The best gaming mouse in 2024

If you're investing in your speed on the battlefield and comfort on the desk top, you'll want to find the best gaming mouse for your playstyle. Thankfully, there are a whole bunch of companies out there competing for a spot in your setup, and depending on what, how, and when you play the perfect pointer is out there somewhere. 

Finding the right gaming mouse for you depends on a number of factors; the shape that feels most comfortable, your grip type, and the games that you play. That's why we're always putting new designs and sensors through their paces in all realms of PC gaming, from twitchy first person shooters to slower strategy and simulation titles. Not only that, but we've stretched each device through long play sessions to make sure that comfort and performance lasts as well.

The best gaming mouse models combine comfort with customization, speed, and accuracy - and do it all while still offering solid value for money on top. Whether you're after an fps-first speedster or something a little chunkier under the fingertips, there are plenty of brands vying for a shot at the top spot these days. We've had our hands on a massive range of rodents over the years, and we're bringing you all our favorites right here. 

The quick list

The best gaming mouse overall

The best gaming mouse overall

Specifications

Connection: Wireless
Shape: Right-handed
Buttons: 6
DPI: 30,000
IPS: Up to 750
Switches: Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3
Weight: 2.04oz (58g)

Reasons to buy

+
Incredibly lightweight
+
Long battery life
+
Comfortable shape
+
Super-responsive sensor

Reasons to avoid

-
DPI shifter still placed under the body
-
Too expensive for wider genre players

Taking over from the Razer Viper Ultimate, the V2 Pro throws everything out the window. Literally - there's no RGB, only two additional macro buttons, and no wireless charging cradle here, just a laser-focused dedication to speed and precision. That, of course, makes it a prime candidate for anyone after a super lightweight wireless pointer designed purely for FPS play. But it also works beautifully across a range of genres as well.

Buy it if:

✅ You prioritize speed and precision: The Viper V2 Pro packs an insane amount of tech to keep you speedy in play, which does come at the cost of extra buttons or RGB features. Still, this is a performance-oriented device for the competitive player.
✅ You want a lightweight pointer:
At just 58g this is one of the lightest gaming mice on the market. If you don't want a cumbersome device holding you back on the battlefield, it doesn't get more nimble than this.
✅ You stick to faster paced games:
The Viper V2 Pro works at its best when its zipping across a battlefield, so if your library is packed with shooters and action titles you're going to get a good mileage out of these features.

Don't buy it if:

You want as many controls as possible: There are chunkier gaming mice out there with far more controls - if you're looking for a macro-heavy experience, the Viper V2 Pro isn't the best option.
You mostly play slower games: The speed and precision of the V2 Pro isn't going to be utilized enough in slower paced games. You can make your cash work harder for you with extra features if you have a slower library.
You want to shift DPI on the fly: Like many Razer mice, the DPI shift button is placed on the bottom of the device here, which means you won't be able to toggle between different speeds quickly. 

Design: While the overall design language of the Ultimate remains here, there are a few smaller details that have changed to dramatically reduce the weight from 74g to just 58g. We noted lack of side grips in our testing (though stickers are provided, just in the wrong color if you happen to grab the white model), as well as the slightly shorter dome along the top. Still, this pointer slotted straight back into our hands, and we were flying across the Apex Legends battlefield in no time. Super smooth PFTE feet combined with that featherweight form factor also make this a particularly easy glide.

Features: As mentioned above, this is a sparse pointer. Like the vast majority of FPS-focused devices you're getting the stock two side button design here, but that's still a good amount of controls for everyday play. However, everything that Razer has left inside the Viper V2 Pro works all the better for ditching extra frills. On top of an excellent battery life, everything under the hood has been tuned for extreme performance. That means Razer's Smart Tracking, Motion Sync, and Asymmetric Cut-Off technologies are whirring away to keep you precise and nimble with greater precision during lift-off and customizable tracking distances. 

