Technologies
Get More Done With the Best Wireless Mouse
A bad mouse means less productivity. Don’t use a bad mouse.
Getting the best wireless mouse for your needs can make a huge difference in your productivity. Whether you’re looking for more or fewer buttons, longer battery life, a more ergonomic design, better wireless over Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz adapter or a mouse for your desk or for travel, we’ve tested and reviewed the best of them. These are our choices for best wireless mouse for 2023.
Since all mice are not equal, our wireless mouse testing takes into consideration: features, size and weight, comfort, battery type and battery life and software. If you aren’t quite sure what might work best for you, jump past our recommendations to our wireless mouse FAQ at the bottom of this story.
What’s the best wireless mouse?
We’ve tested a lot of wireless mice, and the best wireless mouse is the Logitech MX Master 3S. It’s expensive at $100, but if you’re looking for a flexible office mouse to boost your productivity with a Mac or Windows PC, this do-it-all wireless mouse has you covered. It’s durable, too, so it will last for years to come. If you need a more travel-friendly option, we recommend its linemate, the Logitech MX Anywhere 3.
Of course, if those mice don’t meet your needs or budget, we have other wireless mouse options in the list below starting at less than $10.
Best wireless mice for 2023
The MX Master 3S combines the customization of a gaming mouse with an ergonomic design made for getting work done. Logitech’s software makes it easy to set the five programmable buttons (that’s a lot of buttons, but there’s a button on the bottom and more on the thumb rest) and thumb scroll wheel of the MX Master to handle a variety of tasks, from taking screenshots to controlling media.
Compared to the older MX Master 3, the updated model features quieter operation and an upgraded 8,000 DPI optical sensor (up from 4,000 DPI) that tracks on most surfaces, including glass, and offers faster workflow with high-resolution monitors. It can be used with a cord or wireless via Bluetooth or the included Unifying USB adapter, and it supports connections to up to three computers; the button on the bottom lets you quickly switch between connections. The mouse also supports the Logitech Flow feature, letting you move your cursor between computers on the same network. This mouse provides superb battery life for long work sessions.
David Carnoy/CNET
Despite its smaller size, the MX Anywhere 3 mouse is essentially a smaller version of the MX Master 3 also on this list. These Logitech mice share many features, including dual-wireless connectivity (they can be used wired, too), hyperfast scroll capabilities, programmable buttons and Logitech Flow for moving your cursor between two computers on the same network. The battery will last for up to 70 days on a full charge, and a quick three-minute charge of the battery can get you through a workday. It’s also comfortable to use the buttons despite its small size and, perhaps most importantly, it can be used on just about any surface, including glass — so don’t worry about a mouse pad.
The MX Anywhere 3 comes in a couple of versions. There’s the standard «universal» version that works with Windows, MacOS, iPadOS (13.4 or higher), ChromeOS and Linux computers via Bluetooth or Logitech’s Unifying USB dongle, which is included. MX Anywhere 3 for Mac works only via Bluetooth and is optimized for Macs and iPads. Shipping soon, both mice are available in pale gray and the MX Anywhere 3 (with the USB port dongle) is also offered in rose and graphite.
Josh Goldman/CNET
Like a lot of ergonomic office products, companies that make ergonomic mice aim for the largest group of potential vertical mouse users. But by doing that, they’re inevitably leaving out a number of people whose hands are too small or too large for the mouse, they’re only made for right-handed users or both. The Unimouse is the rare option that’ll really work for just about anyone.
The wireless mouse is available for left and right hands (it’s available in a wired version, too) and has a crazy amount of adjustability to create a custom fit for your hand. The top part of the body starts at a 35-degree angle, but its friction hinge lets you lift it up to a 75-degree angle — or anywhere in between — that puts it into more of a handshake position. Its ball-mounted thumb support cradles your thumb and can be rotated and tilted to whatever position is most comfortable for you. Also, it’s on a telescoping post so you can use a wider or narrower grip. The post can also be moved forward and backward.
