Tired of fumbling with keyboard shortcuts during intense gaming sessions? You know the feeling – that crucial moment lost because your fingers just couldn’t reach the right key. It’s frustrating, and it can seriously impact your performance.
That’s where a mouse with dedicated side buttons comes in. They offer a level of convenience and speed that’s hard to beat, putting essential commands right at your thumb’s disposal. We’ve scoured the market to find the best side button gaming mouse options to elevate your gameplay.
Whether you’re into fast-paced shooters, complex MMOs, or strategic MOBAs, having extra programmable buttons can make a world of difference. Get ready to experience smoother gameplay and quicker reactions.
The 10 Best Side Button Gaming Mouse Reviewed
1. Logitech G502 Hero
As an enthusiast who spends countless hours with a mouse in hand, the Logitech G502 Hero has been a staple in my setup for some time. Its sculpted, ergonomic shape fits my palm comfortably, and the sheer number of programmable buttons is impressive, especially the dual-stage scroll wheel which is fantastic for both fast scrolling and precise movements. The Hero 25K sensor is, as expected, incredibly accurate and responsive, making it a reliable performer for everything from intense firefights to intricate design work.
However, the G502 Hero isn’t without its quirks. While the button placement is generally good, I’ve occasionally found myself accidentally actuating the DPI shift buttons during particularly frantic gaming sessions. It’s a minor annoyance, but one that can break your focus. The textured grips, while offering good hold, do tend to accumulate dust and grime over time, requiring more frequent cleaning than I’d prefer.
This mouse is specifically designed for the gamer who loves to customize and have every possible command at their fingertips. If you thrive on having dedicated buttons for macros, weapon swaps, or communication shortcuts, the G502 Hero delivers in spades. It’s also a great option for productivity users who can leverage the extra buttons for application shortcuts.
Pros
- Excellent, accurate Hero 25K sensor.
- Highly customizable with a generous number of buttons.
- Comfortable ergonomic design for extended use.
Cons
- Accidental DPI button presses can occur.
- Grips can accumulate dust and require regular cleaning.
2. Logitech G305 Lightspeed
The Logitech G305 Lightspeed has been a surprising delight for its wireless freedom. The Lightspeed technology truly lives up to its name, offering a lag-free experience that I honestly couldn’t distinguish from a wired connection. Its simple, ambidextrous design is incredibly comfortable for my medium-sized hands, and the HERO sensor is as precise and reliable as Logitech’s wired offerings. The battery life is also phenomenal; I’ve gone months without needing to swap out the AA battery.
My main gripe with the G305 is the limited number of side buttons. While two are present and well-placed, it feels a bit restrictive for games that demand a lot of quick commands. I often found myself wishing for at least one more button readily accessible to my thumb. The plastic construction, while lightweight, does feel a little less premium than some of its more expensive counterparts, and it can creak slightly under firm pressure.
This mouse is ideal for the minimalist gamer who prioritizes a clean desk setup and excellent wireless performance without breaking the bank. If you play games where precise aiming is key and you don’t rely heavily on a multitude of mouse macros, the G305 is a fantastic, hassle-free choice. It’s also a great option for those who travel frequently and want a reliable wireless mouse.
Pros
- Excellent wireless performance with no noticeable lag.
- Outstanding battery life.
- Comfortable and versatile ambidextrous design.
Cons
- Limited number of programmable side buttons.
- Plastic construction can feel a bit less premium.
3. Redragon M908 Impact
When searching for the best side button gaming mouse, the Redragon M908 Impact certainly makes a strong case with its sheer button count. I was immediately impressed by the array of programmable buttons flanking the thumb rest, offering a dizzying number of options for macros and keybinds. The scroll wheel feels solid, and the overall shape provides a secure grip, even during intense gameplay. The RGB lighting is vibrant and customizable, adding a nice aesthetic touch to my setup.
However, the sheer volume of buttons can also be its downfall for some. I’ve found myself accidentally pressing the wrong button on occasion, especially when trying to quickly reposition my thumb. While the sensor is generally accurate, I did notice a slight inconsistency in tracking during very rapid, jerky movements compared to higher-end mice. The software for customization, while functional, feels a bit clunky and less intuitive than I’d prefer.
This mouse is a dream for MMO players or anyone who juggles a massive number of abilities and commands. If you’re constantly looking for more ways to streamline your gameplay through macros and shortcuts, the M908 Impact is a compelling option that offers incredible value. It’s also a good choice for users who appreciate a more substantial, weighted feel to their mouse.
