The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Wired Gaming Mouse
Get ahead of the game with the ultimate wired gaming mouse From Corsair to Razer, and Logitech, we've got you covered with the top-performing wired gaming mice in 2023 Say goodbye to lag and hello to precision with the best wired gaming mice on the market
The popularity of wireless mice may be on the rise, but there are still gamers who swear by the advantages of a wired gaming mouse. For one, there's no need to worry about battery life during extended gaming sessions, and a wired mouse often comes at a more affordable price point for those who tend to wear out their peripherals quickly. And despite the advancements in wireless technology, wired gaming mice still offer unparalleled performance and precision, making them the industry standard.
When it comes to wired gaming mice, there are plenty of options to suit the needs of every gamer. But choosing the right one requires some consideration, such as:
When selecting a gaming mouse, factors such as cost, size, number of buttons, amount of RGB lighting, sensor type, and max DPI should be considered. MMO players may prefer mice with many side buttons for macro customization, while FPS gamers may prioritize agility and precision. Wired mice with RGB lighting can provide continuous illumination through USB power. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the ideal gaming mouse.
The world of gaming mice is vast and can be overwhelming to navigate. To help you out, we've compiled a list of the best wired gaming mice on the market. From budget options to high-end models, there's something for everyone. Check out our top picks below.
HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wired Gaming Mouse - Best HyperX Wired Gaming Mouse, available for $60 at Amazon.
Top Wired Gaming Mice: Our Picks
The Razer DeathAdder V3 Wired Gaming Mouse is a top pick for gamers looking for a high-performing mouse. With a unique shape that accommodates medium and large hands, this lightweight mouse boasts a 30K optical sensor that allows for quick movement on any surface. The Smart Tracking feature enables more accurate lift-off distances, while the Gen 3 Optical Switches provide instant response and long-lasting satisfaction with 90 million clicks. Although it has fewer buttons than some comparable mice, the DeathAdder V3's solid build quality and low click latency make it a great choice for serious gamers. Get yours for $54.99 at Amazon or $55 at Best Buy.
Compared to its predecessor, the wired Razer DeathAdder V3 boasts a longer and more curved shell, making it easier to handle for medium and large hands. However, the most notable difference is its weight, with the V3 weighing in at a mere 59 grams compared to the V2's 82 grams. This weight reduction will undoubtedly appeal to competitive FPS players who seek a lightweight and agile mouse to effortlessly navigate their way around the mousepad and onto new targets. Despite the weight reduction, the Razer DeathAdder V3 still maintains a speedy 750 inches per second (IPS) tracking speed.
The Razer DeathAdder V3 boasts a sleek and understated design, featuring an all-black exterior without any distracting RGB lighting. The left and right buttons now have a noticeable split extending halfway down the shell, a change from previous DeathAdder models. Additionally, the V3 has a smoother coating on its body, providing a natural grip for users. The SpeedFlex cable attached to the mouse allows for maximum flexibility without the annoyance of snags. Competitive gamers will appreciate the V3's exceptional performance, with a staggering DPI of 30K and the ability to recognize lift-off points with greater accuracy. This lightweight Esports mouse sets a new standard for gaming mice and is currently the best option available.
The Cooler Master MM720 gaming mouse is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers. It boasts an optical PixArt sensor with a resolution of up to 32000 DPI, making it highly responsive and accurate. The honeycomb shell design of the MM720 reduces its weight, while its ultralight cable and tough PTFE feet ensure smooth movement on any surface. Additionally, the mouse features RGB lighting for a stylish look. Don't forget to check out our full review of the Razer DeathAdder V3.
The Cooler Master MM720 gaming mouse offers an impressive combination of features despite its budget-friendly price. With its lightweight and ergonomic design, players can enjoy bright RGB lighting and a powerful 16K DPI sensor without sacrificing durability. The honeycomb shell and braided cord help to ensure longevity and prevent snags. While it may not be the best fit for larger hands, the MM720 is a great choice for gamers on a budget, especially when it frequently goes on sale for under $25.
The Cooler Master MM720 doesn't disappoint in terms of specs either, boasting an adjustable sensor that can reach up to 32K DPI. Additionally, the mouse offers six buttons in total, allowing players to personalize the lighting or remap the side buttons to their liking. The contoured sides of the mouse are a great feature, although the overall size of the device could be larger. Nevertheless, the MM720 is the perfect fit for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a fingertip grip. Its porous design ensures ample textured grip and keeps the player's hand cool during extended gaming sessions.
