No gaming mouse will magically cease you from getting destroyed in Counter-Strike or Name of Obligation, however the precise choose may give you a higher sense of management whereas making your downtime extra comfy. In fact, which one is “finest” for you comes right down to choice: Form is king, because the mouse nerd adage goes, and everybody’s arms are completely different. However to make issues slightly simpler, we’ve examined dozens of well-regarded gaming mice over the previous couple of years and picked out just a few choices which have glided above the remaining. After enjoying numerous hours of CS2, Overwatch 2, Halo Infinite, Ultimate Fantasy XIV and extra PC video games, listed below are our picks for the most effective gaming mice you should buy, damaged down by form and use case. We’ve additionally included some common recommendation to remember throughout your search.
The very best gaming mice
Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Symmetrical | Weight: 54 grams | Dimensions: 5 x 2.51 x 1.57 inches | Sensor: Razer Focus Professional 35K Optical Sensor Gen-2 | Switches: Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 | Most polling charge: 8,000Hz | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 95 hours at 1,000Hz
If cash isn’t any object, the most effective gaming mouse with a symmetrical design that we’ve examined is the Razer Viper V3 Professional. It prices a hefty $160, however it’ll provide you with little to complain about when you play a ton of aggressive PC video games and may abdomen the value.
With its evenly grooved sides, noticeable however not aggressive hump and delicate flare-outs towards the again, the Viper V3 Professional’s form needs to be comfy for a variety of hand sizes and grip varieties. It’s a bit on the broader aspect, and it most likely works finest with a claw or palm grip, however it’s not so giant or tall that it could possibly’t accommodate fingertip grippers. The principle mouse buttons are contoured in a approach that provides your fingers a pure resting place, and there are little ledges on both aspect to subtly nudge them to the precise spot while you’re scrambling in-game. Put one other approach, this is without doubt 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 identical weight. We’ve seen zero hints of creaking, flexing or rattling after months of testing. The end picks up some finger smudges however is grippy and delightfully mushy to the contact. The principle click on buttons use sturdy optical switches however aren’t particularly loud. Although they aren’t fairly as full or crisp as the very best mechanical switches, they’re nonetheless snappy to press, neither too agency nor too mild. The 2 programmable aspect buttons are well-sized and simple to succeed in. The scroll wheel, in the meantime, is tight and quiet, with clearly outlined steps and a textured end.
Efficiency, as is the case with many high-end gaming mice nowadays, 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 toes and a rock-solid connection to an included “HyperPolling” dongle. The latter lets the mouse attain a most polling charge of 8,000Hz, however as famous beneath, 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 rise 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 provides up a number of the perks you’d discover on extra mainstream mice: There’s no RGB lighting or Bluetooth, whereas the ability button/DPI switcher is positioned on the underside of the system to make it more durable to hit by chance. Because the system makes use of a particular dongle as a substitute of a standard receiver, it nonetheless requires you run a separate USB-C cable out of your PC or gaming laptop computer. You may join over that cable when the battery is low, fortunately, however 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 arms of dedicated FPS gamers.
- Distinctive efficiency
- Very good construct high quality
- Comfy for many grip varieties and hand sizes
- Costly
- Little bit of a fingerprint magnet
- Thick charging cable
Jeff Dunn for Engadget
Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Symmetrical | Weight: 41 grams | Dimensions: 4.64 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches | Sensor: PixArt PAW3395 | Switches: Omron Optical | Most polling charge: 8,000Hz (with optionally available dongle) | Programmable buttons: 5 | Battery life (rated): As much as 75 hours at 1,000Hz
The Hitscan Hyperlight is a incredible various to the Viper V3 Professional for individuals who need one thing smaller and cheaper. It has a equally secure form with a modest centered hump, solely its sides are slightly straighter towards the highest. The principle distinction is that it’s thinner and far shorter, with a noticeably decrease button top, so it’s finest suited to these with smaller arms and/or fingertip or claw grippers. When you’ve got larger arms and use a palm grip, it gained’t be as accommodating as our high choose.
That mentioned, it’s a good bit lighter, weighing simply 41 grams. That makes it a breeze to shortly swipe round, although a part of why the Hyperlight is so… hyperlight is as a result of it has giant cutouts on its backside. This exposes a number of the mouse’s electronics to potential mud and particles in your desk. That mentioned, we’ll take this kind of design over mice with holes within the high shell, because you’ll nearly at all times maintain your mouse face-down anyway.
