We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
We tested over 100 of the best computer mice—ranging from wired and wireless to ergonomic and gaming models—to help you find the perfect fit for your budget and needs
Credit: Natalie Kafader
By Austin Palmer ⋅ Senior Review Analyst ⋅ Updated February 11, 2025
Choosing the right mouse can improve your daily tasks, gaming experience, or even casual web browsing. Whether you value the reliability and simplicity of a wired connection or the freedom and portability of a wireless design, the right mouse offers the precision, comfort, and ease you need to make every interaction with your computer smoother and more enjoyable.
With over 100 mice tested at our lab and counting, we've put new investments into objectively testing these products to gauge their accuracy, response time, and customizable features. To match the numbers, we have a panel of testers clicking away, testing them at our lab, at home, and on group gaming raids together. We know that not all mice are created equal. They vary in shape, size, and design, each tailored for different grip styles and purposes. At GearLab, our mission is to help you navigate the vast array of options, offering guidance on which mouse best suits your unique needs.
For those needing a productivity powerhouse for work, the Logitech MX Master 3S is our first recommendation for its comfortable design, lightning-fast response, and two scroll wheels that had us completing tasks quicker. If you work long hours or suffer from wrist strain, we suggest the Logitech MX Vertical for its ergonomic design, which helps reduce the wrist-twisting tension of conventional mice. After work hours, gaming requires higher performance standards than the rest. With its flawless sensor, versatile polling rate, and high counts-per-inch (CPI), the Razer Basilisk V3 is the best gaming mouse for various gaming styles.
A mouse is just one component of an office or gaming setup. If you seek a full upgrade, we've tested everything imaginable. We've sat and sunk into different office chairs and gaming chairs for months at a time, typed away on various styles of keyboards, and even tested where the mice find a home: mouse pads. We encourage you to read our additional reviews to set up your oasis at home or in the office. You won't regret it.
Editor's Note: We published this new review on February 11, 2025, to take a deep dive into every mouse category we have tested at GearLab. We tested brands like Logitech, Razer, Tecknet, Anker, and more to provide a wide comparison of products.
The Logitech MX Master 3S is our top choice for an all-around wireless productivity mouse, excelling across our evaluation criteria. Its ergonomic design provides exceptional comfort, allowing extended use without causing wrist or hand strain throughout the workday. Our lead tester noted, “There are these cozy grooves for my thumb to rest, providing a wider place for it to land that helps alleviate strain from needing to pinch compared to other mice.” We were also impressed with its ultra-responsive and precise sensor, which can even function on glass surfaces.
This versatile mouse includes dual scroll wheels: one for vertical scrolling and another for horizontal navigation. While vertical scrolling is typical of nearly all mice, the MX Master 3S offers superior control with its additional horizontal scroll wheel, which is handy for laterally scrolling on spreadsheets. “I thought both scroll wheels were smooth, fast, and accurate,” a tester mentioned in their review. Additionally, the mouse has convenient features, such as forward and backward navigation buttons, selectable infinite scroll, and USB-C charging.
The Logitech MX Master 3S excelled in nearly every metric we evaluated, making it the top-performing wireless productivity mouse.
Credit: Sam Schild
The MX Master stood out with its ergonomic design, which we found incredibly comfortable to use. This mouse was designed to accommodate a wide range of users, making it a great option for most people looking for a comfortable, convenient, precise mousing experience; however, its asymmetrical design makes it unsuitable for left-handed people.
If you're in the market for a precise and ergonomic wireless mouse with a wealth of features well suited to productivity, this one is a solid choice. For those seeking even more from an ergonomic design standpoint, check out the Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse.
The Logitech MX Vertical is our top choice for an ergonomic mouse. Whether you're looking to reduce wrist pain or want a preventative solution in a mouse that supports a simple and comfortable hand position for scrolling and clicking, this is the ideal option. Its wide body supports the palm, and its vertical handshake form keeps your wrist elevated above the mouse pad. “I can feel my arm relax when I go to use this mouse,” noted a tester.
