The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Gaming Mice in 2023

When building a gaming setup, many gamers tend to focus on expensive components like CPUs, memory, and video cards to achieve the latest advancements like ray-tracing. Unfortunately, peripherals like mice and keyboards are often overlooked and not given the same budget consideration. Luckily, gamers on a budget can still find affordable gaming mice that offer customization options and accurate tracking. However, with so many budget-friendly options available, it can be challenging to choose the best one.

The market offers a wide selection of budget gaming mice to cater to different gaming needs. Some models are designed for ergonomic comfort during long gaming sessions, while others are ideal for MMO games with multiple programmable side buttons. Wired gaming mice are generally less expensive than wireless ones, but there are cord-free options with impressive battery life available at reasonable prices. When browsing for a budget gaming mouse, factors like size, DPI, connectivity, and whether RGB lighting effects are necessary should also be considered. This guide recommends smart purchases for gamers seeking the best budget gaming mouse that offers value for their money.

Logitech G305 Lightspeed Gaming Mouse Best Wireless Budget Gaming Mouse $38 at Amazon

Razer Viper Mini Best FPS Budget Gaming Mouse $26 at Walmart

Logitech G600 MMO Gaming Mouse Best MMO Budget Gaming Mouse $37 at Amazon

See More

Cooler Master MM720 Gaming mouse Best Lightweight Budget Gaming Mouse $23 at Amazon

Lefties rejoice! The Corsair M55 RGB Pro is the best left-handed budget gaming mouse, available for only $40 on Amazon. With customizable RGB lighting and six programmable buttons, this mouse is a great choice for gamers on a budget who need a mouse designed for left-handed use.

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wired Gaming Mouse Best HyperX Budget Gaming Mouse $60 at Amazon

5 Things to Consider When Looking for a New Budget Gaming Mouse

Overall price

Number of buttons

Wired vs. wireless

Durability

The Logitech G502 Hero is an exceptional wired gaming mouse that is not only one of the best in its category but also comes at an affordable price. With the Hero 25k sensor and 11 low-latency mechanical buttons, this mouse offers exceptional customizability. Despite weighing 121g, it feels much lighter and well-balanced. It also comes with 5 optional weights that can be easily snapped into a base compartment. With 11 programmable buttons, including side-scrolling switches, and 5 profile slots in the on-board memory, users can easily switch gears while gaming. The Hero 25k sensor provides a max DPI of 25,600 and a max acceleration of 40g, making it a competitive option for gamers of all genres.

buttons

Lightweight and portable design

Impressive Hero 25K sensor technology

High DPI of 25600

Fast polling rate of 1000Hz

Cons No wireless connectivity option

Limited customization options for RGB lighting

Glides around mousepads with ease

Cons Too large for smaller hands

Some buttons are easy to misclicks

$44 at Amazon $40 at Best Buy $40 at Walmart

Consider the Logitech G502 HERO if you're in need of a gaming mouse that delivers both impressive performance and eye-catching aesthetics on your mousepad. The wired G502 HERO boasts a 25k sensor from Logitech, which allows for maximum DPI and extremely precise tracking. The top of the mouse features RGB lighting elements that can cycle through a variety of colors, making it easy to sync with your other Logitech devices. Thanks to Lightsync technology, you can program your mouse to work in tandem with other components of your gaming setup, such as your keyboard, PC fans, or external lights. With Lightsync, you can command all of your lights to turn the same color or cycle through a preset pattern. Although the G502 looks futuristic and high-end, it's also a great budget gaming mouse option. While it doesn't offer quite as much customization as the pricey G502X, the Hero still provides gamers with 11 customizable buttons and an impressive onboard memory system. With 5 optional weights, you can adjust the feel of the Logitech G502 HERO to find the perfect balance for both gaming and office work.

The Logitech G502 HERO boasts a Hyper-Fast scrolling wheel that allows for both single-click scrolling and hyper-fast movements, making it a versatile option. However, it should be noted that this wired mouse weighs in at 121 grams without additional weights and may not be the most suitable option for those with small hands. Despite this, with its sleek design and impressive features, the G502 HERO is the top budget mouse currently available. To learn more about why this gaming mouse is such a great value, check out our full review of the Logitech G502 HERO.

The Logitech G305 Lightspeed Gaming Mouse is a great wireless budget gaming mouse that proves that gaming mice can be stylish, colorful, sleek, and affordable. It is perfect for gamers who want a portable and high-performance mouse. With a battery life of up to 250 hours, this mouse outlasts most wireless mice, while its HERO sensor rated at up to 12,000 DPI ensures that gamers sacrifice nothing when choosing this more portable and budget-friendly option. Additionally, the mouse is well-built and features programmable buttons, making it a great choice for gamers of all levels.