The remainder of the Hyperlight’s design is completely sturdy, with no looseness or rattling while you give it a shake. The matte plastic end is properly crisp, and we dig the minimalist aesthetic of the factor. We additionally love its Omron optical switches, which have a beautiful bounce to them and create a deeper, extra even tone than the Viper V3 Professional’s primary clicks. General efficiency is outstanding — as is the case with most trendy gaming mice — and the PTFE toes transfer easily, although it’s a must to set up them your self. The scroll wheel has clearly outlined notches as effectively, although it could possibly get slightly loud with heavier spins. The aspect buttons really feel and sound cheaper than these on the Viper, too, and battery life is a bit shorter (albeit nonetheless positive) at 75 hours or so. The included cable may additionally stand to be extra versatile, although it’s actually usable.
Hitscan is a reasonably new US-based firm and the Hyperlight is its first product, so that you’re taking slightly leap of religion right here. However different reviewers we belief have additionally been impressed, and the consumer suggestions we’ve seen across the internet has been overwhelmingly optimistic. The worth helps: At $90, it’s not low-cost, however it’s effectively beneath different premium choices just like the Viper V3 Professional (You may purchase a dongle that permits 8,000Hz polling charge help for $25 extra, however you don’t want it.) If you’d like a smaller efficiency mouse and may stay with the hole-y underside, it’s excellent. Be aware that Hitscan sells it in batches, although, so chances are you’ll run into inventory points sooner or later.
- Comfy for fingertip and claw grips and smaller arms
- Wonderful optical switches
- Light-weight
- Respectable worth
- Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
- Pretty quick for palm grips with bigger arms
- Cable may very well be extra versatile
Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Proper-handed | Weight: 63 grams | Dimensions: 5 x 2.67 x 1.73 inches | Sensor: Razer Focus Professional 30K Optical Sensor | Switches: Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 | Most polling charge: 8,000Hz (“basic base” mannequin requires optionally available dongle) | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 90 hours at 1,000Hz
If you’d like a premium gaming mouse with a extra ergonomic form, get the Razer DeathAdder V3 Professional. It packs a lot of the identical strengths because the Viper V3 Professional however has a taller, barely wider and extra dramatically flared design that’s tailor-made to right-handed customers. Most individuals with medium to giant arms ought to discover it to be a pure match with a palm or claw grip, although it’ll most likely be a contact too fats for smaller-handed people and fingertip grippers. This sort of form isn’t as simple to whip round because the Viper, however its excessive, sideways-sloping hump ought to present a extra enjoyable place to relaxation your hand over the course of the day.
Razer sells two variants of the DeathAdder V3 Professional: one with an identical soft-touch end because the Viper V3 Professional, and one with a extra textured matte plastic coating. We examined the latter — it’s not as grippy or {smooth} to the contact because the Viper, however it’s nonetheless good, and it’s a lot much less of a fingerprint magnet. The DeathAdder’s aspect buttons are larger, nearer collectively and a smidge much less tight, however they’re nonetheless tough to hit by chance. The PTFE toes are smaller however nonetheless glide reliably. The design is heavier at 63 grams, too, however it’s nonetheless light-weight. And whereas the sensor is technically a era older, efficiency is successfully flawless.
In any other case, you’re taking a look at an identical function set. The optical primary buttons are satisfying and constant however not overly delicate. The evenly notched scroll wheel is mushy, quiet and resistant sufficient, if not agency. Battery life is rated at an honest 90 hours, and you’ll join a lighter and extra versatile USB-C cable in a pinch. Each variations of the mouse additionally help 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 larger charges within the field. The textured “basic 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 most likely a greater worth. Typically, the largest knock in opposition to the DeathAdder V3 Professional is that it’s costly, with the 8,000Hz mannequin priced at $160.
- High-shelf efficiency
- Light-weight
- Comfy for these with medium to giant arms
- Costly
- Naggy software program
- Not superb for smaller arms
Jeff Dunn for Engadget
Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Proper-handed | Weight: 55 grams | Dimensions: 4.81 x 2.55 x 1.63 inches | Sensor: Razer Focus X 26K Optical Sensor | Switches: Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 | Most polling charge: 8,000Hz (with optionally available dongle) | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 100 hours at 1,000Hz
The newer Razer DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed, which prices $99, is a “1B” choose right here. Though it’s positioned beneath the Professional in Razer’s lineup, it’s extra of a “DeathAdder V3 Professional Mini” than a transparent downgrade. It doesn’t surrender the rechargeable battery, cutout-free shell, optical switches and mushy (if smudge-heavy) coating of pricier DeathAdder V3 Professional, and whereas its sensor is technically worse, it nonetheless performs splendidly. Its battery life ranking is definitely 10 hours larger at 1,000Hz, plus it has a built-in storage compartment for its USB receiver. The most important distinction is that it’s lighter (55g) and extra compact, with a lower-profile scroll wheel and a touch shorter hump. In case your arms are on the smaller aspect and also you need an ergonomic form, it’s price grabbing as a substitute.
