Nowadays, a computer mouse is not just limited to move the on-screen cursor, selecting or moving items. Things have completely changed, there are many advanced improvements has been done. They have become highly accurate, faster, reliable, and easy to use.
Especially, due to the gaming industry, a simple mouse has turned into an advanced high-tech input device. There are several new features you can get into the modern mice, for example, the highly accurate laser sensor, lots of programmable buttons, customizable lighting, wireless connectivity, wireless rechargeable capability, ergonomic, ambidextrous or even left-handed design.
For efficient and faster control, the programmable button is a most important feature, these buttons mostly found at the side of the mouse for utilizing our thumb and extra fingers. That’s why I have dedicated this post to find the best gaming mouse with side buttons in 2023. Along with these extra buttons, I have considered on different user’s needs, therefore, you can get more flexible options for you whether you are looking for an ambidextrous, MMO, MOBA, RTS, FPS, or wireless.
So, without further ado, here is my hand-picked recommendations for the best gaming mice with programmable buttons.
Best Gaming Mouse with Side Buttons – Reviews
1. CORSAIR Sabre (Most Affordable Gaming Mouse)
3.2 oz | 10,000 DPI | Optical sensor | RGB-lighting | 8-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
If you are looking for the most affordable gaming mouse the CORSAIR Sabre could be a great choice. However aesthetically, it is not the most appealing out there but it is offering many good features for an amazing price.
First and foremost, it is offering 10,000 DPI optical sensor with the DPI preset buttons. If it is your first gaming mouse, you will feel an amazing smoothness. Also, with the DPI present button, you can play with the DPI setting according to your usage style.
With the ergonomic design and multiple grip support, you can use this mouse longer without any problem. Moreover, the Omron switches promise the 20 million click to ensure the long life.
This mouse is offering 8 programmable buttons, with the CUE software you can tuning the control according to your requirements.
The CORSAIR Sabre is a wired mouse and works on the 1,000 Hz refresh rate. It means you will get lag-free seamless gaming experience.
As a gaming mouse, you are also getting RGB lighting feature here, you can customize according to your choice from the 16.8 million colors.
Overall, the CORSAIR Sabre is a nice gaming mouse with programmable buttons for a budget price.
CORSAIR has done a great job with this mouse for this price. However, if you need something better you can continue reading below.
PROS
- Most affordable price
- High accuracy with 10,000 DPI optical sensor
- 8 Programmable buttons
- RGB lighting
CONS
- The design may be awkward for some users to hold
2. SteelSeries Sensei 310 (Ambidextrous Budget Mouse for Gaming)
3.52 oz | 12,000 DPI | TrueMove3 optical sensor | Ambidextrous | RGB-lighting | 8-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
While the CORSAIR Sabre is an amazing mouse for the most inexpensive price but it is not favorable for the left-handed users, and the design is somewhat average.
Unlike the CORSAIR Sabre, the SteelSeries Sensei 310 has a nice finishing, better durability, and ambidextrous design. And the price is also amazing, you’ll only need to spend only a few bucks above the previous mouse. Unless you are on a tight budget, I don’t recommend CORSAIR Sabre mouse.
As I said above, the Sensei 310 looks very nice when it comes to finishing, and for ambidextrous design, it has two-two buttons on both side which can be programmed as per your requirements. Overall, you will be getting 8 programmable buttons on this mouse. Along with ambidextrous design, this mouse is very ergonomic too, the palm and claw grip allow to use it more conveniently with longer playing sessions.
The SteelSeries Sensei 310 is also better in terms of accuracy and durability. According to the manufacturer, the split-trigger left/right buttons promise the 50 million clicks, which is just amazing.
With the 12,000 CPI of tracking sensitivity and wired connection, you’ll be getting a precise and faster control over your game.
Like our previous mouse, you’ll be also getting a customizable RGB lighting which can be seen through the SteelSeries Logo, and mouse wheel. Honestly, some user may find that logo inappropriate but the rest of the design is really very clean and professional.
Finally, the SteelSeries Sensei 310 mouse is one of the best ambidextrous mice for gaming with side buttons, which is offering more features than its price.
PROS
- Budget price
- Professional look and durable body
- Can be used by left-handed peoples with the ambidextrous design
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Very nice accuracy with TrueMove 3 optical sensor
- Ergonomic design with claw and palm grip
CONS
- Lack of weight adjustments
- Scroll wheel button is a bit easy to click
3. Logitech G502 (Most Recommended Mouse)
11.4 oz | 12,000 DPI | Optical sensor | Blue-lighting | 11-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
The Logitech G 502 Proteus Spectrum is our first mouse from the Logitech on this list which is offering all flagship features without spending a lot of money. You might be wondering this mouse is the updated version of the Logitech Proteus core, the main difference between them is just Logitech’s RGB lighting.
