Don’t Settle for the Bare Minimum: The Best Computer Mouse
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Logitech Wireless Laser Mouse -
Logitech Vertical Mouse -
Logitech Bluetooth Mouse -
Microsoft Bluetooth Mobile Mouse 3600 -
Buyer's Guide
The computer mouse is easily one of the most commonly used input devices around, yet hardly any thought goes into selecting a decent one. Computer mice come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, ranging from the familiar flat mouse with two buttons and a scroll wheel to ergonomic models designed to keep your wrist and forearm free from repetitive strain. Gaming mice provide more programmable buttons, while laptop mice are designed to be compact and easy to travel with. With so many options available, we recommend taking a look at our list of the best computer mice in 2022 and the buyer’s guide below for more information to help you choose the right mouse for your needs.
What is the Best Computer Mouse of 2022?
Logitech Wireless Laser Mouse - Best Mouse Overall
The primary function of a good computer mouse is to serve as an input device, but there's no reason why it shouldn't be as comfortable and versatile as possible. The Logitech M705 checks all of these boxes, and carries the added benefit of being completely wireless. The innovative Laser Grade tracking sensor works on many different surfaces, including reflective or smooth surfaces that other optical mice simply won't function on. The M705 is equipped with Logitech's Hyper-fast function that allows the scroll wheel to switch between standard detents and free spin, making it infinitely easier to flip through longer documents. Each of the other buttons is customizable; out of the box, the thumb buttons can be used to navigate forward or backward through web browser pages. The dongle included with the mouse is Logitech's Unifying Receiver, meaning a single dongle will support other Logitech devices in your setup. The right hand design may not seem ideal for left-handed users, but we've seen feedback from lefties saying that it's perfectly comfortable regardless.
Logitech Vertical Mouse - Runner Up
In the field of ergonomic mice, the vertical form factor seems to have taken over as the preferred format. Logitech's MX Vertical Mouse is the best of the bunch, combining top-notch build quality, sleek styling, and user comfort that no other mouse seems to be able to match. The 57-degree angle mimics a handshake posture, providing an intuitive grip while removing wrist and upper forearm strain at the same time. There's also a prominent thumb rest built into the base in order to provide a more stable grip. The MX Vertical Mouse features two primary buttons in addition to a scroll wheel (clickable as a third button) situated in between, as well as a thumb-operated two-way rocker switch. Each button is customizable via the settings menu; the unmarked button located on top of the mouse controls DPI adjustment to increase or decrease sensitivity on the fly. Unlike many other wireless mice, the MX Vertical Mouse features an integrated battery with a USB-C port for recharging. Connectivity is handled via Bluetooth or an optional USB dongle; the USB-C to USB-A charging cable can also be used to create a wired connection in a pinch. It's not the most affordable mouse around, but it's certainly a lot more tolerable than treating carpal tunnel syndrome.
Logitech Bluetooth Mouse - Honorable Mention
This outstanding offering from Logitech features a diminutive, ambidextrous design that is as easy on your eyes as it is your hands. Its buttons are customizable, allowing users to tailor the mouse to their needs. As well, there's a dedicated button for one-touch access to the Windows Start menu. The Bluetooth connectivity provides computability with any Bluetooth-enabled PC or tablet, and it can be used with Windows, OS X, and Chrome OS. This mouse also has a service life of one year off of a single battery thanks to a smart sleep mode that will automatically power the device down when not in use. Logitech provides a three year hardware warranty, making it a great choice for long-term use.
Microsoft Bluetooth Mobile Mouse 3600 - Consider
This Microsoft mouse features Bluetooth wireless connectivity so it doesn't need a USB port, provided that your computer supports Bluetooth. It features Microsoft Blue Track sensor technology which enables the mouse to easily track on virtually any surface. It’s ambidextrous for either right of left-handed individuals and the small size fits easily into your hand; however, its diminutive size might not be suitable to all users. All in all, this is a laptop mouse that offers great features despite the small size.
Buyer's Guide
While large offices and schools typically pick the cheapest, simplest mice on the market, there is actually a wide range of options available to you. If you do a lot of PC gaming or use complicated graphics or editing programs, a mouse with numerous programmable buttons and adjustable DPI can be very helpful. Even for day-to-day web browsing, look at the scroll functionality and manufacturers available. All of these decisions can seem overwhelming, but with a little guidance, you can easily pick the best model for you.