Elevate your gaming experience with the Razer Basilisk V3 gaming mouse, designed for the best FPS games. Equipped with a Razer Focus+ 26K DPI sensor, this wired mouse offers precise tracking and can store up to 5 on-board memory profiles with 11 programmable buttons. The HyperScroll tilt wheel provides a smooth, free spin or tactile cycling mode for easy scrolling, and the 11 Razer Chroma RGB lighting zones offer impressive visual effects. Don't settle for less - get the Razer Basilisk V3 gaming mouse now for an unbeatable gaming experience.
For gamers seeking accuracy and control, a wired gaming mouse is the preferred choice despite the prevalence of cross-platform FPS games that utilize controllers. Among the top picks for competitive FPS players is the Razer Basilisk V3, which boasts exceptional performance, customization options, and an appealing design. This advanced gaming mouse features an ultra-precise 26K DPI optical sensor and 11 programmable buttons, while its HyperScroll tilt wheel takes functionality to the next level, enabling seamless weapon selection and easy execution of game commands in free-spin scrolling mode.
The Razer Basilisk V3 is designed to cater specifically to FPS gamers, equipped with 11 programmable buttons and pre-loaded profiles for popular shooting games. In addition to its impressive functionality, the mouse boasts 11 LEDs that are integrated into Razer's Chroma lighting ecosystem, including underglow lighting that adds a unique visual element to gameplay. Check out our comprehensive review of the Razer Basilisk V3 Gaming Mouse for more information.
The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite gaming mouse is a top-tier option for MOBA and MMO players, as well as fans of sports games. With an accurate optical sensor capable of up to 18,000 DPI and 50 million click-rated Omron switches, this mouse is built to last. The 17 fully programmable buttons allow for easy execution of multiple tasks and complex macros with just one push of a button. While some users may find the macro buttons to be a bit too close together and the construction to be a bit bulky, overall the Scimitar RGB Elite is an ergonomically sound and extremely well-built gaming mouse. Currently priced at $73 on Amazon and $74 at Best Buy, it's a great investment for serious gamers.
Finding the perfect wired gaming mouse for MMO gamers who prioritize mouse usage over keyboards can be a challenging task. With popular MMO games such as World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV requiring an extensive range of commands to advance to higher levels, even the best gaming mouse options often fall short in terms of buttons. However, the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite stands apart as a viable option for MMO and MOBA gamers, with its 18K DPI PMW3391 optical sensor delivering accurate tracking even for FPS titles.
The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite boasts a whopping 17 programmable buttons, with the majority of them located on the left side of the mouse. For gamers who are concerned about accidentally pressing the side buttons, the mouse features a slider that allows for convenient repositioning. While the Scimitar RGB Elite may be too wide and bulky for fast-paced shooters that require frequent and rapid movements, its impressive RGB effects layout and exceptional durability make it an excellent choice for MMO gamers who spend hours grinding quests.
The Roccat Kone XP gaming mouse is a top-of-the-line option for serious gamers. Its Krystal 4D wheel offers unique left and right lateral inputs in addition to traditional vertical click and scroll functions, while the wheel's see-through surface diffuses the mouse's stunning RGB lighting. The mouse also features Titan optical switches, which are not only faster than mechanical switches, but also boast a lifespan of 100 million clicks. With Roccat's duplication technology, the 15 buttons on the mouse offer an impressive 29 different button functions. However, some users may find the thumb buttons difficult to locate and the mouse itself is on the heavier side. Overall, the Roccat Kone XP is an excellent choice for gamers who demand both performance and style. Available for $59 on Amazon and $70 at Best Buy.
The Roccat Kone XP boasts a visually stunning RGB lighting system with 22 LED zones and a translucent Krystal 4D scroll wheel that elevates its overall aesthetic appeal. It's a wired gaming mouse that's perfect for RGB enthusiasts who prefer a more understated lighting package. With 15 programmable buttons and four scroll wheel actions, it's also a top choice for FPS and MMO gamers. The Easy-Shift[+] button adds to its versatility, providing 29 possible button functions. Additionally, it's more agile than other options due to Roccat's lightweight PhantomFlex cable, although it is slightly heavier.
