Best Wired Gaming Mouse with Side Buttons: Top Picks

1. Logitech G502 Hero

After spending considerable time with the Logitech G502 Hero, I can say it’s a familiar, yet still compelling, option for many. The sheer number of programmable buttons is impressive, offering extensive customization for almost any gaming genre. The scroll wheel, with its dual-mode functionality, is a standout feature, allowing for both precise increments and rapid scrolling with a satisfying click.

The HERO 25K sensor is exceptionally accurate, and I found tracking to be pinpoint precise during fast-paced firefights. The textured grips provide a secure hold, even during intense gaming sessions. However, the sheer weight of the mouse, even with adjustable weights removed, can become fatiguing over extended play for some users. It’s a substantial peripheral that demands a firm grip.

This mouse is ideal for players who thrive on having a multitude of commands at their fingertips, particularly those who play complex strategy games or MMOs. If you’re someone who likes to assign macros and specific actions to nearly every button, the G502 Hero excels. However, if you prefer a lightweight, minimalist design, you might find this mouse to be overkill.

2. Redragon M612 Predator

The Redragon M612 Predator offers a vibrant entry into the budget gaming mouse market. Its RGB lighting is certainly eye-catching, with several modes that can add a splash of personality to your setup. The 8000 DPI sensor provides a good level of sensitivity for its price point, and I found it to be responsive enough for casual to moderate gaming.

The ergonomics are decent, fitting comfortably in my palm for extended periods, and the side buttons are easily accessible for quick actions. However, the build quality, while functional, does have a slightly hollow feel to the plastic. The scroll wheel, while not bad, lacks the satisfying tactile feedback I’ve come to expect from higher-end mice.

This mouse is a solid choice for gamers on a tighter budget who want a functional and visually appealing peripheral. It’s perfect for someone just starting out or looking for a secondary mouse. However, if you demand premium materials and the absolute sharpest sensor performance for competitive play, you’ll likely want to look elsewhere.

3. Razer Basilisk V3

The Razer Basilisk V3 stands out as a truly top-tier option for anyone seeking the best wired gaming mouse with side buttons. Its ergonomic shape is incredibly comfortable, cradling the hand for long gaming sessions without fatigue. The array of customizable buttons, including the much-loved sniper button, offers unparalleled control and tactical advantages.

I was particularly impressed by the responsiveness of the optical switches; every click registers with satisfying speed and precision. The HyperScroll Tilt wheel is a revelation, offering both free-spin and tactile modes that adapt to your needs, whether you’re navigating spreadsheets or flicking through weapons. However, the sheer number of customization options through the software can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers.

This mouse is tailor-made for the dedicated gamer who values both comfort and performance. It’s perfect for those who play a variety of genres and want to fine-tune every aspect of their input. If you’re someone who gets easily frustrated by complex software or prefers a simpler plug-and-play experience, the deep customization might feel like a hurdle.

4. Razer Basilisk V3

The Razer Basilisk V3, with its 35K sensor, brings an even higher level of precision to an already excellent design. The comfort is undeniable; the sculpted shape fits my hand like a glove, and the textured surfaces ensure a secure grip. The inclusion of the HyperScroll Tilt wheel is, as expected, a major highlight, providing incredible versatility for both gaming and productivity tasks.

Tracking is phenomenal with this sensor; I experienced zero jitters or inconsistencies, even at extreme DPI settings. The tactile feedback from the buttons is sharp and immediate, making every action feel deliberate. My only real gripe is that the USB cable, while braided, is a bit stiffer than I’d prefer, occasionally catching on my mousepad.

This mouse is ideal for competitive players who demand the utmost accuracy and have a preference for a comfortable, palm-gripping style. If you’re the type of player who values every pixel of precision and appreciates a premium feel, this is an outstanding choice. However, if you have smaller hands or prefer a fingertip grip, the substantial size of the Basilisk V3 might not be the best fit.

5. Acer Wired Gaming Mouse

The acer Wired Gaming Mouse presents itself as an accessible option for gamers looking for decent performance without breaking the bank. The 12,800 DPI sensor offers a good range of sensitivity, and I found it to be a noticeable upgrade over standard office mice for gaming. The RGB lighting is a nice touch, adding a bit of flair to my desk.

The ergonomic design is comfortable for general use, and the side buttons are positioned reasonably well for quick access. However, the overall build quality feels rather basic, with a somewhat glossy plastic that can become slippery with extended use. The scroll wheel, while functional, lacks a distinct tactile feel, making precise scrolling a bit of a guessing game sometimes.

This mouse is best suited for casual gamers or those upgrading from a very basic mouse. It’s a good option for someone who wants a bit more speed and customization than a standard peripheral offers. If you are a serious competitive gamer who needs absolute precision, a robust build, and highly defined tactile feedback, this acer mouse might leave you wanting more.

6. Razer Deathadder Essential

We’ve put the Razer DeathAdder Essential through its paces, and while it’s a familiar shape, it still holds its own. The ergonomic design is immediately comfortable, fitting nicely into my palm for extended gaming sessions. Its simplicity is its strength, focusing on core functionality without overwhelming the user.