Excellent performance and battery life

Many customization options

Cons Too small for larger hands

Not rechargeable

This versatile and compact gaming mouse, the Logitech G305 Lightspeed Gaming Mouse, offers a plethora of customization options while being budget-friendly. Take your pick from five different colors, which include mint, black, blue, lavender, and white, to personalize your mouse. Plus, it won't weigh down your gaming experience with its lightweight design. You can find it for just $38 on Amazon or $40 at Best Buy.

The Logitech G305 makes connecting a breeze - just insert the Lightspeed dongle that comes with it into your computer's USB port, and you're good to go wirelessly for gaming. It's worth noting that while the mouse operates on a single AA battery and cannot be recharged, it boasts an impressive battery life of up to 250 hours, thanks to Logitech's innovative power-saving technology that adapts to your mouse usage. While some gamers may not be thrilled with this feature, those who are serious about gaming won't have to worry about their mouse dying on them during crucial moments.

The Logitech G305 Lightspeed Gaming Mouse boasts optical sensors that allow for seamless and responsive movements during gameplay. Its exceptional accuracy ratings further highlight the mouse's high-performance capabilities, which rival those of pricier wireless options, with a maximum DPI of 12,000. For those seeking a top-performing wireless gaming mouse that doesn't break the bank, be sure to read our comprehensive review of the Logitech G305 Lightspeed.

The SteelSeries Rival 3 Gaming Mouse is the ultimate wired gaming mouse that can cater to the needs of even the most skilled gamers. With mechanical switches that can last up to 60 million clicks and an ergonomic design that provides comfort during long gaming sessions, this mouse is built to last. The high-grade polymer frame ensures that the mouse is durable, while the TrueMove Core optical sensor provides precise 1:1 tracking with up to 8500 CPI and 300 IPS with 35 g acceleration. At a weight of only 77 g, this mouse is incredibly lightweight and easy to use. Additionally, with programmable buttons, you can customize your gaming experience to suit your needs.

Impressive RGB effects

Excellent sensor accuracy

Cons Not the most comfortable for palm-grips

Side buttons can be hard to reach

Despite the convenience of wireless mice, a wired mouse remains the optimal choice when it comes to performance for your money. With the SteelSeries Rival 3, you get the best of both worlds as it offers exceptional value with its TrueMove Core and PMW3331 sensor. Although its maximum DPI is lower than that of pricier alternatives, the SteelSeries Rival 3 surpasses expectations with its remarkable tracking capabilities during gameplay.

The SteelSeries Engine software allows for the customization of the Rival 3's 6 programmable buttons and impressive Prism RGB lighting. While technically ambidextrous, the buttons on the left side of the mouse are more accessible for right-handed users. Its compact size makes it a favorite among gamers who prefer claw and fingertip grips. With its exceptional performance, extensive customization options, and sleek design, the Rival 3 is undoubtedly one of the top budget gaming mice available.

The Razer Viper Mini is a top-performing gaming mouse that won't break the bank. With a price tag of $26, it's one of Razer's most affordable options, but it doesn't sacrifice performance or comfort. Its miniature size makes it a great choice for Esports competitors with small or medium sized-hands. The Viper Mini boasts optical mouse switches that register clicks in just .2 milliseconds using infrared light beams. For those on a budget, this mouse is a must-have. Stay tuned for our full review, including comparisons to other top gaming mice like the SteelSeries Rival 5.

weighing in at just 61g, this mouse boasts an impressive optical sensor with a DPI of 8500. The Razer Optical Switches provide a tactile and responsive feel, while the 1 Zone RGB Lighting adds a touch of personalization. With 6 programmable buttons and a Razer™ Speedflex Cable (USB Type-A) for connectivity, this mouse is perfect for Esports competition and its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver.

Cable resistant to dragging

Cons Not ideal for larger hands

DPI less than more expensive options

$26 at Walmart $65 at Amazon

A minimalist approach is favored when it comes to FPS mice, as excessive programmable buttons can be a hindrance. The Razer Viper Mini is a popular choice among Esports competitors due to its lightweight design, weighing in at a mere 61 grams, allowing for easy maneuverability. Accuracy and timing are critical in competitive FPS games like CS:GO and Apex Legends, and the Viper Mini delivers with its optical switches that use infrared light beams for precise button presses. Despite having an 8500 DPI, most Esports pros opt for lower sensitivities, making the Viper Mini a perfect fit for their needs.

