For hardcore gamers, the best gaming mouse has been and always will be wired. Wired gaming mice offer the obvious advantages of infinite battery life, low latency, no interference, and being relatively budget-friendly. Even with wireless mice more abundant than ever in the marketplace, there remains a diehard contingent of gamers who believe the gaming mice are wired. Despite advancements in wireless technology, the performance and precision of wired gaming mice keep them the default choice for the most competitive gamers.
However, with so many different options to choose from, from the best MMO mouse to the best FPS mouse, the best ergonomic gaming mouse, or the best budget gaming mouse, finding the perfect wired gaming mouse is quite challenging. That's where this handy guide comes in. With extensive coverage on gaming peripherals, especially gaming mice, Game ZXC has come up with a list of the best wired gaming mice for 2024.
The Best Gaming Mouse in 2024
A good gaming mouse is the way to go when it comes to gaming with the best accuracy.
Game ZXC's picks for the Best Wired Gaming Mice for 2024
Razer DeathAdder V3 Wired Gaming Mouse
The Razer DeathAdder V3 is a lightweight wired gaming mouse in an unconventional shape. Longer with a more pronounced hump than most Esports FPS mice, the DeathAdder V3 is accommodating to medium and large hands. With a 30K optical sensor, the mouse flies around mousepads at a 750 IPS max speed. Using Smart Tracking, the mouse can calculate lift-off distances more accurately on any surface type. Gen 3 Optical Switches respond instantly while lasting 90 million satisfying clicks.
- Weight
- 59 grams
- Sensor
- Optical, 30K DPI
- Wireless?
- No
- Brand
- Razer
- Programmable Buttons
- 6
- Improved optical switches
- Longer shape yet still lightweight
- Very low click latency
- Solid build quality
- Less buttons than other comparable mice
Our pick for the overall best wired gaming mouse is the Razer DeathAdder V3. It's not often that when a manufacturer releases a new version of a gaming mouse that actually looks or feels dramatically different from the older device. The wired Razer DeathAdder V3 is an ergonomic gaming mouse that is slightly longer with a taller and more curved shell than the V2. However, the weight of the V3 is the most obvious change, weighing in at 59 grams as opposed to the 82 grams of the V2.
These changes have a fairly dramatic impact on what gamers will find the Razer DeathAdder V3 most comfortable to use. Competitive FPS players often look for tiny and lightweight mice that they can flick around mousepads with ease and lock onto new targets. The Razer DeathAdder V3 still tracks at a speedy 750 inches per second (IPS), but its dimensions make it easier to handle for medium and large hands.
How the Razer DeathAdder V3 performs is what really matters, whether your a casual gamer or a competitive one. With an incredibly high DPI of 30K and the ability to recognize lift-off points with greater precision, the mouse is ready for any fast-paced title you can throw at it. The Razer DeathAdder V3 redefines what a lightweight Esports mouse can look like, and is the best wired gaming mouse on the market today.
Make sure to check out our full review of the Razer DeathAdder V3.
Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite Gaming Mouse
Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite is the company's premium gaming mouse designed specifically for MOBA and MMO players, but also a great option for fans of sports games. The mouse's accurate optical sensor supports up to 18,000 DPI, and it comes with 50 million click-rated Omron switches and a durable scroll wheel.
For MOBA and MMO players the 17 fully programmable buttons make gaming a breeze. It allows the execution of various tasks simultaneously and complex macros with just one push of a button.
- Weight
- 122 g
- Sensor and DPI
- PixArt PMW3391 18,000
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 17
- Connectivity
- Wired
- DPI
- 18000
- IPS
- 250
- Polling Rate
- 1000 Hz
- Acceleration
- 50G
- Tons of programmable buttons
- Ergonomically sound
- Extremely well built
- Not much spacing between macro buttons
- Bulky construction
If you use a wired MMO mouse when gaming, we recommend picking up the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite ergonomic gaming mouse. Popular MMO titles like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV demand an endless array of commands to excel at higher levels, and even many of the best gaming mouse options lack enough buttons. Despite Corsair advertising the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite as a mouse for MMO and MOBA games, its 18K DPI PMW3391 optical sensor tracks accurately enough that you can even use it as an FPS mouse.
