As a creative, choosing the best mouse for your needs is super-important. Gone are the days when a simple two-button mouse would suffice. Instead, you need to be looking for precision, comfort, and ergonomic design that can keep up with complex projects and marathon design sessions.
Not all models are alike, though, because different workflows require different things. For instance, if you're a graphic designer working from home, you may want to think about ergonomics and keep RSI at bay, while matching your office aesthetic. If you're a gamer, meanwhile, you'll benefit from a mouse with higher accuracy, less latency and perhaps LED lights.
The best mouse available now
DPI: 8,000
Interface: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless
Logitech MX Master 3s feels fantastic (if you're right-handed) and the 8,000 DPI will be plenty for most. It has ample programmable buttons, plus a thumb wheel, which allows shortcut profiles to be setup so you can blaze through repetitive tasks. Best of all, you can connect it to several devices and switch between them instantly. Read our full review
DPI: 1,000
Interface: USB
Vertical mice keep your arm in a more natural 'handshake' position and can be beneficial for the wrist. This device ticks all the ergonomic boxes, and you should find that it's an effective way to reduce the risk of RSI without compromising on performance since you get five programmable buttons.
DPI: 16,000
Interface: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless
Razer's Pro Click boasts eight programmable buttons and an adjustable DPI that goes all the way up to 16,000, making it very sensitive. This is a mouse that's designed to be used all day, and with a battery life of up to 400 hours, it'll keep on going for weeks.
DPI: 4,000
Interface: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless
If you're looking for a compact alternative to Logitech's offering above, this is just the ticket. It's similar to the MX Master (and doesn't have a scroll wheel), but its simple design makes it suitable for use in either hand. It might be just a little too tiny for some users.
DPI: 3,200
Interface: Wired
The Microsoft Classic Intellimouse echoes the design of Microsoft's classic desktop mouse, but with great responsiveness and an adjustable DPI that goes up to 3,200. It performs well and has a pleasingly old-school styling; for many the fact that you won't have to think about batteries will be a definite plus.
DPI: up to 1,800
Interface: Wireless
We rate Apple's Magic Mouse 2 as the best mouse for Mac gestures. It integrates perfectly with MacOS systems, and doubles as a gesture pad. The charging port on the underside is not so "magic", rendering the mouse unusable while charging. Also, the low profile negates palm gripping. Read our full review
DPI: 512 – 2,048
Interface: Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless
If a vertical mouse doesn't tickle your fancy, perhaps a trackball would suit? It keeps your hand in one place, and your thumb moves the pointer around by spinning the ball. Once you're used to it, this is a precise option for any creative who needs accuracy and speed.
DPI: 200-8,000
Interface: USB wired
The Razer Viper 8KHz was hailed best mouse in the Creative Bloq Awards 2022, with judges noting the 8K provided smoother cursor movements and lower click latency. This makes for an incredibly fast and responsive gaming mouse. It’s lightweight and ambidextrous, and the best option for those wanting superior ergonomics.
DPI: 1,000
Interface: Bluetooth (BlueTrack)
While the Microsoft Surface Mouse would be the obvious choice when looking for a mouse to go with their Surface, the Surface itself isn't obligatory. As long as your device can connect via Bluetooth, the mouse works well. It also looks pretty stylish, with a neat metal scroll wheel.
DPI: 200-8,000
Interface: 2.4GHz wireless; USB receiver
Seeking a mouse that's compatible with just about everything and very cheap? Here's a great option, with a symmetrical design that can be used in either hand. That said, for working long hours, we'd recommend investing in a more ergonomic design.
DPI: 1,000
Interface: Bluetooth
Microsoft's Bluetooth Mobile Mouse 3600 is a touch more ergonomic than the Logitech Pebble, but still cheap enough to take with you anywhere without fretting about losing it. It's easy to set up the Bluetooth, and one AA battery keeps it running for up to a year.
DPI: 10,000
Interface: USB wired
The Razer DeathAdder Chroma negates concerns about batteries or wireless interference. It boasts customisable RGB lighting and a whole lot of DPI. We rate it as a great value, responsive and comfortable mouse that gives better performance than you'd get from a wireless mouse at a similar price point.
How to choose the best mouse?
The first thing to think about is compatibility. Which device do you plan on using your new mouse with and will it work? If you have an Apple iPad or MacBook and want to use your mouse with it then you'll need to check if it's compatible and can connect to your devices wirelessly.
Secondly, each mouse will be designed and optimised for different purposes. Do you want a mouse to help you shoot and aim faster when playing FPS titles? Or do you need one that feels comfortale for long hours of working from home? Once you know exactly what you want your mouse to do then it's time to look at your budget and how much you want to spend.
FAQs
Which is best: a wired or wireless mouse?
Wired mice are connected to your computer via a cable. This means you'll have a more reliable connection than a wireless mouse, and there's no battery to charge. On the flipside, wireless mice provide more freedom of movement than a wired option, but require battery replacement and may experience interference from other wireless devices.
What does DPI mean in relation to computer mice?
DPI, or Dots Per Inch, determines how far the cursor moves on the screen when you physically move the mouse. A higher DPI is ideal for gaming or tasks where a fast response is all-important, while a lower DPI is better for tasks such as photo editing where precision is the priority.
How do you clean a mouse?
Regularly cleaning your mouse is important to keep it in good working order. To do so, gently wipe the outer surface with a damp cloth, clean the sensor with isopropyl alcohol, and use compressed air or a soft brush to clean the lens of optical mice.
