We at GravaStar know that while many people use their mouse for gaming, some use it for various other things, from browsing the web to writing essays to working. In particular, those working hours on code and programming need a mouse, which is up to the challenge.
With those people in mind, we created this guide to go through some of the best mice for programming and coding.
Choosing the right mouse ensures you have a comfortable programming experience and have access to features like programmable buttons that optimize your workflow. On the other hand, going with the wrong option can lead to drops in productivity, discomfort, and a poor overall experience.
To find the best choice, we searched through several reviews and user comments and used our many years of experience. After this research, our choice for the best mouse for programming and coding is the Logitech MX Ergo.
Key Takeaways
- The same mouse won't be the best option for every programmer, and you should match your needs and preferences to the option that's best for you.
- Considering which features you want or need can help you narrow your search for the best mouse for programming or coding.
- Wireless options are good for programmers who travel or work remotely.
- Extra features like a scroll wheel or buttons can help you improve your speed, impacting workflow for the better.
- Design considerations such as additional features and ergonomics are also important to keep in mind.
How We Picked
There are a few key factors that make a mouse good for programming and coding. Keep all of these in mind when looking for an option that works best for you.
Features or Functions
One of the main reasons to get a mouse for programming is the extra features and functions available compared to a standard mouse. You can get programmable buttons or a flywheel to help improve your productivity and workflow.
Shape or Design
There are also many different shapes and design options to choose from. Some programmers like to keep things simple and use a standard-shaped mouse, while others prefer ergonomic designs that are shaped differently.
Wired vs Wireless
You also need to decide between a wired and wireless mouse for programming. Wired options are reliable and don't need to be charged up. Wireless options can be convenient if you travel or have a more mobile workstation.
Programmable Buttons
Programmable buttons are a good feature to look for on a mouse because you can customize how your mouse works to better assist with your workflow. These types will have several buttons you can assign whatever action you want.
Price
You typically won't pay that much money for a nice mouse, but there is a difference between a cheap mouse and one that is ideal for programming. If you're on a budget, be sure to pay attention to how much a mouse costs versus the features and functions it offers.
Best Overall: Logitech MX Ergo
- Great all-around mouse for programming and other tasks
- Ergonomic design that is comfortable and effective
- It can function as a wired or wireless mouse
- Battery lasts up to 70 days on full charge
- Precision scroll wheel
Logitech MX Ergo earns the top spot for the best overall mouse for programming and coding. If you want a reliable option that will work well in various setups and situations, this is it.
This mouse is built to give you all the features and functions you want and need when programming or doing many other tasks. It has a precision scroll wheel that provides excellent control over your screen and projects.
You also get the ability to use this as a wired or wireless mouse, so it's versatile in function and can be used at the desk or on the move. The trackball is also customizable to give you added comfort or control when you want and need it.
This is a slightly expensive option, which is what you'd expect from something so packed full of features. It's also not a low-profile option, so it can stand out on the desk if you have a smaller space.
Our verdict: Awesome all-around mouse for programming and coding with all the features you'd expect. It can work with many different setups, and the ability to switch between wired and wireless is great.
Best for Gamers: Razer Viper
- Very fast response leads to effective controls at all times
- Functions very well for programming and gaming
- 20K DPI optical sensor for precise and quick control
- Can be used effectively with either hand
Razer Viper is the mouse to choose if you want a solid option for both programming and gaming. This mouse can do a little bit of everything and boasts some of the fastest response times you can find.
For a wireless mouse, this model is highly effective and responsive. It features Razer's HyperSpeed tech that reduces latency to give you some of the best wireless control in the game. This can help boost your workflow or enhance gameplay.
It's also a lightweight mouse that can easily be put in a bag if you travel or work remotely. This leads to a lot of flexibility, which is another added benefit. The 20K DPI optical sensor is another nice feature that boosts its effectiveness.
If you are not a gamer, you might not need this mouse and can find a cheaper option that's still solid. It doesn't have as many programmable switches and some dedicated gaming models, but it can still be very effective.
Our verdict: This is the best option if you are a programmer and a gamer. Highly sensitive response times virtually eliminate lag, which is ideal for productivity or serious gaming situations.
