Wired or wireless mouse: Which one is best for you?
Difference between a wired and
wireless mouse
Comfort and portability
Charging and batteries
Which mice are more compatible
Cost: which is cheaper
Even with trackpads getting better, bigger and more responsive on laptops, a lot of people prefer the ‘comfort’ of using a mouse. Those with desktops have to use a mouse anyhow. When you want to buy a mouse, the question of whether a wired one or a wireless one is the right choice will always come up. Here we tell you the differences between the two mice and which one is best for youA wireless mouse is relatively slower than a wired one. Most users will not notice the slight lag but if you are into gaming then you will feel the slowness as response time matters.The dangling cable on a wired mouse can be annoying. Not to forget that it limits the area of work as the cable is attached to the laptop and can be restricting. A wireless mouse gives you more freedom, is easy to carry and convenient if and when you are travelling.A wireless mouse will require you to change batteries or it will need you to charge it from time to time. And that will make you wonder do you need another device to charge? Here wired mouses are better as just plug into the port and use it without any charging/battery hassles.With a wired mouse, you will need a USB port mostly. A wireless mouse — Bluetooth ones — don’t require any port. There are wireless mice that also need a dongle which would require a port. However, Bluetooth mice are more compatible and will work with every desktop or laptop.Wireless mice are more expensive than wired ones. Maintaining a wired mouse is also cheaper as you don’t have to worry about changing batteries regularly.The convenience and cost argument can be made for both wired and wireless mice. You need to get one that is suitable for your needs. If you are into gaming, then a wired mouse is much better. If you need convenience and want to avoid the hassle of a wire dangling from your laptop, then wireless is the way to go.
Wireless vs. Wired Mouse: Which Is the Best Option?
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Are you in the market for a new mouse? As you browse today’s most popular options, you’re likely to come across wireless and wired variants. Both of these offer a number of unique advantages. One provides clutter-free, snappy movement, while the other offers a secure, stable connection that never fails. But, which is the best one for you?
We’ve created this in-depth comparison guide to answer all your wireless vs. wired mouse questions. Keep reading for more information about these types of mice and how to choose the best one for your system and needs.
Wired vs. Wireless Mouse: Key Differences
Here’s a quick look at how a wired mouse differs from a wireless mouse.
Wired Mouse Wireless Mouse Power Source No charging required (plugs into computer) Batteries Speed Generally the faster option A little slower than wired Interference Little to no interference Prone to interference Price Wide range, but typically the more budget-friendly option Wide range, but tend to be more expensive Portability Can travel, but isn’t convenient to pack Easier to travel with Input Lag No Yes
Wired Mouse Basics
In the most basic sense, a wired mouse is an interfacing peripheral that connects to your computer via a cable. Since wired mice are physically tethered to a computer, you don’t need to worry about connectivity issues (this also means no interference). A wired mouse plugs directly into a USB port.
Although most old-school gamers believe that wired mice are the optimal choice, the gap between a wired vs wireless mouse is shrinking. For many, the best choice now comes down to personal preference — although wired mice do still have a slight edge performance-wise.
On average, wired mice range from $25 to $100.
Wired Mouse Features
Speed – In many cases, wired mice faster response times. However, wireless models are quickly catching up.
– In many cases, wired mice faster response times. However, wireless models are quickly catching up. Connectivity – Wired mice sync with your computer via a physical USB cable.
– Wired mice sync with your computer via a physical USB cable. Reliability – Since a wired mouse is directly connected to your desktop or laptop, you do not need to worry about input lag or interference. As a gamer, this is a selling feature.
Cons of Using a Wired Mouse
Can add to clutter – Sometimes, wired mice cables can get in the way.
– Sometimes, wired mice cables can get in the way. Less portable – These mice aren’t as easy to unplug and move when traveling.
– These mice aren’t as easy to unplug and move when traveling. Durability issues –The cable is the least durable component of the mouse, which can shorten the mouse’s lifespan.
Wired Mouse Brands & Models To Check Out
Corsair SABRE RGB PRO | Amazon ($59.99) – Gamers like this mouse because of its ultra-lightweight design and drag-reducing cable. Plus, the price is great! Enjoy excellent click latency for just $59.