A 2.4GHz USB adapter is used for its wireless connection, there is no Bluetooth and it can be used wired while you charge it with the included micro-USB cable. There are six programmable buttons: left, middle, right, scroll click, forward and back. I appreciated having the additional button on top (once my muscle memory adjusted to it), but the forward and back button placement was just a little too far back on the body for me to use comfortably. The included app is basic but gets the job done letting you reprogram buttons and adjust cursor scroll speeds. DPI can be set from 800 to 2800 in increments of 200 with the software or a button on the mouse. You can also set up application-specific profiles with the app.
If you’re ready to give an ergonomic mouse a try, the Unimouse’s customizable design is tough to beat.
David Carnoy/CNET
Trackballs seem to get overlooked but, going by the comments on this story, that’s a big mistake. Logitech options like the Logitech MX Ergo and the Kensington Orbit offer more comfort but the same control you’d get with a regular mouse. Plus, since it stays stationary, you don’t need extra desk space for movement and it can be used on any surface.
Logitech’s latest Ergo Trackball won us over with its new sculpted shape that fits a wider variety of hand sizes and a lower price than the MX Ergo. That said, the MX Ergo has a sturdier, more solid feel and can be paired to two devices simultaneously. The M575 does give you a choice of Bluetooth or the company’s USB-A wireless receiver.
Josh Goldman/CNET
Lunar Artefacts designed this wireless mouse to essentially be the last mouse you’ll ever need. The body of the mouse is made from hand-polished brass or aluminum (I tested the latter), offering you two weight options. The removable cover is cut from full-grain calf leather finished with equestrian-inspired stitching. Both are designed to wear and patina over time and get more attractive as opposed to the average plastic mouse which eventually just gets gross.
The sculpted ambidextrous base is not your typical mouse shape so it might take a few days or more to adjust and get comfortable. But, if you don’t want to wait, the company makes special grips to give it more of a traditional shape. The smooth metal scroll wheel was the only issue I had with the design because it didn’t have the grip of a knurled wheel. It’s a quibble given how excellent the rest of the mouse is.
The mouse’s Pixart PAW 3805 optical sensor works on almost any surface including glass or mirrors and a button on the bottom lets you choose the pointer sensitivity setting: 800, 1,200, 2,000 or 3,000 DPI. It can connect wirelessly over Bluetooth 5.0 or 2.4GHz wireless with the USB-A adapter that is stored in the base when not in use. It can also be used wired with the braided USB-C-to-USB-A cable included, which also charges the mouse. The mouse has Qi wireless charging, too, so it’s easy enough to keep the battery topped off.
This mouse is high-quality through and through, but will it all last forever? Lunar Artefacts made the mouse completely user repairable. Pop the cover off and remove a handful of screws and it can be completely disassembled right down to the plug-and-play Omron switches. So yes, it is possible this mouse, sorry, pointer instrument will be with you for a long, long time.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Mice that live up to the quality of Microsoft’s other Surface hardware are worth their price, especially if you work on multiple Windows PCs at the same time. Using Microsoft’s Mouse and Keyboard Center software, you can not only program its customizable buttons, but connect the device to three different computers and seamlessly move your cursor between them, similar to Logitech’s Flow feature. It’s a great synthesis between keyboard and mouse. The Surface Precision Mouse can be used wired as well with its USB charging cable, and is quite honestly one of the most comfortable mice we’ve ever used, too.
Josh Goldman/CNET
Once you dip below $15 you usually lose features like forward and back buttons or, um, comfort. Wisfox’s mouse has a comfortable curve to it for a more ergonomic fit and rubberized sides to give you some extra grip. A button on top lets you switch between three DPI settings to help you get around your monitor with less wrist movement.