- Lighter and extra reasonably priced than DeathAdder V3 Professional
- Easy, grippy end
- Respectable worth
- Smaller dimension is not as pleasant to bigger arms as DeathAdder V3 Professional
- Naggy software program
- Brief and pretty stiff charging cable
Picture by Jeff Dunn / Endgadget
Connectivity: Wired (USB-A) | Form: Proper-handed | Weight: 49 grams | Dimensions: 4.65 x 2.38 x 1.46 inches | Sensor: PixArt PAW3395 | Switches: Kailh GX | Most polling charge: 8,000Hz | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): N/A
When 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, no holes and a reasonably-sized hump sloping down the again. It’s a bit smaller and extra slender than most mice we’ve examined, so it’ll be comfiest with a claw or fingertip grip, although a palm grip also can work in smaller arms. The entire thing is extremely sturdy, with no flex or rattle, whereas the sleek matte plastic coating provides 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 approach 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, optionally available aspect grips and bigger PTFE toes within the field.
By default, the principle clicks are on the stiffer aspect however quick to actuate and noticeably crisp. You may really set these switches to make use of a “velocity mode” that reduces click on latency even additional, however both approach the buttons are simple to spam. The appropriate 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 if you’d like a distinct noise profile. The notched scroll wheel and two aspect buttons are well-tensioned, too. The latter really feel considerably hole, however they’re arduous to hit by chance.
Sensor efficiency is predictably glorious; we noticed no accuracy or movement delay points throughout a spread of video games. With its mild weight, quick clicks and {smooth} inventory skates, every thing about it feels tailored for snapping round in esports-style video games like Counter-Strike 2 that prioritize fast reactions. The mouse additionally helps polling charges as much as 8,000Hz — that’s nonetheless removed from important, however 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 like one thing out of the Home windows 95 period however is straightforward to grok and takes up subsequent to no assets.
At $75 (or $85 at Amazon), the OP1 8K actually isn’t the most affordable wired mouse, however it’s nonetheless a great way lower than wi-fi high-performance fashions. Probably the most urgent concern could also be that it could possibly fall out of inventory occasionally, as Endgame Gear is a comparatively small firm out of Germany.
- Quick to click on and flick
- Sturdy, ultralight design
- Mild and versatile cable
- {Hardware} is customizable
- A bit small for giant arms
- Aspect buttons really feel considerably hole
- Occasional inventory points
Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
Connectivity: Wired (USB-A) | Form: Proper-handed | Weight: 101 grams | Dimensions: 5.11 x 2.95 x 1.65 inches | Sensor: Razer Focus Professional 30K Optical Sensor | Switches: Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-2 | Most polling charge: 1,000Hz | Programmable buttons: 11 | Battery life (rated): N/A
It’s just a few years outdated, however the Razer Basilisk V3 stays our favourite wired gaming mouse with an ergonomic design. This one is extra aggressively contoured than “ergo” mice just like the DeathAdder V3 Professional, with a big rubberized thumb relaxation, lengthy primary buttons and a rounded, moderately-sized hump operating down its center. It’s fantastically cozy for palm grippers with medium- to large-sized arms, however it’ll additionally play effectively with claw grips. Those that want a fingertip grip or simply have smaller arms will probably discover it too chunky, nevertheless.
The design as an entire feels sturdy; there’s some minor flexing on the bottom-right aspect while you press down arduous, however you’d need to exit of your approach to discover it. The matte plastic end is pleasingly textured and sufficiently grippy. The cable is a lot versatile, whereas the PTFE toes glide easily. We additionally dig the fun-but-not-garish RGB lighting across the mouse’s underside and scroll wheel. There are 11 customizable buttons in complete, together with two easy-to-reach aspect buttons and a devoted “sensitivity clutch” that permits you to momentarily drop to a decrease DPI for moments the place chances are you’ll have to goal extra exactly. The latter will probably be significantly robust for the smaller-handed to succeed in comfortably, although.
The Basilisk V3 makes use of older optical switches than our different Razer high picks, however we haven’t had any sturdiness points after a pair years 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 velocity. They aren’t all that loud, both. Just like the Viper V3 Professional, the buttons are grooved in a approach that naturally invitations your index and center fingers.
The scroll wheel is likely to be the weakest ingredient: It has clearly outlined steps and an simply identifiable texture, however it’s pretty loud and a bit wobbly. That mentioned, it could possibly tilt side-to-side — which helps clarify the wobbliness — and there’s a built-in toggle that permits you to swap between a traditional ratcheted scroll and a free-spin mode. That may be helpful outdoors of video games — say, when you have to scroll by a large doc or Excel sheet.
