right down to only one spec. However for readability’s sake, right here’s a rundown of the extra noteworthy jargon:

DPI, or dots per inch, is a measure of a mouse’s sensitivity. The upper the DPI setting, the extra your cursor will transfer with each inch you progress the mouse itself. Lots of the finest gaming mice promote extraordinarily excessive DPIs that high out above 30,000, however that’s largely advertising and marketing fluff: Few individuals play above 3,000, with 800 a standard candy spot. This idea can be known as CPI (counts per inch), which might be the extra correct time period, although DPI is used extra usually.
IPS, or inches per second, refers back to the most velocity a mouse sensor helps. The upper the IPS, the quicker you may transfer the mouse earlier than it turns into incapable of monitoring motions accurately.
Acceleration goes with IPS. On this context, it refers to what number of Gs a mouse can face up to earlier than it begins to trace inaccurately.
Polling fee is a measure of how usually a mouse tells a pc the place it’s. Normally, the extra often your mouse studies data to your PC, the extra predictable its response time needs to be. Something at 500Hz or above is okay for gaming. The candy spot for many is 1,000Hz. Many more moderen mice can go all the best way as much as 8,000Hz, however you begin to see diminishing returns the upper you go except personal a strong PC and play on a gaming monitor with a very excessive refresh fee.
Elevate-off distance is the peak at which a mouse’s sensor stops monitoring the floor under it. Many aggressive gamers like this to be as little as potential as a way to keep away from unintended cursor actions whereas repositioning their mouse.

Software program and onboard reminiscence

It doesn’t take lengthy to search out horror tales about bugs and different niggling points brought on by gaming mouse software program, so the perfect app is one which doesn’t power you to make use of it on a regular basis. It ought to allow you to modify as lots of the elements above as potential, ideally to a number of distinct profiles. Ideally, it can save you your settings on to the mouse itself, letting you choose your customizations again up on one other machine with out having to redownload any software program. All that is most essential on Home windows, however Mac compatibility is all the time good to have.

Guarantee and buyer assist

Most main gaming mice manufacturers provide warranties between one and three years. The longer and extra intensive a producer’s program is, the higher. That is the case with most shopper tech, however we observe it right here as a result of the gaming mouse market is especially flush with merchandise from less-than-household names, lots of which you might even see overrated on YouTube, Reddit or elsewhere across the net. A bunch of those extra obscure mice are genuinely nice, however in case you ever purchase from a extra area of interest model, it’s value checking that some stage of buyer assist is in place. We’ve made certain our picks for the very best gaming mice aren’t riddled with an irregular quantity of poor person critiques.

Current updates

November 2024: We’ve up to date this information with testing notes on the Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX. We’ve additionally added mentions of the Razer Basilisk V3 35K and Pulsar Xlite V4, two lately launched updates to a few our present picks. We intention to check these extra totally, alongside just a few others, for our subsequent replace.

September 2024: We have fully refreshed this information for late 2024, including new predominant picks based mostly on form alongside notes on a number of different gaming mice we have examined in current months. We’re now within the means of testing Logitech’s new G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX, a flagship ergonomic mouse that the corporate introduced proper as we had been placing the ending touches on this replace.