Everybody needs a mouse. Even the most simple computing—web browsing, word processing, dragging files—is made better with a precise, comfortable way to control your cursor. On a Mac, you have a couple of very special options in Apple’s Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad, but there’s also a wider world of Mac-compatible mice that offer features and benefits you won’t find on Apple’s peripherals. Whether you’re looking for a little bit of that classic Apple “magic” or something new, here’s what you need to know about picking a mouse for your Mac.
Every Little Thing It Does Is Magic
The first word in any conversation about mice for Macs has to be “Magic.” Apple’s Magic Mouse 2 and Magic Trackpad 2 have been around for years and serve as the de facto standard for Mac users looking for a mouse. The Magic devices have a key feature that only a few other mice even try to replicate: gesture controls. You can swipe in different directions along the top of the Magic Mouse, as you would with a laptop trackpad, to trigger shortcuts and hotkeys.
Obviously the Magic Trackpad takes things a step further, allowing you to fully replicate the laptop trackpad experience in a desktop setup. Both devices fit in quite nicely with most of Apple’s computers, completing that sleek silver-and-white signature Apple look. If you think of a laptop as your “default” computer setup, the Magic Mouse is a best-of-both-worlds scenario. You get the more accurate, comfortable scrolling that comes with using a mouse, while also having access to those familiar swipes and taps.
So Why Would I Get Anything Else?
I’m going to tell you a secret: The Magic Mouse 2 is perfectly fine, but it’s not outstanding. It has some weird quirks other devices avoid, like needing to be flipped over to charge. (Most wireless mice have charging ports on the front so you can keep using them while they’re plugged in.) If you want to go beyond the basics for increased productivity, improved ergonomics, or hardcore gaming, there are mice from other manufacturers that more effectively cater to those needs.
Many elite productivity mice allow you to wirelessly connect to multiple computers for quick switching. In the gaming world, customization is very important, and it can be helpful to have extra buttons for hotkeys or custom commands. If long-term computer use has taken its toll and you feel pain when holding a mouse, a vertical mouse or trackball can help reduce strain on your hand and wrist.
Each of these categories is a world unto itself, with its own specific qualities and eccentricities. To find out more about what makes them great (and how to pick the right one), check out our lists of the best mice, the best gaming mice for Macs, and the best ergonomic mice.
How to Pick a Good Mouse
Setting aside the unique features and benefits of different types of mice (including Apple’s), there are a few basic criteria you should keep in mind when picking between any set of mice. Though many macOS and Windows users assume the two systems are wildly different, some concepts are the same across the board.
To me, the most important element of a mouse is its shape. Does it feel comfortable in your hand? Are the buttons laid out in such a way that you can reach them all easily without adjusting your hand, bending your fingers into awkward positions, or overextending? A well-shaped mouse guides your hand into a specific grip that doesn’t force you to squeeze it to hold on, and makes every input easy to use.
Internally, it all comes down to the optical sensor, which tracks your mouse’s movement relative to the surface below it. (For a complete explanation, look at our best mice buying guide.) In 2021, great sensors are very common. It’s pretty rare that you’ll find one that isn’t precise for most work.
In the gaming world, there are advanced specs, such as how quickly you can move the mouse before it stops working correctly, but these only matter to competitive players. Gamers also care about mouse weight. A slimmer mouse can take microseconds off a reaction and be easily pushed with the fingertips. Check out our guide to picking the best esports mice for a more thorough explanation.
For any wireless mouse, you want to look for two things. First, good wireless mice always offer a 2.4GHz wireless connection via a USB dongle. Great mice have both 2.4GHz connection and Bluetooth. Second, battery life can vary greatly depending on a few factors, including whether the mouse features a rechargeable battery or needs disposable AA or AAA cells. Disposable batteries last a really long time, but needing to replace them can be a pain.
Of Mice and Mac Compatibility
Before you run out and buy our picks for the best gaming mouse or best ergonomic mouse, check compatibility. Almost any mouse, wired or wireless, will connect to your Mac and allow you to move the cursor with any hassles. However, the more advanced features will only work if you download the manufacturer’s configuration application, a free piece of software that lets you customize mouse settings and enable certain features. Config apps vary by manufacturer, and many companies do not release their software on macOS. Before you purchase a mouse, it’s always a good idea to look up whether it comes with config software (it should, unless it’s a very bare-bones device), and whether that software will run on your computer. In our experience, Corsair, HP, Kensington, Logitech, and SteelSeries configuration software generally works on macOS.
There are also many mice, especially budget models, that don’t feature a config app. Those should just work, no questions asked.
Ready for Our Recommendations?
Knowing the lay of the land is just the first step. Now it’s time for the fun part: picking out the right mouse for you! Here’s a list of favorite Mac-friendly mice right now, from the classic Magic Mouse 2 to all kinds of specialty mice that may catch your eye. If you’re also looking for a keyboard to go with your new mouse, check out our list of the best keyboards for Macs.