Razer’s Synapse software program continues to be naggy with updates and Home windows-only, however 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 broad body imply it’s not expressly designed for video games like these. It can also’t go above a 1,000Hz polling charge. In some ways, that is the precise reverse of the OP1 8K, a tool that feels designed from the bottom up for aggressive fare. As an alternative, the Basilisk V3 is smart for righties who need a cozy and dependable mouse they will flip to for extra informal gaming throughout genres. Razer sells it for $70, however because it’s often obtainable for lower than $50 at third-party retailers nowadays, you’ll be able to contemplate it our choose for the most effective price range gaming mouse as effectively.
It’s price noting that Razer has launched a barely refreshed mannequin referred to as the Basilisk V3 35K. That one comes with a technically improved sensor and newer optical switches, although the load and total form are just about similar. On condition that we didn’t have many points with the tech inside unique V3, we’d nonetheless suggest getting the older model whereas it’s nonetheless in inventory and obtainable for much less. When you see the 35K mannequin on sale for the same value, although, be at liberty to get that as a substitute.
- Tremendous comfy for medium to giant arms
- Properly-built, with versatile cable
- Versatile scroll wheel
- Good worth
- Too heavy to be superb for FPS video games
- Too cumbersome to be superb for small arms
- Scroll wheel is noisy
- Naggy software program
Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
Connectivity: Wired (USB-A) | Form: Proper-handed | Weight: 108 grams | Dimensions: 4.98 x 2.48 x 1.57 inches | Sensor: PixArt PMW3391 | Switches: Omron D2FC-F-Ok | Most polling charge: 1,000Hz | Programmable buttons: 17 | Battery life (rated): N/A
If you’d like a mouse particularly designed for MMO and MOBA video games, get the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. It does crucial factor any MMO mouse can do, which is allow you to entry a number of in-game actions with minimal effort. That’s because of its 12 programmable 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 when you discover the buttons tough to succeed in by default, you’ll be able to deal with that. Both approach, 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, however it’s not the bulkiest mannequin we’ve seen. Its form needs to be accommodating to palm and claw grips, and most hand sizes. The center has a rounded, not-overly-aggressive hump, whereas the underside is extra gently sloped than rivals like Razer’s Naga lineup. The general building feels well-built, with a {smooth} matte end, a grippy pinky relaxation and respectable PTFE toes. Internally, its optical sensor (the Pixart PMW3391) isn’t precisely superior nowadays, however it’s greater than constant sufficient for MMOs and MOBAs, which don’t depend on exact, quick-twitch actions. It has no important points with latency, both.
Nonetheless, there are just a few downsides. The braided cable feels sturdy however considerably stiff. The scroll wheel is grippy and correct sufficient, however it’s a contact too recessed between the principle buttons, and it may very well be firmer. These primary buttons by no means really feel mushy, however they use mechanical switches, in order 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, regulate the (gentle) RGB lighting and save profiles to the mouse, however determining how is wildly unintuitive.
However, the MMO gaming mouse market doesn’t actually have one killer possibility nowadays. At a value that usually hovers within the $60 to $75 vary, the Scimitar RGB Elite presents higher worth than most. When you hate cables, Corsair sells a wi-fi model of the system too.
- Cleverly textured aspect buttons make MMOs simpler to navigate
- Typically comfy and well-built
- Respectable worth relative to MMO mouse market
- Stiff cable
- Scroll wheel is simply too recessed
- Annoying software program
Jeff Dunn for Engadget
Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Symmetrical | Weight: 35 grams (with included “dot” toes; 37 grams with customary toes) | Dimensions: 4.55 x 2.4 x 1.44 inches | Sensor: Pulsar XS-1 | Switches: Pulsar Optical Change | Most polling charge: 8000Hz | Programmable buttons: 5 | Battery life (rated): No ranking offered
The $130 Pulsar X2 CrazyLight is price contemplating over the Viper V3 Professional and Hitscan Hyperlight when you’re dedicated to a claw or fingertip grip and spend all of your time enjoying twitchy shooter video games. We’re beginning to marvel simply what number of prefixes for the phrase “mild” these mouse corporations can slap onto their merchandise, however the CrazyLight’s identify is acceptable, because it weighs a mere 37 grams with its customary PTFE skates. It’s one other quick symmetrical mannequin, akin to the Hitscan Hyperlight in total footprint, however it has a flatter hump down the middle. Meaning it gained’t actually fill out medium-to-large arms with a palm grip. Nevertheless it’s comfy for every thing else, and its slight body feels pure in video games that demand snap reactions. You understand how baseball gamers will typically swing a heavier bat once they’re on deck to make their precise bat really feel sooner? That is kind of just like the mouse equal of swinging that lighter bat.
