Arek Dvornechcuck
Branding Expert
I'm a branding expert and graphic designer based in NY. I specialize in the development of brands: brand strategy, identity & web design. Need help with your project?—Get in touch
I'm a branding expert and graphic designer based in NY. I specialize in the development of brands: brand strategy, identity & web design. Need help with your project?—Get in touch
Interestingly, I see that many users disregard this small clicking device, when, on the other hand, it optimizes a great deal of our graphic design work.
Just like choosing the most suitable creative devices like laptops, tablets, etc., having the best mouse for designers will make a huge difference in your workflow.
What's the best mouse for graphic design to buy in 2023?
With so many different types of computer mouses on the market, it's not surprising that we might choose the ones we use the most, rather than look for better ones.
But for us, graphic design experts, using a mouse with moderate-to-advanced features is just so rewarding for our complicated tasks.
Fortunately, there are products on the market that will surely cater to your needs as a creative.
For designers that are looking for the best ergonomic mouse to use in their everyday work, the Logitech MX Master 3 will be a great deal.
The Logitech MX Master 2S is an ideal option too, especially for people who want to buy a quality gaming mouse.
However, if you’re an Apple user, I still got you since I included the Apple Magic Mouse 2, which is the best mouse for MacBook and other Apple devices.
So without further ado, let’s now dive into my list of the 10 best mouses for graphic design in 2023.
This 2022, an upgrade in your work performance might be what you are aiming for—if that's with your mouse, I can guide you with a few pointers.
Here's my quick guide on how to find the best mouse for designers.
In choosing the best mouse for your graphic design needs, use these five aspects as a criterion:
Let me demonstrate to you how all of these would sum up to the perfect mouse, so you are sure that you are buying the one that is worth your every penny.
I can give you a walk-through of which mouse has the highest level of ergonomics in this article.
Compared to other mouse users, graphic designers should not only be satisfied with the usual, aesthetically designed mouses.
It is known that while doing extensive work, stress build-up in our wrists and hands may lead to pain and carpal tunnel syndrome, which delays our productivity.
But a mouse with an ergonomic build can be your best ally for long hours of computer time, and even science has supported this.
If you are looking for a particular mouse that seats your hand comfortably and glides with no pressure at all, then you are on the right page!
If you are a person that tends to forget to turn off the switch of a device (some wireless mouses have a switch option), you can always choose the classic wired mouse.
Most of the time, people would prefer to use wireless mouses over wired ones.
Mainly, this is for the apparent reason that some of us are annoyed with the messy display of wires along with the other computer components.
The main difference between a wired mouse and a wireless mouse is that the former does not require you to have some spare batteries all the time or regularly charge for maintenance.
Take a look at the mouse's sensitivity and precision by looking at its DPI (dots per inch); this distinguishes laser and optical mouses.
With an average of 2000 dpi, a laser mouse can accommodate the minute coverage identified in most graphic design projects.
The higher resolution of this mouse is intended to suffice for the workload of heavier design programs, unlike the lower 500 dpi of optical mouses set for regular computer work.
Above all, you can't go wrong with an optical mouse—with brands now attempting to match the high-end properties of a laser mouse.
Remember that an optical mouse (though with a lower dpi) performs well even at slow speeds compared to the sensitive laser mouse, which is prone to being jittery.
These days, you can pick a mouse ranging from bulky (ergonomic and with extra buttons) to a smaller size (portable and cheaper)—which is good news if you want plenty of options!
Either way, you have to choose which suits you best depending on what stream of work you are most focused on.
As you already know, mouse sizes differ due to their built-in components that sometimes make them look larger or smaller.
Remind yourself that the bulkier the size of the mouse, the more attributes it can offer.
What’s astonishing about buying a mouse is that you can decide if you want those that have programmable buttons or not.
These extra buttons specialize in aiding the user with repetitive commands done on the screen and eventually help hasten work productivity.
Programmable buttons come with their own manual for user customization of habitual tasks done in different software programs.
Yet, for practical reasons, a mouse with no programmable buttons can also be your go-to if you are more comfortable using a simpler one.