We appreciate the MX Vertical's rechargeable, long-lasting battery, which can power the mouse for up to four months on a single charge. If the battery dies during an important task, the included charging cable allows you to plug it in and use it as a wired mouse. Additionally, if you want to use multiple computers with your Bluetooth mouse, this one can easily switch between up to three separate device pairing assignments with the push of a toggle button on the bottom.
The Logitech MX Vertical is our top choice among the ergonomic designs for its exceptional comfort, features, and precision.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Despite our admiration for the MX Vertical, it may not be ideal for everyone. It can feel slightly large and hefty, especially for those with smaller hands, and it lacks an indicator to show which CPI setting is currently active, which can be inconvenient.
Another drawback is the lack of storage space on the mouse for the dongle when it's not in use. “If I ever need to move the mouse, I fear that the dongle might not make it through transportation,” noted one tester. However, despite these minor downsides, the Logitech MX Vertical is an excellent ergonomic mouse for most users. If you're not sold on the vertical ergonomic form factor, you might like a trackball model instead. Check out the Logitech MX Ergo.
The Razer Basilisk V3 blends extreme performance and advanced programmability in a sleek, aggressive design. Its flawless sensor features an adjustable polling rate (125, 500, and 1,000 Hz) and DPI/CPI (100 - 26,000), allowing you to find the perfect balance for your gaming needs. Razer's software makes it easy to adjust these settings and program the 11 buttons placed across the mouse.
In the most recent iteration of the Basilisk, Razer has replaced the adjustable scroll wheel resistance with a mechanical switch that toggles between fixed-resistance and infinite scroll, which we found beneficial. As a tester noted in our gaming mouse review, “With this adjustability feature, I found it super easy to find my sweet spot for scrolling.” Additionally, the customizable lighting on the logo, scroll wheel, and underglow bar offers nearly limitless personalization options and adds a cool factor to the mouse.
The Basilisk V3 was one of the most impressive mice to behold across much of our testing.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Basilisk V3 is a well-designed mouse, but it does have some shortcomings. This elite unit notably lacks weight adjustments, which some users might desire for a more fine-tuned feel.
The extensive customization options for the buttons, lights, and settings can overwhelm new users. Despite these drawbacks, the Basilisk V3 is a well-rounded, premium-quality gaming mouse that excels across all gaming genres. If you are left-handed or prefer a wireless gaming setup, we recommend considering Logitech G Pro.
The Tecknet Bluetooth Wireless Mouse stands out as a top pick for its impressive feature set, sleek design, and affordable price point. It competes with mice that cost nearly twice as much, making it an exceptional value proposition for those in the market for a wireless mouse. “I enjoy the size of the mouse. It's large enough to feel good in your hand without feeling huge and cumbersome.” noted our male tester with medium-sized hands.
This Tecknet mouse also did well in connectivity and performance. It is effortlessly paired via Bluetooth, and its reliable sensor allows for smooth tracking on various surfaces. The CPI sensitivity button was easily accessible, allowing for seamless adjustments mid-use - which is an advantage when working on photo editing projects (for instance) that require precision at both macro and micro scales. “Also, I liked the compact size; it is an excellent travel companion if you work on the go,” a tester mentioned.
The Tecknet Bluetooth Wireless's ergonomic asymmetrical design is tailored more toward small—to medium-sized hands. Individuals with larger hands may find that this mouse's shape and size can lead to fatigue and discomfort during extended use.
It is optimized for those seeking a well-balanced, affordable device. This mouse offers a harmonious blend of form and function for users with small to moderately-sized hands, making it an excellent choice for everyday computing tasks. If you are looking for a similar value in a wireless mouse, have a look at the Tecknet BM308.
The Anker 2.4G Vertical is the best choice for budget-conscious users or those wanting to try out an ergonomic mouse for the first time. This lightweight, vertical-style model features an auto-shutoff function to conserve battery life, powering down entirely after approximately 8 minutes of inactivity. A simple click of the mouse button quickly brings it back to life.
The Anker 2.4G Vertical allows three CPI settings to be adjusted from the mouse's body. We appreciated the flashing LED indicator that shows the current CPI setting when it is changed. Additionally, the dongle's onboard storage is a valuable feature for laptop users who are frequently on the move.