The battery compartment (the mouse uses one AA battery, not included) houses the wireless nano USB receiver when not in use, so you’re less likely to lose it. It also comes in 14 colors. It doesn’t have Bluetooth, but Wisfox does make one with both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth, as well as one with a USB-C adapter for newer laptops.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Yes, it’s another Logitech mouse, but good wireless mice that are easy on the wallet and comfortable for work and high-performance wireless gaming aren’t easy to find. The G305 device’s lightweight, ambidextrous design hits the mark as a gaming mouse, though, and its single AA battery will last for up to 250 hours of continuous PC gaming — that’s a lot of battery life. It does not have Bluetooth, but instead uses Logitech’s wireless Lightspeed USB adapter. The tiny adapter is stored under the mouse’s palm rest for travel when removed from the USB port. And it has aHero optical sensor for optimal gaming performance.
Read our Logitech G305 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse preview.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bluetooth better than 2.4GHz wireless?
For many people, the biggest difference between a Bluetooth mouse and a 2.4GHz wireless mouse is the latter connects wirelessly to a small USB adapter you plug into your computer while Bluetooth connects wirelessly directly to your device or computer. This is really Bluetooth’s biggest advantage, too, since it means you don’t have to plug anything into your computer and there’s no adapter to lose.
If you have an open USB port on your computer, though, going with a 2.4GHz wireless has a lot of advantages. The connection is seamless with no pairing needed out of the box — just plug in the adapter and turn on the mouse and you’re working. The connection is less prone to interference and is generally lag-free, which can’t be said for Bluetooth and is why gaming mice don’t use Bluetooth.
Also, to save on battery life, Bluetooth mice typically go to sleep and need to wake and reconnect which takes a second or two whereas a wireless mouse stays connected. Wireless mice generally have longer battery life, too, but newer mice using Bluetooth LE last much longer, so that mainly comes down to the individual mouse now.
If you’re really not sure which to get, look for a wireless mouse that gives you the option to use either Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz wireless adapter. These dual-wireless mice are great for multidevice users, too, since they can connect to one or two devices via Bluetooth and a third with their wireless adapter. A button on the mouse lets you jump from device to device.
What’s better, a wireless mouse with a built-in rechargeable battery or a regular replaceable battery?
What type of battery you should have in your mouse is largely a matter of preference but each has its pros and cons. Mice with built-in rechargeable batteries tend to have longer battery life and are lighter weight than those that use standard AA- or AAA-size batteries. Since the battery is rechargeable, you don’t have to keep extra batteries around, which is especially nice for travel. This also means you’re regularly creating less waste assuming you only use disposable batteries. Rechargeable mice can usually be used wired while you’re charging them, too.
With wireless mice that use replaceable batteries, you have the option to use either regular alkaline or lithium batteries or rechargeable batteries. That means you never have to wait to recharge and you can cut down on waste but it is also an extra ongoing expense (not a huge one, but still). Another advantage is that battery life will degrade over time with a rechargeable mouse and eventually, you’ll have to replace the entire mouse. With replaceable batteries, it’s only the mouse mechanics that you have to worry about wearing out.
Should I get a wired mouse instead of a wireless mouse?
A wireless mouse gives you greater freedom of movement, less cable clutter on your desk and one less thing to plug into your computer (and with fewer ports on computers today, this is no small thing). When it comes to travel, there is nothing more convenient than a wireless mouse you can just drop in your bag. Plus, if you use a 2.4GHz wireless mouse, today’s adapters are so small you can leave them plugged into your laptop while you’re on the go. And if you have a Bluetooth mouse, you don’t even have to worry about the adapter.
A wired mouse, on the other hand, is generally lighter weight than a wireless mouse. It’s plug-and-play, so once it’s connected you’re ready to work. The wired connection also means you don’t have to deal with wireless interference, pairing or losing your connection. (All good reasons to go with a wired mouse for gaming, by the way.) You also never have to think about charging or replacing a battery.
Still not sure which is best for you? Consider getting a rechargeable wireless mouse that can be used with a wired connection to your computer. That way it stays charged for when you need to use it wirelessly but without sacrificing the performance of a wired connection.