The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite is a near perfect MMO mouse with an astounding 17 programmable buttons, the majority found on the left side. If you're worried about accidentally hitting the side buttons, you can reposition them using a handy slider. The Scimitar RGB Elite is a rather wide and bulky gaming mouse, making it less suitable for shooters that demand regular rapid movements. However, with an impressive array of RGB effects, it is also an exceptionally durable wired gaming mouse ready to withstand the hours of grinding quests that MMO games require.
Speaking of durability, our choice for the best MMO mouse uses Omron switches that are rated for 50 million clicks and has a braided cable for extra strength. The 12 programmable buttons on the side show RGB lights through the printed numbers. The four columns of buttons are also textured, making it easier to identify the location of each button without having to look down at the mouse.
Razer Basilisk V3 Gaming Mouse
With a Razer Focus+ 26K DPI sensor, the Basilisk V3 gaming mouse provides the precise tracking needed in the best FPS games. The mouse can store five onboard memory profiles with 11 programmable buttons.
The Basilisk V3 Pro features a HyperScroll tilt wheel with smooth, free spin, or tactile cycling modes. The RGB effects of the mouse never fail to impress with 11 Razer Chroma RGB lighting zones.
- Weight
- 101 grams
- Sensor
- Razer Focus+
- System Requirements
- Windows, Mac
- Wireless?
- Yes
- Brand
- Razer
- Programmable Buttons
- 11
- Maximum DPI
- 26000
- Innovative scroll wheel
- 26K DPI Optical Sensor
- Impressive RGB effects
- Bulky size
- Ring and finger rests uncomfortable
The Razer Basilisk V3 is the best FPS mouse we've tried. It's so good, we even prefer it over using a traditional gaming controller. While many FPS games are cross-platform and encourage gamers to use controllers, a wired gaming mouse remains the best choice to react and aim with accuracy. Competitive FPS gamers flock to Razer's line of gaming mice, particularly the Razer Basilisk V3 which has an attractive combination of performance, customization, and style.
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The Razer Basilisk V3 is among the best FPS gaming mice options with an extremely precise 26K DPI optical sensor and 11 programmable buttons. The functionality of the mouse's HyperScroll tilt wheel is without a rival, offering the ability to select weapons without costly mistakes or repeat common game commands in its free-spin scrolling mode.
Catering to FPS gamers, the Razer Basilisk V3 ships with profiles for many popular shooting games that take advantage of its highly customizable button layout. The mouse also benefits from Razer's Chroma lighting ecosystem with 11 LEDs, including underglow lighting for effects normally blocked by hands. Not only that, the ergonomic shape of the mouse makes it comfortable in the hand for gamers with medium to large hand sizes. The left click is slightly raised compared to the right click, which prevents the wrist from being completely flat on the desk.
Read our full review of the Razer Basilisk V3 Gaming Mouse.
Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ Adjustable Wired Gaming Mouse
The Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ Adjustable Wired Gaming Mouse offers gamers an extraordinarily unique and customizable design. The R.A.T. 8+ has a 16,000 DPI sensor and durable switches rated to last over 50 million clicks. The mouse features an adjustable palm rest to accommodate a variety of grip styles and swappable parts including alternative pinkie rests. In addition, the R.A.T. 8 has an adjustable weight system to suit both MMO and FPS titles. The R.A.T. 8 provides the flexibility of 11 programmable buttons, 4 internally stored user profiles, and Chameleon RGB software to customize lighting effects.