Performance: Flicks and twitch reflexes were expertly picked up by the 30K Focus+ sensor, and the attention to tracking across various lift-off heights was also particularly welcomed during more frantic moments. With so much dedicated to keeping you nimble on the battlefield, though, the Razer Viper V2 Pro may struggle to prove its lofty price tag across other genres. All that tech felt a little redundant when we tested on slow games like Planet Coaster, and even in single player action titles like Rise of the Tomb Raider. 

Verdict: We'd heartily recommend anyone looking for an FPS-first pointer start their search here, but our fellow multi-genre enthusiasts will still find excellent value in this wireless gaming mouse

Read more: Razer Viper V2 Pro review

Also Consider:

Back to top

The best value gaming mouse

The best value gaming mouse

Specifications

Connection: Wired
Shape: Right-handed
Buttons: 10 +1
DPI: 26,000
IPS: Up to 650
Switches: Razer 2nd Gen Optical Mechanical
Weight: 3.67oz (104g)

Reasons to buy

+
Thoughtful additional features
+
Super fast 26K DPI sensor
+
Comfortable ergonomic design
+
Cheaper than the V2

Reasons to avoid

-
Not light enough for competitive players

Unless you're playing competitively, it's difficult to beat the Razer Basilisk V3 in terms of sheer power and value. It also helps that the V3 comes in $10 cheaper than the previous iteration. 

Buy it if:

✅ You play a wide range of genres: The Basilisk's form factor and button design means it can suit everything from a slower paced sim title to faster action pursuits. That's perfect for the Steam generalist.
✅ You don't need a wireless connection:
There is a version of the Basilisk V3 that offers a wireless connection, but sticking to the cord keeps that price particularly competitive considering the rest of the features on offer.
✅ You value a larger design:
This isn't a slimline FPS-first gaming mouse, so if you prefer the comfort afforded by a wider body and additional ergonomic thumb tray you'll be well served.

Don't buy it if:

You want competitive speeds: The 26K DPI sensor isn't quite as snappy as more recent 30K models, so if you're after that lightning speed you'll want to move further up the price scale.
You need a lightweight device: Similarly, anyone looking to fling a rodent across their desk should be looking at a more slimline design like the Viper V2 Pro. This is a chunkier device made more for comfort.
A wireless connection is a priority: If you can't get by without a wireless connection we'd recommend checking out the more expensive Basilisk V3 Pro model. You're getting a similar feature set with 2.4GHz connectivity.

Design: The wired Basilisk carries a standard stacked gaming mouse design, with a thumb tray on the left flank for extra support and plenty of grips on each side. While a little heavier than the slimline FPS mice that feature elsewhere on this list, the V3 still feels incredible in the hand and glides through larger sweeps thanks to the improved PFTE feet underneath. A longer asymmetric form factor keeps everything ergonomic and controls close by, while the underglow RGB effect ensures the whole device looks as good as it feels.

Features: That 26K DPI sensor is definitely a nice to have (though in our testing we rarely needed to dial up to that kind of level), but the main draws here are the wide range of programmable buttons, unique RGB underglow, and tactile ergonomic design.

At its core, though, the latest Razer Basilisk is the same versatile pointer that we've always come to love from one of the best Razer mouse lines. With upgraded second generation switches in each main button, an additional trigger button on the left hand side, and a brand new smart scroll wheel, though, there are plenty of new features to celebrate here. 

Performance: We found those new switches to be a little lighter to the touch than previous iterations, but were impressed that they still managed to keep a satisfying response and snapped back quickly. This is a mouse designed for a range of pursuits, with plenty of controls for everything from Red Dead Redemption 2 to Cities Skylines. 

While it's not the fastest or the lightest mouse on the market, its solid performance across a massive range of genres certainly works better in the Basilisk V3's favor.

Verdict: This is an easy recommendation for anyone looking to stretch their pointer across multiple genres and, in our opinion, the best gaming mouse for most people right now.

