The Best Wireless Mice

The Logitech MX Master 3S wins for its comfort and customization

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Apple Magic Mouse 2
Photo:

Lifewire / Gannon Burgett 

The best wireless mice offer convenient cord-free productivity and often rechargeable batteries that can last up to several months without a recharge.

Based on hands-on use and extensive research, these are our favorite wireless mice for most users.

Note: Prices are subject to change.

TL;DR: The Logitech MX Master 3S is comfortable, tactile, ergonomic, and customizable, fit for any computing task.

Why We Recommend It

The Logitech MX Master 3S is a superb mouse for web browsing and work. It's made of a mix of metal and plastic and ergonomically structured into a shape I found continually comfortable, even after days of nonstop use.

Pros
  • Superb build quality

  • Excellent software

  • Connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Cons
  • On the pricier side

It features an excellent central scroll wheel that can notch and smooth scroll.

The notch allows for more precise movement that stops when you stop scrolling. Mice without a notch will continue to move after you take your hand away, like when you let go of a shopping cart.

The primary buttons are just as comfortable and accurate as the previous model, and they're almost noiseless, making this mouse a good fit for a calm work environment.

It also features some of the best mouse software available in Logi Options+.

Through Options+, I could easily set up the mouse, adjust the sensitivity (how sensitive the mouse is to your hand movements), change scroll settings (the cursor speed), and more through an easy-to-use interface.

Logitech software options.

During testing, the MX Master 3S met or exceeded all my expectations. The option to use it with the included 2.4GHz wireless dongle or over Bluetooth gave it added flexibility compared to similar alternatives.

Other options in the price range were other Logitech mice or pricey gaming mice focused on low-latency and gamer-specific features.

The MX Master 3S was the mouse I wanted to use long after testing concluded.

  • Who else recommends it? Almost everyone. Wirecutter, Tom’s Guide, PCMag, RTINGS, and more all give the 3S glowing remarks.
  • What do buyers think? Over 9,000 Amazon users have reviewed the MX Master 3S and given it an average 4.5 out of 5 stars.

TL;DR: Simple and a pleasure to use, Microsoft's Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse offers wireless freedom for an affordable price.

Why We Recommend It

A mid-range option like the Microsoft Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse is excellent for everyday browsing and productivity. This mouse is comfortable, affordable, and easy to love unless you’re delving deep into complex professional programs.

Pros
  • Good value

  • Great metal scroll wheel

  • Can connect to multiple devices

Cons
  • Uses disposable AAA batteries

  • Software not supported on Mac

The Microsoft Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse is a streamlined wireless mouse with a comfortable, ergonomic shape.

The left side features a recessed thumb rest and two easy-to-reach thumb buttons, while the center has an excellent notched scroll wheel that outperformed most other options in this price range.

It's also light at 112 grams (about 4 ounces), helping it stay comfortable after long work days.

Microsoft Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse

Lifewire/Harry Rabinowitz

In tests, I found that this mouse, particularly its build quality, put it above other mice in its price range.

It was easy to set up and offered much more robust software than other budget mice in the form of the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center.

While the software took a little getting used to, it offers extensive customization, allowing for app-specific settings and macros.

Bluetooth is the only connectivity option available; thankfully, it stayed strong and steady throughout the testing period. And Bluetooth multipoint pairing made switching between my desktop, laptop, and other devices easy.

Microsoft Wireless software interface.

There are many other wireless mice around this price point ($50). We also tested the Logitech M720 Triathlon, a well-loved wireless mouse, but I found the Microsoft Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse more comfortable.

The metal scroll wheel was far superior to the plastic-y one in the M720. While the M720 does connect over wireless and Bluetooth, this bonus feature was not enough to put it above the Microsoft model during testing.

The ergonomic shape, metal scroll wheel, robust software, and multiple color and design options make the Microsoft mouse our top budget pick for everyday wireless productivity.

  • Who else recommends it? PCMag and Windows Central point to this mouse as a comfortable budget pick. 
  • What do buyers say? Out of over 2,400 global ratings on Amazon, the Microsoft Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse averages 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Best Vertical Mouse

Logitech Lift

Logitech Lift, seen from top-down.
PHOTO: Lifewire/Harry Rabinowitz

TL;DR: The Logitech Lift combines comfort, ease of use, and personalization power.

Why We Recommend It

A vertical mouse can alleviate many of the pain points some people feel when working at a computer all day, and the Logitech Lift is our favorite pick for those looking for a bit of wrist, hand, and even elbow relief.

One thing that stuck out during hands-on use is how comfortable and premium the build is. The plastic is soft yet grippy, and the thumb rest is cozy.

The Lift's primary benefit is its curved, 57-degree lifted shape, which allows for comfortable handshake positioning. This means your hand rests rather than contorting or twisting.

Pros
  • Premium build quality

  • Lifted shape offers comfort and ergonomics

  • Excellent overall value

Cons
  • Requires AA battery; isn't rechargeable

  • Could be a little too "clicky" for some

In our testing, we found the scrolling and clicking action responsive and consistent, though some might prefer the quieter clicks of alternatives such as the MX Master 3S.

We also wish this model was rechargeable; it requires a single AA battery to operate.

Logitech Lift In Use.

Lifewire/Harry Rabinowitz

Like most Logitech mice, you can customize almost every aspect of the Lift, like scroll speed or assigning quick actions to the buttons across your most-used apps.

The bottom line is that the Logitech Lift is well worth the $70 (and often cheaper) asking price for folks who want a quality mouse with ergonomics in mind.