- Weight
- 157 grams
- Sensor and DPI
- Optical, 16000
- Switches
- OMRON switches
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 11
- Connectivity
- Wired, USB
- Wireless
- No
- IPS
- 400
- Acceleration
- 50 G
- Amazingly customizable mouse design
- Extremely sturdy
- Uses the heralded PMW3389 optical sensor
- Heavy and not very portable
- Complexity may scare away some users
In 2017, Mad Catz filed for bankruptcy, but their unique collection of gaming peripherals lives on, which is good news, because we strongly believe the Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ is the best ergonomic gaming mouse on the market. Simplicity was not a concept the designers of the Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ considered a priority, but its complexity is necessary for the ergonomic nature of the mouse. Just as ergonomic gaming chairs can help gamers avoid chronic back pain, the best ergonomic gaming mouse can relieve wrist and finger discomfort aggravated by grueling gaming sessions.
The Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ allows gamers to adjust the position of the palm rest with a sliding mechanism to suit different grip preferences. Other mice allow users to swap left or right panels, but the R.A.T. 8+ takes things a step further with a swappable palm rest. Depending on which part of the gaming mouse you selects, the Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+ becomes ideal for palm, claw, or fingertip grips. Beyond that, you can add weights to the mouse for a more or less substantial feel, making it the most customizable wired gaming mouse.
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The futuristic look of the mouse is not for everyone, but with some effort, you can tweak the device to suit the shape of their hands and button placement preferences. Performance is far from a weak point for the Mad Catz R.A.T. 8+, with a Pixart PMW 3389 optical sensor providing a maximum DPI of 16K and 50G worth of acceleration around a mouse pad.
ROCCAT Kone XP Gaming Mouse
The Roccat Kone XP is a gaming mouse that comes with a Krystal 4D wheel that supports left and right lateral inputs in addition to the standard vertical click and scroll functions. The wheel is designed to diffuse the underlying RGB lighting through its see-through surface. The mouse also has Titan optical switches, which are faster than any mechanical switches, according to Roccat. In addition to being fast, the switches have a life cycle of 100 million clicks. The 15 buttons on the mouse allow 29 different button functions, thanks to Roccat's duplication technology.
- Weight
- 104 grams
- Sensor and DPI
- Optical, 19K
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 29 functions
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Wireless
- No
- Ample amount of programmable buttons
- Sensor performs well
- Stunning RGB lighting effects
- Thumb buttons can be hard to find
- On the heavy side
RGB effects are nearly universal on the best gaming mice these days, but some models are more understated with their lighting than others. Wired gaming mice are especially popular for RGB junkies since the lighting tends to drain wireless mouse batteries quickly. While Razer Chroma and Corsair iCue are two of the most popular lighting ecosystems, Roccat has many RGB keyboards and mice worth considering. With the Roccat Kone XP, no gamer can accuse the mouse of not taking full advantage of RGB lighting, with 22 LED zones shining through most of the ergonomic mouse. The translucent Krystal 4D scroll wheel also joins the RGB party, adding to an impressive overall lighting package.
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The Roccat Kone XP includes 15 programmable buttons, with four available scroll wheel actions, making it a suitable wired gaming mouse for FPS and MMO gamers. With the Easy-Shift[+] button, the possible functions of the buttons soar to 29. While the mouse is slightly heavier than other options, it's also more agile thanks to Roccat's lightweight PhantomFlex cable.
Offering a healthy maximum DPI of 19K, nearly indestructible Titan optical switches, and a design that enhances its RGB lighting, the Roccat Kone XP is the best wired gaming mouse for anyone looking for a visually striking peripheral to add to a rig. The mouse comes in Black and White shell colors with the white option looking even more vibrant with its RGB lighting.
Razer Cobra
The Razer Cobra is built to be durable and comfortable to use for long gaming sessions, and it provides excellent gaming performance, all for a reasonable price. Gamers can fine-tune the mouse's sensitivity with precise adjustments in 50 DPI increments to achieve a tailored play style.