The PTFE feet on the Viper Mini by Razer ensure that the mouse can glide with precision and swiftness. The SpeedFlex cable is also a great addition, as it resists snagging and makes the wired option just as good as a wireless one. This lightweight mouse is a delight for gamers who use claw or fingertip grips, allowing for swift and precise movements. However, with only 6 programmable buttons and 2 side buttons, it may not be the best choice for games that require more commands. Nonetheless, the Razer Viper Mini is an excellent option for aspiring Esports FPS players on a budget.

The Logitech G600 MMO Gaming Mouse is a budget-friendly option that delivers maximum functionality to gamers. With a total of 20 buttons, including 12 on the side for triggering attacks and spells, and the G-Shift button that doubles their functions, MMO gamers have all the commands they need at their disposal. The G600 boasts an optical DPI of 8200 and a 1-millisecond USB report rate, making it accurate enough for any game. Additionally, it has onboard memory that stores up to 3 profiles, allowing for quick access to settings on multiple computers. The mouse also features RGB lighting on the side buttons, making it easy to use in the dark while adding some gaming flair. At 133 grams, this wired mouse is a solid choice for gamers who demand the best.

3 on-board profiles

Solid construction

Cons Not suited for small hands

Some side buttons hard to access

The Logitech G600 is the perfect device for MMO gamers who rely on their mouse over their keyboards and require an abundance of buttons. This budget-friendly mouse is specifically designed for MMO titles such as World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV, providing players with easy access to all the necessary spells, attacks, and macros with just a touch of their fingers and thumbs. It's a rare find that meets the demands of the most discerning MMO players. You can purchase the Logitech G600 for $37 on Amazon or $39 at Best Buy.

Despite being released in 2012 at a higher price point, the G600 gaming mouse is now often available at a discounted price. Despite its age, this wired mouse boasts an impressive 20 programmable buttons, with the G-shift button providing even more functionality to the side buttons. With a maximum DPI of 8200, the G600 is well-suited for MMO and FPS games, and its RGB-illuminated side buttons serve as a constant reminder that it's a gaming mouse. However, due to its size and weight, the G600 may not be the best fit for those with small hands. Overall, the Logitech G600 is an excellent budget gaming mouse option for MMO players.

The ROCCAT Burst Pro stands out as a top-performing gaming mouse that boasts a uniquely engineered design. Its symmetrical ergonomic structure, made possible by the honeycomb shell, keeps its weight at an impressively light 68 grams. The PhantomFlex cable adds to the mouse's agility, providing a wired connection that feels wireless. The Titan Switch Optical can last over 100 million clicks and, when paired with the Owl-Eye sensor, delivers unparalleled precision at 16K DPI. The AIMO RGB lighting, which can display 16.8 million colors, shines brilliantly through the honeycomb shell, making the ROCCAT Burst Pro one of the most visually appealing gaming mice on the market.

PhantomFlex cable adds to its mobility

Optical sensor and switches perform well

Cons Lacks the number of buttons of other mice

Mouse housing can be too smooth to grip

The ROCCAT Burst Pro is a gamer's dream come true, providing a sleek and sophisticated RGB mouse without breaking the bank. ROCCAT, a brand under Turtle Beach, has created a gaming mouse that is both lightweight and jam-packed with features and impressive performance. With its 16K DPI Owl-Eye sensor, the wired mouse is a top choice for Esports competitors, allowing for swift and precise movements. The PhantomFlex cable seamlessly blends into the mouse, creating minimal drag during use.

The ROCCAT Burst Pro's honeycomb shell enhances the impact of its RGB lighting, which can be customized using the company's software to display over 16.8 million colors. This lightweight mouse delivers heavyweight performance and is an excellent option for gamers looking for a budget mouse that reflects their unique style. Meanwhile, the Cooler Master MM720 is another lightweight gaming mouse that features a honeycomb shell and RGB lighting, as well as an optical PixArt sensor with 32000 DPI. Its ultralight cable and PTFE feet make it a durable option that glides smoothly across surfaces.

Weight 49 gramsSensor and DPI Optical, 16K DPISwitches OpticalRGB Lighting YesConnectivity Wired, USBWireless No Pros Easy to move and still accurate

Includes premium PTFE feet

Low click latency

Cons Only 2 side buttons

Odd placement of side buttons

$23 at Amazon $39 at Newegg

Cooler Master may be primarily known for its PC cases, fans, and cooling products, but their Storm mouse had garnered a loyal following until the MM720 took its place in 2020. Both mice are favored by Esports competitors for their lightweight design and precision on mouse pads. The MM720's honeycomb body contributes to its impressive 49-gram weight without compromising durability, and its RGB lighting effects give it a unique appearance with illumination peeking through the honeycomb shell.

