The most effective 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 larger sense of management whereas making your playtime extra comfy. Which one is “greatest” will all the time be subjective: Form is king, because the adage goes, and everybody’s palms 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 way of numerous periods of CS2, Overwatch 2, Remaining Fantasy XIV and more PC games, listed below are our picks for the most effective gaming mice you should buy, together with some common purchasing recommendation to remember earlier than you pull the set off.

The most effective gaming mouse

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If cash isn’t any object, the most effective gaming mouse with a symmetrical design that we’ve examined is the Razer Viper V3 Pro. It prices a hefty $160, but it surely’ll offer you little to complain about when you play a ton of aggressive PC video games and may abdomen the value.

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 types. It’s a bit on the broader facet, and it in all probability works greatest with a claw or fingertip grip, but it surely’s not so quick or flat that it might’t accommodate palm grippers. The primary mouse buttons are contoured in a method that offers your fingers a pure resting place, and there are little ledges on both facet to subtly nudge them to the suitable spot once you’re scrambling in-game. Put one other method, this is likely one of the safer shapes we’ve examined.

The Viper’s construct high quality is great. It’s impressively mild at 54 grams, which makes it a breeze to flick round in fast-paced video games, but its matte plastic body isn’t coated in dust-inviting holes like many different choices across the similar weight. We’ve seen zero hints of creaking, flexing or rattling after months of testing. The end picks up some finger smudges however is grippy and delightfully smooth 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 mild. The 2 programmable facet 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 lately, is successfully flawless. Razer’s Focus Professional 35K Optical Sensor Gen-2 — say that 5 occasions quick — is principally overkill from a technological perspective however makes the mouse exceptionally correct and constant all the identical. It’s aided by amply-sized, smooth-gliding PTFE toes and a rock-solid connection to an included “HyperPolling” dongle. The latter lets the mouse attain a most polling price of 8,000Hz, however as famous under, few individuals will really seen any profit from leaping that prime. Principally, it’ll simply zap battery life: Razer says the Viper V3 Professional can stand up to 95 hours at 1,000Hz, which is ok for this market and roughly in step with our expertise, however that drops to simply 17 hours at 8,000Hz.

If the value didn’t make it apparent, the Viper V3 Professional is for gaming fans. As such, it offers up a few of 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 machine to make it tougher to hit accidentally. Because the machine 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, 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 residence within the palms of dedicated FPS gamers.

Execs

Distinctive efficiency
Excellent 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 (“traditional base” mannequin requires optionally available dongle) | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 90 hours at 1,000Hz

In order for you 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 massive palms 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 an analogous 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 greater, nearer collectively and a smidge much less tight, however they’re nonetheless tough to hit accidentally. The design is heavier at 63 grams, too, however nonetheless significantly light-weight. The PTFE toes are smaller however nonetheless glide reliably. And whereas the sensor is technically a technology older, efficiency is successfully flawless.

In any other case, you’re taking a look at an analogous function set. The optical primary buttons are satisfying and constant however not overly delicate. The frivolously notched scroll wheel is smooth, quiet and resistant sufficient, if not agency. Battery life is rated at a good 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 allows 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 typically out there for much less at third-party retailers, it’s in all probability a greater worth. On the whole, 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” choose right here. Though it’s positioned under the Professional in Razer’s lineup, it’s extra of a “DeathAdder V3 Professional Mini” than a transparent downgrade. It doesn’t quit the rechargeable battery, cutout-free shell, optical switches and smooth (if smudge-heavy) coating of its greater sibling, and whereas its sensor is technically worse, it nonetheless performs splendidly. Its battery life score is definitely 10 hours greater at 1,000Hz, plus it has a built-in storage compartment for its USB receiver. The main distinction is that it’s lighter (55g) and extra compact, with a lower-profile scroll wheel and a touch shorter hump. In case your palms are on the smaller facet, it’s price grabbing as a substitute.

Execs

High-shelf efficiency
Light-weight
Comfy for these with medium to massive palms

Cons

Costly
Naggy software program
Not best for smaller palms

$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 also can work in smaller palms. The entire thing is extremely sturdy, with no flex or rattle, whereas the graceful matte plastic coating offers a good bit of grip. The built-in cable is mild, versatile and cleverly titled upwards on the base of the mouse, all of which helps 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 method that makes them (comparatively) simple to swap out in a worst-case situation. On the whole, 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 toes within the field.

