One of the best gaming mouse in 2024

No gaming mouse will magically cease you from getting wrecked in Counter-Strike or Name of Responsibility, however an excellent one may give you a higher sense of management whereas making your playtime extra comfy. Which one is “greatest” will at all times be subjective: Form is king, because the adage goes, and everybody’s fingers are completely different. That stated, 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 taking part in by means of numerous periods of CS2, Overwatch 2, Ultimate Fantasy XIV and more PC games, listed here are our picks for one of the best gaming mice you should purchase, together with some common purchasing recommendation to bear in mind earlier than you pull the set off.

One of the best gaming mouse

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If cash isn’t any object, one of the best gaming mouse with a symmetrical design that we’ve examined is the Razer Viper V3 Pro. It prices a hefty $160, nevertheless it’ll offer you little to complain about should you play a ton of aggressive PC video games and might abdomen the worth.

With its flippantly grooved sides, noticeable however not aggressive hump and mild flare-outs towards the again, the Viper V3 Professional’s form ought to be comfy for a variety of hand sizes and grip types. It’s a bit on the broader aspect, and it in all probability works greatest with a claw or fingertip grip, nevertheless it’s not so brief or flat that it will probably’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 correct spot whenever 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 gentle at 54 grams, which makes it a breeze to flick round in fast-paced video games, but its matte plastic body isn’t lined 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 gentle 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 best possible mechanical switches, they’re nonetheless snappy to press, neither too agency nor too gentle. The 2 programmable aspect buttons are well-sized and straightforward to achieve. 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 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 price of 8,000Hz, however as famous under, few folks will really observed any profit from leaping that top. Largely, it’ll simply zap battery life: Razer says the Viper V3 Professional can rise up to 95 hours at 1,000Hz, which is okay for this market and roughly according to our expertise, however that drops to simply 17 hours at 8,000Hz.

If the worth didn’t make it apparent, the Viper V3 Professional is for gaming fanatics. As such, it provides up among the perks you’d discover on extra mainstream mice: There’s no RGB lighting or Bluetooth, whereas the facility button/DPI switcher is situated on the underside of the system to make it more durable to hit by chance. For the reason that system makes use of a particular dongle as a substitute of a conventional receiver, it nonetheless requires you run a separate USB-C cable out of your PC or gaming laptop. 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 house within the fingers of dedicated FPS gamers.

Professionals

Distinctive efficiency
Very good construct high quality
Comfy 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 price: 8,000Hz (“basic 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 Pro. 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 fingers 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 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, nevertheless it’s nonetheless good, and it’s a lot much less of a fingerprint magnet. Additionally, the aspect buttons are larger, nearer collectively and a smidge much less tight, however they’re nonetheless tough to hit by chance. The design is heavier at 63 grams, too, however nonetheless severely 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 function set. The optical foremost buttons are satisfying and constant however not overly delicate. The flippantly notched scroll wheel is gentle, 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 “classic base” mannequin comes with a smaller USB receiver that “solely” goes as much as 1,000Hz, however because it’s usually obtainable for much less at third-party retailers, it’s in all probability a greater worth. Typically, the largest knock towards 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 Professional Mini” than a transparent downgrade. It doesn’t quit the rechargeable battery, cutout-free shell, optical switches and gentle (if smudge-heavy) coating of its larger sibling, and whereas its sensor is technically worse, it nonetheless performs splendidly. Its battery life ranking is definitely 10 hours greater at 1,000Hz, plus it has a built-in storage compartment for its USB receiver. The key distinction is that it’s lighter (55g) and extra compact, with a lower-profile scroll wheel and a touch shorter hump. In case your fingers are on the smaller aspect, it’s value grabbing as a substitute.

Professionals

High-shelf efficiency
Light-weight
Comfy for these with medium to giant fingers

Cons

Costly
Naggy software program
Not splendid for smaller fingers

$115 at Walmart

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Endgadget

In the event 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 slim than most mice we’ve examined, so it’ll be comfiest with a claw or fingertip grip, although a palm grip can even work in smaller fingers. The entire thing is extremely sturdy, with no flex or rattle, whereas the sleek 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 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 state of affairs. Typically, the system’s openness to customization is commendable — there are readily uncovered screws on the underside and a screwdriver, elective aspect grips and bigger PTFE ft within the field.

