Best Mac Mouse: Buying Guide
The time has come to buy a mouse for your Mac: perhaps you made this decision for reasons of convenience in everyday use of the computer, or you need a specific mouse for professional activities, perhaps for graphics and technical drawing. Not being an expert on the subject, however, you would like advice on how to orient yourself in choosing the product that best suits your needs.
If so, no problem: I’m here to help you out. In this buying guide I will first show you the technical characteristics to consider before buying a mouse and I will provide you with all the information you need to make your choice with awareness. Finally, I’ll show you some of the best mouse for Mac, from models for all budgets to high-end, wireless and wired ones, selected from those available on the market.
Take a few minutes of time and quietly dedicate yourself to reading the next paragraphs. I am sure that, after reading this guide, you will have an exhaustive overview of the purchase options and will find the solution that is right for you. I just have to wish you a good read and a good choice!
Index
- How to choose a mouse for Mac
- Intended use
- Shape, size and weight
- Number of keys
- Resolution (DPI)
- Optical or laser sensor
- Wired or wireless mouse
- Best wireless mouse for Mac
- Best corded mouse for Mac
How to choose a mouse for Mac
Before going into the details of the mouse models available for purchase, I consider it my task to inform you about the main technical characteristics to consider before purchasing. Buying a mouse is not as simple as it may seem: many aspects of these devices can significantly affect the use of the computer, especially if you use them for many hours a day for work. It is important to carefully choose an effective Mac mouse both in the context of the macOS operating system and for your personal needs.
Intended use
The first question to ask is what activity the mouse will primarily be intended for. First, make sure it’s compatible with the macOS operating system: all the ones I’m about to list are usable with Apple computers and often have features optimized for use with macOS, but this doesn’t apply to all mice on the market. In this regard, before “launching” into the purchase of a mouse, check the online reviews and technical data sheets if these are actually usable with Macs and, specifically, with the version of macOS you use.
Also consider the main tasks you perform on the computer. There are mice designed specifically for general work tasks that are most effective for scrolling through documents and web pages. Some mice can be used on multiple devices at the same time, designed for those who use multiple screens.
Some devices are specially designed for professionals, with a programmable key layout optimized for technical design, graphics or programming. If you are looking for a mouse suitable for gaming (an activity which on Mac is somewhat limited, net of being able to dual-boot Windows on Intel Macs), I recommend reading my buying guide dedicated to the best mice. game.
Shape, size and weight
Another feature to consider is that of shape: there are ergonomic mice designed for use with the arm outstretched to reduce pressure on the joints during prolonged use and they can have a vertical or horizontal grip.
The size and weight of the mouse can also affect accuracy – smaller and lighter mice are fast but less accurate. Finally, if you are left-handed, be well informed about the adaptability of a mouse for use with the left hand: the design of some devices is designed exclusively for the right hand, while others are ambidextrous or offer a specific version for left-handers.
Number of keys
The number of keys can significantly change the use of a mouse: never fail right click, left click and scroll wheel, but many models have additional keys, side and front, which provide access to other programmable features through software mouse. Many allow you to define your own commands and associate macros, which is a series of operations that will be performed in sequence with a single key, particularly useful for some professionals.
There are also touchpads or devices that perform the mouse function but have a rectangular shape, with a large surface to scroll, tap and use specific gestures. In the case of Macs, the Apple trackpad option is an alternative to consider to the traditional mouse if you prefer touch functionality over keys.
Resolution (DPI)
The resolution of a mouse is evaluated in DPI (dots per inch) and is the number of pixels the pointer moves for each inch of the mouse movement. Thus, a mouse that has a resolution of 1,000 DPI moves 1,000 pixels across the screen for every inch the mouse has moved across the desktop.
So evaluate this parameter with respect to the resolution of your screen, or if you intend to use the mouse a lot for gaming, which may need a higher DPI value. Some mice allow you to adjust the number of DPI, but the value itself is not directly indicative of the accuracy, which depends a lot on the sensor.
Optical or laser sensor
The precision of a mouse is determined precisely by the sensor, which can be optical (LED) or laser. The former are fast and precise, but may encounter difficulties on very smooth or transparent surfaces; the latter also work on glass depending on the laser and boast higher accuracy, but can be susceptible to dust. Keep these features in mind before making your purchase – high accuracy is essential for graphics and gaming, but less important for common navigation tasks.
Wired or wireless mouse
This is the feature according to which I have divided the mice that I am about to recommend into two selections: wireless connectivity or via cable . The mouse wired have on their side the increased compatibility, since they are connected to your Mac via USB port and can be used immediately, in addition to not need to be recharged; in principle they are more precise than wireless ones, but the difference between the two options is now becoming more and more subtle.
Wireless mouse are more comfortable for everyday activities and more practical, even on the go. They can be based on two types of technologies: Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless, with the difference that Bluetooth mice do not need external receivers and are compatible with all devices with Bluetooth, while those at 2.4GHz require a USB receiver that it must be connected to the appropriate PC port. Finally, they need to be recharged: they can be powered by common batteries or rechargeable batteries such as those of smartphones and can have variable autonomy.
If that’s all clear to you, we can now go into detail on the best wired and wireless Mac mice available for purchase. Are you ready? Let’s start!
Best wireless mouse for Mac
The first models of Mac mouse that I want to recommend are the wireless ones, which may require the installation of a supplied software, compatible with macOS, to carry out the initial configuration before moving on to use.
Apple Magic Mouse 2
The mouse for Mac par excellence is Magic Mouse 2 , the official Apple model that can be connected both with a USB cable and via Bluetooth connectivity. The design sets it apart from other models: minimalist, light, ultra thin and sophisticated, it lacks the physical wheel and has a smooth surface that allows interaction with Mac applications via multi-touch controls.