- Weight
- 58 g
- Sensor and DPI
- Optical 8500 DPI
- Switches
- Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 6
- Connectivity
- USB-A wired
- DPI
- 8500 DPI
- IPS
- 300 IPS
- Polling Rate
- 1,000 Hz
- Acceleration
- 35 g
- Affordable price point
- Durable optical switches
- Underglow lighting
- Not the most sensitive sensor
- May be too small for some
Not everyone finds it comfortable using a regular-sized gaming mouse for long gaming sessions. This is where compact gaming mice come in, annd our choice for the best wired compact gaming mouse is the Razer Cobra. Only a few manufacturers have made compact mice and even fewer have wired options, which makes the Razer Cobra a no-brainer at this spot in our guide. At about the same size as the Razer Viper Mini, the Cobra brings the latest Razer technology and design aesthetic.
Not only does the Razer Cobra feature the 8500 DPI Optical Sensor and the Speedflex Cable, it weighs just 58 grams, making it one of the lightest wired gaming mice on the market. Do note, it is possible that some gamers may find it to be too light and insubstantial. The compact form factor does not take away from its durability as the swithces are rated for 90 million clicks. The Razer Cobra comes with Chroma RGB lighting that is visible via the logo on the shell and an underglow.
The Razer Cobra has the standard six programmable buttons and the mouse does not support tilt. It slides on 100% PTFE feet which, considering Razer's top-tier build quality, will not suffer from wear and tear anytime soon.
What makes the package even more interesting is the price point. At under $50, the Razer Cobra is the best compact wired gaming mouse on the market.
Corsair M55 RGB Pro
For gamers looking for an ambidextrous mouse that will get the job done without breaking the bank, the Corsair M55 RGB Pro is one of the better options. The sensor offers a respectable maximum DPI of 12,400, which is more than enough for most gamers, especially outside of highly competitive shooters.
This budget gaming mouse gives left-handed players two buttons on each side, along with studded texture and RGB lighting. With a total of 8 programmable buttons, it’s easy to customize assigned keys to match gameplay, regardless of genre. The shape and size are equally accommodating, providing a comfortable and ergonomic experience through hours of play. Although not as powerful as some other options, its specs listed at this price are tough to beat.
- Weight
- 86g
- Sensor and DPI
- Optical 12,400
- Switches
- Mechanical
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 8
- Connectivity
- Wired, USB
- Multi-Device Pairing
- Yes
- Solid construction for the price
- Accurate sensor
- Premium braided cable
- Inconsistent sensitivity
- Lack of weight makes it difficult to control
Left-handed gamers are often frustrated at the lack of options when shopping for a wired left-handed gaming mouse. There are only a handful of mice made specifically for left-handers and those models are usually difficult to find in stock. Fortunately, there are many more choices among ambidextrous designs, including the excellent Corsair M55 RGB Pro.
For a budget price, the M55 RGB Pro packs plenty of features for gaming mouse. There are two buttons on each side of the mouse, which is sure to please both left and right-handed gamers. Unfortunately, the buttons on either side cannot be removed for a smoother surface. The M55 RGB Pro also serves up some subtle RGB lighting in the form of a light-up logo on the shell. However, it is not the most lightweight and stands in the middle of the weight class at 86 grams.
Even though most left-handed gamers are more than satisfied with ambidextrous mice, if they are searching for a device specifically crafted for them, the MMO-oriented Razer Naga Left Handed Edition is a likely target. However, the Naga is not only far more expensive but also weighs 109 grams. With 8 programmable buttons and a DPI of 12,400, the more agile Corsair M55 RGB Pro will satisfy the majority of southpaw gamers.
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Glorious Model O 2 Wired Gaming Mouse
The Glorious Model O 2 is a wired gaming mouse that focuses on performance and a lightweight form factor for maximum speed and agility. Relying on the new BAMF 2.0 sensor, the Glorious Model O 2 has a top-tier IPS of 650 and a 50G acceleration rating. With Motion Sync technology, the mouse's movements are reflected instantaneously on screens with a surgically precise sensor. Sporting 6 programmable buttons and an ergonomically friendly design, the Glorious Model O 2 is set to become a mainstay on gaming desks for years to come.