Best MMO Option: Redragon M913
- Packed with features and controls
- Can be used as a wired or wireless mouse
- Up to 16000 DPI and 40G acceleration
- 12 programmable buttons with 20 buttons in total
- Long battery life (45 hours)
Redragon M913 is packed full of features and functions that can come in useful when programming or doing other computer tasks. This can also be a good choice for programmers who like to game.
This mouse has 12 programmable buttons and 20 buttons in total. That's a ton to work with and allows you to customize your controls however best works for you. It also has an extended battery life if you want to use it as a wireless mouse.
It's also versatile because you can use it as a wired or wireless mouse, working with various setups to deliver solid performance. I also like that the mouse has two memory profiles for multiple users.
If you like simple controls, this isn't the mouse to choose. The large number of programmable buttons is awesome if you need them but easily overwhelming if you don't. It also doesn't work that well with Macs.
Our verdict: Solid option if you want to have many programmable buttons and other controls. It can be a good choice to help improve workflow and productivity and is also an excellent gaming mouse.
Best Wireless Option: Logitech MX Master 3
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Highly-effective wireless capabilities
- DPI sensor leads to precise control on many surfaces
- MagSpeed wheel is very effective and quiet
- Great option to use with multiple screens
If you are looking for an excellent wireless mouse for all of your programming and coding needs, Logitech MX Master 3 Wireless is a great option. This is another highly useful option that provides everything you need without being plugged in.
This mouse is also packed with features and comes with an ergonomic design that is comfortable to use all day. The mouse has a MagSpeed wheel that delivers reliable control and outstanding precision without making too much noise.
It is also very sensitive and can be used on almost any workspace without a mousepad. That versatility is nice from a wireless option, making this a good choice to travel with or utilize for increased workspace flexibility.
You get a ton of versatility and features with the MX Master 3, but you'll pay for it. This is an expensive option that is not budget-friendly. You also need a USB port on your computer to get the wireless connectivity to work properly.
Our verdict: Excellent wireless option to use with any type of computer. Highly effective and very precise controls help reduce lag and other issues. A good option to choose if you travel or work remotely from various locations.
Best Wired: Logitech G502 Hero
- Wired mouse to eliminate lag
- 11 customizable buttons
- Mechanical switch button tensioning
- 25K sensor leads to excellent response
- 1-year warranty
Logitech G502 Hero is our recommended option for programmers who prefer using a wired mouse. Just plug in your mouse and never worry about lag or battery drain! And this one gives you plenty of other features to take advantage of.
A 25K sensor leads to excellent response and sensitivity. This can be useful when you are deep in a coding project. It also has mechanical switch button tensioning to create a solid feel when you use the buttons.
It also comes with 11 customizable buttons, providing you with many options to improve workflow and productivity. You can dial things when using this feature, and it's an effective tool to help you stay focused and on task.
There aren't many downsides to mention with the G502 Hero, but you don't get as much flexibility with a wired mouse. This isn't a great option for any programmers who travel. The high number of programmable buttons can also be overwhelming.
Our verdict: Great wired mouse that delivers stand-out response and dependability. The large number of programmable buttons can be great if you need them but also overwhelming if you don't.
Best for Mac: Apple Magic Mouse
- Apple's go-to mouse for MacBooks and Macs
- Wireless and reliable for effective control
- Multi-touch surface is simple but effective
- Long battery life under regular use and is rechargeable
- Only compatible with macOS or iOS devices
If you already have a Mac computer and want to keep things simple, Apple Magic Mouse is the way to go. This isn't a dedicated programming mouse, but it still has everything you need to get to work and stay on task.
The mouse features a simple but very effective design. The multi-touch surface allows you to make all the controls you need with your fingers without worrying about programming buttons or pressing extra controls.
It also has a long battery life for reliable use, and you can recharge the batteries very easily when or if you ever need to. The mouse is very responsive thanks to laser optics, which results in precision and very little latency.
This one is only compatible with macOS or iOS devices, so it's not an option for PC users. It also doesn't have some features that programmers might want, like a scroll wheel or programmable buttons.
Our verdict: The go-to option for Mac users, this is a solid mouse that can be used for programming. The multi-touch controls are nice, but they might not offer enough customization for serious situations.
Budget Pick: Anker Vertical
- Affordable but still very effective
- Ergonomic design is comfortable and easy to use
- High-resolution optical tracking tech
- Several buttons and a control wheel help with productivity and workflow
- Power saving features for extended battery life
Anker Vertical is the best budget option on the list. And despite coming in at a very affordable price, this one still has plenty of features to help you with programming or other important tasks.