Read more: Razer Basilisk V3 review

Also Consider:

Back to top

The best budget gaming mouse

The best budget gaming mouse

Specifications

Connection: Wired
Shape: Right-handed
Buttons: 6
DPI: 8,000
IPS: Up to 200
Switches: Mechanical
Weight: 3oz (85g)

Reasons to buy

+
Solid feature set for the price
+
Comfortable shape and design
+
Excellent price to performance balance

Reasons to avoid

-
Smaller shape might not fit larger hands

Want to avoid breaking the bank? We'd recommend the Logitech G203 Lightsync. As well as being aggressively affordable, it's the best gaming mouse for those on a budget - balancing a decent feature-set with that low cost. 

Buy it if:

✅ You have a smaller budget: We often see the G203 available for particularly low prices year-round, which means anyone shopping with a particularly small budget will do well to start off here.
✅ You don't need a super fast sensor:
That cheaper price point means you're capped at an 8K sensor where more premium pointers hit up to 30K. Still, most players don't tend to move too far beyond 3,000 DPI.
✅ You still want macro controls:
You'll still find two dedicated side buttons for additional controls on here - excellent for that extra macro support.

Don't buy it if:

You have larger hands: The smaller form factor won't suit anyone with larger hands, as the shorter body will limit you to an uncomfortable version of a fingertip grip.
You need extra speed and precision: If you do need premium speeds you'll need to be paying for them. This isn't a particularly high-end sensor, so competitive players should steer clear.
You can spend more than $30: There are more features available further up the price scale. The Razer Basilisk V3, for example, offers plenty more buttons and an improved sensor for as little as $50 during sale events.
 

Design: We did find that chassis to be a little too small for larger hands in our own testing, though thanks to the 85g weight we were able to get along with both a claw and fingertip grip through multiple rounds of Apex Legends. 

It still looks great too; the design gives off a sense of quality you don't always get with mice at this price range. Between a range of different colorways and that crisp RGB light strip running around the edge of the body, you're getting more than we typically see at this price. Appearances aren't everything, but the G203 Lightsync aces that department nonetheless.

Features: Beneath the shell, you're treated to a satisfying but quick click thanks to responsive switches to go with six programmable buttons. These are supported by an optical sensor that provides a DPI ranging from 200 to 8,000. Although this isn't as high-performance as other entries on the list, it's more than enough for most people. Plus, it'll still be a huge step up compared to 'normal' non-gaming mice. Plus you're still able to assign macro commands to the six programmable buttons (including two dedicated side clickers) across the whole mouse as well. 

Performance: Of course, the G203 isn't going to give Razer or Corsair's top pointers any problems on the battlefield. However, the casual everyday player has all the speed and accuracy they need to reliably play through a range of genres. Logitech's device holds its position well, offers up snappy in-game responses, and remains comfortable while doing so. Yes, overall speed wasn't the same as it would be with the Razer Viper at the helm, but for $30 it didn't need to be. 

Verdict: The G203's competition generally only comes from the Razer Viper Mini and the Razer DeathAdder V2 Mini. The Logitech G203 Lightsync, however, is cheaper than the DeathAdder V2 Mini and offers a larger body than the Viper Mini, which will satisfy a wider range of grip types.

Read more: Logitech G203 Lightsync review

Also Consider:

Back to top

The best ambidextrous gaming mouse

The best ambidextrous gaming mouse

Specifications

Connection: Wireless / Wired
Shape: Ambidextrous
Buttons: 8
Battery life: Up to 60 hours
DPI: 25,600
IPS: Up to 400
Sensor: Hero 25K
Switches: Omron mechanical
Weight: 2.82oz (80g)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent tracking
+
Soft, crisp clicks
+
Ambidextrous design with swappable buttons
+
Fantastic battery life

Reasons to avoid

-
Not an ergonomic right hand design

While it's an older device, the Logitech G Pro Wireless still impresses thanks to its impressive tracking and comfortable ambidextrous shape.

