Choosing the perfect gaming mouse can feel overwhelming, but it's largely about personal preference. When it comes to selecting the right mouse, factors such as weight, size, ergonomics, additional buttons, and the types of games you play are crucial. To help you navigate these choices, I've categorized the best gaming mice to suit various needs and preferences.
Take the Logitech G502 X, for example. It's renowned for its ergonomic design, making it a top pick for comfort. On the other hand, if you're looking for an edge in competitive games like Valorant, the Viper V3 Pro is my go-to recommendation. For those needing a versatile mouse that's also suitable for work, the Turtle Beach Pure Air is an excellent choice, offering great Bluetooth connectivity and battery life. If you're into MMOs or MOBAs and need extra buttons for your commands, the Corsair Scimitar Elite is unbeatable. But if I were to recommend one mouse for all-around use, it would be the Razer DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed. In this guide, I'll share my hands-on experience with each mouse, explaining why they excel in their respective categories.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Mice
--------------------------------------
Best Overall### Razer Deathadder V3 Hyperspeed
11See it at Amazon
### SteelSeries Rival 3
4See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Best Buy
### SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless
8See it at Amazon
### LogitechG403 Hero
6See it at Amazon
### Logitech G703 Hero
2See it at Amazon
### Razer Viper V3 Pro
4See it at AmazonSee it at Razer
### Corsair Scimitar Elite
1See it at Amazon
### Turtle Beach Pure Air
2See it at Amazon
### HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini
2See it at Amazon
### Asus ROG Keris II Ace
2See it at Amazon
### Logitech G502 X Lightspeed
5See it at Amazon
These aren't the only great gaming mice on the market. With the evolution of technology, features like sensor accuracy, responsiveness, and durability have significantly improved, ensuring most high-quality mice cover these essentials. However, with new technologies constantly being integrated, there are many aspects to consider when choosing a mouse. At the end of this guide, I'll provide key questions to help you find the right gaming mouse. We'll keep this guide updated with new recommendations as we test and review more mice, so check back for the latest insights.
*See our list of the best gaming mouse pads, too!*
*This guide contains contributions by Danielle Abraham.*
Razer Deathadder V3 Hyperspeed - Photos
8 Images
1. Razer Deathadder V3 Hyperspeed
Best Overall Gaming Mouse
Best Overall### Razer Deathadder V3 Hyperspeed
11
Razer has refined its flagship mouse, making the V3 one of the best on the market and continuing the legacy of the DeathAdder as a staple in PC gaming. The V3 HyperSpeed boasts a sleek design without RGB lighting, focusing on performance and comfort. Its springy, responsive buttons and clicks, combined with smooth mouse feet and a high-performance sensor, make it a top choice. The ergonomic design, lightweight build, and grippy texture ensure ease of use, despite the need for a separate purchase for higher polling rates.
In my DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed review, it scored a 9 for its excellent clicks, side buttons, and the accurate 26k optical sensor perfect for competitive play. The mouse's lightweight 55g construction and thoughtful design make it an ideal daily driver. While the Viper V3 Pro edges out in pure performance, the DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed excels as a versatile all-around mouse that's hard to top.
2. SteelSeries Rival 3
-------------------------------Best Budget Gaming Mouse
### SteelSeries Rival 3
4
For those on a tight budget, the SteelSeries Rival 3 offers exceptional value. This wired mouse features six programmable buttons and a TrueMove Core Optical sensor for precise tracking. Its symmetrical design and compact size cater to fingertip and claw grips, while the tasteful RGB lighting adds a touch of flair. Though it lacks the latest technology, its comfort and accuracy make it suitable for competitive play, such as in ranked Counter-Strike 2 matches.
At a modest price point of $20 to $30, the Rival 3 delivers performance that belies its cost, making it an outstanding choice for budget-conscious gamers.
SteelSeries Aerox 3
3 Images
3. SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Mouse
### SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless
8
The Aerox 3 from SteelSeries is a standout budget wireless mouse, offering a lightweight design, long-lasting battery, and a high-performance TrueMove Air optical sensor. Its flashy aesthetic, including triangular cutouts and customizable RGB lighting, adds visual appeal without compromising functionality. The Aerox 3 holds its own in competitive shooters and is a great value at around $50 to $60, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile all-rounder.
Our Aerox 3 gaming mouse review awarded it a 9 for its competitive performance and fast charging capabilities, despite some minor grip and ergonomic concerns.
4. Logitech G403 Hero
-----------------------------Best Wired Gaming Mouse
### LogitechG403 Hero
6
The Logitech G403 Hero is a favorite for its ergonomic shape and rubberized grip, ideal for gamers with larger hands. Its Hero 25K optical sensor ensures fast and accurate tracking, making it a top all-around gaming mouse. While slightly heavier, the chunky side buttons and tactile clicks enhance usability. Its elegant design and subtle RGB lighting add to its appeal, offering great value with a high-performance sensor in a wired package.
5. Logitech G703 Hero
-----------------------------Best Wireless Gaming Mouse
### Logitech G703 Hero
2
The Logitech G703 Hero brings the excellence of its wired counterpart into a wireless form, delivering top-tier comfort and performance. With the same ergonomic design and Hero 25K optical sensor, it offers solid battery life and fast charging. Though slightly heavier, its well-balanced weight and rubberized grip make it comfortable to use. This larger mouse is perfect for those who prefer a palm grip, offering a seamless gaming experience.
Razer Viper V3 Pro - Photos
9 Images
6. Razer Viper V3 Pro
Best FPS Gaming Mouse
### Razer Viper V3 Pro
4
The Razer Viper V3 Pro is designed for serious FPS gamers, featuring a lightweight build and Razer's top-tier technology, including an 8000Hz polling rate and Focus Pro 35K optical sensor. Its larger, symmetrical shape ensures comfort and ease of use. While the HyperPolling dongle must be connected via USB, the Viper V3 Pro's performance is unmatched for competitive play, offering smooth, responsive tracking that can make a difference in high-stakes scenarios.
