One of the best gaming mouse in 2025

No gaming mouse will magically cease you from getting destroyed in Counter-Strike or Name of Obligation, however the appropriate decide may give you a higher sense of management whereas making your downtime extra comfy. In fact, which one is “greatest” for you comes right down to desire: Form is king, because the mouse nerd adage goes, and everybody’s arms are totally different. However to make issues just a little simpler, we’ve examined dozens of well-regarded gaming mice over the previous couple of years and picked out a number of choices which have glided above the remainder. After taking part in numerous hours of CS2, Overwatch 2, Halo Infinite, Last Fantasy XIV and more PC games, listed here are our picks for the perfect gaming mice you should buy, damaged down by form and use case. We’ve additionally included some basic recommendation to remember throughout your search.

One of the best gaming mice

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

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

With its evenly grooved sides, noticeable however not aggressive hump and mild 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 aspect, and it in all probability works greatest with a claw or palm grip, however it’s not so massive or tall that it may possibly’t accommodate fingertip grippers. The primary mouse buttons are contoured in a means that provides your fingers a pure resting place, and there are little ledges on both aspect to subtly nudge them to the appropriate spot once you’re scrambling in-game. Put one other means, this is likely one of the safer shapes we’ve examined.

The Viper’s construct high quality is superb. It’s impressively gentle at 54 grams, which makes it a breeze to flick round in fast-paced video games, but its matte plastic body isn’t 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 tender 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 very best mechanical switches, they’re nonetheless snappy to press, neither too agency nor too gentle. 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 today, is successfully flawless. Razer’s Focus Professional 35K Optical Sensor Gen-2 — say that 5 instances quick — is mainly 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 truly observed any profit from leaping that prime. Largely, it’ll simply zap battery life: Razer says the Viper V3 Professional can rise up to 95 hours at 1,000Hz, which is okay for this market and roughly in keeping 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 fanatics. 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 positioned on the underside of the gadget to make it more durable to hit accidentally. Because the gadget makes use of a particular dongle as an alternative of a standard receiver, it nonetheless requires you run a separate USB-C cable out of your PC or gaming laptop. You’ll be able to 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 residence within the arms of dedicated FPS gamers.

Execs

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

Cons

Costly
Little bit of a fingerprint magnet
Thick charging cable

$131 at Amazon

Jeff Dunn for Engadget

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 just a little straighter towards the highest. The primary distinction is that it’s thinner and far shorter, with a noticeably decrease button peak, so it’s greatest suited to these with smaller arms and/or fingertip or claw grippers. When you’ve got greater arms and use a palm grip, it gained’t be as accommodating as our prime decide.

That stated, it’s a good bit lighter, weighing simply 41 grams. That makes it a breeze to rapidly swipe round, although a part of why the Hyperlight is so… hyperlight is as a result of it has massive cutouts on its backside. This exposes a few of the mouse’s electronics to potential mud and particles in your desk. That stated, we’ll take this form of design over mice with holes within the prime shell, because you’ll virtually at all times hold your mouse face-down anyway.

The remainder of the Hyperlight’s design is completely sturdy, with no looseness or rattling once 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 foremost clicks. General efficiency is phenomenal — as is the case with most trendy gaming mice — and the PTFE toes transfer easily, although it’s important to set up them your self. The scroll wheel has clearly outlined notches as nicely, although it may possibly get just a little 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 high quality) at 75 hours or so. The included cable may additionally stand to be extra versatile, although it’s definitely usable.

Hitscan is a reasonably new US-based firm and the Hyperlight is its first product, so that you’re taking just a little leap of religion right here. However other reviewers we belief have additionally been impressed, and the person suggestions we’ve seen across the net has been overwhelmingly constructive. The worth helps: At $90, it’s not low cost, however it’s nicely under different premium choices just like the Viper V3 Professional (You’ll be able to buy a dongle that permits 8,000Hz polling price assist for $25 extra, however you don’t want it.) If you need a smaller efficiency mouse and might dwell with the hole-y underside, it’s excellent. Be aware that Hitscan sells it in batches, although, so you could run into inventory points in some unspecified time in the future.

