The perfect gaming mouse in 2024

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

The perfect gaming mouse

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If cash isn’t 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, but it surely’ll offer you little to complain about if you happen to play a ton of aggressive PC video games and might abdomen the worth.

With its frivolously grooved sides, noticeable however not aggressive hump and delicate flare-outs towards the again, the Viper V3 Professional’s form needs to be comfy for a variety of hand sizes and grip varieties. It’s a bit on the broader facet, and it most likely works finest with a claw or fingertip grip, but it surely’s not so quick or flat that it could possibly’t accommodate palm grippers. The principle mouse buttons are contoured in a manner that offers your fingers a pure resting place, and there are little ledges on both facet to subtly nudge them to the correct spot once you’re scrambling in-game. Put one other manner, this is likely one of the safer shapes we’ve examined.

The Viper’s construct high quality is great. It’s impressively gentle 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 identical 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 tender to the contact. The principle 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 gentle. The 2 programmable facet 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 today, is successfully flawless. Razer’s Focus Professional 35K Optical Sensor Gen-2 — say that 5 instances 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 ft and a rock-solid connection to an included “HyperPolling” dongle. The latter lets the mouse attain a most polling charge of 8,000Hz, however as famous under, few individuals will truly observed any profit from leaping that top. 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 provides up a few 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 a substitute 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, but it surely’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.

Execs

Distinctive efficiency
Very good construct high quality
Comfy for many grip varieties and hand sizes

Cons

Costly
Little bit of a fingerprint magnet
Thick charging cable

$160 at Amazon

Picture 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 charge: 8,000Hz (“classic base” mannequin requires optionally available dongle) | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 90 hours at 1,000Hz

If you need a premium gaming mouse with a extra ergonomic form, get the Razer DeathAdder V3 Professional. It packs many of the identical 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 massive arms ought to discover it to be a pure match with a palm or claw grip, although it’ll most likely be a contact too fats for smaller-handed of us 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 the same 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, but it surely’s nonetheless good, and it’s a lot much less of a fingerprint magnet. Additionally, the facet buttons are larger, 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 critically light-weight. The PTFE ft 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 the same characteristic set. The optical major buttons are satisfying and constant however not overly delicate. The frivolously notched scroll wheel is tender, quiet and resistant sufficient, if not agency. Battery life is rated at an honest 90 hours, and you may 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 “classic base” mannequin comes with a smaller USB receiver that “only” goes as much as 1,000Hz, however because it’s usually obtainable for much less at third-party retailers, it’s most likely a greater worth. Typically, the largest 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” decide right here. Though it’s positioned under the Professional in Razer’s lineup, it’s extra of a “DeathAdder V3 Pro Mini” than a transparent downgrade. It doesn’t quit the rechargeable battery, cutout-free shell, optical switches and tender (if smudge-heavy) coating of its larger 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 most important 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 facet, it’s price grabbing as a substitute.

Execs

Prime-shelf efficiency
Light-weight
Comfy for these with medium to massive arms

Cons

Costly
Naggy software program
Not supreme for smaller arms

$115 at Walmart

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Endgadget

In case you 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 graceful matte plastic coating provides a good bit of grip. The built-in cable is gentle, versatile and cleverly titled upwards on the base of the mouse, all of which helps cut 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 state of affairs. Typically, the machine’s openness to customization is commendable — there are readily uncovered screws on the underside and a screwdriver, optionally available facet grips and bigger PTFE ft within the field.

By default, the primary clicks are on the stiffer facet however quick to actuate and noticeably crisp. You possibly can truly set these switches to make use of a “speed mode” that reduces click on latency even additional, however both manner the buttons are simple to spam. The best mouse button on our unit does sound somewhat sharper than the left, however the distinction isn’t extreme and you may pop in quieter switches on a budget if you would like a special noise profile. The notched scroll wheel and two facet 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 gentle weight, quick clicks and {smooth} inventory skates, all the pieces 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, but it surely’s at the very least simpler to activate when there’s no battery drain to fret about. We additionally like Endgame Gear’s configuration software program, which appears like one thing out of the Home windows 95 period however is straightforward to grok and takes up subsequent to no sources.

At $75, the OP1 8K actually isn’t the most cost effective wired mouse, but it surely’s nonetheless a great way lower than wi-fi high-performance fashions. Probably the most urgent challenge could also be that it could possibly fall out of inventory on occasion, as Endgame Gear is a comparatively small firm out of Germany.

Execs

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

Cons

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

$75 at Endgame Gear

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

It’s a couple of years previous, 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 major buttons and a rounded, moderately-sized hump operating down its center. It’s fantastically cozy for palm grippers with medium- to large-sized arms, but it surely’ll additionally play effectively with claw grips. Those that favor a fingertip grip or simply have smaller arms will probably discover it too chunky, nevertheless.

