Computer Mice

Grip styles

• Palm rests the whole hand on the mouse, suits larger, rounded shapes

• Claw arches the hand, suits taller mid-length shapes

• Fingertip uses tips to steer, suits light, smaller shapes

2) Connectivity

• 2.4 GHz dongle: lowest latency and stable in busy offices

• Bluetooth 5: pairs to laptops, tablets and phones, often three device switching

• Many models include both for maximum flexibility

3) Sensor, DPI and polling

• Modern optical sensors track on most surfaces, including cloth mats

• DPI or CPI is sensitivity, not accuracy. Real-world accuracy is set by the sensor and firmware

• Polling rate is how often the mouse reports to the PC. 1,000 Hz is standard for gaming; some offer 2,000 to 8,000 Hz with compatible USB ports

4) Weight, feet and cable

• Lightweight 55 to 75 g feels agile for gaming

• PTFE feet glide smoothly. Add a quality mouse mat for consistency

• Paracord-style cables reduce drag on wired models

5) Power and charging

• Rechargeable batteries via USB-C suit daily use

• AA or AAA cells are simple to swap and last months on office mice

• Look for a quick charge that gives hours of use from a short top-up

Quick picks by scenario

• Best value office: Wireless Bluetooth plus 2.4 GHz, silent clicks, tilt wheel, USB-C charging

• Open plan quiet: Silent wireless mouse, soft scroll, smooth PTFE feet

• Esports and FPS: 60 to 70 g wired or low-latency wireless, flagship optical sensor, 1,000 Hz or higher

• MMO and productivity: 6 to 12 programmable buttons, profile switching, side scroll

• Wrist pain relief: Medium or large ergonomic vertical mouse with adjustable DPI

• Travel: Compact Bluetooth multi-device, built-in battery, stowable dongle

• Mac laptop desk: Bluetooth mouse with side scroll, gesture support, USB-C

• Creative apps: High-resolution sensor, smooth scroll wheel, thumb buttons for shortcuts

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying by DPI number alone, rather than sensor quality and shape

• Choosing a mouse that does not fit your grip and causes fatigue

• Forgetting dongle storage and losing the receiver during travel

• Picking Bluetooth only when you need BIOS or pre-boot use

• Ignoring weight and then finding it tiring for long sessions

• Skipping a mouse mat, then fighting inconsistent tracking on shiny desks

• Not checking the left or right-handed shape when buying for the opposite hand

• Overlooking the charging port position if you want to use it while charging

Care and maintenance

• Wipe the shell weekly with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners

• Clean PTFE feet and your mouse mat to keep the glide smooth

• Lift lint from the sensor with a blower or soft brush

• Store the dongle inside the mouse or case pocket when travelling

• Update firmware and software to fix bugs and add features

• Replace worn feet or switches with maker kits where supported

Popular sub categories

• Wireless office mice

• Gaming mice

• Ergonomic vertical mice

• Trackball mice

• Left-handed and ambidextrous

• Compact travel mice

• Mouse mats and wrist rests

• Dongles, receivers and spare cables

FAQs: Computer mice

1) Which mouse is best for office work
A comfortable wireless mouse with Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz, silent clicks, and a rechargeable USB-C battery is ideal.

2) Are higher DPI numbers always better
No. Sensor quality and consistent tracking matter more. Choose a range you can control, then tune sensitivity in software.

3) Wired or wireless for gaming
Both can be excellent. Low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless rivals wired performance. Choose what feels best and check the polling rate.

4) What is the polling rate
How often does the mouse report its position to the PC per second? 1,000 Hz is common for gaming and feels responsive.

5) Will a mouse work on any surface
Most optical sensors work on mats and desks. Glass can be tricky unless the sensor is rated for it. A mat gives the best feel.

6) What if I have wrist or forearm pain
Try an ergonomic vertical mouse to keep a neutral wrist angle and adjust your desk height and posture.

7) Do I need software to use the extra buttons
Basic functions work without software, but software enables remaps, macros and per-app profiles.

8) How long does battery life last
Office mice can run for weeks to months. Gaming mice vary by polling rate and lighting. Quick charge helps during busy days.

9) Can I pair one mouse to multiple devices
Yes on many Bluetooth models. Look for three device switching buttons and labelled profiles.

10) Will a gaming mouse help productivity
Often yes. Accurate sensors and extra buttons are great for spreadsheets, editing and CAD.

11) What weight should I choose
Under 80 g feels light and agile. 80 to 100 g suits those who prefer a planted feel. Pick what matches your grip strength.

12) Is an ambidextrous mouse truly left-handed
If it is symmetrical with buttons on both sides or programmable sides, yes. Some allow disabling the offside buttons.

13) Can I use a mouse while charging
Usually, yes, on USB-C models with front ports. Check the cable angle so it does not drag.

14) Do silent mice feel mushy
Good silent switches are quiet without feeling vague. Try office-focused models with damped buttons.

15) What size mouse mat should I buy
For FPS or low sensitivity, choose a large desk mat. For office use, a medium mat is tidy and comfortable.

16) Will a high polling mouse drain more battery
Yes. Higher polling and RGB lighting reduce battery life. Balance performance with runtime.

17) Are trackballs good for small desks
Yes. The body stays still, so they save space and reduce arm movement.

18) What switches do premium mice use
Optical or high-quality mechanical switches that resist double clicks and last for many millions of presses.

19) Does a mouse need macOS support
Basic pointing works, but side buttons and gestures may need vendor software. Check macOS notes on the product page.

20) Can I customise scroll behaviour
Many mice offer smooth or ratchet scroll modes, tilt scroll and per-app scrolling settings in software.

Ready to point and click better

Explore computer mice for office, gaming, ergonomic comfort, travel and creativity. With expert guidance from a UK retailer trusted since 1988, plus fast delivery and easy returns, you can choose a mouse that fits your hand, your workflow and your desk.

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