By default, the primary clicks are on the stiffer facet 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 method the buttons are simple to spam. The correct 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 in order for you a distinct noise profile. The notched scroll wheel and two facet buttons are well-tensioned, too. The latter really feel considerably hole, however they’re onerous to hit accidentally.

Sensor efficiency is predictably wonderful; we noticed no accuracy or movement delay points throughout a variety of video games. With its mild weight, quick clicks and {smooth} inventory skates, the whole lot 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 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 seems to be like one thing out of the Home windows 95 period however is easy to grok and takes up subsequent to no sources.

At $75, the OP1 8K actually isn’t the most affordable wired mouse, but it surely’s nonetheless a great way lower than wi-fi high-performance fashions. Probably the most urgent problem could also be that it might fall out of inventory sometimes, 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 palms
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 primary buttons and a rounded, moderately-sized hump working down its center. It’s fantastically cozy for palm grippers with medium- to large-sized palms, but it surely’ll additionally play properly with claw grips. Those that desire a fingertip grip or simply have smaller palms will doubtless discover it too chunky, nonetheless.

The design as a complete feels strong; there’s some minor flexing on the bottom-right facet once you press down onerous, however you’d must exit of your solution to discover it. The matte plastic end is pleasingly textured and sufficiently grippy. The cable is lots versatile, whereas the PTFE toes glide easily. We additionally dig the fun-but-not-garish RGB lighting across the mouse’s underside and scroll wheel. There are 11 customizable buttons in complete, together with two easy-to-reach facet buttons and a devoted “sensitivity clutch” that permits you to momentarily drop to a decrease DPI for moments the place you could must intention extra exactly. The latter will likely be significantly 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 properly over a yr of testing. Whereas primary clicks aren’t practically as quick as these on the Endgame Gear OP1 8K, they strike an agreeable stability between firmness and pace. They aren’t all that loud, both. Just like the Viper V3 Professional, the buttons are grooved in a method that naturally invitations your index and center fingers.

The scroll wheel is likely to be the weakest factor: It has clearly outlined steps and an simply identifiable texture, but it surely’s pretty loud and a bit wobbly. That mentioned, it might tilt side-to-side — which helps clarify the wobbliness — and there’s a built-in toggle that permits you to swap between a traditional ratcheted scroll and a free-spin mode. That may be helpful outdoors of video games — say, when you might want to scroll by way of an enormous 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 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 sensible for righties who desire 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 lately, you’ll be able to think about it our choose for the most effective funds gaming mouse as properly.

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 just about an identical. Provided that we didn’t have many points with the tech within unique V3, we’d nonetheless suggest getting the older model whereas it’s nonetheless in inventory and out there for much less. In the event you see the V3 35K on sale for the same worth, nonetheless, it needs to be protected to simply get that one as a substitute.

Execs

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

Cons

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

$44 at Amazon

Photograph by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

In order for you 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 due to its 12 programmable facet 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 facet panel with an Allen key included within the field, so when you discover the buttons tough to achieve by default, you’ll be able to deal with that. Both method, having a bunch of buttons proper beneath your thumb makes it a lot simpler to play MMOs like Remaining 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 development feels well-built, with a {smooth} matte end, a grippy pinky relaxation and first rate PTFE toes. Internally, its optical sensor (the Pixart PMW3391) isn’t precisely superior lately, but it surely’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, but it surely’s a contact too recessed between the primary buttons, and it could possibly be firmer. These primary buttons by no means really feel mushy, however they use mechanical switches, so that they carry extra of a long-term sturdiness danger than optical alternate options. (Corsair charges them at 50 million clicks.) And Corsair’s iCue software program is, frankly, the worst: You can use it to customise key bindings, assign macros, alter the (gentle) 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 lately. At a worth that normally hovers within the $60 to $75 vary, the Scimitar RGB Elite affords higher worth than most. In the event you hate cables, Corsair sells a wireless version 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 prime wi-fi picks are nice, we understand that they aren’t low cost. In order for you a performance-focused mannequin with a symmetrical form that isn’t as dear, think about 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 smooth within the hand, although it’s one other one that may choose up smudges pretty simply. It has a wider and lower-profile form than the Viper V3 Professional, significantly towards the entrance, with a centered hump that isn’t fairly as aggressive. It’ll really feel at residence with a claw grip for any hand measurement, however fingertip grippers ought to discover it comfy too. (Simply stick to the Viper when you use a palm grip.) Past that, Lamzu’s companion software program is ugly however useful, and the included charging cable is suitably versatile.