By default, the primary 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 “speed mode” that reduces click on latency even additional, however both manner the buttons are simple to spam. The suitable mouse button on our unit does sound slightly 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 unique noise profile. The notched scroll wheel and two aspect buttons are well-tensioned, too. The latter really feel considerably hole, however they’re laborious to hit by chance.

Sensor efficiency is predictably glorious; we noticed no accuracy or movement delay points throughout a variety of video games. With its gentle 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 no less than 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 assets.

At $75, the OP1 8K definitely isn’t the most affordable 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 will probably fall out of inventory sometimes, as Endgame Gear is a comparatively small firm out of Germany.

Professionals

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

Cons

A bit small for big fingers
Facet buttons really feel considerably hole
Occasional inventory points

$75 at Endgame Gear

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

It’s just a few 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 foremost buttons and a rounded, moderately-sized hump working down its center. It’s fantastically cozy for palm grippers with medium- to large-sized fingers, nevertheless it’ll additionally play effectively with claw grips. Those that choose a fingertip grip or simply have smaller fingers will probably discover it too chunky, nonetheless.

The design as a complete feels strong; there’s some minor flexing on the bottom-right aspect whenever you press down laborious, 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 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 must purpose extra exactly. The latter will probably be notably robust for the smaller-handed to achieve comfortably, although.

The Basilisk V3 makes use of older optical switches than our different Razer prime picks, however we haven’t had any double-clicking points after effectively over a 12 months of testing. Whereas foremost clicks aren’t almost as quick as these on the Endgame Gear OP1 8K, they strike an agreeable steadiness 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 aspect: It has clearly outlined steps and an simply identifiable texture, nevertheless it’s pretty loud and a bit wobbly. That stated, it will probably 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 means of a large 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 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. Whilst you completely can go off in Counter-Strike or Valorant with it, the mouse’s weight and huge body imply it’s not expressly designed for video games like these. It can also’t go above a 1,000Hz polling price. 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 smart for righties who need a cozy and dependable mouse they’ll flip to for extra informal gaming throughout genres. Razer sells it for $70, however because it’s usually available for lower than $50 at third-party retailers as of late, you’ll be able to contemplate it our decide for one of the 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 just about similar. Provided that we didn’t have many points with the tech within authentic V3, we’d nonetheless advocate getting the older model whereas it’s nonetheless in inventory and obtainable for much less. In the event you see the V3 35K on sale for the same value, nonetheless, it ought to be protected to simply get that one as a substitute.

Professionals

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

Cons

Too heavy to be splendid for FPS video games
Too cumbersome to be splendid for small fingers
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 snug, 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’ll be able to bodily reposition this aspect panel with an Allen key included within the field, so should you discover the buttons tough to achieve by default, you’ll be able to handle that. Both manner, having a number of buttons proper underneath your thumb makes it a lot simpler to play MMOs like Ultimate 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 ought 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 development feels well-built, with a {smooth} matte end, a grippy pinky relaxation and first rate PTFE ft. 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 significant issues with latency, both.

Nevertheless, 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 primary buttons, and it may very well be firmer. These foremost buttons by no means really feel mushy, however they use mechanical switches, so 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, modify 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 possibility as of late. At a value that normally hovers within the $60 to $75 vary, the Scimitar RGB Elite presents higher worth than most. In the event you hate cables, Corsair sells a wireless version of the system too.

Professionals

Cleverly textured aspect 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 prime 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 title 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 gentle 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, notably towards the entrance, with a centered hump that isn’t fairly as aggressive. It’ll really feel at house with a claw grip for any hand dimension, however fingertip grippers ought to discover it comfy too. (Simply keep on with the Viper should 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 towards 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 completely. 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 splendid 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 in order for you a right-handed design. It has the same contoured form, so it’s nice for palm and claw grips, nevertheless it’s a pinch lighter. Notably, Pulsar sells mini, medium and large variants, so you’ll be able to select a dimension that matches your fingers greatest. 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 vulnerable to gunk. Nonetheless, this can be a gentle, comfy and extremely responsive ergo mouse. For a typical avenue 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 look 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 fingers on the V4, however for now we stand by our present decide, particularly when it’s obtainable for a cheaper price.