Technologies
Nintendo’s Pokemon Legends: Z-A Is a Hit. Just Ask My Kid
Pokemon Legends: Z-A has sucked my family in, and I can’t get my Switch controller back from my son.
I’d love to tell you all about Pokemon Legends: Z-A, arriving this week, and what it’s been like to play on the Nintendo Switch 2. I can mostly do that — but for most of the past five days, it hasn’t really been me playing. What started as co-playing together quickly turned into my kid taking over completely as he got hooked. And honestly, I’d say that’s a good sign.
Nintendo makes a lot of Pokemon games, too many for me to keep track of. But Legends Z-A is the first that’s Switch 2-optimized, although you can play on original Switches, too. I can’t tell you what that’s like, though — my early review access limited me to playing Pokemon Legends: Z-A on the Switch 2 only at home. I was doubtful about how much a city-based game would truly feel like a must-have experience, but so far it’s already become one of my favorite Pokemon games ever.
I’ll let my son tell you. He’s gotten deep into the trading card game and has played most of the recent Pokemon titles over the past year, and he says this is his favorite so far. When I asked him why, he said it’s because the game completely rethinks how battles work. The quick, real-time system feels more immediate and far less sluggish than in past Pokemon games. Plus, he’s loving the story… and honestly, so am I.
A city full of surprises
My son loves the «peculiar» storyline, the fast-paced battles (which he now wants in every Pokemon game) and the constant sense of surprise while exploring Lumiose City.
All of Pokemon Legends: Z-A (at least from what I’ve seen in my 10-plus hours so far) takes place entirely within Lumiose City — a Paris-like metropolis where the CEO of a company called Quasartico Inc. is planning to rebuild everything into a new world where Pokemon and humans can better coexist. The setup reminded me of the Detective Pikachu movie during my demo a few weeks ago, and it turns out my instincts were right.
Pokemon roam in wild zones within the city, occasionally spilling into urban areas, while mysterious rogue «Mega Evolution» Pokemon have begun appearing and threatening the city’s calm. There’s clearly a deeper mystery at play, and while I’m still uncovering it, I won’t spoil anything here.
The game seems to mostly involve a journey to level up in rank from Z to A by battling various Pokemon trainers, but that’s not the whole story. There’s a group of friends you hang out with at a local hotel, along with research missions you have to carry out. Side quests are everywhere. The city, though it can feel a bit sparse at times, stretches all the way up to its rooftops, where all sorts of hidden spots are waiting to be discovered. It feels like a living maze, and one I’m still navigating.
And the city’s always changing, too. Wild zones keep multiplying, and from day to night the city’s dynamics shift. Battles take place at night, with trainers gathering in new pop-up spots each time. It’s not as lively as I’d hoped — this isn’t Grand Theft Pokemon — but the cozy, vibrant world still makes me daydream about what a real-life Universal Pokemon theme park could someday look like.
The Pokemon shine
I keep reminding myself to take extra time to discover and level up my Pokemon. At least that’s what my son’s telling me to do. He loves how many Pokemon can become Mega Evolved in this game, and how much fun the battle moves are to pull off. I’m happy he’s happy. I thought I’d get lost in the RPG aspects of the game, but I think the real-time Pokemon battles put me in a looser state of mind, more able to explore and not feel locked down into systems and rulesets. Swapping Pokemon battle moves and reassigning them to buttons is easy, too.
The stronger focus on trainer battles — and the sheer variety of Pokemon capable of mega evolving — gives the game more of that classic, Pokemon-centered energy than Pokemon Legends: Arceus ever did. I found myself more excited to see how different Pokemon looked and behaved than to uncover new realms to explore. After all, for all of Lumiose City’s secrets, you’re spending a lot more time roaming one massive location than in any other Pokemon game I can remember. Thankfully, the visual upgrades on the Switch 2 make those Pokemon look fantastic in battle.