The primary knock towards 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 danger completely. That mentioned, the Atlantis prices $60 much less, so it’s a good 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 best for palm grips
Ugly software program

$102 at Amazon

Pulsar Gaming Gears

The Pulsar Xlite V3, in the meantime, is a wonderful various to the DeathAdder V3 Professional in order for you a right-handed design. It has an analogous contoured form, so it’s nice for palm and claw grips, but it surely’s a pinch lighter. Notably, Pulsar sells mini, medium and large variants, so you’ll be able to select a measurement that matches your palms greatest. 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 inclined to gunk. Nonetheless, it is a mild, comfy and extremely responsive ergo mouse. For a typical avenue worth 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 palms on the V4, however for now we stand by our present choose, particularly when it’s out there for a cheaper price.

Execs

Stable worth
Nicely-suited for palm and claw grips
Out there in numerous sizes

Cons

Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
Coating could possibly 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)

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

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2

The Logitech G Pro 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 an analogous “potato”-style form, its monitoring is equally great and its optical-mechanical switches have a definite really feel. Not like the primary Superlight, it additionally costs over USB-C. However the Viper’s primary 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 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 facet to flare out somewhat an excessive amount of, although, typically leaving our pinky finger in a less-than-comfortable place. These with medium-sized palms might discover its middle hump to be too aggressive for constant aiming as properly. The DeathAdder V3 Professional’s primary 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 stable worth. Its symmetrical form and soft-touch end are just about an identical 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 toes, too, plus it lacks a port for connecting a cable. So it’s not as near its massive sibling because the mid-tier DeathAdder. Some might desire 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 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 mentioned, it’s a good worth at $70.

Pulsar X2 V2

The Pulsar X2 V2 is an efficient various to the Lamzu Atlantis OG V2 4K in order for you a high-performing symmetrical mouse for lower than the Viper V3 Professional. It has a broadly related form as Lazmu’s mouse however is marginally lighter. Its plastic shell is 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 primary clicks aren’t as quiet or full-feeling as these of the Atlantis. It, too, has cutouts throughout the underside shell. We’ve seen the X2 V2 go for $70 on Amazon in current months — at that worth, it’s nonetheless higher for FPS gamers than the Viper V3 HyperSpeed, however we desire the Atlantis when each are at their regular MSRP of $100.

Pwnage Stormbreaker

The Pwnage Stormbreaker is a superlight (51g), exceptionally sturdy and premium-feeling wi-fi mouse that’s largely made out of magnesium alloy as a substitute of plastic. It performs about on par with our prime picks, which is great, whereas its right-handed, medium-sized form ought to swimsuit palm and claw grippers properly. (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 machine extra inclined 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 seen extra connection stutters than normal on our take a look at PC, and it’s costly at $169.

BenQ Zowie U2

Talking of BenQ, its Zowie U2 is a wonderfully first rate various 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 high quality. 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, but it surely also needs to work for fingertip grippers with bigger palms 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 desire not having to put in any further 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, but it surely is technically behind many different mice on this worth 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 supplies it successfully infinite battery life when 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 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 high quality 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 worth.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is a good wired mannequin for individuals who desire a flatter ambidextrous form. It performs properly for aggressive play, and it’s lots mild (53g) due to a intelligent design with cutouts on the underside which are 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 stable, albeit heavier, choice with an analogous form, but it surely’s not out there for buy.

A few of the gaming mice we tested for our latest update. Left to right: the Glorious Model I 2 Wireless, the Razer Cobra Pro, the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed and the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2. — Just a few extra gaming mice we have examined. Left to proper: the Superb 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 when 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 mentioned, its primary buttons really feel considerably mushy, and we noticed just a few sensor hiccups and inconsistencies, significantly once we had HyperX’s Ngenuity software program open.

Logitech G502 X

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

Logitech G203 Lightsync

The Logitech G203 Lightsync is our former funds choose. It’s typically out there within the $30 vary lately, and at that worth it’s nonetheless high quality 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 palms. The Logitech G305 Lightspeed is a wi-fi mannequin with roughly 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 normal going charges. The Endgame Gear OP1 8K nonetheless feels higher-quality throughout the board, however when you have smaller palms, 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)

Superb Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi

There’s lots 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 facet buttons, the power 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.

Superb 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 primary buttons are comparatively loud and sticky-feeling.