Professionals

Strong worth
Effectively-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)

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

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2

The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 is an in depth rival to the Razer Viper V3 Professional for many who need a no-frills, high-end wi-fi gaming mouse. It has the same “potato”-style form, its monitoring is equally super and its optical-mechanical switches have a definite really feel. Not like the primary Superlight, it additionally prices over USB-C. However the Viper’s foremost 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 Pro 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 slightly an excessive amount of, although, usually leaving our pinky finger in a less-than-comfortable place. These with medium-sized fingers might discover its heart hump to be too aggressive for constant aiming as effectively. The DeathAdder V3 Professional’s foremost 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 inside tech is nice, so under no circumstances is that this a poor alternative. However at $159, there are higher values on the market.

Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed

Very like 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 just about similar 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’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 huge sibling because the mid-tier DeathAdder. Some might choose 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 reasonably priced wi-fi model of the Basilisk V3 with the identical comfy form and format, 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 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 foremost 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 value, it’s nonetheless higher for FPS gamers than the Viper V3 HyperSpeed, however we choose 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 created from magnesium alloy as a substitute of plastic. It performs about on par with our prime 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.) Nevertheless, the intensive cutouts all around the sides and prime shell are noticeable within the hand and make the system extra vulnerable to mess 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 common 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 among 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 must also work for fingertip grippers with bigger fingers 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 slightly cumbersome, although some might choose not having to put in any additional bloat on their PC. This mouse additionally maxes out at a reasonably primary 1,000Hz polling price — 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 improper 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 provides it successfully infinite battery life should 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 system, 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 until you employ 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 need 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 are lined by the mouse’s label. However the Endgame Gear OP1 8K is better-built and extra comfy, so we predict it’s value the additional money. The Razer Viper 8KHz was one other strong, albeit heavier, possibility with the same form, nevertheless it’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. (Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wi-fi

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wireless is a budget-friendly wi-fi variant of the Haste 2. It could be OK should 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 foremost buttons really feel considerably mushy, and we noticed just a few sensor hiccups and inconsistencies, notably once we had HyperX’s Ngenuity software program open.

Logitech G502 X

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

Logitech G203 Lightsync

The Logitech G203 Lightsync is our former price range decide. It’s usually obtainable 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 attainable. You possibly can really feel the associated fee slicing in its rubbery cable and mushy scroll wheel, nonetheless, and its form is a bit too small and flat for bigger fingers. The Logitech G305 Lightspeed is a wi-fi mannequin with roughly 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 possibility 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 common going charges. The Endgame Gear OP1 8K nonetheless feels higher-quality throughout the board, however when you have smaller fingers, use a fingertip grip and need 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 concerning the Glorious Model I 2 Wireless: an ergonomic form that’s harking back 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. Nevertheless, its honeycomb-style design and mechanical switches each increase considerations about its long-term sturdiness.

Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Wi-fi

The Glorious Model D 2 Wireless additionally has holes throughout its shell but doesn’t carry out or really feel considerably higher than different mice across the $100 mark. Reviews from other sites say it has latency points, too. The ergonomic Model D 2 Pro and symmetrical Model O 2 Pro aren’t loaded with cutouts, however their foremost buttons are comparatively loud and sticky-feeling.

Razer Naga Left-Handed Version

The Razer Naga Left-Handed Edition isn’t almost nearly as good of a price 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 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 degree 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 an excellent wi-fi mannequin and a tried-and-true wired gaming mouse is barely perceptible.

Observe, nonetheless, that we’re strictly speaking about mice that use a 2.4GHz connection (over a USB dongle), not Bluetooth. Most of the greatest wi-fi gaming mouse fashions assist each connection choices, which is nice for journey, however Bluetooth’s latency is usually 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 normally 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 employ recurrently. Some gaming mice provide wi-fi charging too, which makes issues a bit simpler. Good wi-fi gaming mice normally come at a a lot greater value than their wired counterparts as effectively.