The design as a complete feels sturdy; there’s some minor flexing on the bottom-right facet once you press down exhausting, however you’d must exit of your technique to discover it. The matte plastic end is pleasingly textured and sufficiently grippy. The cable is loads versatile, whereas the PTFE ft 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 whole, together with two easy-to-reach facet buttons and a devoted “sensitivity clutch” that permits you to momentarily drop to a decrease DPI for moments the place it’s possible 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 yr of testing. Whereas major 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. Much 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 aspect: It has clearly outlined steps and an simply identifiable texture, but it surely’s pretty loud and a bit wobbly. That mentioned, it could 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 exterior of video games — say, when you want to scroll by a large doc or Excel sheet.

Razer’s Synapse software program continues to be naggy with updates and Home windows-only, but it surely 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 gained’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 charge. 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 an alternative, the Basilisk V3 is sensible for righties who desire a cozy and dependable mouse they will flip to for extra informal gaming throughout genres. Razer sells it for $70, however because it’s often obtainable for lower than $50 at third-party retailers today, you’ll be able to think about it our decide for the very best funds gaming mouse as effectively.

It’s price 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 burden and total form are nearly an identical. On condition that we didn’t have many points with the tech inside authentic V3, we’d nonetheless advocate getting the older model whereas it’s nonetheless in inventory and obtainable for much less. In case you see the V3 35K on sale for the same worth, nevertheless, it needs to be secure to only get that one as a substitute.

Execs

Tremendous comfy for medium to massive arms
Effectively-built, with versatile cable
Versatile scroll wheel
Good worth

Cons

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

$44 at Amazon

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If you need a mouse particularly designed for MMO and MOBA video games, get the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. It does crucial 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 facet 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 differentiate with out having to look down. Uniquely, you’ll be able to bodily reposition this facet panel with an Allen key included within the field, so if you happen to discover the buttons troublesome to succeed in by default, you’ll be able to tackle that. Both manner, having a bunch of buttons proper below your thumb makes it a lot simpler to play MMOs like Last 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) facet, but it surely’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 respectable PTFE ft. Internally, its optical sensor (the Pixart PMW3391) isn’t precisely superior today, but it surely’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.

Nevertheless, there are a couple of downsides. The braided cable feels sturdy however considerably stiff. The scroll wheel is grippy and correct sufficient, but it surely’s a contact too recessed between the primary buttons, and it might be firmer. These major 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 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, regulate the (delicate) RGB lighting and save profiles to the mouse, however determining how is wildly unintuitive.

Nonetheless, the MMO gaming mouse market doesn’t actually have one killer choice today. At a worth that often hovers within the $60 to $75 vary, the Scimitar RGB Elite presents higher worth than most. In case you hate cables, Corsair sells a wi-fi model of the machine too.

Execs

Cleverly textured facet buttons make MMOs simpler to navigate
Usually comfy 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 understand that they aren’t low cost. If you need a performance-focused mannequin with a symmetrical form that isn’t as dear, think about 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 tender within the hand, although it’s one other one that may decide 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 comfy too. (Simply keep on with the Viper if you happen to use a palm grip.) Past that, Lamzu’s companion software program is ugly however practical, and the included charging cable is suitably versatile.

The principle knock in opposition to the Atlantis is the set of cutouts strewn about its baseplate, which cut back the burden however depart 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 should be there, however the Viper avoids this threat fully. That mentioned, the Atlantis prices $60 much less, so it’s an honest worth for a premium mouse.

Execs

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

Cons

Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
Not supreme for palm grips
Ugly software program

$102 at Amazon

Pulsar Gaming Gears

The Pulsar Xlite V3, in the meantime, is a wonderful different to the DeathAdder V3 Professional if you would like a right-handed design. It has the same contoured form, so it’s nice for palm and claw grips, but it surely’s a pinch lighter. Notably, Pulsar sells mini, medium and massive variants, so you’ll be able to select a dimension that matches your arms finest. Every have inflexible outer shells and snappy optical buttons, although the graceful plastic coating isn’t as grippy as both of the DeathAdder’s finishes and the facet buttons aren’t as crisp.

Just like the Atlantis, the Xlite V3 additionally has cutouts throughout the underside, making it extra vulnerable to gunk. Nonetheless, it is a gentle, comfy and extremely responsive ergo mouse. For a typical avenue worth of $70, it’s a powerful 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 advice as soon as we’re capable of get our arms on the V4, however for now we stand by our present decide, particularly when it’s obtainable for a lower cost.

