The Ultimate Guide to Top Gaming Mice for Under $50 in 2023
Discover the ultimate selection of top-notch gaming mice under $50 for 2023 Explore various categories, making it easier to find the perfect gaming mouse within your budget Unleash your gaming potential without breaking the bank
Having a reliable gaming mouse is crucial for any gaming setup. However, with numerous options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. The good news is that there are plenty of choices within every budget. Even those looking for an affordable gaming mouse can find one that perfectly suits their needs. While the budget segment may not have a wide range of wireless gaming mice, there are still some options that offer excellent performance and features.
Just as gaming keyboards require the right switches, size, and ergonomic design, gaming mice need to be comfortable to use while delivering precise performance and useful features that gamers actually want. Unlike keyboards, gaming mice endure more wear and tear as they are constantly grabbed and moved, especially during intense gaming sessions. Over the years, cheap gaming mice have improved significantly, with features that were once exclusive to more expensive options now available in the budget market.
When purchasing a gaming mouse, it is crucial to consider a few key components, starting with the size. This factor holds immense importance as there is no universal fit for gaming mice.
Shape: A mouse can either have an ergonomic design that perfectly fits the shape of the right hand or an ambidextrous design that enables left-handed usage.
Weight: The weight of a gaming mouse is another crucial aspect to consider. Professional gamers favor lightweight mice as they facilitate faster movements and reduce fatigue.
Connectivity: Wireless technology has reached a point where it’s just as good as a wired mouse, without the hassle of a cable.
Best Overall Gaming Mouse Under $50 $40 at Razer
Best Wireless Gaming Mouse Under $50 See at Amazon
Best Wireless Logitech Gaming Mouse Under $50 $48 at Newegg
Best Lightweight Gaming Mouse Under $50 $30 at Walmart
Best RGB Gaming Mouse Under $50 $30 at Best Buy
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Best Ergonomic Gaming Mouse Under $50 $50 at Best Buy
Best Wired Logitech Gaming Mouse Under $50 $41 at Amazon
The Best Gaming Mice for under $50 in 2023
The Viper Mini is a top choice for gamers looking for an affordable and high-performing gaming mouse. Despite its small size, it offers excellent performance and comfort. The Viper Mini is particularly well-suited for Esports competitors with small or medium-sized hands. Its optical mouse switches use infrared light beams for ultra-fast click registration, with a response time of just .2 milliseconds.
Specifications:
- Weight: 61g
- Sensor and DPI: Optical, 8500
- Switches: Razer Optical Switches
- RGB Lighting: 1 Zone
- Programmable Buttons: 6
- Connectivity: Razer™ Speedflex Cable (USB Type-A)
- Wireless: No
- Battery Life: N/A
- Compatibility: N/A
Pros:
- Precise sensor with good DPI range
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Easy to access DPI button
Cons Can be too small for some
Only 1 onboard profile
Check out the Razer Viper Mini on Amazon, priced at $40. This gaming mouse is compact and lightweight, designed for a straightforward gaming experience. It features an ambidextrous design with two extra buttons on the left side. The Viper Mini is modeled after the popular Razer Viper line, including the V2 Pro, Ultimate, and V3 HyperSpeed models. Measuring at 118.3 mm long and 61.4 mm wide, it is a smaller mouse. Weighing only 61 grams and equipped with 100% PTFE feet and Razer's Speedflex cable, it glides effortlessly across most mouse pads.
The Razer Viper Mini boasts a PixArt 3359 optical sensor, offering a maximum sensitivity (DPI) of 8500. Although this may seem low compared to other options available, it is more than adequate even for highly competitive games. With a total of six programmable buttons and Razer's optical switches, which are rated for 50 million clicks, users can expect precise and reliable performance.
In addition, the gaming mouse features Razer Chroma RGB Underglow that illuminates not only the Razer logo on top but also the surrounding area. To adjust the DPI settings, there is a conveniently placed button on the top right, just below the scroll wheel, which is a common feature seen in mice these days.