The Anker 2.4G offers excellent portability due to its wireless design and onboard dongle storage.
Credit: Austin Palmer
On the downside, it doesn't come with batteries, so you'll need to supply two AAA batteries to start using it. Unlike rechargeable models, these will need occasional replacement, adding an ongoing cost. However, purchasing rechargeable AAA batteries can mitigate this issue. We found that a pair of AAA batteries lasted over six months before needing replacement.
For our last gripe, this mouse lacks Bluetooth connectivity and uses a dongle to connect to a computer. Despite these minor critiques, the competitive price makes it an attractive option. We recommend the Anker 2.4G Vertical to anyone looking to try a vertical ergonomic mouse without making a significant investment. If you want something even cheaper, look up the J-Tech Digital V628 Vertical. It's another interesting value vertical wireless mouse.
The Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Optical Mouse provides comparable ergonomic advantages to pricier counterparts at a more affordable price point.
Extremely tactile and notched-feeling scroll wheel
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
84 g
Sensor/ Type/ Flawless
1855/ Optical/ No
Calculated Average CPI (Set at 400)
403.20
Calculated Average CPI (Set at 800)
806.52
Calculated Average CPI (Set at 1600)
1,613.26
The Logitech G203 Lightsync offers an impressive array of features and style at a highly affordable price. Available in several appealing colors, it includes customizable RGB lighting with various presets and color schemes to suit your mood or gaming setup. Equipped with a high-precision sensor, the Lightsync allows for adjustable CPI ranging from 200 to 8,000, ensuring accurate and responsive tracking for different games. The adjustable polling rate guarantees smooth and lag-free movements from 125 to 1,000 Hz.
Logitech's software simplifies programming the buttons, sensitivity, and lighting effects to your liking. While it may lack the ultra-high precision and advanced ergonomics of more expensive models, the G203 Lightsync delivers reliable gaming performance at a much lower cost. It is a versatile option that caters to the needs of most gamers without straining your budget.
The budget-friendly Logitech G203 Lightsync undergoes the same rigorous testing by GearLab as gaming mice priced significantly higher, and it doesn't fail to impress.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Despite its many positive features and exceptional affordability, the G203 Lightsync has a notable drawback: it has a tactile and somewhat noisy scroll wheel, which may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, gamers looking for cutting-edge performance, advanced ergonomics, and extensive customization options might find this mouse lacking. As our tester's review mentioned, “Although I couldn't reproduce it, I read that some users reported spin out, which is an overcorrection during fast-sweeping mouse movements that highly competitive gamers want to avoid.” We didn't experience this, but it's a note worth mentioning.
However, if you like any of the excellent color options this mouse has and are not an elite competitive gamer but want something within the more casual gaming realm, this mouse is an excellent choice. For those who appreciate the Logitech G203 Lightsync but are interested in exploring other options in the same price range, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste is worth considering. It offers an alternative with its own set of strengths and could be a better fit for users seeking different features.
The Logitech G Pro is a fully symmetrical and completely ambidextrous wireless mouse that delivers high-end performance equally to right and left-handers. It has decent customization options with two side buttons on both the right and left sides, all of which are programmable and removable, but comes with limited means for gamers to express themselves through onboard lighting. This is to be expected — unlike other G series mice from Logitech, the Pro aims less to provide a personalized fun experience at home and more to ensure a competitive edge in top-level esports. Even so, the reliability and precision of the G Pro make it a great choice for any type of gaming.
An emphasis on performance pays off greatly for the G Pro. In our testing, we came to appreciate Logitech's use of their proprietary HERO 25k optical sensor in this mouse. With flawless movement detection, adjustable sensitivity that reaches high CPI counts, and a perfectly acceptable max polling rate, we felt completely in control of every on-screen motion during our gaming sessions. Clicking is basically silent and felt effortless, striking the sweet spot necessary for shooting in a game like Rainbow Six Siege, making each pull of the trigger quick enough to gain that extra edge. The G Pro is also relatively lightweight compared to similarly-sized gaming mice, making it a weapon that is none too tiresome to wield even when split-second reactions might make all the difference.
