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Best gaming mouse for 2023 – overall, wireless and budget

Last Updated on December 18, 2023
Best gaming mouse in 2023. Image shows the text "Best Gaming Mouse for 2023" underneath the Razer Basilik V3, on a pastel gradient background.

Are you on a quest to find the best gaming mouse to elevate your gaming experience? This article is your ultimate guide to exploring the top choices in the gaming mouse market. Whether you’re a competitive esports player, a casual gamer, or somewhere in between, the right gaming mouse can significantly enhance your gameplay.

The gaming mouse has become an indispensable tool in a gamer’s arsenal, evolving far beyond the capabilities of a standard computer mouse. With features like higher DPI (dots per inch) sensitivity, programmable buttons, and ergonomic designs tailored for long gaming sessions, the right gaming mouse can greatly impact your gaming performance and comfort.

Products at a Glance

How we picked the best gaming mouse

When considering the best gaming mouse, several critical factors come into the equation. First things first, we separate the wood from the trees and identify the most popular and highly-rated models out there, weighing in on a range of factors such as performance, durability, comfort, and user feedback. Of course, there are a few extra things to take into account with a gaming mouse, namely the number of buttons, the ergonomics, and the sensitivity.

Secondly, we examined the experiences and reviews of both casual and professional gamers in order to gain insights into the real-world performance and reliability of different models. Getting an objective view of each mouse’s performance provides valuable information about how the mouse performs in gaming scenarios, as well as its proficiency in sensor accuracy, click latency, and overall ergonomics. 

Listed below you’ll find the mice that made the cut as the potential best gaming mouse. Naturally, if you want to complete your setup, you can read our round-up of the best gaming keyboards, and we’ve also taken the time to pair some together in a guide to the best gaming keyboard and mouse combo.

Our Recommended

Best gaming mouse for 2023 – overall, wireless and budget

1
PROS
  • High 26K DPI optical sensor
  • 11 programmable buttons
  • Ergonomic design with thumb rest
CONS
  • Wired only
  • Might be bulky for some users
  • Advanced features may be overwhelming for casual gamers

The Razer Basilisk V3 is a highly customizable gaming mouse featuring an advanced 26K DPI optical sensor and 11 programmable buttons. This wired mouse includes a customizable scroll wheel with adjustable resistance and Razer’s iconic Chroma RGB lighting.

Its high-precision sensor ensures accurate tracking and responsiveness, essential for competitive gaming. The customizable buttons and scroll wheel can be tailored for various gaming needs, enhancing functionality and providing a personalized gaming experience.

This mouse is ideal for gamers who crave customization and precision. The adjustable DPI settings allow for seamless transitions between different gaming scenarios, from fast-paced FPS games to detailed strategy games. Additionally, the ergonomic design with a thumb rest makes it comfortable for extended gaming sessions, and its durable build promises longevity. Overall, the Basilik V3 is a dynamic choice that will make a perfect companion for any gaming setup.

2
PROS
  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • High-precision 20K DPI sensor
  • Reliable wireless connectivity
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Limited programmable buttons
  • May not suit larger hands

The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro stands out with its focus on lightweight design and wireless connectivity. It features a high-precision 20K DPI optical sensor and is one of the lightest wireless gaming mice available. The mouse offers exceptional responsiveness and accuracy, crucial for fast-paced gaming: naturally, it’s also come up as the best gaming mouse for Modern Warfare 3. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort, and Razer’s HyperSpeed wireless technology provides a lag-free gaming experience, comparable to wired mice.

This mouse is particularly well-suited for gamers who prioritize speed and freedom of movement. The lightweight design reduces hand fatigue, allowing for quicker and more precise movements. It’s an excellent choice for FPS and battle royale gamers who need a responsive, reliable, and comfortable mouse for long gaming sessions. The DeathAdder V3 Pro combines Razer’s renowned performance with the convenience of wireless gaming, making it a top pick for gamers who don’t want to compromise on speed or comfort.

3
PROS
  • Affordable with high performance
  • Long battery life
  • Lightweight and portable
CONS
  • Limited DPI range compared to higher-end models
  • No rechargeable battery option
  • Basic design with fewer customizable features

The Logitech G305 Lightspeed is a budget-friendly wireless gaming mouse that doesn’t skimp on performance. It features a responsive 12,000 DPI HERO sensor and a battery life of up to 9 months, depending on usage. This mouse stands out for its balance between affordability, wireless functionality, and reliable performance. Its lightweight design and durable build make it suitable for both casual and competitive gaming. The G305 Lightspeed is designed to deliver a lag-free experience, thanks to Logitech’s Lightspeed wireless technology, which is essential for precise and timely in-game reactions.

Ideal for gamers looking for an affordable yet high-performance wireless mouse, the G305 Lightspeed is a strong contender. Its simplicity and efficiency make it perfect for those new to gaming or those who prefer a straightforward, no-frills gaming mouse. It’s also a great choice for on-the-go gaming due to its compact size and long battery life, making it easy to carry for gaming sessions outside of your usual setup.