Some other mouse characteristics are developed for users looking for a more personal mouse.
A few more considerations before purchasing a mouse unit could be the following:
Some of these additional properties are distinctively featured in our list below, so read on.
A top-ranking companion in all your graphic designing activities can be the latest Logitech MX Master 3 mouse.
The most ergonomic mouse for graphic design.
Toggling and navigating between Adobe CC and Microsoft Office programs is more fluid thanks to its innovative dimensions.
It has a distinct ergonomic design and easier-to-reach side buttons than its predecessor, the Logitech MX Master 2S.
This is deemed a top choice in the market as this intuitive mouse boasts better speed and functionality for assisting computer workflow.
The Logitech MX Master 3 is definitely a great choice those who are looking for the most comfortable mouse for graphic design.
With as high as 4000 DPI precision, it promises to deliver accurate tracking even on glass surfaces.
Unlike other mouses, the Logitech MX Master 3 also comes with an exclusive USB-C charger port feature and has a running ability of 70 days when fully charged.
Connection Type: Logitech USB Receiver, 2.4 GHz wireless technology. (10 m); Bluetooth Low Energy technology
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Back/Forward, App-Switch, Wheel mode-shift, Middle-click
Scroll Wheel: Yes, with smart-shift
Thumbwheel: Yes
Gesture button: Yes
DPI: Resolution: 4000 max
Sensor: Darkfield High Precision
Power Type: Rechargeable
Buy Logitech MX Master 3 on Amazon
If you are looking for an elegant design that will not trouble you with which buttons to press, the Apple Magic Mouse 2 is good for you.
The best mouse for MacBook and other Apple devices.
It has no visible buttons, versus the usual mouse frame of 2 buttons for click and drag actions.
A subtle tap with your fingers on any part of its surface sends a gesture command to the screen as it is responsive to delicate touch (multi-touch layer).
Of all the mouses presented on this page, consider this Apple product the most classy and minimalist in design.
One of the downsides of using this mouse is that you cannot operate it during the charging period as its charger port is located beneath.
However, the Apple Magic Mouse 2 is still a perfect choice for those who are looking for the best graphic design mouse for Mac users.
Connection Type: Bluetooth, Lightning (USB Cable) port, Wireless connection
Buttons: 1
Scroll Wheel: Tactile surface
Gesture button: Tactile surface
DPI: 1300
Sensor: Laser
Power Type: Rechargeable
Buy Apple Magic Mouse 2 on Amazon
Logitech MX Master 2S is our forerunner to Logitech's professional and high-class graphic design mouses.
The best mouse for gaming and streaming.
With a lower price point in the market, this mouse represents Logitech's continuing legacy of producing the best mouses meant for hard-core desktop activities.
The Logitech MX Master 2S is an ideal choice for hobbyists that want to buy the best gaming mouse in 2022.
This mouse, like the seamless quality found in all MX Master series units, is still an excellent choice for long-term projects.
The programmable buttons are ideal for speeding up your daily tasks as they give you the option to customize them however you want.
As I view it, the Logitech MX Master 2S will never be outdated, even if it is now surpassed by the Logitech MX Master 3 in some detailed features.
Overall, this is probably the best ergonomic and Bluetooth mouse for designers.
Connection Type: Logitech USB receiver, 2.4 GHz wireless technology. (10 m); Bluetooth Low Energy technology
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Back/Forward, App-Switch, Wheel mode-shift, Middle-click
Scroll Wheel: Yes, with smart-shift
Thumbwheel: Yes
Gesture button: Yes
DPI: 4000 max
Sensor: Darkfield High Precision
Power Type: Rechargeable
Buy Logitech MX Master 2S on Amazon
Vertical mouses are a must-have in the offices, and you don't want to miss this strange-looking Anker mouse for your own work.
The best budget-friendly mouse for designers.
Though it seems odd to have this mouse on your desktop, it is indeed a treasure if you have comfort in mind but do not want to spend too much.
The angled form on this Anker 2.4G mouse helps prevent joint tension from coming from the uncomfortable hand placement.
