A gaming mouse can be a smart, affordable way to revamp your setup. There are tons of options out there from top brands like Razer, Corsair, and MSI to fit just about any genre and play style. If you prefer MMOs and RTS games, there are mice with up to 17 programmable buttons to put spells, weapons, and actions at your fingertips for faster reactions. 

Recommends

The best gaming headsets: Immersive sound for an extra edge

Whether your game on a console or PC, a headset can elevate your play.

Read now

If you prefer FPS games like Call of Duty or battle royales like Fortnite, a mouse with aDPI throttlehelps with precision aiming. If you've got a high budget, you can even get a gaming mouse with adjustable weights to suit cross-genre play. I rounded up a list of the best gaming mice available and broke down their features, connectivity, and price points to help you decide which is the right one for you.

Razer Basilisk V3 Pro

Best gaming mouse overall

Razer Pros & Cons Pros

• Multiple connection options
• 30,000 max DPI
• DPI throttle
• On-board memory for multiple profiles

Cons

• Expensive
• Charging dock sold separately
• Razer Synapse can be clunky

More Details

Tech Specs: Connectivity:Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USBButtons:11Weight:112 gramsSensor:OpticalRGB:YesProgrammable:YesConfiguration:Right-handedMax DPI:30,000

The Razer Basilisk V3 Prois a powerhouse of a gaming mouse. It features 11buttons that can be programmed with different keystrokes and inputs to make everything from casting spells to precision sniper shots fast and easy. The thumb paddle acts as a DPI throttle to help you with precision aiming in FPS games, or you can program it with a quick action. The optical sensor has a max sensitivity of 30,000 DPI, and you can create custom DPI levels, switching between them for different game genres or even office work. 

And with the Razer Synapse desktop app, you can even set up different user profiles with custom input layouts and DPI sensitivities to suit your top 5 favorite games or easily switch between typical office work and gaming. It connects to your computer via Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz dongle, or USB cable so you can use it while charging. And the integrated, rechargeable battery gives you up to 90 hours of play on a full charge -- which means you can game and work 8 hours a day for almost 2 weeks before you need to plug in.

View now at Amazon View now at Walmart View now at Best Buy more buying choices

Corsair Katar Elite

Best wireless gaming mouse

Corsair Pros & Cons Pros

• Excellent battery life
• Great DPI
• Multiple connectivity options

Cons

• RGB lighting is in logo only
• No DPI throttle
• No on-board memory

More Details

Tech Specs: Connectivity:Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USBButtons:6Weight:69 gramsSensor:OpticalRGB:YesProgrammable:YesConfiguration:Right-handedMax DPI:26,000

The Corsair Katar Eliteis proof that a wireless gaming mouse doesn't have to cost a fortune or be over-engineered to be a great option. This mouse features a simplified, symmetrical design that is comfortable in both palm and claw grips, though it might not be as good for anyone with larger hands. With 6programmable buttons, you can create custom input layouts for your favorite games, and switch between them with the Corsair iCUE software. The body of the mouse weighs just 69 grams, making it very responsive for fast-paced shooters and platformers. 

The optical sensor maxes out at 26,000 DPI, and you can cycle through custom DPI settings with the button beneath the scroll wheel to quickly switch between sensitivities when needed. The integrated battery gives you up to 110 hours of play on a full charge, and the included USB cable means that you can keep gaming while recharging. You can also connect the Katar Elite to your PC via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz USB dongle for a wireless connection. And at about$80, it's one of the more affordable wireless gaming mice on the market.

View now at Amazon

HyperX Pulsefire Haste

Best lightweight gaming mouse

HyperX Pros & Cons Pros

• Ultra lightweight
• Programmable buttons
• Grip tape included

Cons

• No on-board memory for custom button profiles
• Only 4 buttons

More Details

Tech Specs: Connectivity:USB cableButtons:4Weight:59 gramsSensor:OpticalRGB:YesProgrammable:YesConfiguration:Right-handedMax DPI:16,000

The HyperX Pulsefire Hasteweighs in at just 59 grams, which is even lighter than theApple Magic Mouse . I personally use this mouse for both gaming and everyday work, and it is a delight. The honeycomb body design reduces weight without sacrificing strength, creating a mouse that doesn't flex even during intense play. It has just 4 buttons that can be programmed with the HyperX Ngenuity app along with the RGB lighting on the scroll wheel. The wheel is the only lighting on the mouse, which is great if you want a more understated look for your gaming space. 

The switches are designed to prevent dust build-up, ensuring long-lasting durability. And if you don't like the super smooth feel of the mouse body, it comes with honeycomb-textured, rubberized grip tape for the sides and top buttons. And I suggest using the grip tape anyway, as the natural oils and sweat from your hands can make the mouse even more slick and difficult to control.

View now at HyperX View now at Amazon View now at Best Buy more buying choices

ProtoArc EM01

Best ergonomic gaming mouse

Image: ProtoArc Pros & Cons Pros

• 1 month battery life
• Ergonomic design
• Control up to three devices at once
• Multiple connectivity options

Cons

• Somewhat low DPI max
• Trackball has learning curve
• No left-handed version

More Details

Tech Specs: Connectivity:Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USBButtons:6Weight:9.2 ouncesSensor:TrackballRGB:YesProgrammable:YesConfiguration:Right-handedMax DPI:2400

ProtoArc's EM01 trackball mouse might not be your first thought when looking for an ergonomic gaming mouse, but it's definitely one of the best. The thumb-positioned trackball does take some getting used to, but once you've got a handle on it, you'll be able to game with the best of them. The angled, palm-fitting design helps relieve hand, wrist, and forearm strain and discomfort that comes with marathon gaming sessions by keeping your arm in a more neutral position. 