That’s to not say the premium isn’t value it: Who desires but one other cable on their desk? You could want a wi-fi mannequin should 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’ll be able to hook up in a pinch as effectively. But when value is your major concern, an excellent wired mouse could also be a greater worth.

Consolation and grip sorts

Everybody’s fingers are completely different, so on the finish of the day, calling one mouse “extra comfy” than one other is usually 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 system we examined works with smaller, average-sized and bigger fingers 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 whenever you steer the mouse solely with the information of your fingers, together with your palm not in touch with the system 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 dimensions of your hand, chances are you’ll want your mouse to be a selected size to make use of it comfortably. A fingertip grip can permit for extra fast actions, whereas a claw grip is one thing of a steadiness between the 2. Switch and Click has an excellent breakdown should you’d like a bit extra element, however we’ve famous above if a mouse isn’t well-suited for a specific grip type. For what it’s value, yours really is a claw gripper more often than not.

Construct high quality and design

A superb gaming mouse feels sturdy and gained’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 seemed for finishes that had been {smooth}, not too slick and able to withstanding the sweaty palms that always include aggressive gaming periods.

The gaming mouse market is usually cut up between two design types: ergonomic and ambidextrous. Ergonomic mice are nearly at all times made with right-handed customers in thoughts and sometimes function devoted thumb rests. Ambidextrous mice are extra symmetrical and designed for use with both hand (although they could not have additional buttons on each side). Whether or not an ergonomic or ambidextrous gaming mouse works greatest for you is essentially a matter of non-public desire.

A gaming mouse’s ft, 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 attainable. For one of the best efficiency, search for ft created from PTFE (aka Teflon). All ft 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, should you’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 at present utilizing.

Weight

Gaming mice have gotten lighter and lighter over time, with some latest releases weighing lower than 40 grams. Your mouse doesn’t want to be that feathery — something underneath 80g continues to be moderately gentle, and it’s not like a 100g mouse seems 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 take pleasure in slightly 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 function 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 attainable sweat, mud and detritus isn’t one of the 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 usually be extra sturdy and fewer liable to undesirable “double-clicks” over time. Many avid gamers nonetheless discover good mechanical switches extra satisfying to press, so it is not like it is best to keep away from mechanical mice altogether. They simply carry slightly extra long-term threat in a vacuum.

Since most individuals will use their gaming mouse as their mouse-mouse, you might have considered trying foremost 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 should you play video games that decision for fixed clicking. We additionally seemed to testing from sites 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, an excellent gaming mouse must also have programmable buttons for fast macros or shortcuts. For many video games, shoot for no less than two additional buttons on the thumb-side panel which are simple to achieve and tough to press by chance. Many mice have extra buttons, which generally is 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 no less than 12 aspect buttons is preferable so as to entry as many hotbar instructions as attainable.

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

Sensors and efficiency

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

Whereas looking 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 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. Most of the greatest gaming mice promote extraordinarily excessive DPIs that prime out above 30,000, however that’s largely advertising fluff: Few folks play above 3,000, with 800 a typical candy spot. This idea can also be known as CPI (counts per inch), which is probably 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 price is a measure of how usually a mouse tells a pc the place it’s. Typically, the extra continuously your mouse experiences data to your PC, the extra predictable its response time ought 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 until personal a strong PC and play on a gaming monitor with a very excessive refresh price.
Carry-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 attainable so as 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 perfect app is one which doesn’t drive you to make use of it on a regular basis. It ought to allow you to modify as most of the features above as attainable, 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 system with out having to redownload any software program. All that is most vital on Home windows, however Mac compatibility is at all times 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 overvalued on YouTube, Reddit or elsewhere across the net. A bunch of those extra obscure mice are genuinely nice, however should you ever purchase from a extra area of interest model, it’s value checking that some degree of buyer assist is in place. We’ve made positive our picks for one of the 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 purpose to check these extra absolutely, alongside just a few others, for our subsequent replace.

September 2024: We have utterly refreshed this information for late 2024, including new foremost 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 means of testing Logitech’s new G Pro X Superlight 2 DEX, a flagship ergonomic mouse that the company announced proper as we had been placing the ending touches on this replace.

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