The 6400 DPI optical sensor is responsive enough for most general gaming needs. I found the tracking to be accurate during fast-paced encounters, though it might not satisfy the absolute precision required by esports professionals. The mouse glides smoothly across my mousepad, a testament to its well-balanced weight and quality feet.

This mouse is a solid choice for casual gamers or those building their first PC setup. It offers a dependable performance without breaking the bank. However, the build quality, while decent, does feel a bit plasticky to the touch, and the scroll wheel has a slightly stiff click that could be more satisfying.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: During a long session of a strategy game, I appreciated the comfortable grip and the predictable button clicks for issuing commands. However, having only two side buttons felt limiting when I wanted to assign more hotkeys for unit selection and abilities.

7. Redragon M908 Impact

The Redragon M908 Impact aims to pack a punch, especially for MMO enthusiasts, and for the most part, it succeeds. The sheer number of programmable buttons is its standout feature, offering an impressive array of customization options. I found myself assigning various macros and abilities, which definitely streamlined my gameplay in complex titles.

The 12400 DPI sensor is highly adjustable, allowing for a wide range of sensitivity settings. While I appreciated the granular control, I noticed a slight acceleration curve at the highest DPI settings, which might be a concern for twitch shooters. The RGB lighting is vibrant, adding a nice aesthetic touch to the desk, though the software for controlling it feels a bit clunky.

This mouse is clearly designed for players who juggle numerous commands, making it a strong contender for the best wired gaming mouse with side buttons for MMO and MOBA players. However, the sheer number of buttons can be overwhelming for some, and the textured grip, while functional, can feel a bit abrasive after prolonged use.

Who it is NOT for: If you prefer a minimalist mouse with only a few buttons for basic navigation, this abundance of side switches will likely feel like overkill and could lead to accidental clicks.

8. Redragon Mmo Gaming Mouse

Redragon continues its assault on the budget gaming peripheral market with this 19-button monstrosity. The sheer quantity of buttons is its defining characteristic, offering an unparalleled level of command input for those who can master it. Setting up macros and hotkeys was an extensive process, but the potential for in-game efficiency is undeniable.

The 12400 DPI sensor is responsive, and I found its tracking to be solid across various surfaces. The main click buttons have a satisfying actuation, but the multitude of smaller side buttons can feel a bit mushy and lack definitive tactile feedback. The overall build feels a little less premium than some higher-end options, with a noticeable hollowness when tapped.

This mouse is a specialist’s tool, best suited for hardcore MMO players or those who want to map every conceivable action to their mouse. However, the learning curve is steep, and the sheer number of buttons might actively hinder performance for those who aren’t meticulously organized with their button assignments.

Who it is NOT for: Anyone who values simplicity and a clean desk setup should steer clear. This is not a mouse for casual browsing or light gaming; it demands dedication.

9. Redragon M811 Aatrox

The Redragon M811 Aatrox strikes a balance between button count and usability, offering a healthy 15 programmable buttons. The ergonomic design feels comfortable in hand, and the textured grips provide a secure hold during intense gaming moments. I found the placement of the side buttons to be intuitive, making it easier to access them without looking.

The 12400 DPI sensor is precise and offers smooth tracking. The main clicks are crisp and responsive, providing good auditory and tactile feedback. However, some of the secondary side buttons felt a bit too close together, leading to occasional accidental presses during rapid maneuvers. The software for customization is functional but could benefit from a more modern interface.

This mouse is a strong contender for players who want a significant number of customizable buttons without the overwhelming complexity of some other MMO mice. It’s a good all-rounder for various game genres. Still, the slightly cramped button layout in certain areas and the somewhat dated software are minor drawbacks to consider.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: In a team-based shooter, I was able to map grenades, abilities, and communication shortcuts to the side buttons, significantly improving my reaction time. However, during a particularly frantic firefight, I accidentally triggered a secondary ability when aiming for my primary one due to the proximity of the buttons.

10. Corsair Scimitar Rgb Elite

Corsair has a reputation for quality, and the Scimitar RGB Elite largely lives up to it. The standout feature is the adjustable side button panel, allowing you to slide it forward or backward to perfectly match your thumb’s natural resting position. This level of customization is fantastic for ensuring comfort and accessibility to all 12 side buttons.

The 18,000 DPI optical sensor is incredibly accurate and offers a smooth, consistent tracking experience across various DPI settings. The primary clicks are satisfyingly tactile and responsive, with a satisfying thock sound. However, the textured scroll wheel, while providing good grip, has a slightly stiff resistance that can feel a bit cumbersome for rapid scrolling.

This mouse is a premium choice for dedicated MOBA and MMO players who value precision, comfort, and extensive programmability. The build quality feels robust, and the RGB lighting is tastefully implemented. The main annoyance for me was the slightly stiff scroll wheel, which could have been smoother for faster in-game actions.

Who it is NOT for: If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a mouse with a simpler button layout, the Scimitar RGB Elite might be more than you need. Its specialized features cater to a specific audience.