With a maximum DPI of 19K, Titan optical switches that are virtually indestructible, and a visually stunning design that accentuates RGB lighting effects, the Roccat Kone XP is the ultimate gaming mouse for anyone seeking a visually captivating peripheral to complement their setup.
The Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ Adjustable Wired Gaming Mouse boasts a truly unique and customizable design, making it the best ergonomic wired gaming mouse for serious gamers. With a 16,000 DPI sensor and durable OMRON switches rated to last over 50 million clicks, this mouse is built to withstand even the most intense gaming sessions. Its adjustable palm rest accommodates a variety of grip styles, while swappable parts like alternative pinkie rests provide additional customization options. The R.A.T. 8+ also has an adjustable weight system, making it ideal for both MMO and FPS titles. With 11 programmable buttons, 4 internally stored user profiles, and Chameleon RGB software for custom lighting effects, the R.A.T. 8+ is a versatile and reliable choice for gamers looking to take their gameplay to the next level. However, at 157 grams, it may not be the best option for those seeking a lightweight and portable mouse, and its complexity may be intimidating for some users. Available for purchase at $100 on Amazon and Walmart.
The Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ may have survived the company's bankruptcy in 2017, but its unique design continues to stand out in the world of gaming peripherals. While simplicity was not a priority for the R.A.T. 8+ designers, the mouse's complexity is essential for its ergonomic nature. As with ergonomic gaming chairs, an ergonomic mouse can alleviate chronic wrist and finger discomfort caused by extended gaming sessions.
One of the standout features of the R.A.T. 8+ is its ability to adjust the position of the palm rest using a sliding mechanism, catering to different grip preferences. While other mice may allow users to swap left or right panels, the R.A.T. 8+ takes it a step further with a swappable palm rest. Depending on which part a gamer selects, the R.A.T. 8+ is ideal for palm, claw, or fingertip grips. Additionally, users can add weights to the mouse to achieve a more or less substantial feel.
Gamers can customize the Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ to fit their unique hand shape and button placement preferences, despite its futuristic appearance. The mouse's performance also impresses, boasting a maximum DPI of 16K and 50G of acceleration thanks to the Pixart PMW 3389 optical sensor. With its customizable design, the Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ is the ultimate ergonomic gaming mouse that caters to all users, regardless of their grip or device size preferences.
The Corsair M55 RGB Pro is an affordable and reliable ambidextrous gaming mouse that won't disappoint. It boasts a maximum DPI of 12,400, making it suitable for most gamers, even those not playing highly competitive shooters. With two buttons on each side, studded texture, and RGB lighting, left-handed players will feel right at home. The mouse features eight programmable buttons, enabling players to customize assigned keys to suit any genre of gameplay. Additionally, the shape and size of the mouse provide a comfortable and ergonomic experience for hours of play. While it may not be as powerful as some other options, its combination of specs and price is hard to beat.
Gamers who are left-handed often find themselves limited in their options when it comes to wired gaming mice. The selection of mice specifically designed for left-handers is often scarce and hard to come by. However, gamers who are ambidextrous have a wider range of options to choose from, including the Corsair M55 RGB Pro. Despite its budget-friendly price point, this lightweight mouse boasts an impressive array of features, including two buttons on each side to accommodate both left and right-handed users. Additionally, the M55 RGB Pro offers superior RGB lighting compared to other, more expensive wired gaming mice currently on the market. It's worth noting that those who prefer heavier mice may want to explore other options, as the M55 RGB Pro weighs in at a mere 86 grams.
For left-handed gamers who are looking for a mouse tailored to their specific needs, the Razer Naga Left Handed Edition may seem like an attractive option. However, this device comes with a high price tag and a weight of 109 grams. Fortunately, the more lightweight and nimble Corsair M55 RGB Pro offers 8 programmable buttons and a DPI of 12,400, making it a great choice for most southpaw gamers.
The Corsair Nightsword RGB is the ultimate wired gaming mouse for gamers who prioritize comfort and performance. Its ergonomic design fits perfectly in the hand, while the vivid RGB lights add a touch of style to any gaming setup. With programmable buttons, players can easily personalize their gaming experience and take their gameplay to the next level. Additionally, the Nightsword RGB boasts an adjustable weight feature and tactile left and right-click buttons, making it a top choice for serious gamers. While the outer shell's indents may collect gunk over time, the overall design is sleek and impressive. The only downside is the difficulty in accessing the sniper button. Get yours today for just $88 on Amazon.