A dependable sensor and easy-gliding toes assist, whereas the clicky optical switches are quick with out feeling too delicate. (Anticipate a sharper tone, although.) The scroll wheel is well-tuned and exact. There’s no creaking or flexing regardless of the low weight, and it’s all coated in a lovely matte plastic. It additionally is available in just a few enjoyable colours. The 2 aspect buttons are considerably skinny, and Pulsar’s software program is slightly clunky. That is additionally one other one with an open backside aspect, so it’s extra inclined to mud than the Viper V3 Professional. However, whereas the CrazyLight isn’t fairly as welcoming to all arms as Razer’s mouse, it does what it units out to do.
- Extremely light-weight design that is nice for fingertip and claw grips
- Wonderful efficiency
- Properly-built
- Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
- Not constructed for palm grips with bigger arms
- Aspect buttons aren’t the most effective
Pulsar Gaming Gears
(Xlite V3 Medium) Connectivity: Wi-fi, wired (USB-C) | Form: Symmetrical | Weight: 55 grams | Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.6 x 1.7 inches | Sensor: PixArt PAW3395 | Switches: Raesha Optical (90 M) | Most polling charge: 1,000Hz (4,000Hz with optionally available dongle) | Programmable buttons: 5 | Battery life (rated): As much as 100 hours at 1,000Hz
The Pulsar Xlite V3, in the meantime, is a wonderful various to the DeathAdder V3 Professional if you’d like a right-handed design. It has an identical contoured form, so it’s nice for palm and claw grips, however it’s a pinch lighter. Notably, Pulsar sells mini, medium and giant variants, so you’ll be able to select a dimension that matches your arms finest. Every have inflexible outer shells and snappy optical buttons, although the 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 CrazyLight, the Xlite V3 additionally has cutouts throughout the underside, making it extra inclined to gunk. Nonetheless, this can be a mild, comfy and extremely responsive ergo mouse. At its current avenue value of $70 (pre-tariffs), it’s a powerful purchase.
We’ll be aware that Pulsar has a revised model of this mouse referred to as the Xlite V4. We haven’t examined it for ourselves however it’s not a serious refresh, primarily including a more recent sensor and 8K polling help (with an optionally available dongle) within the . If the Xlite V3 goes out of inventory, or when you see the 2 mice obtainable for a similar value, simply seize the V4. However the V3 is the higher worth whereas it stays in inventory at a reduction.
- Stable worth
- Properly-suited for palm and claw grips
- Out there in several sizes
- Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
- Coating may very well be grippier
Different gaming mice we have examined
Be aware: The next is a choice of particularly noteworthy mice we have examined, not a complete record of each single mannequin we’ve ever put by its paces.
Lamzu Maya X
The Lamzu Maya X is a superb symmetrical mouse and an in depth competitor to the Razer Viper V3 Professional. It’d be subsequent in line for an honorable point out, because it has a lot of the issues we like concerning the Hitscan Hyperlight and Pulsar X2 CrazyLight: a {smooth} matte end, a sturdy body, easy-gliding toes, correct efficiency, a decent scroll wheel and a light-weight design (46g). It’s shut in dimension to the Viper V3 Professional, however it’s cheaper at $120, plus it makes use of the superior Omron optical switches we praised for the Hyperlight above. Its configuration software program can be fully accessible over the net (for Chromium-based browsers no less than), so that you don’t need to obtain something further to your PC.
Nonetheless, we predict the Viper’s longer body and ever-so-slightly extra concave sides maintain it just a bit comfier for bigger arms and palm grips. Its aspect buttons are nonetheless extra satisfying to press and its end offers extra grip. The Maya additionally follows the “depart your entire backside of your mouse uncovered” pattern to succeed in its decrease weight. And although the software program being web-based is nice, it is rather a lot a Chinese language Gaming App with grammatical errors and peculiar formatting quirks. The truth is that positive margins separate high-end gaming mice these days — the Maya X is nice, however we want the Viper at this dimension, whereas the Hitscan and CrazyLight are higher for smaller arms.
Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2
The Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 is an in depth rival to the Razer Viper V3 Professional for individuals who need a no-frills, high-end wi-fi gaming mouse. It has an identical “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 fees over USB-C. However the Viper’s primary clicks are crisper and extra pleasant-sounding, its aspect buttons aren’t as mushy and its scroll wheel is each firmer and grippier. It’s additionally barely lighter.
Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX
The G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX is the ergonomic model of the Superlight 2, packing the identical sensor and hybrid switches in a chunkier, right-handed form. We discovered its proper aspect to flare out slightly an excessive amount of, although, usually leaving our pinky finger in a less-than-comfortable place. These with medium-sized arms could discover its heart hump to be too aggressive for constant aiming as effectively. 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 not at all is that this a poor selection. However at $180 after a tariff-related value hike, 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 principle trade-off is that it’s heavier (about 82g), because it requires a AA battery for energy. That doesn’t make it outright hefty, however you’ll be able to really feel the distinction in twitchier video games. It makes use of older mechanical switches and smaller PTFE toes, 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 could want that its DPI button is positioned on the highest of the mouse, although, and its easier on-off swap is sweet.
Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed
The Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed is a extra reasonably priced wi-fi model of the Basilisk V3 with the identical comfy form and structure, plus a quieter scroll wheel. As a result of it requires a AA battery for energy, although, it weighs round 115g. That is not nice for fast-paced video games. The scroll wheel can’t tilt left or proper, both, nor can it swap between a ratcheted and free-spin mode. It additionally makes use of much less sturdy mechanical switches and solely helps one onboard profile. All that mentioned, it’s an honest worth at $70.
Pulsar X2 V2
The $100 Pulsar X2 V2 is one other respectable possibility if you’d like a high-performing symmetrical mouse for lower than the Viper V3 Professional. It’s obtainable in mini and customary sizes: The previous is a technically weightier (51 grams) model of the X2 CrazyLight, whereas the latter is that however larger. Each have sturdy plastic frames, although they’re nonetheless meant for claw or fingertip grips first. In addition they have cutouts throughout their undersides. As with the Xlite V3, Pulsar now sells a more recent mannequin referred to as the X2 V3, although that’s a minor refresh with an up to date sensor and 8K polling charge help. The most recent mannequin is price getting as a substitute when the X2 V2 isn’t discounted, however we want the Hitscan Hyperlight and its extra pleasing clicks to each on this value vary.
Pwnage Stormbreaker
The Pwnage Stormbreaker is a superlight (51g), exceptionally sturdy and premium-feeling wi-fi mouse that’s largely comprised of magnesium alloy as a substitute of plastic. It performs about on par with our high picks, which is great, whereas its right-handed, medium-sized form ought to swimsuit palm and claw grippers effectively. (If you realize BenQ’s Zowie EC line, the form is principally that.) Nonetheless, the in depth cutouts all around the sides and high shell are noticeable within the hand and make the system extra inclined to mess buildup than the DeathAdder V3 Professional. Whereas the buttons and scroll wheel are impressively tight, the principle clicks are a bit too stiff and high-pitched for our liking. We additionally seen extra connection stutters than typical on our take a look at PC, and it’s costly at $169.
BenQ Zowie U2
Talking of BenQ, its Zowie U2 is a superbly respectable 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 positive. It additionally comes with two receivers, one in every of which doubles as a helpful charging dock. It has a symmetrical form with sides that curve inwards and a decently-sized hump on the again; BenQ says it’s designed for claw grips, and it’s certainly good for that, however it also needs to work for fingertip grippers with bigger arms or palm grippers with smaller ones. Alas, the scroll wheel is gratingly loud and the plastic coating picks up smudges and hand oils prefer it’s its job. There’s additionally no configuration software program, which might make adjusting settings slightly cumbersome, although some could want not having to put in any further bloat on their PC. This mouse additionally maxes out at a 1,000Hz polling charge — that’s not an enormous deal in observe, however it’s 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 varieties. It makes use of the identical hybrid switches because the G Professional X Superlight 2, so the clicks don’t sound nice however are quick. It additionally has a supercapacitor inside, which 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 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 $90 after a current value hike, the G309 continues to be OK for informal varieties who’ll solely purchase from a reputation model. However until you utilize PowerPlay, it doesn’t do a lot to face out from different choices across the identical value.
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is an honest wired mannequin for individuals who need a flatter ambidextrous form. It performs effectively for aggressive play, and it’s a lot mild (53g) because of 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 predict it’s price the additional money. The Razer Viper 8KHz was one other strong (albeit heavier) possibility with an identical form, however that mouse has been discontinued.
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wi-fi
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wi-fi is a budget-friendly wi-fi variant of the Haste 2. It could be OK 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 slightly 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.
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Professional
We had persistent, debilitating connection points with the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Professional on each Home windows 11 and macOS over a number of days, so we are able to’t suggest it.
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. Nonetheless, its primary buttons are noisier, it’s a barely extra awkward match for many arms and its rubber cable isn’t as versatile. It is also rather more costly after Logitech’s current spherical of value will increase, plus it lacks RGB.