Razer Basilisk V3 | Amazon ($69.99) – This wired mouse has it all, including ten programmable buttons, an intelligent scroll wheel, and 11 RBG lighting zones. Pick it up for $70.
Cooler Master MM720 | Amazon ($41) – This mouse is the perfect example of when you don’t need to sacrifice comfort for performance. It is a fan-favorite gaming mouse that can be enjoyed for $40.
Read More: The Best Wired Mouse of 2022
Wireless Mouse Basics
A wireless mouse is, as it sounds, a mouse that operates wirelessly. This type of mouse connects via a USB connector through a 2.4GHz connection or Bluetooth. When comparing a wireless vs. wired mouse, many agree that a wireless mouse is the more comfortable option. Since there is no drag or resistance from a cable, your hand can move more freely.
Overall, wireless mice are slower than wired mice because they transmit information wirelessly. In that sense, it’s possible to experience a slight input lag. When precision is key, that’s a crucial consideration. However, as technology evolves, the differences gap between the wired vs. wireless mouse is shrinking.
You can find wireless mice for $50 or less. However, wireless gaming mice will generally be in the $75 to $150 range.
Wireless Mouse Features
Convenience – Whether you travel often or like to work on your couch, wireless mice easily go where you go.
– Whether you travel often or like to work on your couch, wireless mice easily go where you go. Aesthetics – Wireless mice offer attractive designs, and you can easily tuck them away when you’re finished with them. If you’re someone who hates clutter and adores a clean workspace or gaming area, this is a perk.
– Wireless mice offer attractive designs, and you can easily tuck them away when you’re finished with them. If you’re someone who hates clutter and adores a clean workspace or gaming area, this is a perk. Reliability – In the past, convenience and portability would mean sacrificing optimal performance. As technology evolves, there are high-end wireless mice that offer faster, more reliable connections. As a gamer, this is an optimal choice if you typically use your laptop’s built-in touchpad. A wireless mouse will be more reliable.
Cons of Using a Wireless Mouse
Heavier – Batteries add weight to this design.
– Batteries add weight to this design. May suffer interference – They are more prone to interference, which can be troublesome for gamers.
Wireless Mouse Models & Brands To Check Out
Razer Viper Ultimate ($149.99) – Ultra-lightweight and portable, this wireless mouse offers an ambidextrous design and customizable settings. This is a more expensive mouse, being sold for $149.
Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT | Amazon ($169.99) – As reported by Logitech, this is their “lightest and fastest PRO mouse ever.” Used by the world’s top esports athletes, this mouse weighs in at less than 63 grams, offering a frictionless glide. Find it for $169.
Logitech G305 LIGHTSPEED | Amazon ($59.99) – Want a wireless mouse that’s designed for serious performance, offered at an affordable price? This is it. You can pick up this full programmable mouse for $69.
Read More: The Best Wireless Mouse of 2022
Wireless vs. Wired Mouse FAQs
In this section, we’ll answer some common questions about wireless vs. wired mouse variants.
1. What is the main difference between a wired vs. wireless mouse?
The most obvious difference is how these mice connect to your computer. One connects using a cable, whereas the other connects via Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz connection. Based on these designs, their performance also differs. This is especially true concerning possible interference and input lag.
2. Is a Wired and Wireless Mouse Interchangeable?
In most circumstances, yes. Wireless and wired mice are interchangeable.
3. What about a laser vs. optical mouse? What does that mean?
If you’ve seen discussions covering laser vs. optical mouse features, it all comes down to the mouse’s illumination source. An optical mouse lights the surface using infrared LED light, whereas a laser mouse uses a laser.
4. Which is the better option?
There is no “best” option concerning a one-size-fits-all approach. The better option is the one that meets your needs. Wired mice are more convenient and versatile, while wired mice do offer an upper edge performance-wise. However, the difference in performance will only be noticeable to those affected by slight reductions in speed, such as gamers.
5. How does a wired mouse compare to a wireless mouse in terms of pricing?
Years ago, there was a more distinct difference between wireless vs. wired mouse options. Nowadays, however, the price of the mouse you buy mainly depends on the make and model. Many wireless mice are budget-friendly — but there are also high-end options that come with a higher price tag. Overall, wireless mice tend to cost just a fraction more.
Wireless vs. Wired Mouse: Which One Should You Buy?