Razer Naga Left-Handed Version

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

Logitech G600

We might proceed to suggest our former MMO choose, 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 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, nonetheless, that we’re strictly speaking about mice that use a 2.4GHz connection (over a USB dongle), not Bluetooth. Lots of the greatest 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 normally do not final so long as “regular” wi-fi fashions. You shouldn’t anticipate quite a lot of days of energy from a chargeable gaming mouse you employ frequently. 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 properly.

That’s to not say the premium isn’t price it: Who needs but one other cable on their desk? You could want a wi-fi mannequin when 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 properly. But when worth is your major concern, a great wired mouse could also be a greater worth.

Consolation and grip sorts

Everybody’s palms are completely different, so on the finish of the day, calling one mouse “extra comfy” than one other is generally subjective. Guaranteeing your consolation is probably the most important step when shopping for any mouse, although, so we’ve accomplished our greatest to contemplate how every machine we examined works with smaller, average-sized and bigger palms 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, along 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, along 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, along with your fingers arched in a claw-like form towards the buttons.

On the whole, most individuals use a palm grip, which tends to supply the best sense of management — although, relying on the dimensions of your hand, you could 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 stability between the 2. Switch and Click has a great breakdown when you’d like a bit extra element, however we’ve famous above if a mouse isn’t well-suited for a selected grip type. For what it’s price, yours actually 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 could possibly be awkward for most individuals to carry. And whereas most gaming mice have plastic exteriors, not all plastic is created equal, so we appeared for finishes that have been {smooth}, not too slick and able to withstanding the sweaty palms that usually include aggressive gaming periods.

The gaming mouse market is generally break up between two design types: ergonomic and ambidextrous. Ergonomic mice are nearly all the time 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 further buttons on either side). Whether or not an ergonomic or ambidextrous gaming mouse works greatest for you is basically a matter of non-public choice.

A gaming mouse’s toes, 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 attainable. For the most effective efficiency, search for toes made out of PTFE (aka Teflon). All toes will ultimately put on down, however many mice include spares, and most producers promote replacements if wanted.

As for flashy RGB lighting, it’s a pleasant bonus, however little greater than that. Nonetheless, when you’ve already kitted out your setup with RGB, having a mouse with adjustable lighting results can add to the gaming expertise (and extra shopper tech 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 the moment utilizing.

Weight

Gaming mice have gotten lighter and lighter over time, with some current releases weighing lower than 40 grams. Your mouse doesn’t want to be that feathery — something beneath 80g continues to be moderately mild, and it’s not like a 100g mouse looks like a complete anchor. Regardless, a light-weight mouse makes it simpler to drag off quick actions repeatedly, with much less inertia. That 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 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 interior circuit board to attainable sweat, mud and detritus isn’t the most effective 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 players nonetheless discover good mechanical switches extra satisfying to press, so it isn’t like you need to keep away from mechanical mice altogether. They simply carry somewhat extra long-term danger in a vacuum.

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

Past the usual click on panels, a great gaming mouse also needs to have programmable buttons for fast macros or shortcuts. For many video games, shoot for no less than two further buttons on the thumb-side panel which are simple to achieve and tough to press accidentally. 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 facet buttons is preferable in an effort 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 once you’ve really scrolled. Its texture needs to be grippy, and it should not make a distracting quantity of noise when used. The wheel also needs to be clickable, providing you with one other enter to customise for sure video games (e.g., to manage 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 looking for gaming mice, you’ll see numerous 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. Lots of the greatest gaming mice promote extraordinarily excessive DPIs that prime out above 30,000, however that’s largely advertising and marketing fluff: Few individuals play above 3,000, with 800 a standard candy spot. This idea can be known as CPI (counts per inch), which is probably the extra correct time period, although DPI is used extra typically.
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 appropriately.
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 typically a mouse tells a pc the place it’s. On the whole, the extra regularly your mouse experiences info to your PC, the extra predictable its response time needs to be. Something at 500Hz or above is ok 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 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 in an effort 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 alter as lots of the elements above as attainable, ideally to a number of distinct profiles. Ideally, it can save you your settings on to the mouse itself, letting you choose your customizations again up on one other machine with out having to redownload any software program. All that is most 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 shopper tech, however we observe it right here as a result of the gaming mouse market is especially flush with merchandise from less-than-household names, lots of which you may even see puffed up on YouTube, Reddit or elsewhere across the internet. A bunch of those extra obscure mice are genuinely nice, however when you 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 certain our picks for the most effective 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 just a few others, for our subsequent replace.

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

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