Despite being an optical mouse, you can choose between 800, 1250, or 1600 DPI, depending on what you need for graphic design.
A knockout feature is also its power-saving ability, which turns off the device every 8 minutes of inactivity—leaving you worry-free!
The Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical will be an amazing choice for you if you’re interested in buying the best affordable wireless mouse for graphic design.
So, if you are still looking for a high-quality mouse but do not want to pay a hefty price, this should be your pick.
Connection Type: Wireless only
Buttons: Left/Right-click, App-Switch, Side buttons
Scroll Wheel: Yes
Thumbwheel: No
Gesture button: No
DPI: 1600 max
Sensor: Optical
Power Type: Batteries (with rechargeable variant)
Buy Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical on Amazon
If you’re a creative professional looking for a portable mouse to take with you wherever you want to, then the Logitech MX Anywhere 2S is for you.
The best mouse for creatives-on-the-go.
While it does not come in an excellent ergonomic design like the other high-end products, this mouse is also one of the most highly recommended mouses for home and office use.
It is built with a scroll wheel that can insanely improve your navigation of lengthy documents, even at a fast pace.
There is dual connectivity for the user's convenience: Bluetooth and wireless connection, although there is no compartment for the USB receiver when not in use.
I have also noticed that its sturdy surface gives the mouse a quality feature, making it look expensive.
It is definitely a best buy if you love retro-looking devices with an advanced mechanism.
Overall, the Logitech MX Anywhere 2S is an excellent option for freelance designers that are looking for the best mouse for travel.
Connection Type: Bluetooth and Wireless
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Side buttons
Scroll Wheel: Yes
Thumbwheel: No
Gesture button: Scroll wheel (default)
DPI: 200 to 4000
Sensor: Darkfield (Laser)
Power Type: Rechargeable
Buy Logitech MX Anywhere 2S on Amazon
If you’re an editor that is looking for the best mouse for Photoshop and other creative software, then the Logitech MX Vertical is for you.
The best vertical mouse for editing.
The mouse can achieve various commands with the use of Logitech's workable software, available for purchase.
The notched scroll wheel does not enable infinite scrolling, if that is a necessary feature for you, but this is not much of a big deal.
Users with small hands need to also note that the palm grip design might be challenging when reaching the device's end buttons.
Yet in terms of ergonomics, your hand and wrist will benefit a lot when you work for long hours—decreasing the chance of developing any long-term joint or muscle injury.
Made with a plastic build, the mouse may be cheap-looking, but the price and quality are worth a second look.
The Logitech MX Vertical is a great choice for those looking for a combination of versatility and comfort to take productivity to the next level.
Connection Type: Bluetooth, Wireless, and USB-C charger
Buttons: Left/Right-click, App-Switch, Side buttons
Scroll Wheel: Yes (Tilt: No)
Thumbwheel: No
Gesture button: Yes
DPI: 4000
Sensor: Optical
Power Type: Rechargeable
Buy Logitech MX Vertical on Amazon
The undeniable Microsoft upgrade to this classic mouse is an A-lister!
The best wired mouse to buy in 2022.
Packed with BlueTrack technology, the mouse prides itself on its precise movement on any given surface.
With the Mouse and Keyboard Center app, users can also customize some of the buttons to their liking.
The same software can also manage other Microsoft devices connected to the computer, such as the keyboard and number pad.
If you are looking for a low-priced mouse that still delivers well on the job, then you should not skip this wired brand.
After all, why not trust a company that has never failed to make reliable products and services for decades already?
Overall, the Microsoft Classic Intellimouse is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable wired graphic design mouse that will just do the job.
Connection Type: Wired (USB)
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Middle-click
Scroll Wheel: Yes
Thumbwheel: Yes
Gesture button: Yes
DPI: 3200 max
Sensor: Laser precision (Blue track Technology)
Power Type: USB
Buy Microsoft Classic IntelliMouse on Amazon
Not as modern as the others in the lineup, the Logitech M330 Silent Plus speaks for its name.
The best silent mouse for professional creatives.