Pros
- Extensive number of programmable side buttons.
- Solid build quality and comfortable grip.
- Vibrant and customizable RGB lighting.
Cons
- High button count can lead to accidental presses.
- Sensor tracking can be slightly inconsistent during rapid movements.
- Customization software could be more intuitive.
4. Redragon M908 Impact
The Redragon MMO Mouse UP is another contender with an impressive number of buttons, aiming to provide extensive control for gamers. The ergonomic design offers a comfortable fit for my palm, and the textured grips ensure a secure hold, even when things get heated. The 12400 DPI sensor is capable of high sensitivity, and I found it to be responsive for most general gaming tasks. The weight tuning system is a nice touch, allowing for some personalization of the mouse’s feel.
My primary concern with this mouse is the sheer density of the side buttons. While having 19 programmable buttons sounds fantastic on paper, in practice, I often found myself struggling to differentiate them by feel alone, leading to misclicks. The scroll wheel, while functional, has a rather loud, tactile click that can be distracting during quiet moments. Furthermore, the build quality, while decent for the price, doesn’t quite match the premium feel of higher-end peripherals.
This mouse is specifically for the dedicated MMO player or anyone who demands an overwhelming number of customizable inputs. If your primary focus is maximizing your command shortcuts and you don’t mind a slight learning curve to master all those buttons, this Redragon mouse offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy a heavier mouse feel right out of the box.
Pros
- Abundant number of programmable buttons.
- Adjustable weight system for personalized feel.
- Ergonomic design with good grip.
Cons
- Side buttons can be difficult to distinguish by touch.
- Scroll wheel has a loud, clicky sound.
- Build quality feels less premium.
5. Redragon Wireless Gaming Mouse
The Redragon Wireless MMO Gaming Mouse UP aims to offer the convenience of wireless with the extensive button layout of an MMO mouse. The freedom from cables is certainly a welcome change, and the sensor’s 16,000 DPI provides ample sensitivity for various gaming needs. The ergonomic shape is comfortable for my hand, and the textured surfaces provide a good grip, preventing slippage during intense sessions.
However, the wireless implementation here isn’t quite as polished as some competitors. I did experience occasional minor stutters in tracking, particularly when the mouse was further from the USB receiver, which is a concern for competitive play. The sheer number of side buttons, while a selling point, suffers from the same issue as its wired counterpart: they are very close together, making accidental presses a frequent annoyance. The battery life, while acceptable, isn’t as remarkable as some other wireless options on the market.
This mouse is best suited for the wireless enthusiast who also happens to be a hardcore MMO player and prioritizes button quantity over absolute wireless perfection. If you’re looking to declutter your desk and have a vast array of macros at your disposal, and you can tolerate the occasional wireless hiccup, this Redragon might be worth considering. It’s probably not the ideal choice for fast-paced FPS games where every millisecond of responsiveness counts.
Pros
- Wireless connectivity offers desk freedom.
- High DPI sensor for sensitive tracking.
- Ergonomic design with comfortable grip.
Cons
- Occasional wireless tracking stutters.
- Side buttons are densely packed and prone to misclicks.
- Battery life is not outstanding.
6. Utechsmart Venus
We put the UtechSmart Venus through its paces, and it offers a surprisingly robust feature set for its price point. The sheer number of programmable buttons on the side is its standout feature, making it a strong contender for those who juggle many in-game commands. The RGB lighting is vibrant, and the software, while a bit clunky, allows for extensive customization of both macros and illumination effects. It feels comfortable in the hand for extended sessions, with a textured grip that prevents slippage.
However, the scroll wheel’s tactile feedback is a little mushy for my liking, and I found myself over-scrolling occasionally during intense moments. The plastic construction, while not flimsy, doesn’t exude the premium feel of some higher-end options. The braided cable is a nice touch, but it can sometimes catch on desk edges, disrupting smooth movements.
This mouse is an excellent choice for budget-conscious MMO or MOBA players who need a plethora of easily accessible side buttons. If you’re someone who frequently uses complex keybinds and wants to consolidate them onto your mouse without breaking the bank, the Venus is definitely worth a look. However, if you prioritize top-tier build materials and a super-crisp scroll wheel experience, you might want to consider other options.