This is a vertical mouse, meaning it's a bit taller than what you might be used to. That allows for an ergonomic design that easily fits in your hand without feeling too bulky. It's a comfortable design that is easy to use all day long.
The mouse also has high-resolution optical tracking technology that makes it very responsive. It can work on many types of surfaces without a trackpad, giving you versatility in many workplace situations.
The vertical design of this one might not be for everyone and can take some getting used to. You also don't get programmable buttons or other additional features that more expensive options come with.
Our verdict: This is a very affordable mouse that still provides excellent performance. Not packed with features, but it still delivers everything you need to stay on track. The response and design are excellent.
Best Ergonomics: Microsoft Sculpt
- Advanced ergonomic design is exceptionally comfortable
- Good for anyone with hand or wrist issues
- Excellent response thanks to MircrosofTrack tech
- Three buttons and a track wheel
If you want an ergonomically designed mouse that can help you prevent or limit any hand or wrist issues caused by constant work, check out the Microsoft Sculpt. This is another good choice for programmers and is reliable and effective.
This mouse has an advanced ergonomic design that helps your hand stay in a natural shape. It's a round mouse and looks different than what you might be used to, but this helps keep your hand and wrist from contorting while you work.
The mouse also features MicrosofTrack technology that helps increase the precision and response of the Sculpt. The result is highly effective controls you can count on when needed.
This one doesn't feature programmable buttons, so it might not be the best choice for improving workflow or productivity. The shape might not be for everyone, so if you don't need or want ergonomics, explore other options.
Our verdict: Excellent ergonomic design is good for people who have hand issues or want to avoid them. It's also an affordable and effective mouse that can work in various situations but is not fully packed with added features.
Best for Productivity: Razer Basilisk X
- Many functions and features help with productivity
- Fast and reliable wireless performance
- Long battery life and six programmable buttons
- Dual-mode connectivity for various situations
- 2-year warranty
If you are looking for a mouse that can help you stay more productive, Razer Basilisk X is our recommended choice. This is an affordable mouse that still comes packed with various features programmers of all kinds can take advantage of.
This option is very responsive, thanks to Razer's HyperSpeed wireless technology. You won't experience any lag or latency when using it. But you can also switch to regular Bluetooth to save battery life.
You also get six programmable buttons to configure your controls however you'd like to boost workflow. This is an excellent feature for programmers who want to stay productive, enabling enhanced controls at their fingertips.
The shape of this one can take some getting used to, and it's not the most visually appealing model. But I'll take performance over aesthetics any day, and this one still gets the job done despite looking a little funky.
Our verdict: Another solid wireless option that delivers reliable and fast performance that can help boost productivity. It comes with programmable switches and strong construction to give you tools you can count on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions related to picking a mouse for programming and coding.
Do programmers use a mouse?
Yes, most programmers prefer to use a mouse rather than a trackpad when working. Every programmer has specific workflow parameters, but a mouse will give you more control and can help increase productivity.
Which mouse is most popular among programmers?
Every programmer can have different preferences for the best mouse option, but one worth looking into is the Logitech MX Master 3. This very capable mouse comes with many additional features that can benefit programmers.
How do I make my mouse programmable?
If you have a programmable mouse, you can assign various functions to its buttons and controls. You can do this in the settings of your computer, and customizing your mouse can help increase your workflow and efficiency.
What is a programmable mouse jiggler?
A programmable mouse jiggler is a device that keeps your mouse in constant motion to prevent your computer or mouse from going to sleep. These devices can help programmers work more effectively and be good to use in other situations.
Is the Apple Magic Mouse a laser mouse?
Apple's Magic Mouse uses laser tracking for effective performance. This isn't necessarily the best option for programming and coding, but it is highly responsive and works well in many different situations.
Final Tips
As many modern programming mice have a lot of inherent features, it's a good idea to learn all about the different options or qualities before using one. While you can only use a mouse for the basic functions, you'll be missing out on a lot.
It is also a good idea to experiment with the mouse a little bit before you make it your full-time programming option. You may have to get used to the weight, the shape, or how it moves compared to your old one.
While using a better mouse is great for your hands, you still need to keep them healthy. This video is a great resource to help you learn some great stretches that will keep your hands in good shape and ready to code.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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