- Weight
- 58 grams
- Sensor and DPI
- Glorious BAMF 2.0 Optical, 26,000 DPI
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 6
- IPS
- 650
- Polling Rate
- 1000Hz
- Acceleration
- 50 G
- Extremely easy to move around mousepads
- Highly accurate Glorious BAMF 2.0 sensor
- Simple to use software
- Build quality feels lacking
- Perforated design not for everyone
The Glorious Model O 2 is a compact gaming mouse for those users who want to avoid the usual bulk of serious gaming gear. The wired gaming mouse has a slim profile and checks in at just 59 grams, 9 grams lighter than the also-available wireless version. With its small size, the Glorious Model O 2 offers a more controlled grip, a lighter-density build, and easier overall handling for both the hardcore and casual gamer.
Glorious has made numerous changes to the original Model O which was a popular choice for Esports competitions. The honeycomb shell look isn't entirely abandoned, but the Model O 2 now has more traditional perforations on its exterior. More importantly, the latest version has an improved BAMF 2.0 optical sensor which boasts Motion Sync technology allowing inputs to reflect instantly on screens. It has an ambidextrous design but is made for right-handed users with additional buttons on the left side.
With a maximum DPI of 26,000 and an IPS rating of 650, the Model O 2 is extremely agile on a mousepad and tracks with ultimate precision. The mouse also includes buttons that are satisfying to use and can last for up to 80 million clicks, as per Glorious. Plenty of gaming mice manufacturers have tried to improve mouse cords with lighter and more flexible materials. However, Glorious' Paracord Ascended Cable is particularly impressive with a smooth matte braided material that flexes during furious gameplay without kinks.
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Cooler Master MM720 Gaming mouse
The Cooler Master MM720 is one of the lightest gaming mice on the market, offering an optical PixArt sensor with 16000 DPI. The honeycomb shell on the MM720 reduces the weight of the mouse while adding to its impressive facade.
The MM720 gaming mouse's durability is further bolstered by an ultralight cable that resists snagging and tough PTFE feet, which let the mouse skate smoothly around mouse pads and surfaces. RGB lighting ties everything together for a distinctive piece of gear.
- Weight
- 49 grams
- Sensor and DPI
- Optical, 16K DPI
- Switches
- Optical
- RGB Lighting
- Yes
- Programmable Buttons
- 6
- Connectivity
- Wired, USB
- Wireless
- No
- DPI
- 400
- IPS
- 50 G
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Max DPI of 16K
- Features bright RGB lighting
- Not ideal for large hands
When it comes to budget options, all too often major sacrifices have to be made in order to save money. However, with the Cooler Master MM720 ergonomic gaming mouse, players can have it all: RGB lighting, a powerful sensor, and a durable cord. One of the few gaming mice under $30 available, the MM720 goes on sale frequently, bringing the price for the wired mouse sometimes under $25. The Cooler Master MM720 uses a honeycomb shell, which reduces the weight but at the cost of durability. The braided cord is designed to prevent snags.
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The specs don't disappoint either, with an adjustable sensor that offers up to 16K DPI. There are also six buttons in total and players can customize the lights or remap the side buttons as well. The contoured sides are another great bonus, although the overall size of the mouse could be bigger. As it is, the Cooler Master MM720 is perfect for smaller hands or players who prefer fingertip grips. For other grip styles, the porous design will provide plenty of textured grip and keep their hand cool throughout every match.
