Best Budget Gaming Mouse with Side Buttons: Top Picks!

1. Redragon M612 Predator Rgb Gaming Mouse

I’ve put the Redragon M612 Predator through its paces, and for its price point, it offers a solid entry into the world of customizable gaming mice. The 8000 DPI is more than enough for most competitive scenarios, and I found the tracking to be quite precise during fast-paced action. The RGB lighting is vibrant, though I did notice a slight unevenness in the illumination across the logo.

The shape of the M612 is fairly standard, fitting comfortably in my medium-sized hand for palm and claw grips. The side buttons are well-placed and offer a satisfying click without feeling mushy. However, the scroll wheel, while functional, has a somewhat gritty texture when scrolling, which can be a little distracting during long browsing sessions.

This mouse is specifically for gamers who are looking for an affordable upgrade from a basic office mouse and want to experiment with DPI settings and RGB customization. If you’re a professional esports player demanding the absolute pinnacle of sensor technology or an ergonomic enthusiast seeking a unique grip, this might not be your endgame.

2. Redragon M690

The Redragon M690 is a straightforward, no-frills wired mouse that aims to deliver performance without breaking the bank. I found the DPI adjustment buttons to be conveniently located just below the scroll wheel, allowing for quick on-the-fly changes. The overall build quality feels sturdy, though the plastic used doesn’t feel particularly premium.

During my testing, the M690 performed admirably in various games, with responsive clicks and decent tracking accuracy. The side buttons are functional and provide a decent tactile feedback, which is a plus for budget options. My main gripe is the cable; it’s a bit stiff and lacks a braided sleeve, which can sometimes snag on the desk.

This is a good option for someone who needs a reliable gaming mouse with extra buttons for basic macros or game functions but doesn’t want to spend a fortune. If you’re someone who prioritizes a flexible, lightweight cable or a high-end sensor, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

3. Redragon M801 Gaming Mouse

The Redragon M801 is a compelling choice for anyone seeking the best budget gaming mouse with side buttons, especially for MMO enthusiasts. I was impressed by the sheer number of programmable buttons available, offering a wealth of customization for complex in-game actions. The DPI range is generous, and I experienced very little jitter during intense gaming sessions.

The ergonomics of the M801 are geared towards a palm grip, and it felt quite comfortable in my hand for extended play. The RGB lighting is a nice touch, offering a decent spectrum of colors. However, the software for customization, while functional, can feel a bit clunky and unintuitive to navigate at first.

This mouse is ideal for players who spend a lot of time in MMOs or other games that benefit from a large number of accessible macros. If you prefer a minimalist design, have very small hands, or are easily frustrated by slightly dated software interfaces, this might not be the perfect fit for you.

4. Redragon M617 Ultralight Honeycomb Shell Gaming Mouse

Redragon’s M617 Ultralight is an interesting proposition, particularly for those who prioritize a feather-light feel. At just 41g, the honeycomb shell design is immediately noticeable, making rapid movements feel effortless. The 10,000 DPI sensor is responsive, and I found the tracking to be smooth and accurate across various surfaces. However, the open design does mean dust and debris can accumulate inside more easily.

The shape is ambidextrous, which is great for wider accessibility, though I found the slightly flatter profile less secure for my palm grip compared to more ergonomically sculpted mice. The clicks are crisp, and the side buttons offer a good tactile response. The braided cable is a welcome addition, reducing drag significantly.

This mouse is perfect for FPS players who want the absolute lightest peripheral possible for flick shots and quick adjustments. If you have a sensitive hand to dust or prefer a mouse with a more pronounced ergonomic contour, you might find this ultralight design less appealing.

5. Redragon Gaming Mouse Mmo

The Redragon MMO mouse with 19 programmable buttons and a 12400 DPI sensor is a serious contender for macro-heavy gaming. I was immediately struck by the sheer number of buttons on offer, which, while potentially overwhelming, provides incredible versatility for complex command sequences. The high DPI is certainly present, and I observed good accuracy during my testing period.

The shape is quite chunky and designed with a pronounced thumb rest, which I found comfortable for extended MMO sessions, though it might feel too large for smaller hands. The button clicks are distinct, and the side buttons are easily distinguishable by feel. My primary concern is the sheer density of buttons; it’s easy to accidentally press the wrong one until you develop muscle memory.

This mouse is tailor-made for MMO players or anyone who needs a vast array of easily accessible shortcuts. If you prefer a more streamlined mouse with fewer buttons, or have smaller hands that might struggle to reach all the inputs, then this might be overkill.

6. Redragon M908 Impact Rgb LED Mmo Gaming Mouse

We put the Redragon M908 Impact through its paces, and for a budget option, it certainly packs a punch with its extensive button layout. The sheer number of programmable buttons is impressive, making it a strong contender for anyone who juggles a lot of macros or hotkeys in their MMOs. The RGB lighting is vibrant, adding a nice aesthetic to any setup, though the software for customization can feel a tad clunky to navigate initially.

The textured grip on the sides offers a secure hold during intense sessions, which I appreciated. However, the scroll wheel, while functional, feels a bit less refined than on some higher-end mice; it has a slightly rattly sound when flicked quickly. It’s a minor annoyance, but noticeable if you’re used to a more solid feel.

