A great mouse from a trusted brand that offers precision, comfort, and long battery life.
Electromagnetic scroll wheel offers more control over scrolling. Can scroll horizontally. Works on three devices and different operating systems. The battery life is great compared to earlier versions. Comfortable to use for longer periods of time.
While connected to multiple devices, the mouse can drop out of connection.
This straightforward mouse is a great choice for occasional web surfing and the like.
It can connect via a USB receiver, or there is a Bluetooth version. It comes with a battery that can last for up to a year thanks to a special smart sleep mode that preserves power. The connection range is 33 feet.
It doesn't have any special features, and some felt that mouse clicks were too loud.
One of the best gaming mice on the market that gives players the control and comfort needed for long gaming sessions.
Holds a powerful sensor that offers reliability and precision. Great battery life for long gaming sessions. Small profile gives players the chance to move the mouse around with ease. Customizable buttons.
Not sold with wireless charger.
Apple's Magic Mouse can be used with most computers but really shines with other Apple tech.
It can pair seamlessly with a Mac or an iPad right out of the box. Its battery can be charged wirelessly, and it can last for more than a month between recharges. Its surface is multi-touch for extra functionality.
It's expensive, and some find it too small for their hand.
This decent midrange mouse has a few good features and plenty of colors to choose from.
It connects to computers using a USB receiver that has a maximum range of 49 feet. It uses AAA batteries, which can last for up to two years before needing replacing. It's ergonomically designed and has extra buttons on the sides.
It doesn't come with a battery, and some received the wrong color.
We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
Updated July 2024
Most of us take the wireless mouse for granted, but since it’s one of our primary gateways to the internet, having a reliable one is important. Whether you need a new mouse for your computer, or you just want a spare one to take along when you’re out and about with your laptop, you’ll need a mouse that you don’t have to worry about.
Read our shopping guide to find everything you need to know to find the right wireless mouse for you. Then, when you’re ready to buy, check out our top models before purchasing.
Wireless mice rely on one of two different wireless technologies: Bluetooth or radio frequency (RF). The term “wireless” generally refers to RF, but in some cases you’ll see the term applied to both Bluetooth mice and RF mice.
Carefully consider the pros and cons of each before deciding what type of wireless mouse you want.
Bluetooth wireless mice connect with your computer’s built-in Bluetooth capabilities, so no adapters or dongles are needed to get up and running. However, Bluetooth mice can drain the battery slightly more quickly, so there’s definitely a trade-off.
A wireless mouse senses your movements by shining a light on the table or mouse pad and moving the cursor based on the light’s movement. Wireless mouse sensitivity translates to how much you have to move the mouse to get it to respond, and how precise you can be with your movements.
Here’s what you need to know about wireless mouse sensitivity when comparing models.
The sensitivity of a mouse is reflected in its CPI (counts per inch) and DPI (dots per inch). In practice, the measurement methods are the same, so you can reliably compare CPI and DPI specifications between two different wireless mouse models.
Computer gamers rely on complex controls with even more complicated button combinations. In the wireless mouse market, that means that you’ll likely encounter wireless mice that are specifically targeted to gamers, and these have a few unique benefits and drawbacks. Here’s what separates wireless gaming mice from the standard point-and-click crowd:
More buttons
Most gaming mice have additional buttons that can be programmed with specific functionality. For example, in first-person shooter games, players often configure the gaming mouse so one button shoots, one reloads, and another pauses the game.
Higher sensitivity
For games where precision is key, many gaming mice are more responsive and exact, giving gamers more control in their favorite titles.
Lighting
No PC gaming desktop would be complete without LED backlighting in wild colors, and many gaming mice allow you to customize the color and behavior of the LED lighting.
Wireless mice are all pretty affordable, but it’s important to know what you can get for a few dollars more. As you shop for a wireless mouse, keep these price ranges in mind.
Between $5 and $10
You’ll find no-frills wireless mice from off brands in this price range. Most of these wireless mice are functional but not super durable. If you have a limited need for a mouse that points and clicks, you can find one cheap.
Between $10 and $20
Expect to see brands you recognize and strong values in this price range. Most of these wireless mice will last several years, have a healthy battery life, and be perfect for everyday use. Unless you have a special need like a trackball or more buttons, you don’t need to spend more than $20.
In this price range, you’ll encounter the best wireless mice available. These models provide buttery smooth cursor movements, have luxury finishes, and will easily last a decade.
Minimize any obstructions between your wireless mouse and the wireless receiver. A wireless mouse is more reliable when there’s nothing interrupting the signal between the mouse and the receiver, and an unstable connection can quickly get frustrating.
If you plan on traveling a lot with your wireless mouse, buy one with built-in storage for the USB adapter. Many wireless mice have a special compartment under or near the batteries where you can store the USB adapter the mouse needs to connect to your computer. Always put the USB adapter back in the storage area when you're not using the mouse to make sure you never lose it.
Q. Can I use a wireless mouse with a tablet?
A. It depends. Most tablets are not designed to work with mice at all, but some Windows all-in-one computers are both tablet and laptop and can work with a wireless mouse. Tablets running iOS or Android won’t work with wireless mice.
Q. If I buy a keyboard-and-mouse bundle, will the mouse be any good?
A. Yes, usually. Keyboard-and-mouse bundles from name brands like Logitech, Dell, or AmazonBasics are often a good opportunity to get a lower price on the cost of both accessories, and the bundles feature the same mice (not cheaper alternatives) that they sell individually.
Q. What are the main differences between wired and wireless mice?
A. Most wireless mice perform just as well as their hardwired equivalents, but they rely on batteries, which is an ongoing expense. Wireless mice are also pricier than wired mice, but not by much. The cords on wired mice can fray or get tangled, so whenever possible, go with a wireless mouse.
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