Execs

Comfy for fingertip and claw grips and smaller arms
Wonderful optical switches
Light-weight
Respectable worth

Cons

Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
Pretty brief for palm grips with bigger arms
Cable might be extra versatile

$90 at Hitscan

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 price: 8,000Hz (“traditional base” mannequin requires elective dongle) | Programmable buttons: 6 | Battery life (rated): As much as 90 hours at 1,000Hz

If you need a premium gaming mouse with a extra ergonomic form, get the Razer DeathAdder V3 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 arms 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 people 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 enjoyable place to relaxation your hand over the course of the day.

Razer sells two variants of the DeathAdder V3 Professional: one with the same soft-touch end because the Viper V3 Professional, and one with a extra textured matte plastic coating. We examined the latter — it’s not as grippy or {smooth} to the contact 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 greater, nearer collectively and a smidge much less tight, however they’re nonetheless troublesome to hit accidentally. 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 technology older, efficiency is successfully flawless.

In any other case, you’re taking a look at the same characteristic set. The optical foremost buttons are satisfying and constant however not overly delicate. The evenly notched scroll wheel is tender, 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 assist polling charges as much as 8,000Hz, although solely the SKU with the “smooth-touch” texture comes with a wi-fi dongle that permits these greater charges within the field. The textured “classic base” mannequin comes with a smaller USB receiver that “solely” goes as much as 1,000Hz, however because it’s typically accessible for much less at third-party retailers, it’s in all probability a greater worth. Normally, the most important knock in opposition to the DeathAdder V3 Professional is that it’s costly, with the 8,000Hz mannequin priced at $160.

Execs

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

Cons

Costly
Naggy software program
Not splendid for smaller arms

$95 at Amazon

Jeff Dunn for Engadget

The newer Razer DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed, which prices $99, is a “1B” decide right here. Though it’s positioned under the Professional in Razer’s lineup, it’s extra of a “DeathAdder V3 Professional Mini” than a transparent downgrade. It doesn’t quit the rechargeable battery, cutout-free shell, optical switches and tender (if smudge-heavy) coating of pricier DeathAdder V3 Professional, 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 key distinction is that it’s lighter (55g) and extra compact, with a lower-profile scroll wheel and a touch shorter hump. In case your arms are on the smaller aspect and also you need an ergonomic form, it’s value grabbing as an alternative.

Execs

Lighter and extra inexpensive than DeathAdder V3 Professional
Clean, grippy end
Respectable worth

Cons

Smaller measurement is not as pleasant to bigger arms as DeathAdder V3 Professional
Naggy software program
Quick and pretty stiff charging cable

$99 at Amazon

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Endgadget

For those who 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 slim than most mice we’ve examined, so it’ll be comfiest with a claw or fingertip grip, although a palm grip may work in smaller arms. 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 gentle, versatile and cleverly titled upwards on the base of the mouse, all of which helps scale back any dragging sensation as you throw your hand round.

The OP1 8K makes use of mechanical switches, however the mouse is designed in a means that makes them (comparatively) simple to swap out in a worst-case state of affairs. Normally, the gadget’s openness to customization is commendable — there are readily uncovered screws on the underside and a screwdriver, elective 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’ll be able to truly set these switches to make use of a “speed mode” that reduces click on latency even additional, however both means the buttons are simple to spam. The correct mouse button on our unit does sound just a little sharper than the left, however the distinction isn’t extreme and you’ll pop in quieter switches on a budget in order for you a unique noise profile. The notched scroll wheel and two aspect buttons are well-tensioned, too. The latter really feel considerably hole, however they’re arduous to hit accidentally.

Sensor efficiency is predictably glorious; we noticed no accuracy or movement delay points throughout a variety of video games. With its gentle weight, quick clicks and {smooth} inventory skates, every little 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 not 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 sources.

At $75 (or $85 at Amazon), the OP1 8K definitely 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 subject could also be that it may possibly fall out of inventory on occasion, as Endgame Gear is a comparatively small firm out of Germany.

Execs

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

Cons

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

$85 at Amazon

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

It’s a number of 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 foremost 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 nicely with claw grips. Those that desire a fingertip grip or simply have smaller arms will seemingly discover it too chunky, nonetheless.