Logitech G203 Lightsync
The Logitech G203 Lightsync is our former price range choose. It’s usually obtainable within the $20 to $30 vary nowadays, and at that value it’s nonetheless positive if you’d like a reliable gaming mouse for as little cash as attainable. You may really feel the fee chopping in its rubbery cable and mushy scroll wheel, nevertheless, and its form is a bit too small and flat for bigger arms. The Logitech G305 Lightspeed is a wi-fi mannequin with roughly the identical form, however it requires a AA battery to work and thus weighs simply over 100g. It, too, feels considerably outdated in 2025.
Razer Cobra
The Razer Cobra is one other value-oriented wired mouse 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 is often priced between $35 and $40, although, so the G203 is often cheaper. The Endgame Gear OP1 8K nonetheless feels higher-quality throughout the board, however when you have smaller arms, use a fingertip grip and need a symmetrical mouse on a budget, go for it.
Alienware Professional Wi-fi Gaming Mouse
The Alienware Professional Wi-fi Gaming Mouse tracks effectively, glides easily and weighs slightly below 60 grams with out having any holes in its outer shell. It’s formed like a Logitech G Professional X Lightspeed 2 with wider sides, so it needs to be comfy for palm or claw grippers with giant or medium-sized arms. Its matte end is a contact too slippery, nevertheless, and its primary buttons aren’t as constant or satisfying to press as our high picks (regardless of utilizing Omron optical switches). Clicking them towards the highest is simply too mushy, clicking them towards the again is simply too stiff. The again aspect button sounds hole past that, and Alienware’s configuration software program chews up far an excessive amount of reminiscence. All of that is overpriced at $150.
Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi
There’s a good quantity to love concerning the Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi: an ergonomic form that’s harking back to the Basilisk V3/G502 X however lighter at 75g, 4 customizable aspect buttons, the flexibility to attach over a USB receiver or Bluetooth, a {smooth} scroll wheel and tasteful RGB lighting, all for $100. Nonetheless, its honeycomb-style design and mechanical switches each increase considerations about its long-term sturdiness.
Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Wi-fi
The Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Wi-fi additionally has holes throughout its shell but doesn’t carry out or really feel considerably higher than different mice across the $100 mark. Different critiques say it has latency points as effectively.
Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Professional + Mannequin O 2 Professional
The ergonomic Mannequin D 2 Professional and symmetrical Mannequin O 2 Professional aren’t loaded with cutouts, in the meantime, however their primary buttons are comparatively loud and sticky-feeling.
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.
Be aware, nevertheless, that we’re strictly speaking about mice that use a 2.4GHz connection (over a USB dongle), not Bluetooth. Lots of the finest wi-fi gaming mouse fashions help each connection choices, which is nice for journey, however Bluetooth’s latency is mostly too excessive to be dependable for gaming.
Going wi-fi nonetheless has different trade-offs, too. Battery life is enhancing on a regular basis, however with their larger efficiency calls for and RGB lighting, most wi-fi gaming mice often do not final so long as “regular” wi-fi fashions. You shouldn’t anticipate quite a lot of days of energy from a chargeable gaming mouse you utilize commonly. Some gaming mice supply wi-fi charging too, which makes issues simpler. Good wi-fi gaming mice often come at a a lot larger value than their wired counterparts as effectively.
That’s to not say the premium isn’t price it: Who needs but one other cable on their desk? You might want a wi-fi mannequin when you hate the texture of “cable drag” or in case your gaming PC is positioned in a clumsy spot. Many wi-fi gaming mice include a cable you’ll be able to hook up in a pinch as effectively. But when value is your major concern, an excellent wired mouse could also be a greater worth.
Consolation and grip varieties
Everybody’s arms are completely different, so on the finish of the day, calling one mouse “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 achieved our greatest to think about how every system we examined works with smaller, average-sized and bigger arms alike.
We additionally thought of how every peripheral accommodates the three grip kinds most individuals use whereas holding a mouse: palm, fingertip and claw. As a refresher, a palm grip is when your complete hand rests on the mouse, together with your fingers resting flat on the principle buttons. A fingertip grip is while 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 particular size to make use of it comfortably. A fingertip grip can permit for extra speedy actions, whereas a claw grip is one thing of a stability between the 2. Change and Click on has an excellent breakdown when you’d like extra element, however we’ve famous above if a mouse isn’t well-suited for a selected grip fashion. For what it’s price, yours actually is a claw gripper more often than not.
Construct high quality and design
A very good 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 have been {smooth}, not too slick and able to withstanding the sweaty palms that usually include aggressive gaming periods.
The gaming mouse market is usually break up between two design kinds: 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 might not have further buttons on each side). Whether or not an ergonomic or ambidextrous gaming mouse works finest for you is basically a matter of private 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 comprised 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 may stand to do issues for pleasure’s sake). Extra virtually, some mice allow you to assign customized lighting settings to separate profiles, which might make it simpler to see which one you’re at present utilizing.