While there is another mouse from the Logitech in this list which is built for those enthusiasts who like to fire on all fours, while the G502 is offering the best features without spending lots of money.
With the Surface Tuning Calibration, this mouse allows the maximum accuracy, precision, and responsiveness, and the optical sensor can work with any specific surface of your choice.
The optical sensor supports up to 12,000 DPI tracking sensitivity, and you can change according to your choice from 200 to 12,000 with the three dedicated buttons. Moreover, the dual-mode scroll wheel comes in handy for changing behavior according to the usage style – if you are scrolling through a very long document or webpage the hyper-fast mode will be the best, while for spreadsheets or stepwise scrolling you can switch into the click-to-click mode.
Logitech is well known for the weight management feature into their mouse, even you can find it into some budget devices. The G502 allows to matching your unique playing style with the weight optimization and center of balancing management – thanks to the five-piece of 3.5g weight.
With the 11 programmable buttons and 32-bit ARM processor, you take control over the whole mouse for your favorite commands. It means you can assign a single function to any of the 11 buttons.
Overall the Logitech G502 is the best mouse for gaming with side buttons at the most reasonable price. Whether you are into RTS, MMO or FPS gaming, this mouse can blend with any style.
However, if your budget is higher and needs more features like wireless connectivity, a tactile alert, more customizable buttons, or wireless charging, you can scroll down.
PROS
- Unbeatable price for this performance
- Surface tuning calibration
- Excellent tracking and sensitivity
- Weight and balance tuning
- 11 programmable buttons for full freedom of customization
- Dual-mode scroll wheel
- Custom DPI switching (200 – 12,000) mode with dedicated buttons
- Gorgeous and ergonomic design
CONS
- Not ideal for left-handed users
4. Razer Taipan (Laser Sensor on the Budget)
4.6 oz | 8,200 DPI | 4G laser sensor | Ambidextrous | Green-lighting | 9-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
The Razer is one of the top leading brands when it comes to the gaming industry, whether we talk about high-end laptops or other gaming accessories you will be definitely met at least one of the Razer devices.
The Razer Taipan is one of the most popular gaming mice of Razer because it is powered by a 4G laser sensor which provides exceptional tracking precision. You might already know about the laser sensor, it can work better on the reflective surface and provides higher DPI.
Although this mouse offers much better precision than the Logitech 520 It has some flaws as well.
In terms of design, there is no any innovation you might see, and the weight management is not present as well. However, the ambidextrous design will be helpful for left-handed persons.
Like our previous mouse, there is no customizable RGB is available instead green LED lighting is provided which can be seen through the mouse scroll wheel and Triple-Headed Snake logo.
The responsive buttons are amazing in this mouse, which provides tactile feedback to your fingertips with each actuation, this way you’ll get much accurate control over your winning.
As per the ambidextrous design, you’ll be getting two buttons on each side symmetrically. There are total 9 programmable buttons on the mouse, which you can assign to take effective control.
Despite the simple design and the limited number of buttons, this mouse is liked by many professional gamers, it is probably due to the amazing 4G laser sensor.
If you are looking for a high precision laser mouse with a minimal design then the Razer Taipan would be the right choice for you.
The price is very appreciable while considering the build quality and highly precise laser sensor.
PROS
- Excellent tracking sensitivity with higher precision
- Comes with adjustable cut-off to lift-off tracking and allow surface calibration for a better control
- Ambidextrous design
- Tactile feedback to fingertips
- 9 programmable buttons
CONS
- Little to no innovation in terms of design
5. Corsair SCIMITAR RGB (Gaming Mouse with Most Programmable Buttons)
5.1 oz | 12,000 DPI | Optical sensor | RGB-lighting | 17-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
If you are into MOBA/MMO games, then you definitely agree with me when I would say – there are never extra buttons on the mouse can be. I think the Corsair also has taken it seriously, I am not saying that the Corsair Scimitar is saying itself.
With the total 17 programmable buttons, you have enough gunpowder to blew opponent mind during MOBA/MMO gameplay. In which 12 of the buttons are resting conveniently on the left side on the mouse, and are mechanical.
Besides the highest number of programmable buttons, the Corsair Scimitar is equipped with one of the best optical sensors in the market, the inbuilt Pixart ADNS 3988 sensor is offering 12,000 DPI tracking sensitivity and which can be adjusted according to your need.
When it comes to designing, this mouse is specially built for large hand users. However, the adjustable grip feature can help to change the grip to reach all buttons conveniently. Don’t worry the Corsair has included a hex screwdriver with the package for that.