As a pro, maybe the only thing that bothers you now is the loud clicking sound of your mouse (or your co-worker’s).
Other features of this silent mouse are that it does not stand out so much on your table and it is perfect for small work tables.
The mouse contour consists of a rubberized area that helps grip those with medium to large hands—small does not mean for small hands only!
The Logitech M330 Silent Plus is definitely a great choice if you’re wanting to buy the best quiet mouse for graphic design.
While this mouse does not have modern features (like app-switch buttons), the noiseless click of this mouse will surely lure you in.
If you do not want to distract other people while working (i.e., in a small office setting) or just like to work in silence, this is a great option for you.
Connection Type: Wireless receiver USB Type-A
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Middle-click
Scroll Wheel: Yes
Thumbwheel: No
Gesture button: No
DPI: 1000
Sensor: Mechanical
Power Type: Batteries
Buy Logitech M330 Silent Plus on Amazon
Unlike the Logitech series, you can switch this mouse on, and you can connect it to your computer with no USB receiver required.
The best mouse for everyday use.
If you have done your research, this mouse is still a mainstay among the most affordable but quality-approved mouses in the competitive market.
What's more, it works on almost all compatible devices (mobile phones or computers) that are Bluetooth-enabled and picks up even within > 16 feet of pairing.
The Microsoft Mobile Mouse is an ideal choice for creatives that are looking for the most reliable mouse for work.
Its comfort in your hand and wrist is not at all disappointing because it is neither too big nor too small.
This Bluetooth mouse runs on the latest Windows 10/8.1/8 and Mac OS X v10.10.3, but might not work on Windows 7.
Connection Type: Wireless (Bluetooth)
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Middle-click
Scroll Wheel: Yes
Thumbwheel: No
Gesture button: No
DPI: 1000
Sensor: Optical
Power Type: Batteries
Compatibility: Windows & Mac
Buy Microsoft Mobile Mouse on Amazon
If you want to buy an ergonomic mouse that will let you work and play comfortably, then the Razer DeathAdder Chroma is for you.
The most responsive mouse for designers and gamers.
Supported by a Z-axis tracking system, this mouse will work fine even on thin glass surfaces—awesome for its price!
Creatives can now experience precision and accuracy to finish their tasks on time and achieve their goals, just like in fast-paced gaming.
The Razer DeathAdder Chroma is an amazing option for creatives and gamers that are looking for the most responsive mouse.
Its buttons are also customizable in its unique Razer software, just like in other ambitious brand products.
And because this is a gaming mouse per se, the user has an option to change its chroma lighting too, which comes in different colors.
If you are particular about a mouse with no click latency issues, then this could be the one for you.
Connection Type: Wired (USB 2.0)
Buttons: Left/Right-click, Middle-click, Side buttons
Scroll Wheel: Yes
Thumbwheel: No
Gesture button: No
DPI: 10,000
Sensor: Optical
Power Type: USB
1. Affordable
3. High precision rate
1. Low programming ability
2. For right-handed only
Buy Razer DeathAdder Chroma on Amazon
Purchasing a good mouse for graphic designers requires your assessment not only of its specifications but also of its overall function.
So keep track of what aspects of a mouse you value the most (comfort, affordability, or customizability) so you can narrow down your options.
What is the best mouse for a designer?
Investing in a good productivity mouse such as the Logitech MX Master 3 is still a superb choice.
Logitech ranks first in all of the best features required for graphic design.
Also, the Apple Magic Mouse 2 is not compatible with Windows, whereas the rest are compatible with both platforms (Windows and Mac OS).
If, on the other hand, accuracy and precision are what you are solely after, the Razer DeathAdder Chroma is also stellar for the job.
Lastly, do not forget that comfort does not always mean costly—our list has cheap alternatives but can still outlast your hard work.
As a designer, my opinion is that settling for a mouse with better features can thrive in the long run—talk about price-worthy!
Now that I’m done giving you my top picks, which do you think is the best graphic design mouse in 2022?
Do you have any suggestions on this topic? Leave a comment below.
