This is inarguably a dilemma as old as Windows 95, which is better - a wired mouse or a wireless mouse? The ultimate answer to this question is this - the final choice will be up to your requirements and personal preference. There really isn’t a right or wrong answer to this question. It’s all about which mouse suits your needs and lifestyle better.
But of course, you want to review your decision before finally making a purchase. There are actually two types of mouse for gaming - wired and wireless.
In this article, we will review the advantages and disadvantages of these two mice, as well as how these two PC accessories are best for gaming purposes.
How do they work?
A mouse connects to a computer’s CPU in three ways:
- Via USB
- Via PS/2
- Bluetooth
USB and PS/2
USB is the more popular technology when it comes to mouse connection, while the PS/2 is almost obsolete. Modern motherboards rarely incorporate PS/2 ports into their design, while there are adapters that allow for PS/2 technology to be utilized in this day and age.
Nearly all peripheral or PC accessories make use of USB technology. It is backwards compatible in nature, which means that any mouse can be connected into any USB port.
In addition, there is no need for you to plug a mouse into a USB 3.0 port, as the speed offered by USB 2.0 is adequately fast for most gaming requirements.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a mainstream short-range wireless technology that is incorporated into many devices, from PCs to smartphones. Just like USB, Bluetooth is backwards compatible, which means you don’t have to worry about whether a Bluetooth version used by the mouse and your computer match each other.
You need to make sure that your PC or laptop has built-in Bluetooth capabilities. At present, nearly all laptops have Bluetooth technology, but only high-end motherboard feature Bluetooth receivers.
If your motherboard does not feature Bluetooth, you can simply purchase a USB Bluetooth dongle for it to operate.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Wired and Wireless Gaming Mice
Wireless Mouse
- Not as fast as a wired mouse
- More likely to suffer from interference
- More expensive option than a wired mouse
- Need batteries to operate
- More convenient, because of portability
- More versatile in use
Wired Mouse
- Faster than a wireless mouse
- Less likely to suffer from interference
- More affordable than a wireless mouse
- Does not need batteries to operate
- More preferred mouse for gamers
- Not portable
When choosing between these two mice options, you need to consider its use, as well as your personal preferences. If you are a gamer, you are more likely to choose a gaming mouse with dedicated gaming capabilities.
If you are looking for speed and accuracy, you will most likely to end up buying a wired mouse. However, if you place a higher value on convenience, versatility, and aesthetics, the wireless mouse is for you. If you are a constant traveller, you may opt for the wireless or cordless mouse version, too.
The wired and wireless mouse typically have the same features, but there are a few core differences that set these devices apart:
Speed and Reliability
Hands down, wired mice are winners. They are essentially faster than wireless mice. Interference is never an issue. Gamers and those who value precision will use a wired mouse for its consistency.
Wireless mice usually suffer from lags at times and are generally affected by interference. Wireless mice are slower than wired mice since these wireless devices are poor in the transmission of information due to the obvious absence of wire. The lag issue when using wireless mice is critical for gamers since precision and speed are required in most computer games.
Nearby interferences result in the choppy or slow movement of the wireless mice. There are cases where wireless mice are disabled as a result of interference. To avoid interference when gaming using a wireless mouse, make sure there are no obstructions between the mouse and the receiver. Giving it a clean would also help to keep it in tip-top shape.
Pricing
Wireless mice are more expensive due to the use of advanced technologies. However, the difference in pricing between wired and wireless mice has significantly narrowed through the years.
Convenience
A wireless mouse features no cables, hence is more ideal for travelling. You may use it away from the receiving device and other devices such as tablets.
A wireless mouse is an indispensable gaming accessory for those who regularly travel. Travelling gamers usually bring a portable wireless mouse conveniently since there are no cables that tangle up in your bag.
It is impossible for wired mouse users to move around when gaming. It can only be used in close proximity to your computer. When you use a wireless mouse with a smart TV, you can use the mouse while you are seated on the couch. For those who are gaming from their tablet, you can use a wireless mouse, since tablets do not have a USB 3.0 port.
Wireless mice need batteries or need to be charged on a docking station when not in use. On the other hand, a wired mouse doesn’t need batteries to operate; hence it is more expensive when you are frequently playing.
Aesthetics and Versatility
In terms of aesthetics and versatility, the wireless mouse wins. Proponents of wireless mice always highlight its versatility as its main selling point. It is also easy to move a wireless mouse between computers due to its unifying technology. This means that you can use one wireless mouse across two or more computers.
Wireless mice sport a minimalist and clean look, whereas wired mouse can be a bit messy at times, especially with its cables and cords.
In a nutshell, if you are looking for a mouse that is travel-friendly, versatile, and convenient, choose a wireless mouse.
On the other hand, if you value precision and accuracy for serious gaming, then a wired mouse is a better fit for you.