Pros
- Abundant programmable side buttons
- Vibrant RGB lighting
- Comfortable for long sessions
Cons
- Mushy scroll wheel feedback
- Plastic construction feels less premium
- Braided cable can snag
7. Redragon M921
The Redragon M921 certainly packs a punch for its aggressive pricing, aiming to be a contender in the best side button gaming mouse category. Its array of side buttons is well-placed and offers a satisfying click, making it easy to differentiate between them without looking. The DPI settings are easily adjustable on the fly, and the sensor tracked accurately across various surfaces we tested. The software is straightforward, allowing for macro recording and profile switching without too much fuss. Its ergonomic shape fits well in a palm grip.
My primary gripe with the M921 is the texture of the side buttons; they feel a bit too smooth, and I worried about accidental presses during frantic gameplay. While the RGB lighting is present, it’s not the most sophisticated, with some color bleeding between zones. The overall build quality is decent for the price, but it’s not going to win any awards for premium materials.
This mouse is ideal for players who are new to MMOs or MOBAs and want to experiment with having more buttons at their disposal without a significant financial commitment. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize button count over sophisticated aesthetics or ultra-premium feel, the Redragon M921 is a solid entry-level choice. However, if you demand precise tactile differentiation on every single button or desire a more refined RGB implementation, you might find it lacking.
Pros
- Numerous accessible side buttons
- On-the-fly DPI adjustment
- Ergonomic palm grip design
Cons
- Side buttons can feel too smooth
- Basic RGB implementation
- Build quality is functional, not premium
8. Razer Naga V2 Hyperspeed
Razer has a long history with the Naga line, and the V2 HyperSpeed continues that legacy with an impressive number of programmable buttons. The side cluster is particularly noteworthy, offering a variety of shapes and textures that greatly aid in tactile identification. We experienced virtually no latency in wireless performance, which is crucial for competitive play. The HyperScroll Pro wheel provides excellent versatility, allowing for both free-spinning and tactile scrolling modes. Its lightweight design is a welcome departure from some of the heftier Naga models of the past.
However, the sheer volume of buttons can feel overwhelming initially, and it takes a significant amount of time to get used to all their placements. The textured grip on the sides, while effective, can also be a bit abrasive for some users over extended periods. Furthermore, the battery life, while respectable, isn’t class-leading, requiring more frequent charging than some competitors.
This mouse is a dream for hardcore MMO players who rely heavily on complex macros and ability rotations. If you’re someone who maps every single cooldown and utility to your mouse, the 19 programmable buttons will feel like a superpower. However, if you prefer a simpler button layout or have extremely sensitive skin, the aggressive texturing and button density might not be for you. It’s also not the best fit for casual gamers who only need a few extra buttons.
Pros
- Massive number of programmable buttons
- Excellent wireless performance
- Versatile HyperScroll Pro wheel
Cons
- Can be overwhelming to learn
- Aggressive side grip texture
- Battery life could be longer
9. Corsair Scimitar Rgb Elite
The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite is a meticulously crafted peripheral designed for those who demand precision and customization in their gaming sessions. Its signature feature is the adjustable side panel, allowing users to slide the entire block of 12 mechanical buttons forward or backward to perfectly match their grip. The buttons themselves have a satisfying, distinct click, and the sensor is incredibly accurate, tracking every micro-adjustment flawlessly. The RGB lighting is vibrant and integrates well with Corsair’s iCUE software, offering deep customization options.
While the adjustable side panel is ingenious, I found that the mechanism, while sturdy, adds a bit of weight to the mouse. The textured grip, while good for preventing slippage, can feel a little too aggressive for some hand types, leading to minor discomfort during very long play sessions. The braided cable, while durable, can sometimes exhibit a slight stiffness, which occasionally affects its glide across the mousepad.
This mouse is an absolute top-tier choice for dedicated MOBA and MMO players who want unparalleled control over their in-game actions. If you spend hours executing complex rotations and need every button within easy reach and customizable to your exact preference, the Scimitar RGB Elite is a fantastic investment. However, if you prefer a lighter mouse, have very sensitive hands, or dislike the feel of braided cables, you might want to explore other options.
