Wired vs. Wireless Mice: All You Need to Know-Computerfanfield

Wired vs wireless: Which gaming mouse should you choose?

Wire or wireless? Lets go over the details and differences

Table of Contents

While the gaming mouse industry has almost completed its quest for true gaming perfection, many of today’s gamers still find themselves asking that age-old question – should I choose a wired or wireless gaming mouse?

It’s a question that has plagued many over the last couple of decades, with consumers struggling to decide whether or not the benefits of wireless technology actually outweigh the reduction in gaming performance they sadly lose.

That being said, thanks to huge leaps forward in technology, the gap between wired vs wireless gaming mice has now become much less apparent. Today’s mice come equipped with new technologies that offer Lightspeed connectivity and an almost unlimited amount of battery life – making wireless gaming mice more popular than ever before. Furthermore, wireless mice now bring fantastic gaming performance to the table that really does give their wired alternatives a run for their money.

With the current batch of high-performance gaming mice giving consumers the ultimate headache when deciding which one to choose, we thought we’d whip this article together explaining the differences between wired and wireless gaming mice. We’ll be looking at the main specifications that affect gaming performance, the main differences between the two technologies, and whether or not you should choose wired or wireless for your next gaming mouse purchase.

Wired vs wireless gaming mouse: A video comparison

Wired vs wireless gaming mouse: What’s the difference?

A lot of people will already understand the main difference between wired and wireless gaming mice – one uses a cable that you plug straight into a USB port and wireless mice connect via a wireless connection courtesy of either Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz USB dongle. Having said that, there are far more factors separating the two technologies than what’s visible to the naked eye. For people new to gaming mice that are unaware of the more intricate differences between the two technologies, below we’ve outlined the main pros and cons of both.

As you can see from the table above, while wireless technology has come a long way since its humble beginnings, there are still key differences seen when comparing the wired and wireless gaming mice of today. While that might sound negative towards wireless gaming mice, you’d be surprised how little the difference is when comparing gaming performance.

In years gone by, gamers had a pretty easy choice when it came to choosing a mouse. For example, if you played fast-paced FPS shooters or games that required pinpoint accuracy, you’d opt for a wired gaming mouse. People chose wired gaming mice because they offered lower input lag, zero interference, and were, more often than not, lighter in design – all huge factors that impact your gaming performance. Choosing a wireless mouse a decade ago was considered suicide when it came to competitive gaming.

That being said, fast-forward to the present day and we find ourselves in a time where wireless gaming mice are some of the best the market has to offer – equipped with the very same high-performance specs that we see in wired alternatives. Gone are the days when wireless mice were only considered for office or general use only. Today we have a huge catalog of high-performance gaming mice to choose from – only making your choice that much harder.

Pros and cons of wireless mice

As with everything PC-related, when making a choice between two technologies, there are inevitable trade-offs and concessions that you’ll have to endure in making your choices.

Wireless mouse pros

Eliminates cable drag and snags, removing the need for a mouse bungee.

Far better portability and convenience.

More suitable for laptop use.

More compatibility with wireless devices like tablets and phones, especially in the case of Bluetooth mice.

modern wireless gaming mice like the Razer Viper Ultimate and Corsair Sabre RGB Pro have a far longer range than older models.

No cable improves desk aesthetics.

Wireless mouse cons

Lower response time than wired.

Can be prone to signal interference, especially if used on common wireless frequencies utilized by other transmitters like 2.4GHz.

less precision than wired.

Wireless capabilities tend to make for heavier mice due to the battery and radio frequency transmitter.

Pros and cons of wired mice

So we’ve covered wireless mice, now let’s have a look at what you’ll be gaining and losing if you go for a wired gaming mouse

Wired mouse pros

Battery life as a concern is eliminated.

RGB lighting can be utilized at all times without the worry of it affecting battery life.

Wired versions of computer mice are cheaper than their wireless counterparts.

Sensor info is less likely to be subject to interference than wireless mice.