As I discussed above the Logitech G520, and it is the justified opponent of the Corsair Scimitar in terms of performance. Although they have a totally different design, the sensors are somewhat twins.
Unlike the G520 this mouse if offering 4 zone RGB lighting which can be customized by the Corsair Utility Engine software. Yes! you are right, the same software which will be used for controlling all programmable keys.
In terms of higher number of keys, the Corsair the Scimitar is the winner and mostly loved by the large hand users. However, if you are one of those who doesn’t need a lot of macro keys, then the Logitech G520 is the better choice.
PROS
- The Pixart sensor provides brilliant tracking
- 17 programmable buttons perfect for MMO/MMO gamers
- Amazing build quality
- Fully customizable RGB lighting can be linked to Corsair peripherals
CONS
- The mouse can be bulky for some users
- Thumb buttons are not ideal if you don’t want to use them
6. SteelSeries Rival 700 (Modular Mouse with OLED and Vibration)
4.8 oz | 16,000 DPI | TrueMove 3 Optical sensor | RGB-lighting | 7-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
Yes! it is another gaming mouse from the SteelSeries on our list. You might already know, the Rival series is one of the most popular series of SteelSeries company, and their devices are mostly liked by professional e-sports gamers, and they have also earned a lot of reputation among the passionate gamers.
The SteelSeries Rival 700 is totally a unique device on our list which is offering an OLED display and vibration support. The OLED display can be used for displaying several things like settings, some GIFs (that are specially designed for this display and can be downloaded).
As for performance concern, the Rival 700 is a modular mouse, it means it support sensor replacement – with the optical sensor it can provide 16,000 DPI while laser sensor offers 8,000 DPI. Remember, you’ll need to purchase the laser sensor separately.
With the adjustable DPI, OLED display, RGB lighting, and Tactile Alerts, the Rival 700 can easily make a space in everyone hearts. However, without ambidextrous design, it remains an arm’s length away from the left-handed users. But it doesn’t mean that the Rival 700 isn’t a good mouse, whether you are playing MMO, RPG or FPS this mouse can easily fit with everyone’s needs. In facts, the SteelSeries Rival 700 is slightly expensive than its rivals but it totally worth that price, while considering its features.
Overall, the SteelSeries Rival 700 is one of the best modular gaming mice which offering vibration feature, OLED display, RGB lighting, and amazing build quality.
However, unfortunately, there is no ambidextrous or left-handed design which can stop the left-handed users from protesting. if you are one of that, you might need to see this article.
Also, read: Best left-handed gaming mouse
PROS
- Innovative modular design
- Programmable tactile alerts
- Inbuilt OLED for display setting or GIFs
- Customizable RGB lighting for personalization
- Durable and beautiful design
- Customize mouse according to your need
CONS
- Price is not good for some
- Modules are a bit expensive
- No ambidextrous or left-handed design
7. Logitech G903 (Best Wireless Gaming Mouse with Wireless Charging Capability)
3.88 oz | 12,000 DPI | PMW3366 optical sensor | Ambidextrous | RGB-lighting | 11-buttons | Wired + Wireless | 1000Hz | 1ms | Wireless charging supported
Some people still think that a wireless mouse can’t be good for gaming as compared to the wired one. But some leading manufacturers like Logitech, Asus or Razer are working very hard to blur the performance line between wired and wireless devices.
However, the wired mouse provides a stable connection without the hassle of charging or battery replacement, but with the technology everything is possible. The Logitech G 903 is one of the great examples of that – despite a wireless mouse you don’t need to remember to replace its battery or park this mouse on the charging dock. Instead, it will always remain charged while being used with Logitech wireless charging pad. However, the Logitech G Powerplay Wireless Charging System is being sold separately.
If you don’t want to spend extra money on the wireless charging pad, you don’t need to worry about that, this mouse can be used with a wired connection and will keep charging simultaneously, it is a very cool feature.
As you already know the Logitech provides a weight management system into their mouse, this unit also supports that and comes with 10g removable weight. Apart from that while considering all group of people, this mouse is offering an ambidextrous design, therefore, it is offering configurable buttons layout. Additionally, the design is quite grip-friendly itself, and support almost all type of grip whether you are familiar with the palm, claw or fingertips grips.
There is a total of 11 programmable buttons are provided which can be customized according to your favorite commands. Moreover, if you don’t want to use any side buttons then you can use can hide them with the buttons covers for a streamlined gaming experience.
As I have already discussed the Logitech G502 mouse above that is an amazing mouse with top features without an awful price. While the Logitech G 903 mouse is for those enthusiasts who like to fire on all fours.