Weight
Gaming mice have gotten lighter and lighter over time, with some current releases weighing lower than 30 grams. Your mouse doesn’t want to be that feathery — something underneath 80g continues to be fairly mild, and it’s not like a 100g mouse seems 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 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 interior circuit board to attainable sweat, mud and detritus isn’t the most effective for long-term sturdiness. If a mouse should have cutouts, it is higher in the event that they’re relegated to the underside of the design, the place particles is much less prone to enter the body.
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 vulnerable to undesirable “double-clicks” over time. Many avid gamers nonetheless discover good mechanical switches extra satisfying to press, so it is not like it’s best to keep away from mechanical mice altogether. They simply carry slightly extra long-term danger in a vacuum.
Since most individuals will use their gaming mouse as their mouse-mouse, it’s your decision primary buttons which have a softer really feel when pressed, with sufficient journey to make inadvertent actuations much less frequent. However even that could be a matter of choice: You might have considered trying lighter buttons when you play video games that decision for fixed clicking. We additionally seemed to testing from websites like Rtings to make sure every mouse we suggest 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 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 succeed in and tough to press by chance. Many mice have extra buttons, which could be a plus, however not in the event that they drive you to contort your fingers to keep away from hitting them. For MMO mice, having no less than 12 aspect buttons is preferable with the intention 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 while 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, supplying 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 trendy gaming mice are greater than quick and correct sufficient for most individuals’s wants.
Whereas purchasing for gaming mice, you’ll see quite a lot of phrases associated to sensor efficiency. To be clear, a gaming mouse’s responsiveness doesn’t come right down to only one spec. However for readability’s sake, right here’s a rundown of the extra noteworthy jargon:
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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. Many gaming mice promote extraordinarily excessive DPIs that high out above 30,000, however that’s largely advertising and marketing fluff: Few individuals play above 3,000, with 800 a typical candy spot. This idea can be known as CPI (counts per inch), which might be the extra correct time period, although DPI is used extra usually.
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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.
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Acceleration goes with IPS. On this context, it refers to what number of Gs a mouse can face up to earlier than it begins to trace inaccurately.
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Polling charge is a measure of how usually a mouse tells a pc the place it’s. Typically, the extra ceaselessly your mouse experiences data to your PC, the extra predictable its response time needs to be. Something at 500Hz or above is ok for informal gaming. The candy spot for many is 1,000Hz. Many more moderen mice can go all the way in which 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 an particularly excessive refresh charge. Even then, a super-high polling charge is removed from important. Not all video games are constructed with it in thoughts, plus it results in a lot sooner battery drain.
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Carry-off distance is the peak at which a mouse’s sensor stops monitoring the floor beneath it. Many aggressive gamers like this to be as little as attainable with the intention to keep away from unintended cursor actions whereas repositioning their mouse.
Software program and onboard reminiscence
It doesn’t take lengthy to seek out horror tales about bugs and different niggling points attributable to gaming mouse software program, so the best app is one which doesn’t drive you to make use of it on a regular basis. It ought to allow you to regulate as most of the points above as 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 system with out having to redownload any software program. All that is most necessary on Home windows, however Mac compatibility is at all times good to have.
Guarantee and buyer help
Most main gaming mice manufacturers supply warranties between one and three years. The longer and extra in depth a producer’s program is, the higher. That is the case with most shopper tech, however we be aware it right here as a result of the gaming mouse market is especially flush with merchandise from less-than-household names, lots of which you might even see overvalued 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 degree of buyer help is in place. We’ve made positive our picks for the most effective gaming mice aren’t riddled with an irregular quantity of poor consumer critiques.
Current updates
June 2025: We’ve added a pair new alternate picks within the Hitscan Hyperlight and Pulsar X2 CrazyLight. We’ve eliminated the Lamzu Atlantis OG V2 4K as an honorable point out because of this, together with a pair different mice that now not look like obtainable. All different particulars needs to be up-to-date. The gaming mouse market stays an especially busy one, so it’s tough for us to overview every thing. That mentioned, we’re at present testing just a few different current releases from Corsair and ASUS, and we’re retaining an eye fixed out for potential updates to a few our picks from Razer and Endgame Gear.
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 goal to check these extra totally, alongside just a few others, for our subsequent replace.
September 2024: We have utterly refreshed this information for late 2024, including new primary picks based mostly on form alongside notes on a number of different gaming mice we have examined in current months. We’re now within the means of testing Logitech’s new G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX, a flagship ergonomic mouse that the firm introduced proper as we have been placing the ending touches on this replace.