The design as a complete feels strong; there’s some minor flexing on the bottom-right aspect once you press down arduous, however you’d should exit of your technique to discover it. The matte plastic end is pleasingly textured and sufficiently grippy. The cable is loads versatile, whereas the PTFE 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 whole, together with two easy-to-reach aspect buttons and a devoted “sensitivity clutch” that permits you to momentarily drop to a decrease DPI for moments the place you could have to goal extra exactly. The latter might 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 prime picks, however we haven’t had any sturdiness points after a pair years of testing. Whereas foremost clicks aren’t almost 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 means that naturally invitations your index and center fingers.

The scroll wheel is perhaps the weakest component: It has clearly outlined steps and an simply identifiable texture, however it’s pretty loud and a bit wobbly. That stated, it may possibly tilt side-to-side — which helps clarify the wobbliness — and there’s a built-in toggle that permits you to swap between a standard ratcheted scroll and a free-spin mode. That may be useful outdoors of video games — say, when you have to scroll via an enormous doc or Excel sheet.

Razer’s Synapse software program remains 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 totally 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 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 a substitute, the Basilisk V3 is smart for righties who desire a cozy and dependable mouse they will flip to for extra informal gaming throughout genres. Razer sells it for $70, however because it’s usually available for lower than $50 at third-party retailers today, you possibly can think about it our decide for the perfect funds gaming mouse as nicely.

It’s value noting that Razer has launched a barely refreshed mannequin known as the Basilisk V3 35K. That one comes with a technically improved sensor and newer optical switches, although the burden and general form are nearly similar. Provided that we didn’t have many points with the tech within unique V3, we’d nonetheless advocate getting the older model whereas it’s nonetheless in inventory and accessible for much less. For those who see the 35K mannequin on sale for the same value, although, be at liberty to get that as an alternative.

Execs

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

Cons

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

$40 at Amazon

Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

If you need a mouse particularly designed for MMO and MOBA video games, get the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. It does a very powerful 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 aspect buttons, all of which ship a cushty, firm-but-not-stiff sensation when pressed. Two of the panel’s 4 button rows are textured, which makes them simpler to differentiate with out having to look down. Uniquely, you possibly can bodily reposition this aspect panel with an Allen key included within the field, so in case you discover the buttons troublesome to succeed in by default, you possibly can handle that. Both means, having a bunch of buttons proper beneath your thumb makes it a lot simpler to play MMOs like Last Fantasy XIV and even single-player RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3, which ask you to navigate a number of “hotbars” of instructions at any given time.

Like most MMO mice, the Scimitar RGB Elite is on the bigger and heavier (108g) 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 first rate PTFE toes. Internally, its optical sensor (the Pixart PMW3391) isn’t precisely superior today, however it’s greater than constant sufficient for MMOs and MOBAs, which don’t depend on exact, quick-twitch actions. It has no significant issues with latency, both.

Nevertheless, there are a number of 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 might be firmer. These foremost buttons by no means really feel mushy, however they use mechanical switches, so that they carry extra of a long-term sturdiness threat than optical options. (Corsair charges them at 50 million clicks.) And Corsair’s iCue software program is, frankly, the worst: You can use it to customise key bindings, assign macros, modify the (delicate) RGB lighting and save profiles to the mouse, however determining how is wildly unintuitive.

However, the MMO gaming mouse market doesn’t actually have one killer choice today. At a value that always hovers within the $60 to $75 vary, the Scimitar RGB Elite gives higher worth than most. For those who hate cables, Corsair sells a wireless version of the gadget too.

Execs

Cleverly textured aspect buttons make MMOs simpler to navigate
Usually comfy and well-built
Respectable worth relative to MMO mouse market

Cons

Stiff cable
Scroll wheel is just too recessed
Annoying software program

$60 at Amazon

Jeff Dunn for Engadget

The $130 Pulsar X2 CrazyLight is value contemplating over the Viper V3 Professional and Hitscan Hyperlight in case you’re dedicated to a claw or fingertip grip and spend all of your time taking part in twitchy shooter video games. We’re beginning to marvel simply what number of prefixes for the phrase “gentle” these mouse firms can slap onto their merchandise, however the CrazyLight’s identify is suitable, because it weighs a mere 37 grams with its commonplace PTFE skates. It’s one other brief symmetrical mannequin, akin to the Hitscan Hyperlight in general footprint, however it has a flatter hump down the middle. Which means it gained’t actually fill out medium-to-large arms with a palm grip. But it surely’s comfy for every little thing else, and its slight body feels pure in video games that demand snap reactions. You understand how baseball gamers will generally swing a heavier bat after they’re on deck to make their precise bat really feel sooner? That is form 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. (Count on 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 a number of enjoyable colours. The 2 aspect buttons are considerably skinny, and Pulsar’s software program is just a little clunky. That is additionally one other one with an open backside aspect, so it’s extra prone 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.