The Cooler Master MM720 is particularly exceptional in FPS games, boasting minimal click latency and a top-of-the-line PixArt 32,000 DPI optical sensor. Its simplicity, however, may not be suited for MMO titles or games requiring a multitude of commands due to its limited two side buttons. Nonetheless, it remains a top contender in the market for its exceptional agility and performance, making it an excellent budget option for gamers seeking speed and accuracy.

The Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse may not have been designed specifically for gaming, but its unique ergonomic design makes it an ideal option for left-handed players. With a maximum DPI of 4,000, it surpasses Logitech's G300s. Additionally, the battery life is impressive, lasting up to 24 months with regular use. Although it may require an unusual grip, this mouse provides utmost comfort and can help alleviate wrist pain in the long run. For left-handed gamers in need of a solution for both work and play, the Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse is definitely worth considering. To learn more about gaming advantages of a lightweight mouse, check out our full review of the Cooler Master MM720.

Rewritten fragment: The Logitech Advanced Optical Tracking 4K sensor and DPI ensure precise movement and accuracy, while the mechanical switches provide tactile feedback for a satisfying click with every press. With eight programmable buttons, the mouse can be customized to fit your specific needs. The wireless connectivity options include USB and BlueTooth, and the mouse boasts a battery life of up to 24 months with AA batteries. Additionally, the multi-device pairing feature allows you to seamlessly switch between multiple devices. The mouse's ergonomic design provides comfort and support during extended use, and the four remappable buttons add to its versatility.

Tons of options for different hand types

Made with recycled plastic

Cons Max DPI is 4,000

Looks weird

The Logitech Lift vertical mouse may not resemble traditional gaming mice, but don't be fooled – it boasts all the necessary features for gamers, including a modern ergonomic design. The unique shape provides a comfortable grip angle, and the wide base offers a resting place for your hand. Despite being wireless, this mouse remains affordable at under $100 while maintaining top-notch performance.

This ultra-lightweight mouse, weighing a mere half ounce with a single AA battery, is available in a variety of colors, sizes, and even left-handed orientation. With the ability to connect with up to three multi-OS devices via bluetooth or USB receiver, the Logitech Lift is ideal for busy office settings. It boasts four programmable buttons in addition to its main clickers, and its scroll wheel utilizes cutting-edge technology to enhance speed and precision. Although its DPI maxes out at 4K, it's more than enough for most non-competitive gamers, including those who enjoy playing shooters. Don't forget to check out our comprehensive review of the Razer DeathAdder V3 wired gaming mouse.

The Corsair M55 RGB Pro is an excellent choice for left-handed gamers who want an ambidextrous mouse that won't break the bank. With its maximum DPI of 12,400, it's suitable for most gamers and genres, except for highly competitive shooters. The mouse has two buttons on each side, studded texture, RGB lighting, and a total of 8 programmable buttons, so you can customize the keys to suit your gameplay. Additionally, the shape and size of the mouse are ergonomic, making it comfortable for extended play sessions. While it may not be as powerful as some other options, the Corsair M55 RGB Pro's specs at this price point are hard to beat. Its solid build makes it an excellent value.

Accurate sensor

Premium braided cable

Cons Inconsistent sensitivity

Lack of weight makes it difficult to control

The challenge of finding a good quality gaming mouse for left-handed individuals on a budget can be daunting. However, the Corsair M55 RGB Pro offers a solution with its impressive performance and ambidextrous design. Even better, the mouse can be easily configured for left-handed use using Corsair's software, allowing for customization of the thumb buttons on both sides. And with prices as low as $40 on Amazon and $50 at Walmart, the M55 RGB Pro is the ideal choice for left-handed gamers on a tight budget.

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is a high-performing gaming mouse that defies its lightweight design, weighing in at only 53 grams. Despite its small size, the mouse is still comfortable to use for those with medium-sized hands. Boasting a 26,000 DPI and a maximum tracking speed of 650 IPS, the Pulsefire Haste 2 outperforms its predecessor. Additionally, the custom HyperX switches are incredibly durable and built to last up to 100 million clicks. It's no wonder the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is considered the best budget gaming mouse option by many.

Weight 53 gramsSensor and DPI Optical, 26,000 DPISwitches Custom HyperXRGB Lighting YesProgrammable Buttons 6IPS 650Polling Rate 8000 Hz Pros Lightweight but decently sized

Very precise sensor

Includes optional grip tape and PTFE skates

Cons Limited use of RGB lighting

Lacks onboard profile storage

$60 at Amazon $60 at Best Buy

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 represents a notable update to its predecessor, showcasing the manufacturer's commitment to incremental but impactful enhancements for gaming mice. Unlike the original model, the Haste 2 forgoes a honeycomb exterior, contributing to its feather-light 53-gram weight. This makes it an ideal choice for Esports players seeking a competitive advantage in FPS games. Additionally, the taller shell design accommodates a wider range of grip styles, including palm grips, for added comfort.