Wired mouse cons

Cable drag can be an issue unless paired with a mouse bungee

Messier desk setup

Best wireless gaming mouse vs best wired gaming mouse

With that in mind, now’s probably a good time to compare the top players in the wired and wireless mouse categories. This should give you a better understanding of the pros and cons that these mice come to the table equipped with.

We’ll be putting the Logitech G Pro wireless, one of the world’s most popular gaming mice, up against the Razer Deathadder V2 – probably the most popular wired gaming mouse out there.

Upon first glance, you’re probably thinking to yourselves, there’s not a great deal of difference between the two mice – and you’d be right to think that. However, when you glance down at the price difference, you soon start to see why this decision becomes so difficult.

If we could measure price/performance in a reliable and accurate way, you would no doubt see the Razer Deathadder V2 destroy the G Pro when it comes to value for money.

The difference between the two sensors these mice are equipped with is basically unnoticeable – as is their size if truth be told. The only real benefit of the wireless gaming mouse at this stage is the lack of wires and the slight drop in weight – which, in this case, is 2 grams. Everything else is fairly similar.

Obviously, the Logitech G Pro comes equipped with a ton of additional features like swappable buttons and Powerplay support, but these are things that do not affect you as a gamer. When it comes down to raw performance on the gaming field, there really aren’t that many things that separate these two great gaming mice.

With all that in mind, it’s worth mentioning that as you work your way down the price spectrum, the difference in gaming performance starts to widen – with wired mice offering up far better sensors and build quality. If you take a closer look at mid-range and budget wireless mice, you start to see the sacrifices made by manufacturers to keep the price at manageable levels. And, unfortunately, it’s usually areas that affect gaming performance largely.

Gaming mouse tech specs

If at this stage of the article you’re scratching your head in confusion over some of the technical jargon used above, don’t worry, we’re going to explain what each technical specification means and how they can impact you as a gamer. So, with that in mind, let’s dive straight into it!

Sensor

When it comes to gaming mice, the number one most important tech spec when determining raw performance has to be the sensor. The sensor dictates how accurate the mouse is and how well it tracks your movements – two crucial elements when playing the majority of computer games.

Sensors have been subject to huge advancements over the past decade or so, with the current batch of gaming sensors offering flawless accuracy, excellent response, and durable life spans too. And while there aren’t that many sensors to choose from in today’s market, there is still a fairly large gap in performance when comparing the budget sensors to the high-end.

As a general rule of thumb, if you’re largely playing fast-paced shooters and FPS titles, you’re going to want to choose a mouse that offers the best possible sensor. For other game styles such as MMO, RPG’s, and RTS, you don’t have to worry as much when it comes to your next mouse purchase.

DPI?

DPI, or dots per inch, is a simple way of measuring how sensitive a mouse can be – with a higher DPI offering higher sensitivity. While this is usually flaunted by manufacturers as a marketing tool, it doesn’t actually have a huge impact on your gaming performance.

So, what is DPI and why do companies never shut up about it? Well, the answer is exactly that. Manufacturers will use DPI as a large selling tool when it comes to gaming mice – with the latest offerings going as high as 20,000 DPI. If you are a newcomer to gaming mice, you might think 20,000 DPI sounds a whole lot better than 12,000. However, in a real-world situation, you probably won’t need higher than 1,200 – extreme cases may go to 2,000.

The bottom line is this, all sensors have the ability to provide more than enough sensitivity for your specific needs. Don’t get sucked in by the marketing of DPI.

Shape & design

The shape of a gaming mouse is the second most important feature it comes equipped with. As it has a huge impact on your in-game performance, you need to be choosing a gaming mouse that’s right for your grip style and hand size. If you choose a mouse that isn’t optimized for your hand size/grip style, you are putting yourself at a serious disadvantage when it comes to competitive gaming titles.

Wired and wireless mice come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, so finding one that’s right for your hand and grip can take a little figuring out. However, taking that time to make sure the mouse you buy is right for your grip and hand size could be the difference between winning and losing.

Weight

Weight has become much more important over the past five years, mainly because mouse manufacturers now have the resources to make mice lighter without losing out on any gaming performance. Having a lighter mouse theoretically allows you to become more agile, react faster to enemies, and practice for longer.