Buy it if:

✅ You need a left-handed gaming mouse: Of course, if you're after a left handed gaming mouse this is going to be a no brainer. The swappable buttons on each side mean you're covered whichever hand you play with.
✅ You prioritize a wireless connection:
The wireless connection in here is a nice to have as well - if you're going for a cordless setup that's a massive benefit.
✅ You don't want to worry about battery life:
Not only is there a wireless connection, but it's got the battery to support it. We were impressed with this juice even by today's standards. 

Don't buy it if:

You just want a right handed mouse: The G Pro Wireless hasn't been designed as an exclusively right-handed gaming mouse, which means the shape isn't as comfortable as purpose built devices.
You want a more recent sensor: That Hero 25K sensor is strong, but it's an older model now. You'll find extra features in newer technology.
You're in a warmer climate: We did notice that the smooth plastic can retain some heat, so if you're playing in a warmer climate it could result in some clammy sessions.

Design: The Logitech G Pro Wireless is one of the few ambidextrous gaming mice on the market to offer a full left or right handed design from its buttons. That means plenty of space for macro customization. Not only that, but we found using the mouse with two buttons on either side to still be comfortable and precise - never once accidentally clicking. While the flatter body does mean it's quite as ergonomic as fully right-handed mice which tend to slop or angle their domes slightly, it's still comfortable in a range of grip types. Add a soft touch material, relatively lightweight form factor, and a cool understated design and everything looks and feels great.

Features: With each of those side buttons plugged in you've got eight programmable buttons at your disposal, and the G Hub software to get everything up and running. That's an excellent level of macro functioning, especially for an ambidextrous mouse. However, you're still getting Logitech's performance-focused design with that tried and tested Hero 25K sensor at the helm. It's a slightly older sensor by today's standards, but it still holds up well for everyday play. 

Performance: While some parts of the Logitech G Pro Wireless do show their age - the plastic cable does drag considerably when plugged in, for example. This is a gaming mouse that has certainly withstood the test of time in general. You're getting a solid sensor with incredibly precise tracking and some smooth movement across the desk top as well. Not only that, but we found battery life to be particularly strong here as well. While the 45-60 hours recommended by Logitech is a little on the smaller side these days it still held up under our testing and we didn't experience any stuttering when in the final 5%. That's not something we can say for the vast majority of pointers we've tested. 

Verdict: Those removable side buttons and the simple design means we're yet to find a better ambidextrous gaming mouse on the market. The Logitech G Pro Wireless may be older, but it's stood the test of time for a reason - and that age can certainly work to your benefit when it comes to discounts.

Read more: Logitech G Pro Wireless review

Also Consider:

Back to top

The most versatile gaming mouse

The most versatile gaming mouse

Specifications

Connection: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, wired
Shape: Right-handed
Buttons: 10, 14 or 20 programmable buttons
DPI: 30,000
IPS: 750
Switches: Razer Optical
Weight: 4.72oz / 134g

Reasons to buy

+
Comfortable form factor
+
Excellent customization options
+
Smart scroll wheel adds extra personalization
+
Wireless charging support

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavier weight can make fps feel cumbersome
-
High price point for niche use-case

The Razer Naga V2 Pro picks up where the original Pro model left off. Three swappable side plates offering button configurations suited to a massive range of genres, making for an incredibly versatile device. At $179.99 / £179.99, though, this isn't going to be one for those to dip in and out of everyday play.

Buy it if:

✅ You play a range of different genres: The Naga V2 Pro demands that you throw everything at it. That lofty price point is going to make the most sense for players who can truly put those swappable panels to their best use.
✅ You can afford to spend on luxury kit:
This isn't a cheap pointer, and its higher MSRP is going to cut a considerable amount of players out of its market.
✅ You don't mind a heavier form factor:
The chunkier body and heavier form factor are still comfortable and even flingable at times, but this isn't a super lightweight device.