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The DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed is a top wireless gaming mouse option for under $50. This ergonomic mouse is part of the popular DeathAdder series and features an optical sensor with a maximum DPI of 14000. The 2nd Gen Razer mechanical switches are designed to withstand up to 60 million clicks. With 100% PTFE feet and no cable, this mouse offers exceptional mobility. Its size ensures a comfortable grip for most hand sizes. Additionally, the DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed includes a hybrid battery slot that can accommodate either AA or AAA batteries. On a 2.4 GHz connection, it provides a battery life of up to 235 hours, while with Bluetooth LE, it can last up to 615 hours.
Specifications:
- Weight: 103 grams
- Sensor and DPI: Optical sensor, maximum 14000 DPI
- Switches: 2nd Gen Razer Mechanical switches
- RGB Lighting: None
- Programmable Buttons: 7
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth
- Battery Life: Up to 235 hours on 2.4 GHz, up to 615 hours on Bluetooth
- Battery Type: AA or AAA
- DPI: Up to 14000
- Polling Rate: 1000 Hz
- Dimensions: 127x70.1x42.7 mm
- Color Options: Black
- Pros: Provides a comfortable shape for most hand sizes.
Extra customizable buttons
Hybrid battery slot
Cons No RGB lighting
Relatively low battery life with 2.4 GHz connection
Check out the DeathAdder V2 X HyperSpeed on Amazon. This wireless gaming mouse offers an affordable option with an ergonomic design. With dimensions of 127x70.1x42.7 mm and a weight of 103 grams (including the battery), it may not be the most compact or lightweight choice, but it provides a comfortable grip for most hand sizes.
The improved gaming mouse boasts an optical sensor with a maximum DPI of 14000 and utilizes 2nd Gen Razer mechanical switches designed to withstand 60 million clicks. It grants users with seven programmable buttons, including two conveniently placed on the right side near the thumb rest, and two more on the edge of the left click button. Its undyed 100% PTFE feet enables smooth gliding across various surfaces.
The DeathAdder V2 X HyperSpeed incorporates a hybrid battery slot compatible with either AA or AAA batteries, although only one type can be used at a time. It also features a slot for the 2.4 GHz dongle, and the absence of RGB lighting contributes to an extended battery life while maintaining a lightweight design and affordable price. With the 2.4 GHz connection, Razer claims a battery life of up to 235 hours, while Bluetooth LE paired with an AA battery can provide a staggering 615 hours of usage.
Equipped with 6 programmable buttons, including a conveniently placed DPI button on the top, the Logitech G305 allows for customizable controls. The advanced HERO sensor offers a high DPI of up to 12,000, ensuring precise tracking. With a maximum acceleration of 40g, this mouse is on par with other top-performing Logitech models. Moreover, it boasts an industry-standard report rate of 1ms, guaranteeing a smooth and responsive gaming experience.
Weight: 99 grams
Sensor and DPI: HERO™ sensor with 12,000 DPI
Number of switches: 6
RGB Lighting: Absent
Programmable Buttons: Present
Connectivity: LIGHTSPEED wireless technology
Wireless: Yes
Battery Life: 250 hours
Battery Type: AA
Multi-Device Pairing: Yes
Pros: Various color options available
Cons: Reliable left and right clicks enabled by mechanical button tensioning
Cons Can be too small for some
No RGB lighting
Available on Amazon for $48, Newegg for $50, and Best Buy, the Logitech 305 Lightspeed is an affordable wireless gaming mouse priced under $50, making it a convenient alternative to dealing with cables. With its compact size measuring 116.6x62.15x38.2 mm and lightweight construction weighing just 99 grams, this mouse is perfect for gamers seeking a smaller option. Sporting a symmetrical design, it features two buttons on the left side and a DPI button on top. The Logitech G305 Lightspeed utilizes the company's highly regarded HERO sensor, which can reach up to 12000 DPI and is recognized as one of the top sensors in the market.
The G305 utilizes the company's Lightspeed Wireless technology, powered by a 32-bit ARM microprocessor, achieving a 1000Hz (1ms) wireless report rate. With a single AA battery, it offers a usage time of 250 hours. While having a replaceable battery is advantageous compared to rechargeable options, it does contribute to the mouse's overall weight. Moreover, there is a designated slot within the mouse for conveniently storing the 2.4GHz dongle when not in use.