  • Who else recommends it? Wirecutter, RTINGS, and Tom's Hardware agree that the Logitech Lift is a go-to ergonomic wireless mouse.
  • What do buyers say? The Lift is also a popular pick with shoppers. It has over 10,000 reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

TL;DR: Everything the MX Master 3S has to offer but built especially for the Apple ecosystem.

Why We Recommend It

The Logitech MX Master 3S is our favorite mouse overall, but for macOS and iPadOS users, we recommend the MX Master 3S for Mac.

It's made of durable, premium-feeling metals and plastics, operates wirelessly via Bluetooth, and is rechargeable via USB-C. As an added convenience, you can operate the mouse while it charges.

Pros
  • Premium build quality

  • Virtually silent button clicks

  • Precision scrolling

  • Built for the Apple ecosystem

  • Lots of customization via Logi Options+

Cons
  • Requires a bit of an investment

  • Might not be great for those with small hands

Like the standard MX Master 3S, this Mac-tailored version operates smoothly and quietly—up to 90% quieter than the previous version—and offers greater accuracy.

The metal scroll wheels on the top and side of the mouse are central to responsiveness.

The main scroll wheel (on the top) operates with notched clicks or virtually silent smooth scrolling of up to 1,000 lines per second. Switching between the two modes is easy with a click of a button, too.

Logitech MX Master 3s for Mac with cable.

Harry Rabinowitz/Lifewire

While it's not necessarily an ergonomic mouse, the design promotes relaxed hand positioning. However, it might not be as natural a fit for users with smaller hands.

One of the best perks of this mouse is the many customization options you can control through the companion Logi Options+ software.

You can change the DPI, scrolling speed, and app-specific actions, as well as assign keyboard and other shortcuts to the seven buttons and gestures.

And for users with multiple Macs or those who like to work between a Mac and an iPad, you can keep the connection across devices for even more productivity power.

  • Who else recommends it? Wirecutter considers the MX Master 3S for Mac a great upgrade pick for Apple users. Macworld also gives it kudos as the prime choice for macOS.
  • What do buyers say? The MX Master 3S for Mac has over 6,000 Amazon reviews, earning an impressive and positive 4.6-star overall rating by shoppers.

TL;DR: A natural, portable companion to an iPad that works right out of the box.

Why We Recommend It

If you're into the streamlined Apple aesthetic, you can happily lean into that preference and opt for the Apple Magic Mouse (2nd Generation). We did that in our testing and found the experience pretty seamless.

Pros
  • Sleek Apple-branded design

  • Seamless plug-and-play compatibility

  • Responsive clicks and tracking

  • Easy to take on the go

Cons
  • Pricey for what it is

  • Can't use while charging it

  • Not an ergonomic design

Since the Magic Mouse is an Apple device, there's little in the way of setting it up. It's simple to pair and customize with a few settings adjustments and works well, including with signature Apple gestures.

The slim build also makes packing this accessory in an everyday carry or carry-on hassle-free.

Apple Magic Mouse.

Lifewire / Jason Schneider

However, we noticed a few drawbacks during hands-on use. Its flat build doesn't promote ergonomics and could be too cramped for larger hands.

The rechargeable model also doesn't allow use, so you have to wait for the battery to power up before you can resume working with the device.

Those drawbacks aside, it's hard to overlook how seamless the working experience can be on an iPad, which can carry over to a MacBook or Mac desktop if you have one, all while keeping the signature brand aesthetic intact.

  • Who else recommends it? RTINGS, Macworld, PCMag, and others consider the Magic Mouse a classic and still-solid choice for Apple users.
  • What do buyers say? TheMagic Mouse has earned over 18,000 Amazon reviews and holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

How We Tested

I reviewed every wireless mouse based on the following tests:

  • Setup
  • Daily use
  • Software
  • Performance test
  • Battery life

To narrow the playing field, I looked at mice with top ratings, competitive price points, name-brand recognition, and everyday versatility.

Logitech MX Master 3s computer mouse

Lifewire/Harry Rabinowitz

That process still left dozens of mice to consider. Factors like price, brand reputation, and software compatibility helped further narrow the field.

I decided to consider only mice below $100—more expensive options didn't offer enough value to justify their premium price.

What to Look For

When buying a great wireless mouse, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices, even from name-brand companies.

To help choose the right wireless mouse for you, keep the following elements in mind:

Size

The right mouse for you depends partly on how big or small your mouse hand is.

If you know you have a large or small hand, check the dimensions of the mouse you are considering and compare it to other popular mice. Between two top-rated options, size may be your determining factor. 

Connectivity

Wireless mice can connect to your computer in many ways. Premium mice often provide multiple forms of connectivity, allowing you to use your mice via wire, wireless, or Bluetooth.

More budget options usually stick to one or two connectivity options.

Gamers and creatives may prefer wireless mice that connect via a 2.4GHz RF wireless dongle. This type of wireless connectivity offers a faster response time than Bluetooth.

For Bluetooth connectivity, make sure the mouse you are considering uses the latest version available so you can continue to use it when you upgrade your other devices.

Battery

Wireless mice either use built-in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries or removable AA or AAA ones.

While I prefer a rechargeable mouse, they tend to be more expensive. Decide which you like, and choose a mouse accordingly.

FAQ

  • Is a wireless mouse a Bluetooth device?

    Some wireless mice connect over Bluetooth, while others connect using Wi-Fi. A few do both. A Wi-Fi connection tends to be better for gaming, while Bluetooth should suffice for everyone else.

  • How long should a wireless mouse battery last?

    A wireless mouse can last from a few weeks to several months or even years, depending on the battery type and how much you use it.

  • How long does a wireless mouse last?

    With proper care, a wireless mouse should last three to five years. Regularly clean your wireless mouse to clear away dust and remove grime.

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