Execs

Strong worth
Effectively-suited for palm and claw grips
Out there in numerous sizes

Cons

Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
Coating might 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. (Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

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

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2

The Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 is a detailed rival to the Razer Viper V3 Professional for individuals who desire a no-frills, high-end wi-fi gaming mouse. It has the same “potato”-style form, its monitoring is equally large 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 major clicks are crisper and extra pleasant-sounding, its facet 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 facet 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 major 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 in no way is that this a poor alternative. 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 an identical to the extra premium mannequin, and although it technically has a worse sensor, the drop-off is hardly noticeable. The principle 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’ll be able to really feel the distinction in twitchier video games. It makes use of older mechanical switches and smaller PTFE ft, too, plus it lacks a port for connecting a cable. So it’s not as near its large sibling because the mid-tier DeathAdder. Some might favor that its DPI button is situated on the highest of the mouse, although, and its easier on-off swap is good.

Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed

The Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed is a extra inexpensive wi-fi model of the Basilisk V3 with the identical comfy 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 mentioned, it’s an honest worth at $70.

Pulsar X2 V2

The Pulsar X2 V2 is an effective different to the Lamzu Atlantis OG V2 4K if you would like a high-performing symmetrical mouse for lower than the Viper V3 Professional. It has a broadly comparable form as Lazmu’s mouse however is marginally lighter. Its plastic shell is good 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 major 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 latest months — at that worth, it’s nonetheless higher for FPS gamers than the Viper V3 HyperSpeed, however we favor 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 comprised of magnesium alloy as a substitute of plastic. It performs about on par with our high picks, which is great, whereas its right-handed, medium-sized form ought to go well with palm and claw grippers effectively. (If you recognize BenQ’s Zowie EC line, the form is principally that.) Nevertheless, the intensive cutouts everywhere in the sides and high shell are noticeable within the hand and make the machine extra vulnerable to clutter buildup than the DeathAdder V3 Professional. Whereas the buttons and scroll wheel are impressively tight, the primary clicks are a bit too stiff and high-pitched for our liking. We additionally observed extra connection stutters than traditional 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 respectable 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 positive. It additionally comes with two receivers, considered one of 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, but it surely 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 favor not having to put in any further bloat on their PC. This mouse additionally maxes out at a reasonably fundamental 1,000Hz polling charge — that’s not an enormous deal in apply, but it surely is technically behind many different mice on this worth vary.

Logitech G309 Lightspeed

There isn’t a lot incorrect 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 varieties. 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 provides it successfully infinite battery life if you happen to personal Logitech’s (expensive) PowerPlay charging mat. That’s neat! Most individuals, although, might want to pop in a AA battery, which pushes the burden 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 positive for extra informal varieties who’ll solely purchase from a reputation model. However except you employ PowerPlay, it doesn’t do a lot to face out from different choices across the identical worth.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is an honest wired mannequin for individuals who desire a flatter ambidextrous form. It performs effectively for aggressive play, and it’s loads gentle (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 comfy, so we expect it’s price the additional money. The Razer Viper 8KHz was one other strong, albeit heavier, choice with the same form, but it surely’s now not obtainable 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. (Picture 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 could be OK if you happen to 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 mentioned, its major buttons really feel considerably mushy, and we noticed a couple of sensor hiccups and inconsistencies, significantly after we had HyperX’s Ngenuity software program open.

Logitech G502 X

The Logitech G502 X has a typically comparable form because the Razer Basilisk V3, with a decrease weight (84g) and extra facet buttons. Nevertheless, its major 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 funds decide. It’s usually obtainable within the $30 vary today, and at that worth it’s nonetheless positive if you would like a reliable gaming mouse for as little cash as potential. You possibly can really feel the fee chopping in its rubbery cable and mushy scroll wheel, nevertheless, 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, but it surely 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 a substitute 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 traditional going charges. The Endgame Gear OP1 8K nonetheless feels higher-quality throughout the board, however you probably 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 loads to love in regards to the Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi: an ergonomic form that’s harking back to the Basilisk V3/Logitech G502 X however lighter at 75g, 4 customizable facet buttons, the flexibility to attach over a USB receiver or Bluetooth, a {smooth} scroll wheel and tasteful RGB lighting, all for $100. Nevertheless, its honeycomb-style design and mechanical switches each elevate issues 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. Opinions 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 major 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, but it surely’s one of many few MMO mice that’s truly constructed for lefties.

Logitech G600

We might proceed to advocate our former MMO decide, the previous 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 a great wi-fi mannequin and a tried-and-true wired gaming mouse is barely perceptible.

Word, nevertheless, that we’re strictly speaking about mice that use a 2.4GHz connection (over a USB dongle), not Bluetooth. Most 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 bettering 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 “normal” wi-fi fashions. You shouldn’t anticipate various days of energy from a chargeable gaming mouse you employ repeatedly. 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 price than their wired counterparts as effectively.