We spared no detail in testing each performance metric of the Logitech G Pro.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you are searching for a capable wireless mouse or one that feels natural to use left-handed, then the Logitech G Pro deserves a place on your shortlist. It is also a powerful contender for those looking to up their game in any first-person shooter. The absence of a wire coupled with a reasonable weight makes the G Pro easy to glide and strike with. This mouse also boasts a 1ms click report rate, meaning you aren't compromising on response time by opting for a wireless mouse. This is a respectable choice for anyone looking to equip themselves with serious gear for an upcoming Valorant tournament, for example, while also investing in a mouse that is suitable for nearly any other scenario as well.
If you are more comfortable with a wired mouse, consider the near-identical Logitech G Pro Hero mouse instead. The G Pro and the Hero do have a notable shortcoming in their overall number of buttons, though. A hardcore MMO player might need something like the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite with its 17 customizable buttons, as opposed to only seven buttons on the Logitech G Pro. There is also the matter of price to consider — the G Pro has the potential to be a budget-breaker, but you can also find a more than suitable wireless alternative with the SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless at around half the price. Still, it is impossible to overlook the versatility and functional elegance of the Logitech G Pro despite its less-than-ideal price tag.
The Logitech M500S earns our top recommendation for a wired productivity mouse due to its commendable performance, feature set, and reasonable price, catering well to the needs of most users. Equipped with a high-precision sensor offering up to 4000 counts per inch (CPI), it demonstrates excellent performance in our comprehensive tracking and precision assessments. Notably, its low-resistance 4D scroll wheel includes a selectable infinite scroll mode, enhancing usability.
Moreover, the M500s proves versatile in accommodating various surface types, displaying accurate tracking capabilities across nearly all tested surfaces. Ideal for those who prefer a mouse over a laptop's trackpad, even during relaxed scrolling sessions on the couch, this mouse emerges as a reliable companion. Featuring seven programmable buttons and a comfortable full-sized shell design, it offers customizable functionality through the robust and user-friendly Logitech Options software. Users can even assign button functions based on the active application, adding a layer of convenience to its usability.
The exceptional Logitech M500s is an excellent choice for many users who prefer a wired mouse for productivity.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
There's much to appreciate about the M500s, particularly considering its price; however, we observed a notable downside in its loud scroll wheel, which might prove bothersome to certain users. Additionally, while the inclusion of seven programmable buttons is sufficient for many individuals, we've encountered mice in the M500s's competitive field offering greater programmability.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the M500s demonstrates proficiency across various tasks typically encountered in daily use. For users desiring increased programmability, the logical upgrade from this mouse would be the outstanding Logitech G502 X. Though it comes at a higher cost; its enhanced features may justify the investment for those seeking greater customization options.
The TeckNet USB Wired stands out as a remarkable value proposition, particularly considering its sub-twenty-dollar price tag. Its exceptional tracking precision surpasses expectations for a peripheral in this price range, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers. During our extensive testing, it consistently delivered performance comparable to mice with significantly higher price points. Its ergonomic design, complete with dedicated forward and back browser buttons, as well as a convenient CPI switch button for on-the-fly sensitivity adjustments, enhances the user experience. “I found this feature proves particularly beneficial for tasks requiring varying sensitivity levels throughout the workday,” noted one of our testers. Despite encountering some minor issues, such as sluggishness on lined paper surfaces, the TeckNet demonstrated reliable functionality across a wide range of test surfaces.
Moreover, the TeckNet's versatility extends beyond its impressive tracking capabilities. Its compatibility with various surface types further enhances its appeal, ensuring seamless performance across different environments. Whether navigating through intricate design work or browsing the web with precision, users can rely on the TeckNet to deliver consistent results. Its ability to adapt to diverse usage scenarios underscores its value proposition, making it a standout option in the crowded peripheral market.