Execs

Extremely light-weight design that is nice for fingertip and claw grips
Wonderful efficiency
Effectively-built

Cons

Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
Not constructed for palm grips with bigger arms
Facet buttons aren’t the perfect

$130 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 the same contoured form, so it’s nice for palm and claw grips, however it’s a pinch lighter. Notably, Pulsar sells mini, medium and large variants, so you possibly can select a measurement that matches your arms 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 aspect buttons aren’t as crisp.

Just like the CrazyLight, the Xlite V3 additionally has cutouts throughout the underside, making it extra prone to gunk. Nonetheless, it is a gentle, comfy and extremely responsive ergo mouse. At its latest road value of $70 (pre-tariffs), it’s a powerful purchase.

We’ll observe that Pulsar has a revised model of this mouse known 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 assist (with an elective dongle) within the . If the Xlite V3 goes out of inventory, or in case you see the 2 mice accessible for a similar value, simply seize the V4. However the V3 is the higher worth whereas it stays in inventory at a reduction.

Execs

Stable worth
Effectively-suited for palm and claw grips
Accessible in several sizes

Cons

Holes in baseplate depart inside open to mud and particles
Coating might be grippier

$100 at Amazon

Different gaming mice we have examined

A white gaming mouse rests on a marble table. — The Lamzu Maya X. (Jeff Dunn for Engadget)

Be aware: The next is a number of particularly noteworthy mice we have examined, not a complete record of each single mannequin we’ve ever put via its paces.

Lamzu Maya X

The Lamzu Maya X is a good 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 measurement 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 totally accessible over the online (for Chromium-based browsers not less than), so that you don’t should obtain something additional to your PC.

Nevertheless, we predict the Viper’s longer body and ever-so-slightly extra concave sides hold it just a bit comfier for bigger arms and palm grips. Its aspect buttons are nonetheless extra satisfying to press and its end supplies extra grip. The Maya additionally follows the “depart the whole backside of your mouse uncovered” development 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 fact is that high quality margins separate high-end gaming mice these days — the Maya X is sweet, however we desire the Viper at this measurement, whereas the Hitscan and CrazyLight are higher for smaller arms.

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2

The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 is an in depth rival to the Razer Viper V3 Professional for individuals who desire a no-frills, high-end wi-fi gaming mouse. It has the same “potato”-style form, its monitoring is equally great and its optical-mechanical switches have a definite really feel. In contrast to the primary Superlight, it additionally expenses over USB-C. However the Viper’s foremost clicks are crisper and extra pleasant-sounding, its aspect buttons aren’t as mushy and its scroll wheel is each firmer and grippier. It’s additionally barely lighter.

The new Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 wireless gaming mouse. — The Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2. (Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

Logitech G Professional X Superlight 2 DEX

The G Pro X Superlight 2 DEX is the ergonomic model of the Superlight 2, packing the identical sensor and hybrid switches in a chunkier, right-handed form. We discovered its proper aspect to flare out just a little an excessive amount of, although, typically leaving our pinky finger in a less-than-comfortable place. These with medium-sized arms might discover its heart hump to be too aggressive for constant aiming as nicely. The DeathAdder V3 Professional’s foremost buttons are nonetheless extra invitingly curved and constant to press past that, whereas its coating isn’t as slippery. The DEX’s scroll wheel is tighter, and all of its inside tech is nice, so certainly not 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 similar to the DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed, Razer’s Viper V3 HyperSpeed is a lower-cost variant of the top-end Viper V3 Professional. (Complicated, we all know.) At $70, it’s a strong worth. Its symmetrical form and soft-touch end are nearly similar to the extra premium mannequin, and although it technically has a worse sensor, the drop-off is hardly noticeable. The primary trade-off is that it’s heavier (about 82g), because it requires a AA battery for energy. That doesn’t make it outright hefty, however you possibly can 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 might desire 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 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 stated, it’s an honest worth at $70.