More on How to Find the Best Wired Gaming Mouse
Size
Given that gamers have different hand sizes, gaming mice come in a range of sizes but mostly categorize themselves as a regular-sized mouse or small/mini mouse. The size of the mouse depends on two factors; the size of your hand and your grip style. Gamers with larger hands would prefer a mouse that fills their hand if they use a palm grip or one that is not too small for a claw grip. Larger mice also allow for more buttons, which is ideal for MOBA and MMORPG games. On the other hand, gamers with smaller hands may even be comfortable using a bigger mouse if they lean towards a palm grip. Knowing what size works best will help make the purchase decision easier.
Grip
Whether it is for palm, claw, or fingertip grip style, or a combination of two or more of these, there is a mouse out there for everyone. Both ambidextrous and ergonomic gaming mice can be used with any of the aforementioned grip styles. However, the tricky part about grip style is you can only discover how well your grip style works with a particular mouse by physically trying it out. Furthermore, only over longer sessions can gamers find out how well the mouse suits their grip style. If possible, try to visit a store to see which wired gaming mouse works best for you.
Shape
In the past few years, ambidextrous mice have gained a lot of ground and are now considered just as popular as ergonomic mice, if not more popular. Depending on the grip style, some people find ambidextrous mice to be more comfortable, while others prefer the ergonomic options. Ambidextrous mice, as the name suggests, are better for left-handed gamers and some of the options in the market allow for swapping the buttons to the other side to make it even more usable. With ergonomic mice, left-handed users will struggle to find the right fit.
Weight
The weight of a mouse has become an important factor when looking at a new gaming mouse. Generally, the lighter the mouse, the easier it is to move around and the less fatigue gamers will experience. However, some gamers prefer heavier mice, like the Logitech G502 HERO, because they feel more substantial in their hands. Furthermore, the cable of a wired gaming mouse also adds a bit to the weight and maneuverability, which is why manufacturers have started to focus on the weight of the cable as well, along with the weight of the mouse. Some mice allow for adjusting the weight but they're usually on the heavier side to begin with.
DPI
DPI measures the sensitivity of a mouse, and how much of a screen a cursor can cover with the same movements. Many gaming mice advertise extremely high DPIs of 25,000 or more, but in reality, competitive gamers prefer much lower sensitivity settings. Some mice allow for changing the DPI on the fly, while others require adjustments through software, which is where gamers can more granularly adjust the sensitivity.
Number of Buttons
Typically, gaming mice come with around six programmable buttons. These are essential for most games and daily tasks, especially when they are programmable. Some mice geared toward MOBA games can feature a whole grid of buttons, since it's easier to have additional controls on the mouse hand rather than moving the keyboard hand away from the standard position. Gamers should also consider whether a mouse has the ability to remap some or all of its default commands in software.
FAQs
Are wired mice still better for gaming?
When buying a mouse, it can be important to consider latency issues and input lag. If players want less of a possible lag out of their mice, working with a wired mouse is the way to go. Good wireless mice may have no noticeable lag, but getting a wired mouse decreases the chances of having any input lag at all, no matter the quality.
Are wireless mice more expensive than wired mice?
Not necessarily, but in most cases, yes. A wired mouse will be cheaper than its wireless counterpart, but there are wired gaming mice in the market that are more expensive than some wireless options.
How long should a mouse last?
Many factors affect a mouse's longevity, including usage, environment, dust, and heat. If owners take good care of their mice, it can last up to 2-3 years with consistent use.
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FAQ
Q: Are wired mice still better for gaming?
When buying a mouse, it can be important to consider latency issues and input lag. If players want less of a possible lag out of their mice, working with a wired mouse is the way to go. Good wireless mice may have no noticeable lag, but getting a wired mouse decreases the chances of having any input lag at all, no matter the quality.
Q: Do wired mice need charging?
Unlike wireless mice, wired mice do not need to charge. They remain functional as long as they're connected to the source of power from the PC. The main benefit that gamers get from a wired mouse is the lack of any need to charge.
Q: How long should a mouse last?
Many factors affect a mouse's longevity, including usage, environment, dust, and heat. If owners take good care of their mice, it can last up to 2-3 years with consistent use.