Best Mouse For Graphic Design

As a graphics designer, you’ll need more than skill and experience to be at the top of the chain. You also need a lot of hardware under your arsenal. One of the most vital tools to invest in is a mouse.

 

Our 5 top pick :

• Logitech MX Master 3
• Apple Magic Mouse
• Logitech MX Ergo
• Razer Naga Trinity
• Anker Wireless Vertical

You might think that a mouse is one of the last things you’ll need to upgrade as a graphic designer. However, it is an essential tool as it gives you more control over your projects and tasks. Without a good mouse, you’re working with a handicap on your side.

We’ll be exploring five of the best mice for graphic design so that when the time comes for you to level up your computer peripherals, you’ll have a ready shortlist at hand.

Factors To Consider When Buying A Mouse For Graphic Design

Before we talk about the best mouse for graphic designers, let’s first talk about what you need to consider when buying one. There are some key factors to keep in mind.

Wired or Wireless

People will most commonly choose a wireless mouse as it doesn’t come with annoying wires. However, if you’re the type that forgets to keep an extra pack of batteries around or if you fail to charge your gadgets regularly, a wired might not be an ideal option.

Nevertheless, in terms of performance, wired and wireless mice are pretty much the same. Wired mice don’t have any input delay compared to wireless mice. However, this is barely noticeable, so it’s not something you need to worry too much about.

Laser or Optical

We don’t recommend getting those mice that operate using a ball. They’re relics of the past and largely inaccurate. Instead, you should choose between laser and optical mice. Laser mice can accommodate up to 2,000 dots per inch (DPI). It’s more precise and accurate when working with sophisticated design software.

Optical mice can accommodate up to 500 DPI only. However, it’s a better performer if you like a slower mouse cursor speed. Laser mice can be jittery at low speeds.

Overall, we suggest getting laser mice as it delivers better precision for the quality of work you need as a graphic designer.

Programmable Buttons

The traditional mouse comes with the left and right click only. There are modern mice that come with programmable buttons as well. At most, a mouse can have 12 programmable buttons, usually located at the side.

This is an excellent feature as it lets you assign shortcuts for your design software. Say, for instance, you’re using Adobe Photoshop. You can reprogram one of the extra buttons as a shortcut for one of the tools. It lets you work more comfortably and efficiently.

Ergonomic Design

Do you work long hours as a graphic designer? Are you worried about carpal tunnel syndrome? If that’s the case, then you need to get a mouse that features an ergonomic design. Mice like these will let you work extended hours without putting strain on your wrist and hands.

Dimension

The size of the mouse doesn’t just affect your comfort when using it. Large mice generally have more features compared to smaller ones but they are also a bit heavier and more expensive.

Top 5 Mouse For Graphic Design

Knowing what things to consider, let’s dive into our list of the best mouse you can use for graphic design.

1.   Logitech MX Master 3

If you’re okay and ready to spend a lot on a mouse for your graphic design needs, then the Logitech MX Master 3 is the perfect fit for you. It factors in everything you need in a mouse – a good ergonomic design, customizable buttons, and as a bonus, it’s very stylish too.

Let’s talk about the design first. In terms of size, the Logitech MX Master 3 is rightfully large but it still feels great. There’s a rest on the left side of your mouse that will fit your thumb perfectly.

Sadly, the MX Master 3 doesn’t have a left-handed version, so this may be a deal-breaker for some. That thumb rest can be quite bothersome and difficult to ignore if you’re a leftie.

With the basic buttons included, the mouse has a total of seven buttons. That might be more than enough for some in graphic design. But those buttons, including a mouse wheel at the center and an easy-to-use cursor speed tracker at the side, individually serve a functional purpose.

With a DPI of 4,000, the MX Master 3 is one of the most accurate and precise laser mice you can find. Since it features a 2.4GHz wireless connection, it’s also very stable.

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Specs

• DPI – 4,000
• Type – Wireless
• Connection – Bluetooth/2.4GHz Wireless
• Buttons – 7 buttons/2 wheels

Pros

• Ergonomic design
• Very precise
• 5 programmable buttons

Cons

• Pricey
• Doesn’t have a left-handed version

2.   Apple Magic Mouse 2

Some people are certainly more comfortable with using a Mac instead of a Windows PC when it comes to graphic design. Macs are compatible with all mice but if you want to complete the set, go for the Apple Magic Mouse 2.

At first glance, it’s easy to see that the Magic Mouse 2 is a product from Apple. The design is simple, sleek, and subtle. Luckily, the Magic Mouse 2 goes above and beyond pleasing your eyes.

The Magic Mouse 2 doesn’t have any buttons. Instead, you can assign a wide variety of commands on the surface of the touch-sensitive mouse. It has a gesture sensor that’s surprisingly very responsive.

Since it’s devoid of buttons, it provides a quiet operation that’s perfect for those who want to work in silence. Furthermore, the customizable surface offers a great way to accommodate your hands whether you’re right or left-handed.

It’s almost perfect but has a couple of issues. You can’t use the mouse while it’s charging especially so that the charging port is located at the bottom. Also, the mouse is very slim which can be a challenge for those with outsized hands.