Pulsar X2 V2

The $100 Pulsar X2 V2 is one other first rate choice in order for you a high-performing symmetrical mouse for lower than the Viper V3 Professional. It’s accessible in mini and commonplace sizes: The previous is a technically weightier (51 grams) model of the X2 CrazyLight, whereas the latter is that however greater. Each have sturdy plastic frames, although they’re nonetheless meant for claw or fingertip grips first. Additionally they have cutouts throughout their undersides. As with the Xlite V3, Pulsar now sells a more recent mannequin known as the X2 V3, although that’s a minor refresh with an up to date sensor and 8K polling price assist. The most recent mannequin is value getting as an alternative when the X2 V2 isn’t discounted, however we desire 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 produced from magnesium alloy as an alternative of plastic. It performs about on par with our prime picks, which is superb, whereas its right-handed, medium-sized form ought to go well with palm and claw grippers nicely. (If you recognize BenQ’s Zowie EC line, the form is mainly that.) Nevertheless, the intensive cutouts everywhere in the sides and prime shell are noticeable within the hand and make the gadget extra prone to clutter 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 observed extra connection stutters than regular on our check PC, and it’s costly at $169.

BenQ Zowie U2

Talking of BenQ, its Zowie U2 is a superbly 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 in every of which doubles as a useful 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 may make adjusting settings just a little cumbersome, although some might desire not having to put in any additional bloat on their PC. This mouse additionally maxes out at a 1,000Hz polling price — 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 flawed 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 in case 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 gadget, both, because it creates an area for mud to gather. At $90 after a latest value hike, the G309 remains to be OK for informal sorts who’ll solely purchase from a reputation model. However except you employ PowerPlay, it doesn’t do a lot to face out from different choices across the similar value.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is an honest wired mannequin for individuals who desire a flatter ambidextrous form. It performs nicely for aggressive play, and it’s loads gentle (53g) due to a intelligent design with cutouts on the underside which can be coated by the mouse’s label. However the Endgame Gear OP1 8K is better-built and extra comfy, so we predict it’s value the additional money. The Razer Viper 8KHz was one other strong (albeit heavier) choice with the same form, however that mouse has been discontinued.

A few of the gaming mice we tested for our latest update. Left to right: the Glorious Model I 2 Wireless, the Razer Cobra Pro, the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed and the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2. — A couple of extra gaming mice we have examined. Left to proper: the Wonderful Mannequin I 2 Wi-fi, the Razer Cobra Professional, the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed and the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2. (Picture by Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wi-fi

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Core Wireless is a budget-friendly wi-fi variant of the Haste 2. It could be OK in case 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 just a little weightier than the wired Haste 2 (about 70g) because it runs on a AAA battery, however that’s nowhere close to heavy. That stated, its foremost buttons really feel considerably mushy, and we noticed a number of sensor hiccups and inconsistencies, significantly after 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 Pro on each Home windows 11 and macOS over a number of days, so we are able to’t advocate 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. Nevertheless, its foremost 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 latest spherical of value will increase, plus it lacks RGB.

A gray gaming mouse rests on a light granite tile. — The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Professional. (Jeff Dunn for Engadget)

Logitech G203 Lightsync

The Logitech G203 Lightsync is our former funds decide. It’s typically accessible within the $20 to $30 vary today, and at that value it’s nonetheless high quality in order for you a reliable gaming mouse for as little cash as attainable. You’ll be able to really feel the price chopping in its rubbery cable and mushy scroll wheel, nonetheless, 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 an alternative 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’ve got smaller arms, use a fingertip grip and desire a symmetrical mouse on a budget, go for it.