Featuring six programmable buttons, the left and right clicks employ Omron switches rated for 10 million clicks. Logitech incorporates Mechanical button tensioning on these clicks, ensuring greater consistency and requiring less force.
Lightweight gaming mouse under $50:
The Cooler Master MM720 is an extremely lightweight gaming mouse that stands out in the market. It features a high-quality PixArt sensor with a DPI of 16000, delivering exceptional precision. The honeycomb shell design not only greatly reduces the weight of the mouse but also enhances its overall appearance. Additionally, the MM720 is built to withstand long gaming sessions, equipped with an ultralight cable that prevents snagging and durable PTFE feet that ensure smooth movement on mouse pads and other surfaces. The mouse is completed with eye-catching RGB lighting, adding a unique flair to your gaming setup.
Specifications:
- Weight: 49 grams
- Sensor and DPI: Optical, 16K DPI
- Switches: Optical
- RGB Lighting: Yes
- Programmable Buttons: 6
- Connectivity: Wired, USB
- Wireless: No
- DPI: 400
- IPS: 50 G
Pros:
- Dust and water resistant
Unique design for claw grip
Durable switches with 70 million click rating
Cons Can be too small for some
DPI button is on the bottom
Available for purchase at Amazon for $30, Walmart for $34, and Newegg, the MM720 by Cooler Master is a wallet-friendly wired gaming mouse. Designed with an ergonomic shape and an incredibly lightweight build, it offers comfort and convenience. The mouse showcases grooves on the right side, providing support for the ring and little fingers. This design enables a superior gaming experience for individuals with small to medium-sized hands, allowing for optimal palm or claw grip. With dimensions of 105.42x76.52x37.35 mm and a weight of just 49 grams, it stands as the lightest mouse on this list.
The MM720 features the PixArt PMW3389 sensor, capable of reaching up to 16000 DPI and a polling rate of 1000 Hz. Cooler Master incorporates the durable LK optical micro switch for the left and right click buttons, offering a longevity of 70 million clicks. With six programmable buttons, two of which are located on the left side, the MM720 provides customization options. However, unlike traditional placement, the DPI button is positioned on the underside of the mouse, avoiding accidental clicks but sacrificing some convenience.
Cooler Master provides the MM720 in two color options, black and white, with both glossy and matte finish choices available. The mouse is equipped with two-zone RGB lighting that can be easily controlled using the MasterPlus+ Software. By combining the Ultraweave cable and PTFE feet, the MM720 ensures smooth movement across various mousepads.
For more detailed information about the Cooler Master MM720, check out the full review.
The SteelSeries Rival 3 is an exceptional wired gaming mouse that exceeds the expectations of even the most advanced gamers. Its mechanical switches boast a remarkable lifespan of 60 million clicks, ensuring a consistently sharp and responsive performance. Crafted from a superior-grade polymer, the mouse's frame is highly durable, while its ergonomic design guarantees utmost comfort during intense and lengthy gaming sessions. Equipped with the TrueMove Core optical sensor, it delivers precise 1:1 tracking, offering up to 8500 CPI, 300 IPS, and 35 g acceleration.
Brand: SteelSeries
Weight: 77 g
Programmable Buttons: Yes
Connectivity: Wired, USB
Sensor: Optical, 8500 DPI
Wireless: No
Pros: Multiple customizable RGB zones
Durable mechanical switches
Cons Older sensor compared to wireless model
Available for $30 at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, the SteelSeries Rival 3 is a budget-friendly gaming mouse with an ergonomic and symmetrical design. It offers similar functionality to its wireless counterpart but at a more affordable price point. The wireless version utilizes the advanced SteelSeries TrueMove Air sensor, while the wired version includes the SteelSeries TrueMove Core sensor. With a DPI capability of up to 18000, the Air sensor outperforms the Core sensor, which has a maximum DPI of 8500.
The dimensions of both are identical, measuring 120.60x58.30x21.50 mm. However, the Rival 3 is lighter, weighing only 77 grams, which is 29 grams lighter than the other version. Additionally, the Rival 3 boasts three RGB zones, whereas the wireless version only has one. The Rival 3 Wireless only emits visible lighting under the scroll wheel, which can be customized to display in-game or chat notifications.