I do want to spend more time in Lumiose City, though, and can’t help but wonder if this is a glimpse of how all Pokemon games will keep evolving. It’s hard to say, since Legends games like Z-A and Arceus have been more experimental than the rest of the series. But, like Arceus, Z-A is now one of my favorite Pokemon games on Switch. And on Switch 2, it plays smoother and feels better than any Pokemon game ever has before.
Technologies
iPhone 17 Preorders Spike and Overall Phone Sales Aren’t Slowing Down Despite Tariffs
Global smartphone shipments saw a notable increase in the third quarter of 2025. Plus, preorders for Apple’s new iPhone 17 beat out the iPhone 16.
Despite tariffs and market uncertainty, global smartphone shipments increased 2.6% in the third quarter of 2025, compared to the same time last year, according to the International Data Corporation. Additionally, preorders for the iPhone 17, which launched last month, outpaced last year’s iPhone 16.
These increased sales include premium phones like the latest iPhones and Samsung foldables, suggesting yet again that pricier phones still sell in periods of economic strain. It’s a remarkable achievement, says IDC senior research director Nabila Popal, citing shrewd financing options as the reason people keep buying these high-end phones, which cost anywhere from $800 to nearly $2,000.
«[Phone makers] have mastered the art of innovation not only in hardware and software to entice upgrades but also in removing purchase friction. They have flawlessly combined cutting-edge devices with innovative financing models and aggressive trade-in programs that make the upgrading decision a ‘no-brainer’ for consumers,» Popal said in an IDC press release.
Apple sold 58.6 million iPhones this quarter, an increase of 2.9% over the same period in 2024, with more preorders for the iPhone 17 series than its predecessor. But Samsung wasn’t far behind, with its Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 selling better than all of the company’s prior foldables. The company still reigns atop the phone market with 61.4 million phones sold, representing 19% of the market in the third quarter of this year — an increase of 6.3% from the same period last year. Meanwhile, Apple lands slightly behind Samsung with 18.2% market share this quarter.
The other phone makers trailing Apple and Samsung are, in order: Xiaomi, with 13.5% of the market; Transsion, with 9%; and Vivo with 8.9%. The remaining companies in the phones industry, from Chinese stalwarts like Oppo and Honor to Motorola and Google, make up the remaining 31.4% of the market for the quarter. All told, 322.7 million phones were sold, up from 314.6 million in the third quarter of 2024, according to IDC.
IDC’s findings for the third quarter continue the small but steady growth of phone sales over the year, including a modest 1% increase in the preceding three months — which includes the April deadline when President Donald Trump unveiled sweeping tariffs. In the second quarter, IDC cited midrange devices like Samsung’s Galaxy A36 and other phones that started incorporating AI. But even persistent tariffs haven’t slowed down people’s appetites for pricier phones in the third quarter.
Technologies
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Tuesday, Oct. 14
Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for Oct. 14.
Looking for the most recent Mini Crossword answer? Click here for today’s Mini Crossword hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Wordle, Strands, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.
Today’s Mini Crossword has an odd vertical shape, with an extra Across clue, and only four Down clues. The clues are not terribly difficult, but one or two could be tricky. Read on if you need the answers. And if you could use some hints and guidance for daily solving, check out our Mini Crossword tips.
If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections, Connections: Sports Edition and Strands answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: Tips and Tricks for Solving The New York Times Mini Crossword
Let’s get to those Mini Crossword clues and answers.
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Smokes, informally
Answer: CIGS
5A clue: «Don’t have ___, man!» (Bart Simpson catchphrase)
Answer: ACOW
6A clue: What the vehicle in «lane one» of this crossword is winning?
Answer: RACE
7A clue: Pitt of Hollywood
Answer: BRAD
8A clue: «Yeah, whatever»
Answer: SURE
9A clue: Rd. crossers
Answer: STS
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: Things to «load» before a marathon
Answer: CARBS
2D clue: Mythical figure who inspired the idiom «fly too close to the sun»
Answer: ICARUS
3D clue: Zoomer around a small track
Answer: GOCART
4D clue: Neighbors of Norwegians
Answer: SWEDES
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