A blue Logitech G203 Lightsync gaming mouse rested on top of a black mouse pad on a desk. — The Logitech G203 Lightsync (Jeff Dunn / Engadget)

Alienware Professional Wi-fi Gaming Mouse

The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse tracks nicely, glides easily and weighs just 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 massive or medium-sized arms. Its matte end is a contact too slippery, nonetheless, and its foremost buttons aren’t as constant or satisfying to press as our prime picks (regardless of utilizing Omron optical switches). Clicking them towards the highest is just too tender, clicking them towards the again is just 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 Glorious Model I 2 Wireless: 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. Nevertheless, its honeycomb-style design and mechanical switches each elevate issues about its long-term sturdiness.

Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Wi-fi

The Glorious Model D 2 Wireless additionally has holes throughout its shell but doesn’t carry out or really feel considerably higher than different mice across the $100 mark. Other reviews say it has latency points as nicely.

Wonderful Mannequin D 2 Professional + Mannequin O 2 Professional

The ergonomic Model D 2 Pro and symmetrical Model O 2 Pro aren’t loaded with cutouts, in the meantime, however their foremost buttons are comparatively loud and sticky-feeling.

A black gaming mouse rests on a white marble table. — The Alienware Professional Wi-fi Gaming Mouse. (Jeff Dunn for Engadget)

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 very good wi-fi mannequin and a tried-and-true wired gaming mouse is barely perceptible.

Be aware, nonetheless, that we’re strictly speaking about mice that use a 2.4GHz connection (over a USB dongle), not Bluetooth. Most of the greatest wi-fi gaming mouse fashions assist each connection choices, which is nice for journey, however Bluetooth’s latency is usually too excessive to be dependable for gaming.

Going wi-fi nonetheless has different trade-offs, too. Battery life is enhancing on a regular basis, however with their greater efficiency calls for and RGB lighting, most wi-fi gaming mice often do not final so long as “regular” wi-fi fashions. You shouldn’t count on various days of energy from a chargeable gaming mouse you employ usually. Some gaming mice provide wi-fi charging too, which makes issues simpler. Good wi-fi gaming mice often come at a a lot greater value than their wired counterparts as nicely.

That’s to not say the premium is rarely value it: Who desires but one other cable on their desk? You might want a wi-fi mannequin in case you hate the texture of “cable drag” or in case your gaming PC is positioned in an ungainly spot. Many wi-fi gaming mice include a cable you possibly can hook up in a pinch as nicely. But when value is your main concern, a very good wired mouse could also be a greater worth.

Consolation and grip sorts

Everybody’s arms are totally different, so on the finish of the day, calling one mouse “extra comfy” than one other is generally subjective. Guaranteeing your consolation is essentially the most important step when shopping for any mouse, although, so we’ve achieved our greatest to contemplate how every gadget we examined works with smaller, average-sized and bigger arms alike.

We additionally thought-about 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 entire hand rests on the mouse, together with your fingers resting flat on the principle buttons. A fingertip grip is once you steer the mouse solely with the information of your fingers, together with your palm not involved with the gadget 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.

Normally, 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 enable for extra speedy actions, whereas a claw grip is one thing of a stability between the 2. Switch and Click has a very good breakdown in case you’d like extra element, however we’ve famous above if a mouse isn’t well-suited for a selected grip type. For what it’s value, yours actually is a claw gripper more often than not.

Jeff Dunn for Engadget

Construct high quality and design

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

The gaming mouse market is generally break up between two design kinds: ergonomic and ambidextrous. Ergonomic mice are virtually at all times made with right-handed customers in thoughts and infrequently characteristic devoted thumb rests. Ambidextrous mice are extra symmetrical and designed for use with both hand (although they could not have additional buttons on either side). Whether or not an ergonomic or ambidextrous gaming mouse works greatest for you is basically a matter of non-public desire.

A gaming mouse’s toes, in the meantime, ought to present a constant glide and scale back the friction between your mouse and mouse pad beneath it as a lot as attainable. For the perfect efficiency, search for toes produced from PTFE (aka Teflon). All toes will finally put on down, however many mice include spares, and most producers promote replacements if wanted.

As for flashy RGB lighting, it’s a pleasant bonus, however little greater than that. Nonetheless, in case you’ve already kitted out your setup with RGB, having a mouse with adjustable lighting results can add to the gaming expertise (and extra client tech may stand to do issues for pleasure’s sake). Extra virtually, some mice allow you to assign customized lighting settings to separate profiles, which may make it simpler to see which one you’re presently utilizing.