The TeckNet USB exceeds expectations in our precision and accuracy tests, considering its price point.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
We encountered minor issues with the TeckNet USB Wired, albeit insignificant in the grand scheme. The stiffness of its cord occasionally resulted in unexpected movements, posing a slight inconvenience. Additionally, the scroll wheel exhibited a noticeable rattling noise, and the act of clicking down on it produced a louder sound compared to some alternatives. Despite these drawbacks, the TeckNet's touted precision was tested on our linear slide rig, revealing a slight discrepancy in tracking accuracy relative to the manufacturer's claimed CPI. Nevertheless, considering its modest price and overall performance, the mouse remains a commendable investment, offering exceptional value for money.
In the realm of budget-friendly options, the Kkuod Silent Wired mouse warrants attention alongside the TeckNet. Notably affordable, it features whisper-quiet primary clicks, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While it may not match the TeckNet's precision, its budget-friendly price point makes it a compelling choice for those seeking reliable functionality without breaking the bank.
The Razer Pro Click Mini emerges as a compact powerhouse, perfectly suited for on-the-go productivity. Weighing just three ounces and boasting a diminutive size, it effortlessly slips into a briefcase or backpack, offering unparalleled portability. Despite its small stature, it packs a punch in terms of performance. With impeccably low latency and an impressive sensor boasting a remarkable 12,000 dots per inch (DPI), it stands out as one of the most accurate mice in our testing lineup. While the exceptionally high DPI may exceed the needs of the average user, unanimous agreement among our testers confirms its precision and responsiveness.
Furthermore, the versatility of the Razer Pro Click Mini extends beyond its compact design. Offering seamless connectivity, it can pair with up to three separate devices, allowing effortless switching between each with a simple button press. Whether via Bluetooth or a USB dongle, users have the flexibility to choose their preferred connection method. Additionally, with the energy-efficient Bluetooth option, the mouse boasts an impressive battery life. Nonetheless, even with a single battery, it remains operational, showcasing its efficiency and longevity.
With the Razer Pro Click Mini, you can connect either Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz radio frequency.
Credit: Sam Schild
While the Pro Click Mini impresses with its power and portability, individuals with larger hands may find its size to be a drawback. Although none of our testers experienced discomfort due to its small dimensions, we acknowledge that it could pose a challenge for some users. Additionally, we encountered issues with the tilt-click side-to-side scrolling feature, which scrolled too quickly, hindering precise navigation in tasks such as spreadsheet usage. However, adjusting the scroll speed in the computer's mouse settings mitigated this problem to a large extent. It's worth noting that this issue is common among mice utilizing the scroll wheel for both the up/down and left/right scrolling functions.
For those in search of an exceptionally portable and capable mouse, the Pro Click Mini remains a top contender. However, individuals seeking a stationary desk accessory optimized for ergonomic comfort in home or work environments may find the Logitech Ergo M575 Wireless Trackball Mouse to be a more suitable option.
The Razer Pro Mini works with either one or two AA batteries, increasing its versatility and giving it a built-in weight customization feature some people might appreciate.
Credit: Sam Schild
How We Tested
The GearLab test team has purchased dozens of mice across multiple categories and put them all through exhaustive practical evaluations. Our expert testers arrive at objective ratings for each mouse by taking precise measurements in the lab, testing each compononent along with any accompanying software, using them extensively in real-world circumstances, and, in the case of gaming mice, fielding them in actual gameplay scenarios.
We are passionate hardware fanatics, productivity fiends, and gaming enthusiasts. We stay abreast of the best wired and wireless mice on the market for office use, ergonomics, and recreation. We purchase all products in our reviews from retailers and put each mouse through the wringer with specialized machinery and standardized manual tests. For example, we utilize advanced tools such as electronically actuated linear sliders, dimensional measuring devices, and scales to gauge metrics like tracking precision, ergonomics, and overall unit weight. You can find more detailed info on our testing articles for wired mice, wireless mice, and gaming mice.