The Corsair NightSword RGB is the ultimate gaming mouse for right-handed players who crave fast-paced action in FPS or battle arena games. Boasting 10 programmable buttons that can be easily customized to cater to a gamer's preferences, this mouse is a force to be reckoned with. With an optical sensor that can handle up to 18,000 DPI, the Corsair NightSword RGB is in a league of its own, rivaling the top gaming mice from Razor and Logitech.
Featuring a healthy dose of iCue RGB lighting throughout its body, the Corsair NightSword RGB is a feast for the eyes. While other mice experiment with various smooth surfaces that supposedly enhance grip, the Corsair NightSword RGB takes no chances. Its textured shell ensures that the mouse practically sticks to your palms, giving you the ultimate control. However, it's worth noting that the texture may attract dust and grime, so you may need to clean it more often.
The Corsair NightSword RGB features adjustable weights that can be placed in 6 different locations to customize the balance and weight of the mouse for optimal control. The device also offers customizable RGB lighting through an exclusive app, making it easy to adjust. Weighing between 119 to 141 grams, the NightSword RGB is larger than most gaming mice, but this size offers a comfortable grip for extended gameplay. Overall, the NightSword RGB is the top gaming mouse offered by Corsair.
Elevate your gaming experience with the Logitech G203 Lightsync, the best wired gaming mouse from Logitech. Its high-quality gaming sensors respond precisely to movements, giving you the edge you need to dominate your opponents. The vibrant Lightsync RGB offers a range of color variables across synced devices, allowing you to play games in style. With the Logitech G HUB software, you can choose from preset color schemes or create your own to achieve even more RGB versatility.
Featuring 8,000 DPI and six programmable buttons, the Logitech G203 Lightsync is the perfect mouse for budget-conscious gamers who value accuracy and performance. While the improved RGB lighting compared to Prodigy and low click latency are definite pros, this mouse may not be the most ergonomic option for some users and could be too small for larger hands. Get yours now for only $26 at Amazon or $40 at Best Buy.
The Logitech G203 Lightsync may not be the most expensive gaming mouse out there, but it certainly holds its own. Its simple yet effective design makes it a popular choice among gamers, and its affordability makes it a top contender in the market. Despite its minimalist appearance, the Logitech G203 Lightsync packs a punch with all the necessary features for an optimal gaming experience. Its Lightspeed technology ensures reliable performance at high speeds, and with 8,000 DPI, it's more than capable of meeting the demands of most PC gamers. Plus, the added touch of customizable RGB lighting adds a stylish flair to any gaming setup. And with the option to sync with other Logitech products, the G203 Lightsync becomes an even more valuable addition to any gamer's collection.
The Razer Viper Mini is a top-performing gaming mouse that doesn't compromise on comfort or functionality. Despite its small size, this wired gaming mouse is perfect for Esports competitors with small or medium-sized hands. One of the most affordable gaming mice offered by Razer, the Viper Mini boasts optical mouse switches that register clicks at an impressive .2 milliseconds using infrared light beams. At just 61 grams, this lightweight yet competition-grade mouse is perfect for gamers who demand speed and accuracy. While it may not be the best option for those with larger hands, the Viper Mini's cable is resistant to dragging and its six programmable buttons make it a versatile choice for any gaming setup. However, its CPI range may lag behind more expensive options. At Walmart, you can snag the Razer Viper Mini for just $26, while it's available for $65 on Amazon.
The Razor Viper Mini is a game-changer for gamers who want a more streamlined approach to their gaming gear. No longer will players have to endure the hassle of maneuvering a bulky wired mouse around a pad. This compact gaming mouse offers the same profile as the full-sized Viper by Razor, but in a smaller and lighter package. The Razor Viper Mini is one of the lightest gaming mice on the market, making it easy to handle and control. It's the perfect choice for both hardcore and casual gamers who want a more controlled grip and a lighter-density build.
Despite its small size, the Razor Viper Mini still packs a punch with a high DPI sensor that can handle 8,500 DPI, more than enough for most games. The mouse also features extra thumb buttons for added versatility and generous RGB lighting for a clean and simplistic look that will complement any PC rig style. And with a cable that resists getting caught on surfaces, players can be confident that nothing will interrupt their game. The Razor Viper Mini is the ultimate gaming mouse for those who want a more streamlined and efficient gaming experience.