This mouse is specifically for the MMO enthusiast on a budget who needs a plethora of accessible commands at their fingertips. If you find yourself constantly reaching for your keyboard for spells or abilities, the M908 Impact can significantly streamline your gameplay. It’s also a decent choice for productivity tasks requiring frequent shortcuts.

However, if you prioritize a super-premium feel and ultra-precise, whisper-quiet scroll wheel operation, you might want to look elsewhere. This is a workhorse designed for function over absolute finesse, and that’s perfectly fine for its target audience.

7. Afunta C12 Gaming Mouse

When searching for the best budget gaming mouse with side buttons, the AFUNTA C12 immediately caught our eye with its promise of 12 programmable buttons. The number of buttons is indeed the standout feature here, offering a vast array of customization for complex commands. The overall shape is comfortable for extended use, fitting well in my palm, and the DPI adjustment buttons are conveniently placed.

During our testing, I found the button clicks to be satisfyingly tactile, providing good feedback. My main reservation, however, lies with the build quality of the side buttons; they feel a bit mushy and lack the crisp actuation I prefer, which can sometimes lead to accidental presses in frantic moments. The laser tracking was generally accurate on most surfaces we tried.

This mouse is ideal for players who rely heavily on in-game macros and shortcuts and are looking for an affordable way to expand their command options. If you’re migrating from a mouse with fewer side buttons, the C12 will feel like a significant upgrade in terms of accessibility. It’s also a solid choice for RTS or MOBA players who benefit from quick access to various units or abilities.

However, those who demand the absolute best in button tactility and a rock-solid build might find the C12 a bit lacking. If precise, clicky side buttons are a top priority, you might need to allocate a bit more budget.

8. Afunta Zelotes Ergonomic Gaming Mouse

The AFUNTA Zelotes mouse presents an interesting ergonomic design, aiming for comfort during long gaming sessions. The sculpted shape fits my hand nicely, reducing fatigue, and the textured grip panels contribute to a secure hold. The adjustable DPI settings up to 7200 are more than sufficient for most gaming scenarios, and the LED lighting adds a touch of flair, though it’s not as dynamic as some competitors.

I found the optical sensor to be responsive and accurate on my usual mousepad, with no noticeable jitter or lag. The primary clicks are crisp, but the scroll wheel has a slightly gritty feel to it, which isn’t ideal for fast scrolling through inventories or web pages. It’s a functional wheel, but the texture is a bit off-putting for me.

This mouse is well-suited for individuals who experience hand or wrist discomfort with standard mouse shapes. If ergonomics are your primary concern and you need a reliable wired mouse for general gaming and productivity, the Zelotes is a good option. It’s particularly beneficial for those with medium to large hands seeking a more supportive design.

However, if you’re a gamer who values a super-smooth and quiet scroll wheel experience, this might not be the mouse for you. Additionally, users who prefer a more compact or ambidextrous design should look elsewhere.

9. Redragon M921 Mmo Gaming Mouse

The Redragon M921 MMO Gaming Mouse boasts an impressive DPI of 12400, indicating its potential for high-precision tracking. The overall design feels solid in hand, and the textured grips on the sides are effective in preventing slippage during fast-paced action. I found the number of programmable buttons to be generous, offering a good balance for MMO and other genre players who benefit from extra hotkeys.

The primary buttons provide a satisfying click, and the scroll wheel, while not silent, is reasonably smooth. My primary critique would be the software interface for programming buttons and customizing the RGB lighting; it’s functional but can feel a bit overwhelming and less intuitive than some competitors. It took me a couple of tries to get my macros set up exactly how I wanted them.

This mouse is an excellent choice for dedicated MMO players or anyone who needs a high-DPI mouse with ample customization options without breaking the bank. If you frequently find yourself needing quick access to a variety of skills or commands, the M921 delivers that functionality effectively. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate a mouse that feels substantial on the desk.

However, if you’re a user who prefers a minimalist aesthetic or finds complex software interfaces frustrating, you might want to consider simpler alternatives. This mouse is built for functionality and customization, and that comes with a learning curve for its software.

10. Redragon M811 Aatrox Mmo Gaming Mouse

The Redragon M811 Aatrox immediately stands out with its remarkable 15 programmable buttons, making it a powerhouse for macro-heavy games. The sculpted ergonomic shape fits comfortably in my hand, and the textured surfaces provide a secure grip even during the most intense gaming moments. The RGB lighting is quite striking, with a good range of customizable effects, although the software can be a bit of a chore to master.

I found the primary button clicks to be tactile and responsive, offering good auditory and tactile feedback. The scroll wheel, however, has a slightly rubbery feel that, while providing grip, can sometimes feel a bit imprecise when making very fine adjustments. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something I noticed compared to mice with more defined scroll wheel steps.

This mouse is tailor-made for the serious MMO player or anyone who demands a vast number of customizable commands readily accessible. If you’re looking to optimize your gameplay by assigning complex sequences or multiple actions to single button presses, the Aatrox excels at this. It’s also a great option for users who appreciate a mouse that feels substantial and well-built for its price point.

However, if you prefer a simpler mouse with fewer buttons or find extensive software customization daunting, this might be overkill. Users who need an ultra-lightweight mouse for fast twitch aiming might also find its slightly heavier build less ideal.