When it comes to the best option to buy, a wireless vs. wired mouse, you need to focus on your personal preferences.
If you’re a gamer, you may prefer a wired gaming mouse that offers dedicated gaming features. If you have a job that requires the highest level of accuracy and speed, then again, a wired mouse may be your best option.
On the other side of the coin, if you’re someone that seeks versatility, convenience, and aesthetics, a wireless mouse might be your best bet. If you travel a lot or like to switch out the mouse you use, then wireless is definitely the way to go.
Wired vs. Wireless Mouse: Which Is Better for Gaming? – Voltcave
Shopping for a gaming mouse has always involved evaluating characteristics such as shape, size, and price. But one feature that has become much more important recently is connectivity and choosing between a wired vs. wireless mouse.
It wasn’t too long ago that wired mice were better by default, but that’s no longer the case. Each is a totally valid choice now, and you’ll have to evaluate the pros and cons of each to find the right mouse for you. So if you’re shopping for a gaming mouse and need some advice, you’ve come to the right place.
Before we get into the discussion, here’s a quick table outlining the key points of our comparison:
Wired Wireless Latency • Great low-latency operation for gaming • Comparable latency to wired mice, as long as they’re high-end enough Weight • Generally lighter than wireless mice • Heavier due to extra batteries Price • Good value, cheaper than wireless mice • More expensive than wired mice, with the highest-end options breaking past $100 Convenience • The cable can tangle and requires management to avoid snags
• No battery or dongle to worry about • Zero cable issues, great for mobile use or eliminating cable drag when gaming
• Requires managing battery life and keeping track of a small USB dongle
Latency
The biggest difference between a wired vs. wireless gaming mouse used to be the performance. Wireless mice were slow, laggy, and unusable for anything beyond casual games. Thanks to advancements in wireless technology, that’s no longer the case with most modern wireless gaming mice. Latency-wise, the best wireless gaming mice now are just as good as—if not better than—wired mice.
Optimum Tech tested many high-quality gaming mice and found that the average end-to-end latency for wired and wireless mice is generally on par. Yes, the wireless Pwnage Ultra Custom Symm came last in his testing, but 28.7 milliseconds of latency isn’t bad. It shouldn’t be an issue for all but the sweatiest FPS gamers.
But the relatively similar results between wired and wireless mice shows that it’s likely more about the mouse’s components, such as the switches and how much latency they have. Because while the slowest mouse is indeed a wireless mouse, two of the top three in Optimum Tech’s testing are also wireless. That points to the protocol not being a problem in and of itself.
YouTuber Tech and Tips compared the wired and wireless versions of gaming mice like the Razer Lancehead and Logitech G703, alongside budget wireless options from brands like Logitech and A4Tech. They found that the gaming mice had identical click latency results, regardless of whether it was the wired or wireless mouse version. Even 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth turned in matching results for the Razer Basilisk X HyperSpeed.
The only sub-par latency numbers were from the cheaper Logitech and A4Tech products. This isn’t surprising, as they’re not designed with low-latency response in mind. But it reinforces the argument that wired vs. wireless is no longer the main issue. Instead, it’s all about the mouse’s internal components and their performance.
If you’re shopping in the mid-range and upwards, there shouldn’t be any significant difference between wired and wireless mice in terms of latency and responsiveness. So you can get whatever you like, as long as it fits your preferences. But if you’re buying at the budget end and can’t find any concrete data about a mouse’s latency, we suggest playing it safe with a wired gaming mouse.
Weight
Generally speaking, wireless mice will always have a slight weight penalty vs. their wired counterparts. The extra battery adds weight, whether it’s an AA/AAA battery or a rechargeable solution like on higher-end wireless mice.
However, high-end wireless mice like the Logitech G Pro X Superlight and the new Razer Viper V2 Pro manage to keep this extra weight to a minimum, often by reducing weight in other areas. So both of these mice come in at around the 60 gram (2.11 oz) mark, which is lighter than many wired mice.
So, overall, there’s not really a clear winner here. Wired or wireless, there’s an ultralight mouse out there for you. However, you will have to pay around $150 for these 60-gram wireless gaming mice; if you’re after a light mouse on a budget, then wired mice are still the way to go. The 59-gram HyperX Pulsefire Haste, for example, can be had for less than $50.
