Key Points
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A wireless mouse for a laptop offers better precision than a trackpad.
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A wireless mouse for a laptop comes with either a USB RF transmitter or Bluetooth technology.
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VersionTech provides a great budget wireless gaming mouse.
A wireless mouse for a laptop provides an ideal experience at a computer. Wired mice become cumbersome and more of a hassle than they're worth. Computers contain too many cables as it is, making cable management or wireless devices essential for one's sanity and organization. When it comes to a laptop, use a wireless mouse.
A wireless mouse for a laptop offers better precision in general. A laptop's trackpad is too sensitive or purely unresponsive at times. It doesn't always register what you intend to accomplish. Sometimes a double-click turns into a single-click or it highlights a collection of words.
Funny enough, a petition is making the rounds on Twitter to rename wireless mice "hamsters" because, unlike wired mice, they don't have tails. Elon Musk agreed in a tweet and said, "Makes sense."
Wireless Versions
Not any kind of mouse works for every computer. Two kinds of wireless devices exist when it comes to wireless computer mice. The radio frequency (RF) mouse works for any computer with a USB input. Then there's the Bluetooth mouse. The Bluetooth mouse is limited in the devices it connects to. Each contains benefits and drawbacks.
RF Mouse
An RF mouse requires the small inconvenience of requiring a USB dongle to connect to your computer. It's only an inconvenience if your mouse doesn't come with a storage compartment for the dongle. They're small components that are easy to lose. The biggest benefit to RF mice is the ability to simply plug in and use them without any setup process.
Bluetooth Mouse
A Bluetooth mouse is an optimal choice as long as your laptop comes with Bluetooth capabilities. Know your computer's capabilities before committing to a Bluetooth mouse. These wireless mice also require additional steps to setup. It's not as easy as plugging them in and using them immediately.
Additionally, Bluetooth mice take a few extra seconds to use after your computer boots up.
The Five Best Wireless Mice for Laptops
Either of the two types of wireless mice works great with a laptop. Below are five of the best wireless mice available in 2023.
Note: The following prices are accurate at the time of writing in May 2023, but are subject to change.
1. Logitech MX Master 3S
Logitech's MX Master 3S might have all the makings of a gaming mouse with its customizable side buttons and DPI-control button, but it works perfectly for those in an office setting. Its two scroll wheels dedicated to vertical and horizontal scrolling make it an efficient device for those who work with data regularly. Spending $98 is perfectly reasonable for a mouse that makes your job easier.
The MX Master 3S's ergonomic design and thumb rest provides a comfortable experience that protects your wrist after working for long periods of time. There's no concern for repetitive clicking noises, as Logitech minimized the sound produced by this mouse's buttons. There's no risk of annoying housemates or office neighbors.
Not every laptop comes with BlueTooth capabilities and that's okay. While it connects via BlueTooth, this mouse also connects to devices via a USB receiver. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a storage compartment for its receiver. If you ever unplug the receiver from your computer, be sure you have a safe place for it.
However, if your hands are on the smaller side, this mouse might be uncomfortable since it's bulky. Its bulkiness isn't easy to pack either and might be awkward to fit into a backpack. TheVerge's Jon Porter adds that "Connecting the mouse over Bluetooth was a lot more reliable, but the mouse’s tracking didn’t feel as accurate compared to using the receiver."
Photo source: Amazon.com
2. Logitech G305 Lightspeed
Logitech produces top-quality gaming devices, including gaming mice. These mice are highly responsive, comfortable to use and packed with features that gamers expect from such a device.
One such device is the Logitech G305 Lightspeed wireless mouse, which is perfect for gamers on a budget or those who are willing to spend more. Currently retailing at $40 on Amazon, this mouse boasts a sleek matte finish and a minimalist design that catches the eye.
Despite being a budget mouse, it's surprisingly comfortable to use, providing a level of comfort that's usually associated with more expensive models. Plus, Logitech has created the perfect RF wireless mouse that's ideal for gamers.