We scientifically test each category of mice using specialized tools and methodologies tailored to assess key attributes like sensor accuracy, programmability, and button responsiveness.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing team includes tech experts who know their stuff when it comes to managing mind-boggling spreadsheets and winning a deathmatch in the latest online shooter. That also means understanding the tools that make those things possible. The testers at GearLab have real experience with hunting down the best computer mice out of necessity — whether for productivity, ergonomics, or a much-needed competitive edge.
Leading our mouse-testing effort is Austin Palmer, who brings over two decades of experience with mice in office settings. Diagnosed with repetitive strain injury (RSI) in 2009, Austin's extensive use of mice and his commitment to ergonomics make him a valuable expert in identifying the most comfortable and effective mice for long-term use, ensuring our recommendations help prevent discomfort and injury. He's also an avid PC gamer with a wealth of experience and a nuanced understanding of gaming peripheral performance and how it translates to the screen in competitive gaming.
Every mouse we review undergoes rigorously developed scientific evaluations and consecutive subjective analyses by seasoned testers.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How to Choose a Mouse
We've covered the best Wired, Wireless, Gaming, and Ergonomic mice. While there is a good deal of overlap between most varieties of mice, and many of these can pull off excellent ergonomics while working well enough for casual browsing, productivity, or gaming, you probably want to find the one best suited to your specific use case. We're here to help.
What is Your Primary Use Case for the Mouse?
Gamers will prefer mice with high precision and low latency, with lots of buttons to program, while someone looking for an upgrade for their office mouse might lean towards mice with advanced ergonomics and a horizontal scroll wheel for spreadsheets. People with repetitive stress injuries will want to look into the sub-genre of ergonomic mice that position the hand in a more natural way than traditionally designed mice. Then, of course, there are wired and wireless mice to think about, which is a matter of preference for most but a performance requirement for some.
A lineup of mice ready for testing, each set to undergo rigorous evaluations of their performance, ergonomics, and features.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Types of Mice
When it comes to choosing the right mouse, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Different styles cater to unique needs, preferences, and tasks. From the classic wired mice that offer reliable performance to ergonomic models designed to minimize strain, the options are vast. In this review, we'll explore a variety of mice, highlighting their features and helping you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Wired Mice
A wired mouse might be the right choice for you if you're leaving the mouse on your desk and don't want the burden of recharging or replacing batteries. They also offer the most reliable connection to your computer, as you are highly unlikely to experience any connection drop, which sometimes occurs with wireless mice. Wired mice also have the edge on low latency, which is a factor in the ultra-fast response time required by competitive gamers.
Wired Mouse Metric Scores
Product
Tracking/Precision
Scroll Wheel
Programming
Surface Types
Razer Basilisk V3
9.8
9.8
10.0
9.0
Logitech G502 X
9.9
9.0
9.5
9.5
Logitech M500s
8.9
9.3
6.5
9.5
SteelSeries Rival 3
9.6
6.5
9.0
8.0
Microsoft Pro IntelliMouse
9.9
6.0
7.5
7.5
TeckNet USB Wired
8.8
6.0
1.0
8.0
Dell MS3220
4.3
7.0
5.0
7.0
Kkuod Silent Wired
8.6
6.0
1.0
6.8
Amazon Basics 3-Button
7.1
8.0
1.0
6.0
Logitech B100
6.8
6.0
2.5
6.8
Logitech M100
6.8
6.0
2.5
6.3
Wireless Mice
Many prefer wireless mice for minimal cable clutter and portability. Depending on your use case, wires can be more than just an eyesore — they might restrict your range of movement if you have limited desk space. You might even opt for a wireless mouse if you are a competitive gamer who wants to limit the amount of weight or drag you feel on your mouse during critical, high-intensity moments when every factor can make all the difference.
If you're on the hunt for a good mouse for your workday we highly recommend mice with forward/back browser buttons and a secondary horizontal scroll wheel for use in spreadsheets. You might want a mouse with a few additional buttons but not an overwhelming amount like some gaming mice tend to have. A mouse you are going to use day in and day out at the office should probably have some decent ergonomics built into its design, but it doesn't necessarily have to be a dedicated ergonomic mouse if you'd rather stick to something more traditional. You will want decent tracking and response, but those parameters aren't nearly as crucial for productivity and casual browsing as they are in gaming and some advanced design and creative fields.