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wired Gaming Mouse is a top-performing device that packs a punch despite its lightweight design. Weighing only 53 grams, it is one of the lightest gaming mice available in the market. The mouse is comfortable for medium-sized hands and boasts a 26,000 DPI and a maximum tracking speed of 650 IPS, making it perfect for gamers who demand precision and speed. Additionally, the custom HyperX switches are more durable than any gaming mouse switches, making them last up to 100 million clicks. The Pulsefire Haste 2 also features six programmable buttons, RGB lighting, and optional grip tape and PTFE skates. Though it lacks onboard profile storage and has limited use of RGB lighting, this mouse is still an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize performance and comfort. You can purchase the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 for $60 at Amazon or Best Buy.
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 is a prime contender for any list of top gaming mice, having made quite an impression with its original release in 2017. What sets this latest wired mouse apart from its predecessor is its significantly lighter weight of just 53 grams, without compromising on size. In fact, it is both taller and wider than the first Pulsefire Haste, making it an ideal choice for those with both claw and palm grips.
Featuring a standard 6-button layout, the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 allows for complete customization of all buttons through the HyperX NGENUITY app. Its impressive DPI of 26,000 and tracking rate of up to 650 IPS make it a top pick for competitive gaming, where performance is key over a multitude of buttons.
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 may seem like your run-of-the-mill gaming mouse, but it boasts customizable RGB lighting on its scroll wheel and comes in a sleek black or white color scheme. Gamers can also opt to add the included side grip tape and PTFE feet for added comfort and precision. What sets this mouse apart, however, is its impressive durability and performance, perfect for competitive Esports. The HyperFlex 2 cable is made of paracord-type material, ensuring it won't snag during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, HyperX has developed their own switch that can withstand 100 million clicks, making this mouse a reliable choice for gamers of all grip styles.
Are Wired Mice an Endangered Species?
Wireless devices are becoming more prevalent in the market each year, while wired mice are becoming less common. Although wireless mice are popular among gamers, Esports competitors prefer wired mice, headsets, and keyboards due to the potential risks of battery failure or signal interference. However, with the accuracy and low latencies of most wireless mice, gamers are not at a disadvantage using them compared to wired options. Those on a tight budget can still save money by choosing a wired gaming mouse, eliminating the need for regular recharging. Additionally, USB cords have become lighter and tangle-resistant, making it less of a hassle to navigate around a mousepad or desk surface.
With a plethora of wired gaming mice still available on the market, the wired vs wireless debate is set to continue for the foreseeable future. Whether gamers are in search of a lightweight and agile device suitable for fast-paced FPS games, or a larger peripheral with an abundance of buttons for mastering the MOBA scene, a dependable and battle-tested wired gaming mouse is readily available.
How to Choose the Best Gaming Mouse for You:
The Razer DeathAdder V3 is a great choice for gamers looking for a comfortable grip and good value for their money. Its shape and size are accommodating to medium and large hands, and its 30K optical sensor allows for quick and accurate movement on any surface. With Gen 3 Optical Switches that last for 90 million clicks, the DeathAdder V3 is a durable option for any gamer.
At only 59 grams, the Razer DeathAdder V3 boasts an impressive optical sensor with a maximum DPI of 30K. Its longer, yet lightweight design and low click latency make it a top choice for gamers, and its solid build quality ensures long-lasting durability. While it may have fewer buttons than some comparable mice, its mid-range price point of $54.99 on Amazon and $55 at Best Buy make it an accessible option for most gamers.
FAQ
When it comes to purchasing a mouse, it is essential to take into account the latency issues and input lag. In order to minimize any possible lag, opting for a wired mouse is the ideal choice. Although high-quality wireless mice may not have any noticeable lag, using a wired mouse eliminates the chances of experiencing any input lag whatsoever.
Q: Are wired mice still better for gaming?
Wired mice provide a reliable and consistent connection to the computer, which is crucial for gamers who need precise and responsive movements. Additionally, wired mice do not suffer from interference or connectivity issues that can occur with wireless mice.
Q: Do wired mice need charging?
Many factors affect a mouse's longevity, including usage, environment, dust, and heat. If owners take good care of their mice, it can last up to 2-3 years with consistent use.