While the mouse has some drawbacks, they're relatively minor. For instance, it lacks any customization options for gaming, and it doesn't have any RGB lighting. Also, it doesn't come with a rechargeable battery, which is a feature found on many high-end wireless mice. Instead, you need to stock up on AA batteries.
However, the mouse is highly responsive, with lightning-quick speeds that take just one millisecond to respond to each click. Although it doesn't have all the features you might expect from a high-end gaming mouse, it's still an excellent choice for gamers who want a reliable and comfortable device at an affordable price.
Photo source: Amazon.com
3. UHURU Wireless Gaming Mouse
The Uhuru gaming mouse may not be the most affordable budget gaming mouse available, but it certainly stands out as one of the best options in its price range. With its comfortable grip and six programmable buttons, it has all the features of a higher-end mouse. The programmable buttons, which allow for different macros, make it a versatile option for a wide range of video games.
At just $20, this gaming mouse is unbeatable when it comes to changing the colors of its built-in LED lights. Plus, it's a device that won't stop working after just a few months of use — it's built to last for at least two years, even with heavy use.
While the DPI control may not be as advanced as more sophisticated mice, it still offers several levels of control. With just a simple press of the button below the scroll wheel, easily adjust the movement speed of your Uhuru mouse, which makes for a seamless adjustment and an improved gaming experience.
All in all, the Uhuru gaming mouse exceeds expectations and is definitely worth considering for those on a budget.
Photo source: Amazon.com
4. Logitech M185
Logitech doesn't just cater to high-end gamers with their peripherals. They also offer affordable options for those who prefer using a mouse instead of a laptop's trackpad. The Logitech M185 RF mouse has a simple design that may not immediately catch your attention, and its performance is not outstanding. However, if you work with spreadsheets and custom data input programs on a regular basis, this mouse makes your work more efficient.
Despite its small size, it's comfortable for people with larger hands to hold, making it a great choice for those working in smaller desk spaces or using lap desks frequently. At only $13, this mouse is a bargain.
It doesn't come with programmable buttons, speed control buttons, or flashy RGB lighting. However, this mouse works best for clicking between e-mails, spreadsheets, and Word documents. If you need a mouse for more advanced applications, you keep searching.
The M185's range is 50 feet, making it easier to present a slideshow when you're unable to be next to your laptop.
Photo source: Amazon.com
5. VersionTech Wireless Gaming Mouse
The budget mouse of all budget mice comes from a relatively unknown brand called VersionTech. This wireless mouse offers a great option to gamers interested in a mouse with both Bluetooth and RF capabilities at an unbeatable price. At just $13, VersionTech's gaming mouse is a steal.
It comes equipped with a rechargeable battery that allows for uninterrupted gaming while it charges. The dots per inch (DPI) adjustment button lets you customize the speed of the mouse cursor for maximum precision during gameplay.
Additionally, VersionTech boasts its mouse as a durable device built to withstand the rigors of gaming. Its design provides ergonomic comfort for long gaming sessions as well as responsive buttons that are quieter than other mice. This allows those around you to work in silence.
This wireless mouse offers an excellent experience for casual gamers on a budget. It packs all the essential features of high-end gaming mice for a fraction of their price.
Photo source: Amazon.com
A Mouse That Suits Your Needs
Wireless mice are easy to set up. They don't require dozens of updates, and most are compatible with both Apple and Windows devices. Wireless mice offer freedom since the constraints of a cable are absent. It comes down to choosing the right mouse for your needs.
If you're a dedicated gamer, you want a mouse with long battery life and programmable buttons. Comfort comes into play with a lot of different computer users. Whether you're gaming or working, you don't want your hand to cramp, and taking too many breaks ruins your flow and productivity.
Even if you don't require anything fancy from your mouse, there's a wireless one on the market for you. Sometimes you simply want a clean look for your desk and a wireless mouse accomplishes that. Complete with a wireless keyboard and some solid cable management with everything else, and you get a beautiful aesthetic to look at.
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