Don't buy it if:

You play a lot of faster paced games: The shape and weight of the Naga V2 Pro isn't conducive to faster playstyles, so if you're after a new gaming mouse for first person shooters or more frantic action titles we'd recommend something slimmer.
You don't play MMOs: If MMOs don't feature in your Steam library, the amount of buttons on offer here isn't going to make much sense considering the price you're paying.
You prefer a lighter weight: This is a heavier mouse, which can feel cumbersome to some. If you prefer a lighter feel it's best to look elsewhere. 

Design: There are many things that separate the Razer Naga V2 Pro from the rest of the pack, but the most obvious is the design. Yes, the squat form factor takes some getting used to, but it proves comfortable after some muscle memory reworking. However, the heavier weight means faster paced first person shooter titles are a little difficult to work with. We found that the 134g footprint, and larger domed hump, kept the Naga V2 Pro from being truly nimble on the battlefield, but still provides a solid experience for everyday play. 

Features: Of course, the biggest feature here is those swappable side plates. Changing the left flank of your Naga V2 Pro gives you access to a more traditional two-button panel, or a six button array. You can, of course, also keep the massive 12 button console for full macro control as well. 

Razer has also added a Hyperscroll Pro wheel to its pointer. Not only does that grant you access to an additional three programmable buttons (for a total of up to 20), but the wheel can switch between six different scrolling modes. Tension and scroll speed can be customized to change the feel and control level of the wheel altogether, stepping between tighter notches and free spinning movement. While that's not a make or break feature, it's a nice to have that kicks in during productivity uses as well. 

Performance: Packing a 30K sensor, which offered super responsive tracking and particularly nippy response times in our testing, and a customizable scroll wheel, there are plenty of enhancements here over the original model. The Naga performs incredibly well across a range of genres, though it does feel a little sluggish for true FPS-first style gameplay. Snappy clicks and low latencies still kept everything floating, though, which is impressive considering the bulk of the body it's working through. Wireless performance is excellent and battery life will see you through plenty of sessions without RGB switched on.

Verdict: The Naga V2 Pro is a pricey one, but if you're as invested in MMOs as you are other genres, it's a worthwhile pickup. Yes, the Corsair Darkstar below is going to better serve MMO fans in general, but if you hop between a range of different genres regularly there isn't a rodent out there better suited.

Read more: Razer Naga V2 Pro review

Also Consider:

Back to top

The best gaming mouse for MMOs

The best gaming mouse for MMOs and MOBAs

Specifications

Connection: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth / wired
Shape: Right-handed
Buttons: 15
DPI: 26,000
IPS: Up to 650
Switches: Omron
Weight: 96g

Reasons to buy

+
Clean, subtle aesthetic
+
Comfortable form factor
+
Plenty of control from grippy side panel
+
15 programmable inputs
+
Intuitive and reliable tilt controls

Reasons to avoid

-
Rear side buttons are harder to hit
-
Takes some getting used to
-
iCue isn't the easiest software on the market
-
Lower battery life

The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite used to be our top pick for the best MMO gaming mouse, but the new Darkstar Wireless has just taken the crown. It's a little different (and you are dropping two programmable buttons), but for the vast majority of players its improvements in comfort and accuracy and its new tilt features are going to prove far more useful.

Buy it if:

✅ You play MMOs regularly: MMO players are obviously going to get the most mileage out of this button array, so if you're after a purpose built device, this is an excellent option.
✅ You're not tied to the traditional 12 button style:
That said, it's going to take some muscle memory reworking to get used to the circular design, which is going to be easier for those who aren't already tied to the 12 button style.
✅ You want more control:
The grippy texture in the centre of the buttons makes for far greater control without any accidental presses - that's handy if you've had to stop using your thumb to move in certain directions due to the more traditional button placement.

Don't buy it if:

You're concerned about button placement: If you don't want to have to learn a new style of button placement, particularly around the rear clickers, it's worth sticking to a 12 button array.
You don't want to worry about charging: The battery life here isn't quite as solid as other mice in this price region. If you don't want to think about charging too often there are longer lasting devices out there. 