A long, flexible, snag-free cord ensures seamless and uninterrupted performance for a wired mouse.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Ergonomic Mice
Most modern, well-designed mice, outside of the most basic, are pretty ergonomic. However, some do it better than others, and there is even a sub-genre of mice that are less traditionally shaped and more ergonomic to the human hand. Prolonged periods in front of a computer can lead to health issues such as repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. An ergonomic mouse, designed for comfort and efficiency, can mitigate these risks. Unlike standard mice, ergonomic mice are designed from the ground up to reduce strain, encouraging a healthier posture during use. They come in various forms, including horizontal, vertical, trackball, and joystick mice, each offering unique benefits.
Ergonomic mice come in several form factors.
Credit: Laura Casner
Traditional Horizontal Ergonomic Mice
Traditional horizontal ergonomic mice offer a familiar design with enhancements to reduce hand strain. They feature contoured shapes and additional thumb rests, providing a more comfortable grip and better support for the hand. This design minimizes the risk of repetitive strain injuries by promoting a more natural hand position. These mice also typically include programmable buttons and high-precision sensors, making them suitable for both productivity tasks and casual gaming.
Ergonomic mice come is a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Credit: Sam Schild
Vertical Ergonomic Mice
Vertical ergonomic mice promote a natural handshake position, which can significantly reduce wrist and forearm strain. By rotating the hand into a more vertical orientation, these mice help prevent the twisting motion associated with traditional mice. This design is especially beneficial for users who experience discomfort or pain from extended computer use, as it reduces pressure on the carpal tunnel and supports a healthier posture.
The unique method of gripping a vertical ergonomic mouse can make all the difference for those with repetitive stress injuries.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Joystick Ergonomic Mice
Joystick ergonomic mice use a vertical grip that resembles holding a joystick, engaging the stronger arm muscles rather than relying solely on the wrist. This design can be particularly helpful for users with limited wrist mobility or those recovering from wrist injuries. By distributing the movement across the arm, joystick mice reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries and provide a comfortable alternative for prolonged computer use.
Our testers felt the 3M Joystick was the most comfortable to use.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Trackball Ergonomic Mice
Trackball ergonomic mice eliminate the need for extensive wrist movement by allowing users to control the cursor with a stationary ball. This design is ideal for users who suffer from wrist pain or have limited desk space. Trackball mice reduce the strain on the wrist and arm, offering precise control with minimal effort. They are also beneficial for users who need to operate the mouse on uneven surfaces or in confined areas, providing versatility and ease of use. need to operate the mouse on uneven surfaces or in confined areas, providing versatility and ease of use.
Trackball mice work seamlessly on a variety of unconventional surfaces, even a couch armrest.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Gaming Mice
There is probably more to think about with gaming mice than any other type. These mice tend to sit at the top of the pile in terms of performance and precision. They have better tracking and response times than all other mice and often even include aesthetic touches like programmable RGB lighting effects to enhance desktop ambiance. Most of all, they have more buttons than most other mice. Below are our gaming mouse review results.
Gaming Mouse Metric Scores
Product
Performance
Customization
Ease of Use
Scroll Wheel
Razer Basilisk V3
9.3
8.1
9.0
9.7
Logitech G Pro
9.0
6.5
10.0
9.4
Logitech G502 Lightspeed
8.8
8.0
10.0
8.0
Razer DeathAdder V3
9.9
6.1
9.3
9.4
HyperX Pulsefire Haste
9.3
6.3
9.5
9.4
Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
9.9
5.8
10.0
8.5
Razer Viper V2 Pro
9.8
5.8
10.0
8.3
Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite
8.7
9.3
8.5
7.4
Roccat Kone XP
9.3
9.1
9.3
6.1
SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless
8.8
6.0
10.0
9.0
Logitech G203 Lightsync
8.3
7.3
9.5
8.2
Glorious Model O-
9.0
6.3
8.5
9.0
Logitech G305
8.9
6.1
9.8
7.7
Logitech G502 X
9.3
7.0
9.0
6.3
Corsair Sabre RGB Pro
9.2
7.3
9.0
5.4
Sensor
Sensor quality is crucial for tracking precision and performance. A high-quality sensor ensures accurate and responsive tracking, which is essential for fast-paced gaming. Look for key specifications like DPI (sensitivity), IPS (movement speed tracking), and a high polling rate (Hz) for quick data transmission. Many of the best gaming mice come with optical or laser sensors from reputable brands like PixArt. While most new gaming mice have excellent sensors, verifying these specs ensures the mouse meets your specific needs.