As a general rule, we usually recommend lighter mice (Cooler Master MM711/ Roccat Kone Pure Ultra) for competitive FPS titles such as CS:GO. Other game styles don’t rely on reaction time and aim as much, so weight doesn’t play a key role.

Latency

When referencing mice, latency refers to how long it takes for the mouse to send a specific command (mouse 1 click, for example) to the PC and be registered. Now, while the difference between today’s wired and wireless technology is less than noticeable, it still plays a major role in our decision-making process.

Most of the time, wired mice showcase lower latency as the signal gets sent via a physical wire. On the flip side, because wireless uses wireless technology, the signal can be delayed or interfered during its course to the PC.

While this probably won’t affect many of us playing casual games, professional esports players need every advantage they can get – almost always opting for a wired connection.

IPS

IPS stands for inches per second and refers to how well the sensor can track the movements you make. For example sake, a mouse that comes equipped with a 400 IPS tracking accuracy, theoretically has the ability to track your movements up to 400 inches per second. Basically, the higher the number, the more accurate the sensor is at high speeds.

Wired vs wireless: Which is better for gaming?

Ultimately, choosing whether to go for a wired or wireless gaming mouse comes down to your specific needs – and how much you prioritize raw gaming performance. Nine times out of ten, the wired gaming mouse is going to provide better gaming performance at the end of the day – albeit only marginally. They come equipped with lower input lag, usually offer a lighter build design, and will probably save you a few quid at the checkout too.

Having said that, if you prioritize desk tidiness, versatility, and user experience instead, then absolutely go for a wireless gaming mouse. As you can see from the comparison between the best wired vs best wireless gaming mice, there really isn’t a great deal separating the two types of mice. The only main factor nowadays is the price difference between the two, with wireless being much more expensive.

So, if you prioritize desk tidiness and versatility but still want a great gaming experience, there is literally no better time to buy a wireless gaming mouse. Just be ready to fork out for it.

Gaming mice recommendations

By now, you’ve probably concluded which type of mouse is best going to suit your needs. That being said, below are some brief snippets from a couple of the best wired and wireless mice that we’ve reviewed over here at WePC.

What we had to say about the Razer Viper Ultimate wireless gaming mouse

The Viper Ultimate benefits from a cleverly designed charging dock and supremely comfortable ambidextrous design. Its light weight of 2.7oz/74g makes it a great choice for general gaming, especially FPS where speed is king.

Check out our full Razer Viper Ultimate wireless gaming mouse review for more info on this great mouse.

What we had to say about the Glorious Model O- wired gaming mouse

The Model O- offers thoughtful design choices and some top-tier gaming performance with a disproportionately low price that makes it one of the best value for money propositions we’ve seen in a gaming mouse.

Why not mosey on over to our full Glorious PC Gaming Race Model O- gaming mouse review for more info on what we think is the king of wired gaming mice.

We have a whole bunch of other mouse guides that help when it comes to your next gaming mouse purchase. Below are some of our most popular, all providing great advice in its specific category.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, our comprehensive guide to wired vs wireless gaming mice. We hope our breakdown has made choosing your next mouse purchase that little bit easier.

Ultimately, choosing between a wired and wireless gaming mouse in today’s market comes down to one key factor – price. At the top end of the price spectrum, the differences are few and far between, with wireless mice now providing a very good account of themselves. However, if you haven’t got the cash to splash out on an expensive model, you may want to consider wired if gaming performance is your main priority.

If you have any questions regarding gaming mice, feel free to drop us a comment in the section below. Better still, why not head over to our Community Hub where you can discuss everything peripheral related with like-minded individuals.

Wireless Mouse vs. Wired: Which Is Better?

Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad iPad Keyboard with Numeric Keypad Keyboard & Mouse for iOS KB066

iPad Keyboard with Sliding Stand Bluetooth Keyboard for MacOS Wireless Backlit Keyboard for iPad

So, you’re in the market for a new computer mouse. You’re not sure if you should go with a tried and true wired mouse or the more flashy and ergonomic wireless mouse. To put it bluntly, both serve the same function but differ in terms of performance and convenience. It ultimately comes down to what you use your PC or laptop for and what exactly you prefer in a desktop setup.