Designed for a right-handed grip, the SteelSeries Rival 3 offers an ergonomic shape that perfectly suits claw or fingertip grip styles. It features six programmable buttons, including a DPI button located on the top. The mouse incorporates the company's mechanical switches, which are renowned for their durability, capable of withstanding 60 million clicks.
Weight: 67 grams
Number of Programmable Buttons: 6
Connectivity: Wireless/USB
Sensor and DPI: Pixart PMW-3360 Sensor, 12,000 DPI
Switches: Mechanical Switches
RGB Lighting: Yes
Wireless Capability: Yes
Battery Life: 71 hours
DPI Range: 12,000 DPI
IPS: 250
Polling Rate: 1,000 Hz
Acceleration: 50G
Pros: Full-size design with lightweight construction
Customizable RGB lighting
Choice of matte or glossy finish
Cons Perforated design may not be for everyone
Shop now on Amazon for $50 or purchase it at Best Buy.
With its groundbreaking design and affordable price, Glorious revolutionized the gaming mouse market in 2019 with the release of the Model O. The mouse became an instant sensation, thanks to its unique perforations that not only reduced weight but also made it one of the lightest gaming mice available. Available in sleek black and white options, the matte finish variant weighs 67 grams, while the glossy finish variant adds just one gram to its overall weight.
One advantage of incorporating holes into the design of the Glorious Model O is its ability to reduce weight. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with larger hands, as it ensures a comfortable user experience. The mouse features a symmetrical design with six programmable buttons, two of which are conveniently located on the left side. It is equipped with the advanced Pixart PMW-3360 sensor that boasts an impressive 12000 DPI sensitivity and a 1000 Hz (1 ms) polling rate. Additionally, it utilizes Omron mechanical switches that have a durability of 20 million clicks. The Glorious Model O also offers G-Skates Premium mouse feet and a flexible Ascend cable, enabling smooth and uninterrupted movement during gaming sessions.
Furthermore, the mouse is equipped with RGB light strips on both sides, allowing users to control them through the software. For those who prefer a smaller mouse size, the Glorious Model O- is available as an alternative. Weighing merely 58 grams, it offers the same exceptional features as its larger counterpart.
Even though the Glorious Model O may be considered outdated, especially with the availability of an upgraded wireless version, it continues to provide exceptional value for money.
Best Wired Logitech Gaming Mouse Under $50: Save $39 on the G502 Hero
The G502 Hero stands out as one of the top wired gaming mice, offering impressive performance at an affordable price. Housing the powerful Hero 25k sensor and featuring 11 mechanical buttons with low latency, including convenient side-scrolling switches, this mouse delivers a superior gaming experience.
A standout feature of the G502 is its exceptional customizability. Despite weighing 121g, Logitech has achieved a balance that makes it feel much lighter than it actually is. For those who prefer an even lighter mouse, the G502 offers the option to add one of the 5 provided weights, which easily snap into a base compartment.
With 11 programmable buttons, vibrant RGB lighting, and 5 profile slots in the onboard memory, the G502 Hero is perfect for gamers who need to quickly switch gears.
Specifications:
- Weight: 121g + 18g (optional)
- Programmable Buttons: 11
- Connectivity: N/A
- Sensor and DPI: Hero 25K
- Switches: 11
- RGB Lighting: Yes
- Wireless: No
- Battery Life: N/A
- DPI: 25600
- IPS: 400
- Polling Rate: 1000Hz
- Acceleration: 40G
- Battery Type: N/A
- Multi-Device Pairing: Yes
Pros:
- 11 programmable buttons
Hyper-fast scroll wheel
Customizable weight with a wide range
Cons On the heavier side without additional weights
$41 at Amazon $41 at Best Buy
Released in 2014, the Logitech G502 Proteus Core revolutionized the design of gaming mice and quickly gained popularity among the gaming community. At that time, weight was not a concern for high-performance gaming mice, which is why it included extra weights to enhance its already heavy 164-gram body. The updated G502 HERO retains the same design, but it is also five years old now.
This feature-rich gaming mouse boasts 11 programmable buttons that are easily accessible, making it perfect for FPS and MOBA games. It also features a "hyper-fast" scroll wheel that enables infinite scrolling with the simple press of a button. With dimensions of 290x75x40mm, the mouse is suitable for most hand sizes. Despite being an older model, it weighs 121 grams on its own and even provides five additional 3.5-gram weights.