Design: The additional control offered by a grippy panel in the center makes for a particularly accurate gaming mouse experience. Everything feels nimble and controlled here, without any concerns over accidental button presses. These buttons do take some time to learn, and we found the rear clickers to be a little difficult to reach in the heat of the moment. In general, though - it works. Add an effortlessly comfortable dome and soft-touch plastic throughout and you've got an MMO mouse that can comfortably see you through longer sessions without cramping. 

Features: The 12 button panel on the side of the Scimitar has been replaced with a six-button array positioned around a grippy thumb texture. In our testing, that was more than enough inputs for go-to commands and inventory management (alongside the impressively functional tilt controls). What you're dropping in quantity you're making up for in quality though.

Performance: The Darkstar beats the older Scimitar in everything from DPI to IPS to weight, and throws in wireless connectivity across both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz as well. The best part is its flexibility though. The Scimitar was a made-for-MMO mouse, which left us feeling a little OTT when playing in other genres. However, hopping between Elder Scrolls Online and more story-led experiences like Alan Wake was easy thanks to this more refined design and boosted 26K DPI sensor. 

Verdict: This is an MMO mouse made to hit every box in its own way. While it will take some muscle memory training to get it working to its best, putting that work in is well worth it not just for fans of the genre, but for multi-game generalists as well. 

Read more: Corsair Darkstar Wireless review

Also Consider:

Back to top

The best gaming mouse for RGB

The best gaming mouse for RGB fans

Specifications

Connection: Wired
Shape: Right-handed
Buttons: 15
DPI: 19,000
Switches: Roccat Titan Switch Optical
Weight: 3.6oz (104g)

Reasons to buy

+
Incredibly comfortable design
+
Plentiful, well-placed macro buttons
+
Speedy sensor

Reasons to avoid

-
Less texture on rubber grips
-
No color controls on Swarm software

The RGB available on the Roccat Kone XP certainly won't be for everyone, but if you're looking to maximise your LED to price ratio, you'll need to check out this 90s-inspired pointer.

Buy it if:

✅ You're an RGB fan: Obviously this is one for the more LED-minded among us, but if you're looking for a gaming mouse that can keep up with the RGB of your setup this is an excellent choice.
✅ You prefer a larger form factor:
This isn't a skinny mouse so you're getting plenty of space to work with and a comfortable shell overall.
✅ You want more controls than standard:
You're still getting a solid array of buttons on the left flank here, more than we typically see at this kind of price point.

Don't buy it if:

You don't like RGB: Of course, anyone who prefers a more subtle aesthetic isn't going to have a good time here. Even switching those RGBs off leaves you with a gaudy translucent shell to contend with.
You prioritize speed: This isn't a gaming mouse built for speed - rather a jack of all trades type design. If you're looking for lightning fast tracking we'd recommend a lighter model.
You want more control over aesthetics: Those RGB lights can't be customized which might put many off - especially if you're building a setup with a more streamlined aesthetic.

Design: We were initially sceptical of this blinding design, but once our eyes adjusted we found that the unique aesthetic (combined with the smoky effect of the translucent plastic) was surprisingly pleasing. The form factor itself retains the steady shape of the Roccat Kone Air Pro before it, providing a particularly comfortable dome up top and a thumb rest to the left. We did also notice that the slanted shape made the Kone XP feel a lot like the Basilisk V3 Pro underhand, though the grippy sides are less textured here.

Features: We were particularly impressed by the placement and usability of the additional side buttons here. Each of the four main macro buttons (and the additional thumb button) running along the left hand side were easy to hit and, crucially, easy to hit accurately. Unlike the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite and the Razer Naga Pro above, you're not getting a full keypad of additional functions. However, with an extra layer of functionality accessible via Roccat's EasyShift button, there's a whole world of customization open to you. 