To help you figure out if you should go with a wireless mouse or wired, we wrote up a guide that compares the two. We’ll look at how each one works and what their advantages and disadvantages are and we’ll also give you our recommendations for the best wired and wireless mice available in 2022.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in and find out which is better: wired or wireless mouse!

Noticeable Differences Between Wired and Wireless Mice

When it comes to the differences between a wired and wireless mouse, there is an obvious relationship between convenience and performance. A wired mouse tends to offer better performance overall, but doesn’t have the same benefits of convenience and portability as a wireless mouse. A wireless mouse sacrifices a little performance for a more ergonomic and practical experience.

Wired Mouse Wireless Mouse Faster and more accurate Not as quick and precise as a wired mouse Restricted movement Total freedom of movement Cheaper More expensive option Connected to device with USB cable Connected via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz radio frequency Less likely to get lost Can be more easily misplaced Plug-and-play Bluetooth wireless mouse requires pairing before use No need to charge Needs replaceable batteries or charger Cannot be used at a distance Can be used from a distance (~10 meters) Adds to desk clutter Helps to clear up desk space Less convenient portability Convenient portability

How Does Wireless Mouse Work?

A wireless mouse gives you the freedom to move over your desk without snags or other annoyances caused by a wire. The cordless mouse is connected to your device by either a Bluetooth or 2.4GHz RF connection. For the Bluetooth option, your PC or laptop will detect a wireless mouse with its Bluetooth antenna and will connect to it automatically once you have paired them via the Bluetooth settings. For 2.4GHz wireless mice, the connection to your device is established by a USB receiver which communicates with the mouse via 2.4GHz radio frequency. The USB receiver should be plugged into the USB-A port of your desktop computer or laptop and will usually work immediately.

Wireless mice offer a ton of benefits for any PC or laptop user, but not without a few setbacks. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of wireless mice and an idea of who can benefit most from them.

Advantages of Wireless Mice

A wireless mouse offers the convenience of easy portability, use from a distance, and the ability to move the mouse freely over the desk without the restriction caused by a cord. They have a much more modern and sleek look to them and also help reduce desk clutter. All in all, their biggest advantage is that they are much more ergonomic and work task-friendly than a wired mouse.

Disadvantages of Wireless Mice

A wireless mouse is not as fast and precise as a wired mouse, which doesn’t make them ideal for gaming. They also require battery replacement or charging; this can be annoying if you want to use it immediately and don’t have a replacement or rechargeable batteries, or time to charge it.

That being said, the issue of wireless mice and battery life can be pretty easily solved by getting a cordless mouse with a docking station. Just return the mouse back to its docking station after use and you won’t have to worry about it dying on you the next time you use it.

One last disadvantage of wireless mice is they need a USB receiver. If you forget to unplug the wireless mouse connector from your laptop for transportation, the USB port will be more susceptible to damage. Once I forgot to remove the wireless mouse connector from the port before putting my laptop in its bag and I lost complete use of one of my laptop's three USB ports.

How Does Wired Mouse Work?

A wired mouse is the definition of a “plug-and-play” device. Simply plug the USB cable into a USB port on your laptop or desktop computer and you’re good to go. It is powered directly by the host device via the USB connection and only allows you to move your mouse according to the length of the cable.

Now let’s take a closer look at what the pros and cons of a wired mouse are and to whom they are best suited.

Advantages of Wired Mice

A wired mouse offers a faster, more reliable scrolling and clicking experience, which generally makes them better for gaming. They are less expensive than their wireless counterparts and don’t require charging or batteries.

Disadvantages of Wired Mice

The most obvious disadvantage of using a wired mouse is the restriction of movement caused by the wire. This is especially troublesome if your desk is particularly busy with cables, paperwork, and other computer peripherals. Your desk space just won't look or feel as neat and tidy if you use a wired mouse.