Factors to Consider When Looking for the Best Computer Mouse
Hand Orientation and Ergonomic Designs
Hand orientation is probably the first thing you should consider when looking at different types of mice. Many are designed for either right-handed or left-handed configuration, placing optional thumb buttons in a position appropriate for one orientation or the other. There are also ambidextrous mice designed for comfort and with buttons that can be used easily with either hand.
Choose a model appropriate for your dominant hand, or pick one which works well for either hand. Ergonomic models are designed to keep your hand resting in a comfortable position while you use the mouse, reducing the potential development of wrist strain and/or carpal tunnel syndrome. Some of these models are unusual in design, but worth considering if you need to keep your hand and wrist more comfortable during use.
Connectivity
One of the most important things to determine is whether you prefer wired or wireless functionality. Ultimately, connectivity comes down to personal preference and what your setup looks like, but consider all aspects of wired and wireless mice before making a choice.
Wired
A wired mouse is limited by a physical connection, so make sure you pick one with a long enough cord to work easily in your workspace. You should also be sure to pick a mouse with either USB connectivity or a PS/2 plug and make sure your motherboard’s back panel or system has the right type of connection for any mouse you pick.
Wireless
Wireless mice give you more freedom since you don’t have to worry about a cord, but typically have slower response times making them less ideal for serious PC gaming. You’ll need to choose either a Bluetooth mouse— if your system has Bluetooth connectivity— or a model with a wireless dongle.
Tracking Method
Trackball
Older mice used a ball to track movement physically as it rolled along the underside of the mouse. The physical components were prone to clogging from hair and dust and are generally inferior to newer optical and laser mice. There are still some models that use a trackball you control with your thumb that provides great accuracy and are popular among artists.
Optical/Laser
Optical mice use an LED and sensor to detect movement; they provide excellent accuracy and can be used on just about any surface that is not transparent. A laser mouse uses a laser instead of an LED and offers the best accuracy and sensitivity, making it preferable for high-end gaming and similar applications. If you can afford it, choose a laser mouse, but just be sure you have a mouse pad that works with it for optimal sensitivity and responsiveness.
Buttons and Programmability
While most mice have at least two standard buttons, you can find a lot of models with additional buttons. At least one or two extra ones are very helpful because they typically let you easily navigate documents and websites; some mice even you the ability to program buttons to function differently within the specific confines of various programs.
If you’re a serious PC gamer, consider a gaming mouse designed for the type of game you most often play. MMO mice give you a ton of buttons for all of your spells and abilities, while an FPS mouse focuses on precision for excellent targeting and quick navigation.
Scrolling Functionality
A scroll wheel lets you easily move up and down in a document or website, but there are newer options that give you even better functionality. Some types like the Apple Magic Mouse let you enter commands by simply making finger gestures on the surface of the mouse. This can let you scroll up and down, zoom in and out, and enter other input with just one or two fingers. You want to choose a mouse with at least a simple scroll wheel, but gesture input gives you more options if you’re willing to learn the movements.
DPI Options and Maximum
DPI, or dots per inch, is a measurement of mouse sensitivity, with higher numbers indicating greater precision during mouse use. For casual computer use, DPI is not terribly important, but it can make a big difference when it comes to high-end PC gaming or digital artwork.
You should pick a mouse with high maximum DPI as well as options for switching or adjusting the sensitivity, which lets you alter sensitivity as necessary. If you are interested in a gaming mouse, then look for a maximum DPI of around 8,000 for an MMO-style mouse, or over 10,000 for a mouse designed for FPS titles.
Manufacturer and Warranty
Since your chosen mouse is likely to get a lot of use, it is important to pick one from a reliable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. For a basic mouse, you should consider manufacturers like Logitech, Microsoft, and Fellowes. If you are interested in a specialty model, like a gaming mouse, then companies like Razer, Logitech, and SteelSeries make reliable models that provide excellent performance. You also want to look at the warranty offered by these companies, with a one-year warranty being the bare minimum you should accept, but a three-year warranty is preferable.