The Logitech G502 HERO is an enhanced version of the previous G502 model, featuring the advanced HERO sensor with a maximum DPI of 16000 and a polling rate of 1000 Hz. This high-performance sensor is featured in several of Logitech's current products. In terms of customization, users can change the color of the Logitech logo. Additionally, the mouse allows gamers to store up to five profiles directly on the device, enabling them to use their personalized settings on different setups. Discover more about the Logitech G502 HERO in the complete review.
What To Consider In A Budget Gaming Mouse
Consideration of Size: The most important factor to take into account when selecting a gaming mouse is its compatibility with one's hand. Individuals possess varying sizes of palms and hands, thus not all mice will offer comfort. Individuals with small to medium-sized hands can utilize nearly all gaming mice, whereas those with larger hands may struggle to grip relatively smaller mice. Initially, users may believe that a mouse is easy to manipulate, but as time goes on, they may begin to notice slight discomfort from a slightly larger or smaller size.
Gaming mice come in two main shapes: ergonomic and ambidextrous. Ergonomic mice are designed to fit comfortably under the right hand, with contours that allow for a comfortable resting position for the thumb, palm, and fingers. On the other hand, ambidextrous mice have a symmetrical design that caters to different grip styles and can also be used by left-handed individuals. Another aspect to consider is the curvature of the mouse for the palm placement; some gaming mice have a more rounded shape, providing a curved surface for the palm to rest on.
In recent years, the trend in the gaming industry has been towards lighter weight mice. Different brands have launched their own lightweight gaming mice, offering options across a range of budgets, from budget-friendly to premium models. Lightweight mice enable faster and smoother movements across a mousepad compared to heavier mice. Additionally, the reduced weight prevents hand fatigue over extended periods of use. Professional competitive gamers, in particular, prefer lightweight mice for these benefits. However, it's important to note that not everyone may find an extra light mouse comfortable to use.
Connectivity: When it comes to gaming mice, there are two options available: wired or wireless. While wireless gaming mice were once limited, nowadays there are some commendable budget-friendly choices. Wireless technology has made remarkable progress, allowing wireless gaming mice to now rival the top wired options available in the market. Over the years, significant improvements have been made in terms of latency and input lag in multiple generations of gaming mice. However, the convenience of a cable-free mouse also brings the concern of potential battery issues during lengthy gaming sessions.
Final Thoughts
Finding the ideal gaming mouse can be a challenging task as most individuals only have access to a single mouse which they stick with after purchasing. To assist gamers in making this decision, this guide outlines a few considerations. It is necessary to conduct thorough research before making a purchase due to numerous factors to take into account such as size, shape, sensor, weight, and connectivity. Starting with ergonomic mice can be a good initial step as they provide additional comfort for most people.
Moreover, these recommendations are based on the features, performance, and general popularity of the mice. However, it is important to note that they may not be perfect for every individual. The perfect mouse depends on the specific use case. For instance, someone who primarily plays FPS games may opt for a basic lightweight mouse with a reliable sensor (many options available in this list). Conversely, individuals who engage more in MOBAs or MMOs would benefit from a mouse that has multiple buttons. Unfortunately, there is a limited selection of options for MOBA and MMO enthusiasts who prefer to have controls on their mouse.
FAQ
Q: Is $50 enough for a good gaming mouse?
Yes, there are numerous excellent choices available for gaming mice under $50. While a larger budget would certainly offer additional features, the fundamental components required for a satisfying gaming experience are typically found in most affordable options as well.
Q: What is better? Ambidextrous or ergonomic gaming mice?
Q: What is a cheap but good gaming mouse?
The preference for a gaming mouse design varies among users. While some gamers find an ergonomic design to be more comfortable for their right hand, others opt for an ambidextrous gaming mouse which offers versatility in grip styles and can be used by left-handed gamers. Each design has its own advantages and disadvantages.
There are several cheap but good gaming mice on the market. The Cooler Master MM720 and the Steelseries Rival 3 are some of the cheapest gaming mice with solid performance.