It has 1,300 DPI, has no batteries and is rechargeable via the Lightning port, the standard also used by iPhones and other Apple products. It’s also ambidextrous and may be the best choice for those who want to keep their devices within the Apple ecosystem and don’t make extensive use of them. The gestures can be customized in addition to the system ones, defining personal ones, with third-party software such as BetterTouchTool, included in the Setapp subscription, which for a small monthly subscription after 7 days of free trial allows you to access many paid applications for Mac (Netflix-style, but for apps!). Read more here .
Apple Magic Trackpad 2
This isn’t a real mouse, but Apple’s Magic Trackpad 2 is a convenient solution for macOS users who prefer touch-surface interaction and a clean, super-simple design.
The trackpad has a large surface of 16 x 11.5 cm with 4 pressure sensors that detect the intensity of the touch on the glass surface, to allow access to the functions of the Mac with specific gestures, tap and scroll with multi- touch. It connects to the computer via Bluetooth, and is rechargeable via the Lightning port with about 1 month of autonomy. Ideal for maximum integration with the Apple operating system. The gestures can be customized, also in this case, with software such as BetterTouchTool.
Logitech MX Master 3
From one of the largest manufacturers of mice and keyboards in the world, Logitech MX Master 3 is a top-of-the-range mouse also available in a dedicated version for Mac. It works both wirelessly via Bluetooth and via USB and supports the use of three devices at the same time. The ergonomic grip and the numerous front and rear buttons, which can be customized for easy access to the most used applications, make it comfortable and functional, as well as precise: it has a 4,000 DPI laser sensor and the MagSpeed sliding system that allows you to focus on a single pixel, or scrolling 1000 lines per second silently.
Not surprisingly, it was designed primarily for work, particularly for designers and programmers. It is quickly rechargeable via USB-C, with an autonomy of about 70 days. It should also be emphasized the many software functions available, also optimized for macOS, with the aforementioned possibility of “switching” on the fly and controlling multiple computers at the same time, with the ability to pass files and clipboards from one device to another (Logitech Flow) .
CadMouse Pro Wireless
3DConnexion CadMouse Pro Wireless is one of the best mice for Mac, and more: it offers high quality features especially for work activities, in particular for technical drawing, for which it is specifically designed. Great for Adobe Illustrator and CAD software .
It has three buttons plus the wheel and a very comfortable ergonomic shape in two versions, one for right-handed and one for left-handed; in addition, it has a triple Bluetooth connection, 2.4 GHz wireless technology and micro-USB cable and rechargeable battery with 3 months of autonomy. A high resolution 7,200 DPI optical sensor completes the picture.
Logitech M590
Logitech M590 is a silent wireless mouse, with Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connectivity and 90% noise reduction that makes the 2 main buttons and 7 programmable buttons usable in complete tranquility, even on two computers at the same time.
It has an ergonomic shape, and is powered by a battery with up to one year of autonomy. It also has a fast scrolling feature for productivity and a 1,000 DPI optical sensor.
Logitech M185
Among the wireless mice compatible with macOS, one of the cheapest is the Logictech M185 model, an accessible device, with universal compatibility, with a simple and ergonomic and anatomical design, also suitable for left-handers.
Wireless connectivity is based on 2.4 GHz technology and with USB receiver and has a 1,000 DPI optical sensor. It is powered by an AA battery with up to 1 year of autonomy, with an intelligent sleep function and an indicator light that allows you to view the state of charge.
Best corded mouse for Mac
Being wired mice, these devices don’t need any macOS-specific drivers to work – you can just plug them into the USB port and start using them right away. However, the support software provided by the manufacturer can make a difference, to expand its functionality. Anyway, here are some of the best.
Logitech M500
The Logitech M500 wired mouse has a contoured design, optimized to ensure greater support for the hand during prolonged use, also thanks to the rubber side grips.
It has 7 programmable buttons for efficient shortcuts and specific tasks, plus hyper-fast scrolling and adjustable resolution with 400-4000 DPI.
Logitech M90
Economical, durable and efficient, the Logitech M90 wired mouse model has an ambidextrous design for comfortable use with both hands, and the classic two buttons plus wheel.
It has a resolution of 1,000 DPI and an optical sensor that guarantees its tracking accuracy even without a mat. A classic mouse, which performs its duty efficiently even on Mac.
Tecknet Pro S2
Tecknet Pro S2 is a wired mouse with ergonomic design and 6 buttons, both front and side. The resolution is adjustable, from 1,000 or 2,000 DPI; it also has an optical sensor for tracking that ensures accurate movements on different surfaces.
INPHIC USB Mouse
A durable and affordable wired mouse, this INPHIC device has 3 silent buttons that are also suitable for use in public and quiet environments. Ambidextrous and ergonomic, it has a particular design and a resolution of 1,200 DPI plus optical sensor for tracking.
ECHTPower Mouse Vertical
Some new mice, like this ECHTPower model , offer a vertical shape that favors natural hand positioning, to reduce muscle activity and reduce fatigue. It has 6 buttons, front and side, one of which is dedicated to customizing the resolution, from 800, 1,200, 2,000 or 3,200 DPI.
The design is complimented by a four-color LED indicating the selected DPI option and features a high-precision optical sensor. If you are particularly interested in this shape and you think it may be more comfortable for you, I suggest you also consult my purchase guide on the best vertical mice.
If you want further advice, I invite you to read my guide on the best mouse, or, if you are interested in wireless models, this special guide to buying the best wireless mice, in which there are also many Mac compatible mice (check it, however, case-by-case compatibility).