In my Viper V3 Pro review, it earned a 9 for its noticeable performance benefits, particularly at high resolutions and refresh rates, making it a top choice for those focused on competitive shooters.
Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless MMO – Photos
7 Images
7. Corsair Scimitar Elite
Best MMO/MOBA Gaming Mouse
### Corsair Scimitar Elite
1
The Corsair Scimitar Elite excels in the MMO/MOBA category with its ergonomic design and adjustable, textured side buttons. Despite its heavier weight, the mouse remains easy to grip and use, thanks to the firmness and tactility of its 12 side buttons. This design allows for easy differentiation and use, making it perfect for complex gaming scenarios and productivity tasks. The Scimitar Elite is a standout choice for those who prefer a multi-button mouse.
8. Turtle Beach Pure Air
--------------------------------Most Versatile Gaming Mouse
### Turtle Beach Pure Air
2
The Turtle Beach Pure Air offers versatility with its ergonomic design, lightweight feel, and impressive battery life. Its compact size and Bluetooth connectivity make it suitable for both gaming and work, fitting comfortably in limited spaces. Though the side buttons are small, the Pure Air performs well in games like Final Fantasy XIV and is ideal for those needing a mouse for travel or multitasking.
9. HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini
---------------------------------------Best Small Gaming Mouse
### HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini
2
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini is a compact yet fully featured gaming mouse. Its smaller size is perfect for those with smaller hands, while still delivering competitive performance with a Precision 26K optical sensor and long battery life. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity adds versatility, making it a solid all-rounder for gaming and work.
Asus ROG Keris II Ace - Photos
9 Images
10. Asus ROG Keris II Ace
Best Lightweight Gaming Mouse
### Asus ROG Keris II Ace
2
The Asus ROG Keris II Ace stands out as a lightweight option with an ergonomic design for right-handed users. Its 54g weight and excellent weight distribution make it feel even lighter, while its AimPoint Pro sensor and 8000Hz polling rate ensure high performance. Though the texture could be grippier, the Keris II Ace excels in both lightweight and performance categories, earning an 8 in my review.
11. Logitech G502 X Lightspeed
-------------------------------------Best Ergonomic Gaming Mouse
### Logitech G502 X Lightspeed
5
The Logitech G502 X Lightspeed is renowned for its ergonomic design, featuring deep grooves and a wide base for comfort. Its Hero 25K optical sensor ensures accurate tracking, while additional programmable buttons enhance its utility for both gaming and productivity. Though not ideal for fast-paced, competitive gaming, the G502 X Lightspeed is a comfortable workhorse suitable for extended use.
Gaming Mouse FAQ
------------------------How do you determine what makes a good gaming mouse?
Selecting the right gaming mouse depends on your personal preferences and gaming needs. Factors like grip style (palm, claw, or fingertip), ergonomics, weight, and additional features like programmable buttons and high polling rates are crucial. My experience testing various mice has shown that while personal preference is key, reviews can highlight how different mice cater to different needs, from ergonomic comfort to competitive performance.
For instance, the Viper V3 Pro is ideal for FPS enthusiasts, while the Turtle Beach Pure Air is perfect for those needing versatility. Understanding your grip style and preferences can guide you to the best fit. Button feel, sensor accuracy, and the mouse's overall design also play significant roles in determining its suitability for your gaming style.
When it comes to button feel, the firmness and tactility of mouse clicks are important for both comfort and performance. Programmable side buttons can enhance gameplay, especially in MMOs and MOBAs, with mice like the Logitech G502 and Corsair Scimitar Elite offering additional buttons for complex tasks. Sensors in modern gaming mice are highly accurate, making high DPI less of a concern than it once was.
What’s the deal with high polling rate on gaming mice?
Most gaming mice today feature a 1000Hz polling rate, updating your PC every millisecond. However, some pro-grade mice, like the Razer Viper V3 Pro and Asus Keris II Ace, offer up to 8000Hz. This higher rate can improve smoothness by increasing the frequency of mouse data transmission, but its benefits are only noticeable under specific conditions, such as high resolutions and refresh rates.
| **Polling Rate** | **Response Time** | **Battery Life\*** |
| 1000 Hz | 1 ms | 100 hours |
| 2000 Hz | 0.5 ms | 70 hours |
| 4000 Hz | 0.25 ms | 40 hours |
| 8000 Hz | 0.125 ms | 20 hours |
* General range using the Razer DeathAdder V3 HyperSpeed as an example.
Higher polling rates don't necessarily reduce latency but can enhance the smoothness of mouse movements. However, to fully benefit, your entire setup, including resolution and refresh rate, must be optimized. While higher polling rates are impressive, they're only advantageous in specific high-performance scenarios.
Polling rate visualized via Razer. While the technology aims for higher numbers, the actual benefit depends on your gaming setup and requirements. Higher polling rates can help in esports, but they won't automatically make you a better player without practice and skill.
Should I go wired or wireless for a gaming mouse?
Wireless technology has advanced to the point where the difference in input latency between wired and wireless mice is negligible. The 2.4 GHz wireless standard ensures consistent performance across brands. Technologies like Razer’s HyperSpeed and Logitech’s Lightspeed are highly effective, though Bluetooth should be reserved for less intensive tasks. Battery life has improved significantly, with many mice offering days of use before needing a charge.
If you don't need wireless capabilities, wired versions of flagship mice can save you money. However, higher polling rates are currently limited to wireless mice, which may influence your decision if performance is a priority.
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