GearLab uses specialized machinery to test precise gaming mouse metrics such as DPI or IPS
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Shape/Grip
Shape is crucial when selecting a gaming mouse, especially for FPS players, as it affects ergonomics and comfort. Choose a mouse that suits your grip style—palm, fingertip, or claw. Hand size matters, too; a large hand might struggle with a smaller mouse. Additionally, consider the finish: matte offers a better grip, while glossy can become slippery during intense gaming.
The Razer Basilisk V3 provides a perfect example of a great gaming mouse grip with its ample thumb rest that helps keep your hand in perfect firing position.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Weight
Another important personal preference when choosing a gaming mouse is its weight. Generally, lighter mice are favored as they tend to be easier to handle and move around, providing greater agility during gameplay. However, some people prefer the substantial feel of a heavier mouse, finding that it offers more control and stability. Ultimately, the ideal weight of a gaming mouse depends on individual preference and the specific demands of the games you play. Many mice in the “superlight” category weigh less than 60 grams, while the most beastly gaming mice will anchor your experience with a hefty 120 grams or more.
Gaming mice can combine eye-catching aesthetics with top-tier performance for a competitive gaming edge.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Software
One of the key features to consider in a gaming mouse is the ability to customize button functions. Advanced programming features allow users to reassign button functions, create complex macros, and tailor the mouse's performance to their specific needs. This includes setting up profiles for different games, adjusting DPI settings for precision control, and programming buttons to execute multiple commands with a single click. These capabilities enhance the gaming experience by providing greater flexibility and efficiency, enabling players to optimize their mouse for various tasks and gaming styles.
The Logitech G HUB software gives you full, easy-to-navigate control of G series products like the G Pro wireless gaming mouse.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Lighting
Gaming mouse lighting features, often powered by RGB technology, add a visually appealing element to your gaming setup. These customizable lighting options allow you to personalize your mouse with a spectrum of colors and dynamic effects, enhancing the overall ambiance of your gaming rig. Beyond aesthetics, the lighting can be synchronized with other peripherals and in-game events, creating a cohesive and immersive environment. Whether you prefer a subtle glow or vibrant, pulsing lights, the ability to adjust the lighting settings can significantly contribute to the flair and atmosphere of your gaming experience. If that's not your style, there are also unassuming and RGB-free gaming mouse options.
Many gaming mice come with exceptional LED lights for decking out your gaming quiver.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Wired or Wireless
Each has its pros and cons. Wired mice offer consistent performance and superior response times, which is ideal for competitive gaming, although they may have minor cable drag and bring more clutter to the desk. On the other hand, wireless mice provide freedom of movement and a cleaner setup but require regular charging or battery replacements, which can be inconvenient during long gaming sessions. Despite advancements in wireless technology, some gamers still prefer a wired connection's reliability and slightly faster response.
Equipped with heat-treated pure PTFE glides and Owl-Eye 19k DPI optical sensors, this model ensures smooth and precise control.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Mouse Feet
Don't forget about the mouse feet, or skates, underneath. These small pads greatly affect the mouse's glide and performance, providing smooth movement and precision during gameplay. While they wear out over time, aftermarket options allow for customization. Your choice of mouse pad also impacts performance, so personalize your setup to your liking for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
In the vast and varied world of computer mice, there's a click for every clique!
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
With numerous options available, whether for gaming, ergonomics, productivity, wired, or wireless use, finding the right mouse can greatly enhance your computing experience. We hope we've helped you decide which type of computer mouse best suits your needs and preferences in this expansive market.