Desk clutter can be more easily managed with the use of mouse bungees. Mouse bungees are devices that secure the wire of the mouse to allow for more freedom of movement and less tangling and snagging.

However, mouse bungees will only do so much to provide freedom of movement; you will still be restricted by the length of the cable. In order to experience complete freedom of movement with a mouse, you got to go with a wireless mouse.

Bottom Line: Are Wired Mouses Better Than Wireless?

In order to determine which is better for you: a wireless mouse or wired, it really comes down to if you use a laptop or desktop computer and if you primarily use it for gaming or for work. The bottom line is that wired mice are better for people who game on either their desktop PC or laptop because of their superior speed, accuracy, and response time. A wireless mouse is better for people who primarily use their laptop or desktop PC for work because it provides a more organized and ergonomic workspace and tends to give a more modern look to the office as well. Wireless mice are also better for people who tend to travel with their work because they are much more portable and won’t give you any cable management issues.

So, with that said, check out some of our best wireless and wired mice recommendations.

Best Wireless Mice Recommendations

Logitech MX Master 3S. With an ergonomic design which facilitates comfort and work productivity as well as two different color options to match your set up, the Logitech MX Master 3S is one of the best wireless computer mice currently available. This handy little unit can be used via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz USB receiver connection and is compatible with Logitech Unifying technology , so it can be connected to the same receiver as your other Logitech wireless devices.

OMOTON Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse. This wireless keyboard and mouse combo is the best duo for laptop and tablet users alike. Made of premium quality materials, both the keyboard and mouse are sturdy and lightweight, which makes them ideal for taking your work with you on the go. The silent mouse buttons deliver a responsive, comfortable, and quiet clicking experience - perfect for offices, coffee shops, and burning the midnight oil.

Razer Viper V2 Pro. Typically, it’s best for gamers to use a wired mouse as they are faster and more accurate, but this wireless mouse is the exception. The Razer Viper V2 Pro uses a Focus Pro 30k sensor which ensures speed and precision for fast-paced games - it’s been proven to be 25% faster than any other wireless mice on the market. This gaming wireless mouse is also lightweight and designed for comfortable and lengthy gaming sessions with an impressive battery life of over 80 hours.

Best Wired Mice Recommendations

Microsoft Pro IntelliMouse. If you need a mouse for both work and gaming on your desktop computer, then this Microsoft mouse is a great option for you. It has a comfortable and ergonomic design ideal for work and yet, it also has that right amount of weightiness and grip that a gaming mouse should have.

Dell MS819. Dell has always been a reliable manufacturer of work-oriented computer accessories. This computer mouse not only has a unique and modern design and feel, it also comes with some equally special features, such as the fingerprint reader which logs you into your computer just like your phone would.

Wired vs. Wireless Mice: All You Need to Know

Wired and wireless mice function similarly, but which one is best for you?

Wired and wireless mice can both be a perfect choice, depending on the particular purpose they are going to serve. Each comes with its strengths and advantages, limiting or extending flexibility, speed, and freedom of movement.

It can become difficult to choose between a quickly-responding wired mouse and an ultra-portable fancy wireless one, especially with so many fancy offers on both sides. So, let's find out how to prioritize your needs by comparing wired vs. wireless mice.

How a Wired Mouse Works

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The classic basic wired mouse is the easiest way to control the user interface on a laptop or computer. It always uses a cable to connect to your device, hence the name.

An obvious advantage of a wired mouse is that it doesn't use any batteries but draws power from the device instead. In general, no special drive is required for a wired mouse to work; you just plug it in, and it's good to go in a matter of seconds.

How a Wireless Mouse Works

As indicated by its name, a wireless mouse doesn't require a wired connection to work. It looks and works very similarly to a wired mouse but doesn't use any cable to connect to the host device. Instead, it uses wireless technology—typically, either Bluetooth or a proprietary protocol similar to Wi-Fi.

As a result, it's easier to carry while traveling and allows the control of the interface without requiring proximity to the device or limiting movement by the length of a wire.