The mouse has 6programmable buttons, so you can create custom input layouts. And you can even connect the EM01 to up to three computers at once -- which is perfect for content creators who have separate rigs for gaming and recording or editing raw footage files or anyone with separate work and gaming computers. The integrated battery lasts up to a whole month on a full charge, which means you can game all day or night worry-free.

View now at Amazon

MSI Clutch GM08

Best budget gaming mouse

MSI Pros & Cons Pros

• Under$20
• Symmetrical, lightweight design
• Great for general gaming

Cons

• No RGB lighting
• No on-board memory
• No dedicated left-handed configuration buttons

More Details

Tech Specs: Connectivity:USB cableButtons:6Weight:92 - 103 gramsSensor:OpticalRGB:NoProgrammable:YesConfiguration:Right-handed, symmetricalMax DPI:4200

The MSI Clutch GM08is an ultra budget-friendly option for PC gamers looking for a simplified model and comfortable design to suit a variety of game genres and play styles. It features a symmetrical design that is great for palm and claw grips, and even left-handed gamers if needed. The body weighs just 92 grams, but if you want a bit more heft, you can use the included weights to add up to 11 more grams of weight. 

The optical sensor maxes out at just 4200 DPI, which is plenty sensitive for most games, including shooters and platformers. It connects to your PC via USB cable for unlimited power, and it features a smooth wire cover to prevent annoying snagging or tangling that can limit your movements. And with a price tag under$20, it's perfect as a backup mouse or a first gaming mouse for kids and teens.

View now at B&H Photo-Video View now at Walmart View now at Amazon more buying choices

What is the best gaming mouse?

The Razer Basilisk V3 Prois our top recommendation for the best gaming mouse for its DPI throttle, connectivity, and memory for multiple profiles. Below, we've broken down the best gaming mice based on price, number of buttons, and maximum DPI, so you can find the best gaming mouse for your preferences and price point.

Gaming mouse	Price	No. of buttons	Max DPI
Razer Basilisk V3 Pro	$160	11	30,000 DPI
Corsair Katar Elite	$80	6	26,000 DPI
HyperX Pulsefire Haste	$25	6	16,000 DPI
ProtoArc EM01	$42	6	2400 DPI
MSI Clutch GM08	$15	6	4200 DPI

Which gaming mouse is right for you?

You first want to lock down a budget, because gaming mice can get very expensive. You also want to look at gaming mice that are made for specific genres like MMOs or FPS games, if that's what you predominantly play. If you want a multi-purpose mouse for both work and gaming, you'll want something a bit on the more plain side -- there's no point in getting a fancy, expensive gaming mouse if you aren't ever going to use every button.

Buy this gaming mouse...	If you need...
Razer Basilisk V3 Pro	A well-rounded and wireless gaming mouse
Corsair Katar Elite	A wireless gaming mouse with great battery life
HyperX Pulsefire Haste	A simplified, ultra-lightweight gaming mouse
ProtoArc EM01	An ergonomic, trackball gaming mouse
MSI Clutch GM08	An ultra budget-friendly gaming mouse

How did we choose these gaming mice?

Aside from cost (because, let's face it, gaming mice can get pretty expensive), I chose gaming mice that fit a variety of genres, play styles, and grips. I also tried to have a balance between wired and wireless options for gamers who prefer one or the other.

Are gaming mice worth it?

They can be! If you have separate computers for work and gaming, a dedicated gaming mouse can elevate your play and streamline inputs. Especially if you play games like World of Warcraft or Starcraft, where you need to map actions to certain buttons. MMO and RTS-specific mice put hotkeys near your thumb for faster reactions. If you're a hardcore Call of Duty or Apex Legends player, you'll want a mouse with a DPI throttle for more precise aiming.

Is 1000 DPI good for gaming?

It's a decent DPI setting for an optical sensor, hitting the sweet spot between precision and speed. While you won't be blowing away any audiences if you like super twitchy shooters, you'll be able to play most games without issues.

Which is better: Wired or wireless?

That depends on your preference, really. Wireless mice are great because you don't have a long cable that can get caught and tangled (or chewed on by pets), but you also have to be mindful of battery life, and the type of battery the mouse uses. If your budget allows it, go for a wireless mouse with an integrated battery. That way, you aren't spending a ton of money on a stash of AA batteries. Wired mice have an unlimited power supply, as long as your computer is turned on. And the annoyance of cable drag can be minimized by choosing a gaming mouse with a smooth-woven cable or getting a bungee accessory to keep the cable up off your desk.

Are there other gaming mice worth considering?

There are tons of options out there for gaming mice that fit just about every play style and budget. Here is a short list of our runner-up picks for the best gaming mouse:

Logitech G502 X Lightspeed

$139.99 at B&H Photo-Video

SteelSeries Rival 3

$29 at Walmart

Razer Naga Trinity

$78.99 at Best Buy

Recommends

The best smartwatches you can buy: Apple, Samsung, Google, and more comparedThe 5 best VPN services (and tips to choose the right one for you)The best Android phones you can buy (including a surprise pick)The best robot vacuum and mop combos (and if they're worth the money)

• The best smartwatches you can buy: Apple, Samsung, Google, and more compared
• The 5 best VPN services (and tips to choose the right one for you)
• The best Android phones you can buy (including a surprise pick)
• The best robot vacuum and mop combos (and if they're worth the money)