That’s to not say the premium isn’t price it: Who desires but one other cable on their desk? You could want a wi-fi mannequin if you happen to hate the texture of “cable drag” or in case your gaming PC is situated in a clumsy spot. Many wi-fi gaming mice include a cable you’ll be able to hook up in a pinch as effectively. But when worth is your major concern, a great wired mouse could also be a greater worth.

Consolation and grip varieties

Everybody’s arms are completely different, so on the finish of the day, calling one mouse “more comfortable” than one other is generally subjective. Guaranteeing your consolation is probably the most important step when shopping for any mouse, although, so we’ve carried out 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 types 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 primary buttons. A fingertip grip is once you steer the mouse solely with the guidelines 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.

Typically, most individuals use a palm grip, which tends to supply the best sense of management — although, relying on the scale of your hand, it’s possible you’ll want your mouse to be a selected 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. Swap and Click on has a great breakdown if you happen to’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 price, yours actually is a claw gripper more often than not.

Construct high quality and design

gaming mouse feels sturdy and gained’t flex or creak when used strenuously. We valued mice with none overly sharp angles or grooves that might be awkward for most individuals to carry. And whereas most gaming mice have plastic exteriors, not all plastic is created equal, so we seemed for finishes that have been {smooth}, not too slick and able to withstanding the sweaty palms that always include aggressive gaming classes.

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

A gaming mouse’s ft, in the meantime, ought to present a constant glide and cut back the friction between your mouse and mouse pad beneath it as a lot as potential. For the very best efficiency, search for ft comprised of PTFE (aka Teflon). All ft will finally 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, if you happen to’ve already kitted out your setup with RGB, having a mouse with adjustable lighting results can add to the gaming expertise (and extra client tech might 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 presently utilizing.

Weight

Gaming mice have gotten lighter and lighter through the years, with some latest releases weighing lower than 40 grams. Your mouse doesn’t want to be that feathery — something below 80g continues to be moderately gentle, and it’s not like a 100g mouse appears like a complete anchor. Regardless, a light-weight mouse makes it simpler to tug off quick actions repeatedly, with much less inertia. That mentioned, 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 interior 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 a substitute of mechanical ones. Since these contain fewer bits making bodily contact, they need to typically be extra sturdy and fewer vulnerable to undesirable “double-clicks” over time. Many avid gamers nonetheless discover good mechanical switches extra satisfying to press, so it isn’t like it is best to keep away from mechanical mice altogether. They only 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 major 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 choice: It’s your decision lighter buttons if you happen to play video games that decision for fixed clicking. We additionally seemed to testing from websites like Rtings to make sure every mouse we advocate has a sufficiently low click on latency, that means your clicks will register with minimal lag.

Past the usual click on panels, a great gaming mouse also needs to have programmable buttons for fast macros or shortcuts. For many video games, shoot for at the very least 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 could be a plus, however not in the event that they drive you to contort your fingers to keep away from hitting them. For MMO mice, having at the very least 12 facet buttons is preferable with a purpose 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 truly 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 fashionable gaming mice are greater than quick and correct sufficient for most individuals’s wants.

Whereas searching for gaming mice, you’ll see quite a few phrases associated to sensor efficiency. To be clear, a gaming mouse’s responsiveness doesn’t come all the way 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. Most of the finest gaming mice promote extraordinarily excessive DPIs that high out above 30,000, however that’s largely advertising 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 sooner you’ll be able to 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 stand up to earlier than it begins to trace inaccurately.
Polling charge is a measure of how usually a mouse tells a pc the place it’s. Typically, the extra regularly your mouse experiences 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 recent 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 charge.
Raise-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 with a purpose to keep away from unintended cursor actions whereas repositioning their mouse.

Software program and onboard reminiscence

It doesn’t take lengthy to seek out horror tales about bugs and different niggling points attributable to gaming mouse software program, so the best app is one which doesn’t drive you to make use of it on a regular basis. It ought to allow you to regulate as most of the points above as potential, ideally to a number of distinct profiles. Ideally, it can save you your settings on to the mouse itself, letting you decide your customizations again up on one other machine with out having to redownload any software program. All that is most necessary 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 client 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, a lot of which you might even see puffed up on YouTube, Reddit or elsewhere across the internet. A bunch of those extra obscure mice are genuinely nice, however if you happen to ever purchase from a extra area of interest model, it’s price checking that some stage of buyer assist is in place. We’ve made positive our picks for the very best gaming mice aren’t riddled with an irregular quantity of poor person evaluations.

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 a couple of others, for our subsequent replace.

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

The perfect gaming mouse in 2024