Specs

• DPI – 1,300
• Type – Wireless
• Connection – Bluetooth
• Buttons – None

Pros

• Very stylish
• Touch surface is responsive
• Slim and easy to carry around
• Ambidextrous design

Cons

• Might be uncomfortable for those with big hands
• Can’t be used while charging

3.   Logitech MX Ergo

The Logitech MX Ergo features a similar design principle to the MX Master 3. It has a thumb rest on the left side of the mouse, and the design is very ergonomic. Again, this makes the device perfect for those long work hours in front of the computer.

You’ll notice that the MX Ergo has a unique feature – a trackball at the side which makes editing and working easier. For more hand comfort, the trackball has an adjustable hinge that you can adjust between 0 to 20 degrees. While a great addition, it takes a lot of getting used to.

The mouse features six buttons, two of which are customizable. With a DPI of 400, the MX Ergo is the least accurate mouse on this list. However, it has a “precision button” that lets you work on those tiny pixels.

Specs

• DPI – 400
• Type – Wireless
• Connection – Bluetooth/Wireless
• Buttons – 6

Pros

• Ergonomic design
• Features adjustments for wrist protection
• Quick sensitivity switching

Cons

• Trackball can be hard to master

4.   Razer Naga Trinity

Believe it or not, gaming mice are great for graphic designers as well. Aside from having a good selection of programmable buttons, gaming mice are also great performers.

Regarding customization, the Razer Naga Trinity is the best you can buy right now. It has four buttons in its basic form. What makes it unique is that it has an interchangeable side plate. The side plates come with two, seven, and 12-button configurations. That’s a lot of customization features.

The interchangeable plates don’t just affect the number of programmable buttons. It can affect the comfort and feel of the mouse too. For instance, if you want something less bulky but are okay with a small set of buttons, you can use the two-button plate instead. If you want to choose functionality, you can pick the twelve-button plate. All of the plates are easy to install as well.

As this is a gaming mouse, the Naga Trinity features high levels of precision and accuracy. That shouldn’t be surprising, though, as the mouse has an insane DPI of 16,000. You can select even the smallest pixels on your design software.

Specs

• DPI – 16,000
• Type – Wired
• Connection – 6.56 ft. cable
• Buttons – Up to 19

Pros

• Comes with three interchangeable side plates for function and comfort
• High-level precision
• Great design

Cons

• Has a long cable that can get in the way

 

5.   Anker Wireless Vertical

Vertical mice are becoming more and more common nowadays. Using them in the office will get you some looks, but if it’s for your wrist health and comfort, those looks are to be ignored. One type of mouse that stands out is the Anker Wireless Vertical.

The mouse is positioned in a way that prevents joint tension in your wrist. Vertical mice can be helpful if you want to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome or if you already have that condition. Even when working for long hours, the Anker Wireless Vertical will help you work without any pain or strain.

The mouse also features a neat battery-saving feature. It automatically turns off after eight minutes of inactivity. Perfect for those graphic designers that want to take short breaks to relieve designer’s block.

In terms of performance, you can choose a DPI of 800, 1250, and 1600 for the Anker Wireless Vertical. Sadly, the mouse only has two programmable buttons. The good news is that it comes with an app-switching button to change programs in a jiffy.

Specs

• DPI – 800, 1250, 1600
• Type – Wireless
• Connection – Bluetooth/Wireless
• Buttons – 5

Pros

• Best ergonomic design
• App-switching button for changing programs
• Features battery-saving feature

Cons

• Limited button customization

 

Bottomline

Most websites will tell you that the best graphic design mouse is one that you’re comfortable with. True, but you also have to think of features.

A feature-laden mouse like the Logitech MX Master 3 will come with everything you need as a graphic designer. You need something that’s not just comfortable but also one that can make you more efficient and effective as a designer.

Our five picks are all great for a specific reason. Keep this as a ready reference when buying your next mouse for graphic design.

FAQ

Q: What Is DPI, and why is it important?

A: It stands for dots per inch. A high DPI means that the mouse pointer is more precise and accurate. For graphic designers, this is an important feature to consider.

Q: Which is better – wired or wireless?

A: You can choose what you’re comfortable with. However, most designers prefer the wireless option because it’s more convenient, aside from reducing all those computer cables and wires.

Q: Are gaming mice good for graphic designers?

A: Yes. Most of the mice on this list are gaming mice. Aside from being more precise, gaming mice also come with programmable buttons that are great for designers.

Q: How much should I spend on a mouse for graphic design?

A: You can find a good mouse for as low as $50. If you want high-end devices that are more durable and feature-rich, you’re looking at spending upward of $80.

Q: Are all mice compatible with my Mac?

A: Yes. Mice are agnostic peripherals for computers, so they are compatible with all computer platforms.

Q: Does brand matter?

A: Yes, but not always. A mouse from a good and trusted brand might be expensive, but you’re getting a great product in return. However, keep in mind that there are lesser-known brands that create great mice too. Make sure to read reviews before making a purchase.

Q: Can I reprogram app shortcuts on mouse buttons?

A: Yes. Mice like the Razer Naga Trinity come with software. This allows you to customize the commands on the buttons of the mouse.  You can program anything from picking a tool in Adobe Photoshop or even saving a project in any editing software.