We're recommending the Kone XP as the best gaming mouse for RGB lovers, but it's important to note that this is from a brute force angle, rather than in terms of customization. It still feels like the Swarm software is catching up, which means we were a little disappointed to realise that you can't actually change the colors of these RGB strips. However, there are plenty of cycles to choose from, and the overall effect may be too good to turn down.

Performance: Of course, those LEDs don't distract from the excellent performance under the hood. This rodent is weighty enough to feel solid on the desk, while still keeping things light enough to glide easily across the surface. With Nvidia's Reflex Analyzer tool for certain games, response times and aim support are optimized throughout the experience if you're running a higher end rig as well. Even straight out the box, though, this mouse has the precision and speed to keep up with the best models on the market. 

Verdict: The Roccat Kone XP isn't going to be to everyone's tastes, but if you're an RGB fan after a gaming mouse that can perform as well under the hood as it does in its LEDs you're in for a treat. There's plenty of extra features packed into this reasonable price tag, even if it's not the fastest or most versatile pointer available.

Read more: Roccat Kone XP review

Also Consider:

Back to top


How to find the best gaming mouse for you

It's easy to forget that the best gaming mouse for you might not be the latest or greatest release. In fact, it's worth getting to know what you need from a gaming mouse to make the right choice when it comes to checkout. 

There are a few specs and features that you should always be looking for when browsing the shelves - just to make sure you're keeping up with the times. However, knowing your preferred grip, the types of games you'll play, and the level of software control you're after will also help you narrow down your options significantly. 

Grip Type

Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.

For all the jargon involved in buying a gaming mouse, it's easy to forget the biggest factor of all - comfort. You will naturally hold your mouse in a certain grip, usually either a palm, claw, or tip grip. The size and shape of your mouse will determine whether it is comfortable to hold in this way, so it's worth noting how you naturally place your hand on the pointer and double checking your chosen mouse will fit you. 

  • Palm: you hold the mouse with most of your hand and fingers resting on the mouse itself - aim for a wider mouse with a taller back arch.
  • Claw: only the bottom of your palm and the tips of your fingers are in contact with the mouse - aim for a shorter mouse with a small but still pronounced back arch.
  • Fingertip: there is very little contact between your hand and the mouse, with only your fingertips touching the buttons and sides - aim for a smaller body with as flat a back as you can find.

Wired vs Wireless

Wireless gaming mice are gathering steam these days, as models hit the market that can overcome the traditional latency that used to come with untethering. However, it's still worth noting that you'll be paying a lot more for a wireless mouse that functions like a wired one. 

These superfast connections still come at a premium, especially when placed on devices with high CPI rates and other fancier features. 

A 2.4GHz connection is a must if you're looking to spend a little more on a wireless device, though, as this is the only way you'll pick up competitive response times without a cable. 

Weight

Getting the right weight for your mouse will largely come down to the kinds of games you play. Lighter, more agile, mice are required for tournament level FPS play, but should also be considered for everyday action style titles as well. A heavier mouse is more likely to offer more configurable buttons, however, which means MOBA and MMO players may choose to forego that sub-100g profile for easy access to all their gear in-game. 

CPI / DPI

In everyday play, some tend to place too much emphasis on the CPI / DPI of the best gaming mice on the market. CPI (or sometimes referred to as DPI) tracks how often the mouse's sensor tracks the surface it's on. The higher this rate, the less you'll need to move your mouse to register movement on the screen. 

CPI has been exploding recently, with mice now starting to push past the 20K sensors that were so impressive just last year. It's worth noting, though, that these incredibly sensitive settings won't be used from day to day, so an 8K or 10K sensor on the right mouse can still give you the edge.

Back to top

Gaming mouse glossary

Who knew a simple gaming mouse could spawn so many strange words. You'll find all the commonly used terms batted around in marketing and spec sheets just below, so that you know exactly that you're getting. 

Acceleration
Acceleration refers to the process of a mouse cursor moving along the screen at a different speed, depending on how fast the mouse itself is moved. A mouse that offers extra acceleration will be more difficult to master in the heat of battle, it's harder to reliably predict your movements. 