Weight

Gaming mice have gotten lighter and lighter through the years, with some latest releases weighing lower than 30 grams. Your mouse doesn’t want to be that feathery — something beneath 80g remains to be moderately gentle, and it’s not like a 100g mouse seems like a complete anchor. Regardless, a light-weight mouse makes it simpler to tug off quick actions repeatedly, with much less inertia. That stated, some gamers nonetheless get pleasure from just a little little bit of bulk of their gaming mouse (comparatively talking), particularly with video games that aren’t as reliant on twitchy reactions.

To achieve these lightest weights, some producers have launched gaming mice with “honeycomb”-style designs, which characteristic an array of cutouts within the outer shell. These mice can nonetheless carry out nice, however having a bunch of holes that expose the inner circuit board to attainable sweat, mud and detritus isn’t the perfect for long-term sturdiness. If a mouse will need to 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.

Two gaming mice rest in a brown and blue platter on a marble table, showing the cutouts on the bottom of their shells. — Jeff Dunn for Engadget

Switches, buttons and scroll wheel

A rising variety of gaming mice use optical switches as an alternative 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 players nonetheless discover good mechanical switches extra satisfying to press, so it isn’t like it is best to keep away from mechanical mice altogether. They only carry just a little extra long-term threat in a vacuum.

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

Past the usual click on panels, a very good gaming mouse also needs to have programmable buttons for fast macros or shortcuts. For many video games, shoot for not less than two additional buttons on the thumb-side panel which can be simple to succeed in and troublesome to press accidentally. Many mice have extra buttons, which generally is a plus, however not in the event that they pressure you to contort your fingers to keep away from hitting them. For MMO mice, having not less than 12 aspect buttons is preferable so as to entry as many hotbar instructions as attainable.

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

Sensors and efficiency

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

Whereas looking 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:

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 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 possibly can 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 face 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. Normally, the extra steadily your mouse studies data to your PC, the extra predictable its response time needs to be. Something at 500Hz or above is okay for informal gaming. The candy spot for many is 1,000Hz. Many more moderen mice can go all the best way as much as 8,000Hz, however you begin to see diminishing returns the upper you go except personal a strong PC and play on a gaming monitor with an particularly excessive refresh price. Even then, a super-high polling price is far from essential. Not all video games are constructed with it in thoughts, plus it results in a lot sooner battery drain.
Raise-off distance is the peak at which a mouse’s sensor stops monitoring the floor under it. Many aggressive gamers like this to be as little as attainable so as to keep away from unintended cursor actions whereas repositioning their mouse.

A screenshot of Razer's Synapse configuration software, displaying a few different customizable functions you can set for certain mouse buttons. — A screenshot of Razer’s Synapse 4 software program. (Razer)

Software program and onboard reminiscence

It doesn’t take lengthy to search out horror tales about bugs and different niggling points brought on by gaming mouse software program, so the best app is one which doesn’t pressure you to make use of it on a regular basis. It ought to allow you to modify as most of the features above as attainable, ideally to a number of distinct profiles. Ideally, it can save you your settings on to the mouse itself, letting you decide your customizations again up on one other gadget 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 assist

Most main gaming mice manufacturers provide warranties between one and three years. The longer and extra intensive a producer’s program is, the higher. That is the case with most client tech, however we observe it right here as a result of the gaming mouse market is especially flush with merchandise from less-than-household names, a lot of which you might even see overrated on YouTube, Reddit or elsewhere across the net. A bunch of those extra obscure mice are genuinely nice, however in case you ever purchase from a extra area of interest model, it’s value checking that some stage of buyer assist is in place. We’ve made certain our picks for the perfect gaming mice aren’t riddled with an irregular quantity of poor person 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 in consequence, together with a pair different mice that not seem like accessible. All different particulars needs to be up-to-date. The gaming mouse market stays a particularly busy one, so it’s troublesome for us to evaluate every little thing. That stated, we’re presently testing a number of different latest releases from Corsair and ASUS, and we’re retaining a watch 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 not too long ago launched updates to a few our present picks. We goal to check these extra absolutely, alongside a number of others, for our subsequent replace.

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

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