With a DPI of 26K, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 ranks among the most sensitive gaming mice on the market. Its polling rate of 8000Hz is even more impressive, virtually eliminating latency and providing gamers with lightning-fast response times. Thanks to its low-friction feet and minimal weight, the Haste 2 glides seamlessly across mousepads, allowing for lightning-fast gameplay. The new and improved HyperFlex 2 cable, made with strong and durable paracord material, further enhances the mouse's mobility and maneuverability.

HyperX has once again proven that a limited budget doesn't have to compromise the quality of a mouse's build. The company has designed its own switches that boast an impressive lifespan of up to 100 million clicks. However, the Haste 2's implementation of RGB lighting may leave something to be desired, as it is only present along the scroll wheel. Despite this, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 stands out for its exceptional performance, making it a formidable competitor in any esports competition. Its taller profile and optional grip tape also make it a top pick for budget-conscious gamers from all walks of life.

How to Choose a Budget Gaming Mouse

Shopping for a budget gaming mouse can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of options available. To make the process easier, it's important to identify the most important factors that meet individual needs. By narrowing down the search, players can save time and focus on finding a mouse that offers precision, responsiveness, and comfort. When shopping for a budget gaming mouse, keep in mind the importance of these key factors to ensure an optimal gaming experience.

Price

When searching for an affordable gaming mouse, it's important to consider cost as a major factor. The majority of gaming mice fall within the price range of $25 to $150. While a low-priced mouse can suffice, it's typically recommended to opt for a gaming mouse priced around $50 as it offers a good balance of performance and affordability.

Number of buttons

When choosing a mouse, it's important to consider how it will be used. For tasks like MMO gaming and office work, a mouse with more programmable buttons may be necessary, whereas basic browsing and competitive FPS gaming may require fewer. Cheaper mice typically only come with the standard three to five buttons, including the two main clickers, while mid-range options usually include at least two additional buttons.

Wired vs. wireless

While there may not be a significant difference in performance between wireless and wired gaming mice, individual preferences can influence a player's choice. Those who favor wireless mice should expect to pay a premium, even for basic features, while wired mouse enthusiasts can easily find affordable options.

Durability

The lifespan of a gaming mouse is influenced by its build quality and internal software. To ensure longevity, players should examine the specifications and customer feedback before purchasing a mouse. If a player intends to upgrade to a special edition or a newer version of their preferred mouse within a few months, durability may not be a prime concern. However, if the player requires a long-lasting gaming mouse, investing in a more expensive, durable option is advisable.

Software compatibility

While there are many affordable gaming mice with customizable features, the compatibility of these mice with other peripherals is often overlooked. Although some gamers may not be bothered by the software required for their gaming mouse, others who prefer to use equipment from the same brand may experience frustration when their gear does not work seamlessly together. Although it may seem insignificant to some, avid gamers who have invested in brands like Razer or Logitech may find it beneficial to stick with their trusted names for a smoother gaming experience.

How Does a Budget Limit Gaming Mouse Options?

Investing more money into a gaming mouse can have its advantages, but it's important to note that there are still plenty of high-quality options available for those on a tighter budget. Many of the top contenders in the budget category come with wires attached, and while wireless versions of these mice may offer a cord-free experience, they often come with a much higher price tag without any significant additional benefits. For gamers who prioritize a cord-free setup, a budget mouse may not be the most practical choice.

Gaming mice with more programmable buttons and customization options often come with an increased budget. This is especially true for MMO mice, which require peripherals with more buttons than the average gaming mouse. However, high-end wireless mice like the Razer NAGA V2 Pro allow for customization with interchangeable side plates, making them suitable for a wider range of games. For those on a budget, the Logitech G600 wired mouse is a great option for MMO games. With a plethora of options available, there is a gaming mouse out there for everyone, no matter their budget or preferences.

FAQ

Q: What is DPI?

In short, DPI is the speed at which a mouse detects movement. The more DPI your mouse has, the more sensitive it is to your movements.

Q: Which is better, a wireless or wired mouse?

Either wired or wireless mice are good for gaming. There are little to no latency issues between two mice equal in quality.

Q: What are some features to look out for on a gaming mouse?

When searching for a gaming mouse for your PC, there are a variety of features to keep in mind. These can range from programmable buttons to alternative charging options and even media controls.