Price
Wireless mice have come down in price recently, meaning that you can find a decent wireless mouse in almost any price bracket, whether budget or high-end. However, it’s often the case that the cheaper wireless mice (such as those in the sub-$50 price range) are older mice that have dropped in price due to age.
They won’t necessarily have the most cutting-edge shapes, will have older sensors, and tend to be much heavier. But suppose you want a modern wireless gaming mouse with all the bells and whistles, such as a top-end sensor and an ultra-lightweight body. In that case, you’ll most likely pay a premium for a wireless mouse over the wired version.
Let’s take SteelSeries’ flagship wireless, the Aerox 5 Wireless, as an example. It retails for around $150, in line with other high-end wireless gaming mice. However, the wired version, which has the same features and is 8 grams (0.28 oz) lighter, will only set you back around $80.
That’s still relatively pricey for a gaming mouse, but it’s nowhere near the wireless version. Which makes it better value in our book, as long as you can live without the wireless connectivity.
To be sure, not all wireless mice will have such significant premiums compared to their wired counterparts. But if you’re on a tighter budget and want good value out of your gaming mouse, a wired mouse is generally the better option.
Convenience
Versatility and Ease-Of-Use
There are two ways to look at convenience, and we’ll cover both here. When it comes to versatility, there’s no question that wireless mice have the advantage. A wireless mouse with Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz support will work with almost any modern device, whereas a wired mouse requires a USB port. Wireless mice also work at range, untethered by wired mice’s relatively short cable lengths.
Wireless mice are perfect for portable use. Getting rid of the wire means that it won’t get tangled in your bag, and there won’t be any unsightly cables snaking around your table. The latter is especially handy if you’re working on a cramped cafe table or somewhere like that. Just turn your mouse on and start working.
Gamers won’t care as much about portable use, but the lack of a cable has other benefits. Wireless mice totally eliminate any potential cable issues when gaming, whether it’s cable drag or the chance of snagging your cable during big mouse movements.
Yes, it’s less of a problem now that most decent gaming mice have flexible braided cables, but going wireless totally eliminates any cable issues. So there’s a slight performance benefit to the convenience of wireless, too. Just as long as you keep the battery charged, that is.
Maintenance
Unlike the no-fuss operation of wired mice, wireless mice require you to keep track of battery life and charge your mouse up when needed. Thankfully, modern wireless mice tend to have good battery life. Seventy hours or more on a rechargeable battery isn’t unheard of, and computer mice that use AA or AAA batteries can even hit 400 hours or more.
Most good wireless mice also have a way for you to track battery life, usually via a companion program and an LED indicator on the mouse itself. As long as you check it regularly and top the battery up, the nightmare situation of your wireless mouse dying mid-way through a game shouldn’t ever occur. But it’s still a hassle compared to a wired mouse, which will keep working as long as it’s plugged in.
Another minor inconvenience is that 2.4 GHz wireless mice need a receiver to connect to your computer. This technology allows them to perform identically to wired mice, but it does make you reliant on a tiny dongle to get the best out of your mouse. However, that shouldn’t be a huge issue if you’re diligent and remember to store the dongle in the dedicated storage slots most wireless mice have.
Overall, while we think wireless mice are more convenient than wired mice, there are still reasons to go for the latter. If you don’t like the idea of keeping a mouse charged and hate the idea of relying on an easily-misplaced dongle, then wired mice are still the way to go. But we think both are minor inconveniences compared to the luxury of wireless operation.
Conclusion
If you’ve been hesitating about buying a wireless gaming mouse due to performance issues, there’s no longer a reason to wait. The best wireless mice are now on par with their wired counterparts, so you won’t be giving up any latency or accuracy in-game. But that doesn’t mean that the wired vs. wireless mouse choice is fully resolved, as each has its pros and cons.
For instance, if you’re not interested in keeping your mouse charged and don’t want to deal with a dongle, wired mice are probably still the better choice. They’re still more affordable and offer better value, even if wireless mice have significantly fallen in price. On the flip side, wireless mice are more convenient, and no cable beats even the most flexible braided cable.
So it all boils down to what you want and what your priorities are. Feel free to experiment and see which works best for you. And while you’re looking around, why not check out our guide to picking a gaming mouse for some advice? All the best!
