Are you looking for a new gaming mouse? With so many models on offer, how do you know which one will amplify your gaming experience? Do you go with wired or wireless? Optical Vs. laser – what’s the difference?
There are so many aspects to consider when choosing the best gaming mouse. We put together this list of the 5 top models for 2021. We choose the best of the best, with categories like the best overall, best premium, best budget, and more to help you simplify your decision.
Before we start unpacking our list of the five best gaming mouse for 2021, let’s look at some critical factors defining your choice.
Optical vs. Laser?
If you’re looking for the best sensitivity and accuracy, we recommend going with an optical mouse over a laser model.
Lasers are good for use on various surfaces, but you don’t get the same type of precision you get with an optical model. Look for an optical gaming mouse featuring PixArt tech for the best gaming experience.
Wired or Wireless?
It makes sense to go with a wireless mouse, right? Why do gamers even use a wired mouse and keyboard setups anymore? The reality is that the batteries running your wireless mouse could go dead at any moment, even right in the middle of a game. A wired mouse ensures you always have power to the device.
Most pro gamers prefer a wired setup, but it’s all about personal preference. Wireless does offer you more freedom of movement, and it’s a better choice for a portable setup. However, it’s important to note that a wireless model has higher latency, which might detract from your gaming experience.
Which Grip is Best?
You might not realize it, but every gamer has a unique grip on their mouse. Typically, the grip falls into one of three styles, with different gaming mouse designs and form factors to suit each grip.
The Palm Grip
This style is when you rest the base of your palm on the top of the mouse, and your fingers lie on the buttons.
The Fingertip Grip
This style elevates the fingers and palm above the mouse. You use the tips of the fingers to control the movement of the device.
The Claw Grip
Like the fingertip grip, your wrist rests on the mat, without the palm touching the mouse, using the fingertips to grip the edges and the buttons.
Best Gaming Mouse of 2022
Now that you have an idea of what you need from a prospective model, let’s unpack the best gaming mouse of 2022.
The Razer Basilisk V3 – Best Overall Gaming Mouse
This model wins our award for the best gaming mouse available. It has the perfect blend of functionality and affordability, with an excellent reputation and great reviews.
The wired mouse comes with 13 programmable buttons if you include the scroll inputs. The ergonomic form factor of the mouse fits comfortably in the palm, and it’s suitable for use with any mouse grip.
You get a textured finish and a somewhat heavier feel that allows for better control over the mouse in intense gaming moments.
The PTFE feet on the V3 provide effortless gliding, and there’s a dedicated sniper mouse button within easy reach.
You get 11 RGB zones and options for plenty of customization through the Razer Synapse portal. This model also includes the Razer “HyperShift” function, giving the mouse 26 different functions across nine buttons and the scroll wheel.
The Basilisk V3 features a unique scrolling function with swapping from a smooth, free scroll to a tactile feel at the tap of a mouse button.
Logitech G502 Lightspeed – Best Premium Gaming Mouse
If you have the budget available, we recommend going with the Logitech G502 Lightspeed. This gaming mouse features wireless functionality, with six additional 4g and 2g weights to enhance the movement and feel of the mouse.
The Lightspeed comes with the patented Logitech high-CPI and the power-efficient “Hero” sensor. You get a sufficient amount of programmable keys on the mouse, with a familiar and comfortable form factor that’s easy to control with any gaming grip.
While the Lightspeed is wireless, you also have a cable included in the setup for battery-free operation and better latency during gaming sessions.
The Logitech Lightspeed is a fantastic option, but it is a bit pricey.
Corsair Katar Pro XT – Best Budget Gaming Mouse
Those gamers on a budget should consider the Corsair Katar Pro XT. This model features a lightweight design at 2.68 ounces, and it’s the ideal choice for longer gaming sessions.
The mouse has a low-profile design and an ambidextrous shell. It’s a good-looking mouse, and it doesn’t have the feel or look of a cheap product. You get easy gliding and limited cable drag, with PTFE feet and a USB-Type-A paracord-style tether included.
There is also a wireless version of this model available for those that prefer the cable.
Glorious Model O- – Best Gaming Mouse for Smaller Hands and Claw Grip Styles
If you have small hands or you play with a claw grip, then consider the Glorious Model O-. This gaming mouse features an ambidextrous, lightweight design, suitable for long gaming and Twitch sessions.
It’s an affordable gaming mouse with decent specs for the price. You get well-tracked flicking and a smooth movement response in the lowest and highest CPI settings.
Razer Naga Trinity – Best MMO Gaming Mouse
The Razer Naga Trinity wins the award for the best MMO gaming mouse in this review. The Naga Trinity features more versatility, with plenty of functionality and loads of buttons.
Unlike other MMO mouse models, the Naga Trinity caters to all grips styles. The mouse comes with a basic Numpad and 12 switches, along with a circular button joypad and seven switches spaced around it with the standard two-button set up in the front.
This model also includes the same PixArt sensor in the DeathAdder Elite, and you get an ergonomic pinky finger rest, with custom RBG lighting included. For gamers looking for a heavier mouse with plenty of keybindings, you can’t beat the Razer Naga Trinity.