4
PROS
  • Highly customizable button layout
  • Versatile for multiple game genres
  • Ergonomic design for comfort
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • May be bulky for some users
  • Requires time to adapt to the button layout

The Razer Naga Pro is tailored for MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) gamers, featuring a highly customizable button layout with up to 19 programmable buttons. It includes interchangeable side plates for 2, 6, and 12-button configurations, catering to various gaming needs. The mouse is equipped with a 20K DPI optical sensor and Razer’s HyperSpeed wireless technology, ensuring both precision and versatility. This adaptability makes the Naga Pro a versatile tool for not just MMO gaming, but also for MOBAs, FPS, and other genres.

The Naga Pro’s main draw is its customizable side plates, allowing gamers to tailor the mouse to the specific demands of different games. This feature, combined with its high-precision sensor and wireless flexibility, makes it an exceptional choice for gamers who play a wide range of titles and require a mouse that can adapt to various gaming scenarios. The ergonomic design with a comfortable grip ensures that long gaming sessions remain comfortable, a crucial aspect for serious MMO players.

What to look for in a gaming mouse

A high-quality sensor can make the difference in scenarios where every millisecond counts. DPI sensitivity, which dictates how much the cursor moves in response to the mouse’s movement, is another critical factor. Gamers should look for a mouse with an adjustable DPI, providing flexibility across various gaming genres.

Additional buttons and customization options are also significant. Extra buttons on a gaming mouse can be programmed for specific actions, enhancing gameplay efficiency and offering a competitive edge. However, the layout and ease of access to these buttons are crucial to avoid disrupting the gaming experience. Realistically, it all boils down to DPI, ergonomics, and the number of buttons, so here’s a bit more of a deep dive into what makes these three categories so significant.

DPI, or Dots Per Inch

The first thing most people are going to want to consider is the sensitivity, which is usually measured in dots per inch, or DPI. This is a measurement of how sensitive the sensor on the mouse is to small movements, and in some ways also measures how accurately it can detect these movements.

DPI roughly translates to how many pixels the cursor will move across on your screen if your mouse is moved one inch. So, a mouse with 16000 DPI will move the cursor 16000 pixels with a single inch of movement. This much sensitivity is far too much for most people, but having a sensor that can read movement with such precision allows your movements to be registered more accurately when it is turned down.

Many people will play games with DPIs sitting somewhere between 400 and 1000. Some mice can change their DPI on the fly, while for some mice like the Razer DeathAdder, it must be changed in an accompanying software. Ultimately, the higher the DPI of the sensor the more precisely it will be able to register movement, and the higher you can take the sensitivity.

Ergonomics

Next, you’ll want to take the ergonomics of the mouse you’re looking to purchase into consideration. Having a comfortable mouse can be the difference between playing for hours on end, and getting a repetitive strain injury, or RSI. By specifically considering mice that boast unique designs for ergonomics, you’ll take the stress off the bones and tendons in your arms, which can be helpful to people who are prone to carpal tunnel and the like. A top-tier ergonomic mouse is intended to put your hand into a more comfortable and natural position that allows your bones and tendons to move normally.

If you’re left-handed, then getting a mouse with ergonomics that will work for you is even more important. Most gaming mice have many more buttons than typical mice, and most of them are placed in such a way that they only accommodate right-handed players. 

Number of Buttons

Finally, many people will want to consider the number of buttons and how easy it is to configure them. Different types of games often require different button layouts. Shooters will usually only require a few buttons and relatively plain mice are often preferred for these games. This is why mice like the Razer Deathadder are so popular amongst pros in these games. The smaller number of buttons present on these mice means that there is less to get in the way while aiming and shooting, and reduces the chances of accidentally clicking something at an inopportune moment.

On the other hand, MOBAs and MMOs require players to quickly trigger abilities or even set up custom macros. For these games, mice like the Razer Naga are ideal. These mice have 11 or more buttons that can be programmed to do just about anything you need them to. This allows you to set up tons of macros, or even play MOBAs without using a keyboard at all.

Do pro gamers use wireless mice?

Some pro gamers do use wireless mice. The advancement in wireless technology has significantly reduced the gap in performance between wired and wireless mice. However, many professional gamers still prefer wired mice due to their consistent reliability and the absence of battery concerns. The choice often comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the game being played.

What mice do CS:GO pros use?

Allegedly, CS: GO pros mosty commonly use the Logitech G Pro X Superlight. This preference is due to its ultra-lightweight design, ensuring swift and precise movements, which are critical in a fast-paced game like CS:GO. The mouse’s accuracy and reliability make it a top choice among professional gamers.

Our Verdict

Final thoughts

The Razer Basilisk V3, as our Editor’s Choice, epitomizes what a top-tier gaming mouse should be. It combines high precision, extensive customization, and ergonomic comfort, making it an exceptional choice for a wide range of gamers. 

The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro is a dream for gamers who value speed and wireless convenience. The Logitech G305 Lightspeed represents an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers, delivering reliable wireless performance at an affordable price. Lastly, the Razer Naga Pro is the ultimate tool for MMO enthusiasts, with its customizable button layout and adaptable design for various gaming genres.