Pros
- Adjustable side button panel
- Mechanical side buttons with distinct clicks
- Highly accurate sensor
Cons
- Adjustable panel adds weight
- Side grip can be aggressive
- Braided cable can be stiff
10. Steelseries Aerox 9 Wireless
The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless is a featherweight champion in the world of wireless gaming mice, especially for those who value a vast array of side buttons. Its perforated shell design dramatically reduces weight, making for incredibly agile movements. The 12 side buttons are well-spaced and have a nice, crisp actuation, which I found greatly improved my reaction times in fast-paced titles. The wireless performance is rock-solid, with no noticeable latency or dropouts. The PrismSync RGB lighting adds a touch of flair without being overly distracting.
However, the lightweight, perforated design means the mouse can feel a bit hollow, and some users might find it less substantial than solid-bodied mice. Cleaning dust and debris from inside the perforations can also become a bit of a chore. While the side buttons are excellent, the main left and right-click buttons are a touch too sensitive for my preference, leading to occasional accidental clicks when repositioning my grip.
This mouse is an outstanding option for competitive MMO and MOBA players who prioritize speed and button accessibility above all else. If you’re someone who needs a lightning-fast mouse with plenty of programmable buttons that doesn’t weigh you down, the Aerox 9 is a serious contender. However, if you prefer a more solid, substantial feel in your hand, dislike the idea of cleaning out perforations, or are prone to accidental clicks on your main buttons, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight design
- Crisp and well-spaced side buttons
- Excellent wireless performance
Cons
- Perforated shell can feel hollow
- Requires cleaning of perforations
- Main buttons can be overly sensitive
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Sensor Type | Max DPI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logitech G502 Hero | Wired | HERO 25K | 25,600 |
| Logitech G305 Lightspeed | Wireless | HERO | 12,000 |
| Redragon M908 Impact | Wired | Unknown | 12,400 |
| Redragon M908 Impact | Wired | Unknown | 12,400 |
| Redragon Wireless Gaming Mouse | Wireless | Unknown | 16,000 |
| UtechSmart Venus | Wired | Unknown | 16,400 |
| Redragon M921 | Wired | Unknown | 12,400 |
| Razer Naga V2 HyperSpeed | Wireless | HyperSpeed Wireless | 30,000 |
| Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite | Wired | Unknown | 18,000 |
| SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless | Wireless | TrueMove Air | 18,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Ideal Number of Side Buttons?
The ideal number of side buttons varies greatly. Many gamers find two to be sufficient. These usually cover essential functions like melee or grenade. More buttons can be useful for complex games or specific roles.
However, too many buttons can become overwhelming. It’s easy to misclick them. Consider your primary games. Check reviews for button placement and ease of use. Ergonomics are key here.
Are Wired or Wireless Side Button Mice Better?
Both wired and wireless gaming mice have their pros and cons. Wired mice offer a consistent, lag-free connection. They don’t require charging. This is crucial for competitive play where every millisecond counts.
Modern wireless technology has significantly reduced latency. Many wireless mice are now virtually indistinguishable from wired ones in performance. Battery life is a consideration. Ensure it meets your gaming needs between charges.
How Important Is Mouse Weight for Side Button Mice?
Mouse weight is a very personal preference. Lighter mice are generally preferred for fast-paced games like FPS. They allow for quicker flicks and less fatigue. Heavier mice can feel more stable and precise for some users.
Consider your grip style and game genre. If you have a large hand or prefer a palm grip, a slightly heavier mouse might feel more natural. Many gaming mice offer adjustable weights. Experiment to find what works best for you.
Can I Use Any Mouse Software for Side Buttons?
No, you typically need dedicated software from the mouse manufacturer. This software allows you to remap buttons. You can assign custom commands or macros. It’s essential for unlocking the full potential of your side buttons.
Make sure the software is user-friendly. It should offer profile switching. This lets you save settings for different games. Check compatibility with your operating system. Reputable brands have robust software suites.
How Do I Clean My Side Button Gaming Mouse?
Cleaning your mouse is important for hygiene and performance. Start by unplugging it. Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust from crevices. A microfiber cloth dampened with water or a mild electronics cleaner works well for the exterior.
For stubborn grime, a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol can be effective. Be careful around the sensor and switch areas. Avoid getting any liquid inside the mouse. Regular cleaning ensures optimal grip and button responsiveness.
Final Verdict
For the ultimate side button gaming mouse experience, we recommend the Logitech G502 HERO. Its excellent sensor provides pinpoint accuracy, and its ergonomic design ensures comfort during long gaming sessions. The array of programmable buttons, including the strategically placed side buttons, offers unparalleled customization for any game genre. Its robust build quality guarantees durability, making it a wise investment for serious gamers.