CPI / DPI
CPI and DPI are used interchangeably when speaking about a gaming mouse's sensor. The term refers to both counts per inch and dots per inch and relates to the number of times your mouse reads the surface underneath it for every inch of movement. That translates to the distance of movement of your cursor on the screen - a higher CPI, the less you have to move your mouse for it to register. 

IPS
IPS stands for inches per second, measuring the tracking speed of your mouse's sensor. That's how quickly you can move the mouse while the sensor still provides an accurate response to your PC. The higher the IPS the better. 

Lift-off distance
The lift-off distance is the maximum height at which the mouse can maintain tracking while being lifted off the surface. The higher the lift-off distance, the more chance you've got of maintaining accuracy while repositioning the mouse. 

Polling rate
The speed at which your mouse sends information on its movements and location to your computer. 

PTFE feet
PTFE is a material used in the small rubber feet on a mouse, to provide low friction movement and a smooth glide. 

Back to top

FAQs

Razer Cobra Pro scroll wheel and DPI buttons

(Image credit: Future)

Which gaming mouse brand is the best?

It's difficult to lock down the best gaming mouse brand, largely because each brand offers a wide range of budget, mid-range, and premium options. There are, however, a few contenders for the prize; Razer, Corsair, Logitech, SteelSeries and Roccat. These brands are all responsible for some of the best gaming mice on the market right now, and each offers a slightly different experience based on what you need from your pointer. If we were to be locked down for a top spot, though, our top picks for the best gaming mouse suggest that Razer is leading the competition right now.

Is a gaming mouse really better?

If you're new to PC gaming you may be wondering whether the often higher prices of gaming mice will actually enhance your game. While even the most expensive gaming mouse won't turn you into a pro player overnight, there are features included as standard on these devices that you won't find in regular pointers. 

A precise sensor, better acceleration, extra programmable buttons, and a form factor designed for longer sessions all make gaming mice far more suited to play than regular productivity mice. You'll likely find these specs on more premium non-gaming products, but you'll be spending a lot more to get them. 

Is a wireless mouse worth it?

Back when wireless connections were in their infancy, the best gaming mice were solely corded. That was because wireless latencies hadn't yet evolved to match the speed and reliability of a good old wire. However, these days we see far more wireless models on the market, at lower prices, and with far faster responses. The difference between the two form factors is nearly imperceptible now, which means those looking to keep their desk tops tidy have nothing to fear. While we do still see a slight price increase with the additional cost of 2.4GHz technology and the batteries included in these devices, the benefit may well outweigh such prices if you're after a clean setup with no cable drag. 

Back to top

How we test gaming mice

Gaming mice are subjective creatures, which is why we run a series of tests across a massive range of genres and use-cases to ensure we're recommending the best products on the market. We bring these mice into our setups and use them daily for both work and play, extending our coverage far beyond our initial review to check for any wear and tear or durability concerns. 

During that initial testing period we make sure the performance is up to the task of the latest and greatest titles by checking everything from sensor accuracy to click debounce, grip materials to scroll wheel resistance. Within this testing, however, we're always keeping our assessments inline with value. That means we're making sure that a $150 gaming mouse offers just as much value for money as a $30 model, and measuring our results in accordance. 

You can read more about our commitment to providing honest recommendations through extensive testing in our Hardware Policy, and we're also showing you exactly how we test gaming mice in more detail as well. 

Back to top


If you're hunting for the ultimate PC gaming setup, we've got more than a few suggestions. We're also rounding up all the best gaming keyboards and the best gaming chair brands for more peripherals. Or, take a look at the best gaming PC options and best gaming laptop models if you're overhauling your whole setup - And for audio upgrades, check out the best computer speakers and best gaming headsets going.

Tabitha Baker
Managing Editor - Hardware

Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards and mice that come with them), and tracking everything that suggests VR is about to take over our lives.