A mouse with a custom wireless protocol always needs a proprietary connector to work. In contrast, Bluetooth-based models can usually connect to any Bluetooth receiver, including your laptop's built-in one.

Unlike wired mice that get power from the host device, wireless mice are powered either by rechargeable built-in lithium-ion batteries or AA or AAA batteries. In addition, they may include a charging cable that temporarily turns the mouse into a wired one.

The 4 Main Differences Between Wired and Wireless Mice

There are a few major differences between wired and wireless mice, which can become absolute game-changers in particular situations. In gaming, for example, response time is a crucial aspect.

Similarly, there are particular aspects essential for traveling. Power consumption is one of them. Below are the main differences between wired and wireless mice and how they will affect your overall experience:

1. Speed

Because it transmits information via a radio protocol, a wireless mouse is usually slower than a wired one, which transmits information significantly faster via a wire. You usually won't notice this during regular use, but it can become painfully apparent during gaming, where even the slightest lag matters.

Most modern gaming wireless mice utilize advanced technology that results in a practically lag-free experience.

2. Freedom of Movement

The long and easily tangled USB cable on a wired mouse is clearly less convenient for traveling. In this aspect, a wireless mouse is more portable and travel-friendly while also offering more freedom of movement and does not limit the work surface to the length of its cable.

3. Power Source

Power is a game-changer, especially in the context of travel. When using a wireless mouse, keep in mind that it uses battery power, requiring charging or new batteries to work. With wireless mice that use power from the host device, you don't have to worry about this.

4. Compatibility

Last but not least, there's a major compatibility difference between a wired and a wireless mouse. A wired mouse always requires a USB port to work. On the other hand, a Bluetooth mouse is compatible with any device that has a built-in Bluetooth receiver.

Using a Wired vs. Wireless Mouse: Comparing the Pros and Cons

With all that in mind, here are the main pros and cons of using a wired vs. wireless mouse:

Wired Mouse

The main benefit of wired mice is their faster and more precise response, and the fact that they don't need to be charged. Wired mice tend to be cheaper in general as well. On the other hand, you always have to dedicate a USB port to your wired mouse, and it uses a cable that limits movement and may get tangled if not carefully handled.

Wireless Mouse

A wireless mouse's main weakness is functionality and speed, whereas its strengths are its compact and comfortable design. The main disadvantages are the slower response time and possible lag in cheaper models, and the need to recharge or replace their batteries regularly.

A wireless mouse is usually more expensive too, and Bluetooth models are only compatible with devices that have Bluetooth receivers. On the other hand, you can enjoy more freedom of movement without any cables, making it great for travel.

Of course, the priority of these aspects can change according to your situation and needs.

While using batteries or charging your wireless mouse may be less practical than just plugging it into the host device, this becomes less important when you travel and when the advantage of portability, comfort, ergonomic form, and movement freedom is essential. Again, knowing your priorities can help you decide on the ideal model faster.

Wired vs. Wireless Mouse for Gaming: Are Wireless Mice Good for Gaming?

Wireless mice used to be avoided by gamers due to the lag associated with lower-end models. Most gamers prefer the precision and speed ensured by wired mice.

However, good wireless mice, which are usually more expensive, may have just as low latency as wired mice, to the point where the difference is impossible to register by human senses.

What's Better: Wired or Wireless Mouse?

As we mentioned above, the final decision will always depend on your priorities. For example, if you travel or use your laptop every day, using a wireless mouse will be more convenient, without cables to tangle or look messy and with more freedom of movement on a wider surface.

If you're a gamer, you may be more interested in the precision provided by a wired mouse. Furthermore, if you're looking for an investment as cheap as possible, a wired mouse is both the short-term and long-term solution. It costs less in the first place, and you don't have to worry about any additional expenses for batteries either.

In the end, it's all about personal preference and what proves to be more efficient for you. While wired mice ensure performance and efficiency, wireless mice are also a great choice for ergonomic design and convenience.

However, both use highly developed technologies, and you shouldn't discard either option before trying it. Instead, test each type of mouse and discover their strengths and weaknesses before making a choice.

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