With the advance PMW3366 SENSOR, this mouse can provide up to 12,000 DPI tracking sensitivity, absolutely! you can also change the DPI according to your need within the range between the 200 to 12,000. Moreover, with the Lightspeed Wireless technology, it features a 1ms of report rate for competition-level accuracy.
The Logitech G903 is probably the best ambidextrous wireless mouse for gaming which supports wireless charging. Additionally, the customizable RGB lighting, customizable buttons layout, 11 programmable buttons, weight management feature, and excellent accuracy with adjustable DPI are some features with are justifying its price.
PROS
- Excellent performance
- Ambidextrous and customizable design with configurable buttons layout
- Beautiful spectrum RGB lighting
- Wireless charging capability
- Can be used in the wireless and wired mode as well, and will keep charging when using in wired mode
- Mechanical buttons for crisp and clean button feel
CONS
- Wireless charging pad need to purchase separately, and expensive as well
- Somewhat pricey for budget-oriented users
8. Razer Naga Hex V2 (Best Mouse for MOBA Games)
7.0 oz | 16,000 DPI | 5G laser sensor | RGB-lighting | 14-buttons | Wired | 1000Hz | 1ms
While, the Corsair Gaming SCIMITAR is a great budget mouse for MOBA games, but if you are seeking for the ultimate performance and quality then Razer Naga Hex V2 is the most revered option on the current market. Obviously, it is a bit expensive because you’ll be getting one of the best 5G laser sensors inside, which is capable to deliver the highest DPI tracking sensitivity up to 16,000. Moreover, the large number of customizable buttons are really the gems for MOBA players.
On the left side of the mouse, there are 7 thumb grid outfitted mechanical buttons are sitting conveniently. These buttons can be programmed as per your required set of commands, and the provided circular buttons layout is quite effective when it comes to seamless controlling without missing any click.
As compared to the previous model, this release has improved ergonomics which is very effective to reduce the strain on your hand, even you are going to use it with longer sessions then there will not any fatigue will occur.
With the Razer Chroma customizable lighting, you can set the separate lighting zone on the thumb-wheel, logo, and scroll wheel, and also sync up with other Razer Chroma-enabled device for illuminating according to your choice. The Razer Chroma Lighting support a wide range of color-spectrum, there are 16.8 million color options are available to choose from.
This latest Razer Naga Hex V2 supports the Razer Synapse, it means you are allowed to store the individual profiles and settings on the cloud, you can take control over on all programming macros, tacking stats, heat maps, and Razer Chroma effects.
Overall, the Razer Naga Hex V2 is one of the outstanding mice for MOBA gamer which is offering top features, expensive though.
If you are missing the ambidextrous design or wireless connectivity then you might like the Razer Ouroboros Elite mouse from the Razer family, which is also a great mouse with a laser sensor and supports Razer Synapse 2.0.
PROS
- Highest sensitive 5G Laser sensor with impressive 16,000 DPI
- Fully programmable buttons
- Effective thumb grid design on the side with mechanical buttons
- Razer Chroma lighting
- Top notch durability
- Support Razer Synapse 2.0 software suite for extended control over the mouse
CONS
- The design is not for left-hander friendly and looks odd to some users
- Not for everyone due to the high price
Best Gaming Mouse with Programmable Buttons – Buyer’s Guide
Before choosing a gaming mouse, you might need to aware of some concepts, so it will help to make a better decision.
Mouse Grip
Mouse grip is the most important thing for consideration because an inappropriate choice can cause hand fatigue or poor controls. Usually, there are three types of mouse grips preferred by the gamers.
- Palm Grip: This grip is the most favorite of many gamers because of the user’s hand entirely rests on the mouse and feels maximum convenience.
- Claw Grip: It is also a similar grip as Palm but in this scenario, the index and middle finger become arched backward for clicking in perpendicularly.
- Fingertip Grip: In this grip user’s hand just touch the mouse with two fingers and thumbs and rest of the things remain in the air.
Sensor
Commonly, you can find a mouse with optical or laser sensors. Laser sensor performs better than the optical and offers higher DPI.
Sensitivity
The mouse tracking sensitivity is measured by the DPI (dots per inch) or CPI (character per inch), as much higher the DPI the less hand movement you’ll need to do. This sensitivity can be between the few hundred to the few thousands and depends on the mouse sensor.
Programmable Buttons
It is the most interesting part of any gaming mouse, you are free to customize the buttons as per your requirements. These buttons can be found on the side or top of the mouse, you can choose according to your gaming style.
Weight
Not all gamer care about it but is also considerable feature because it determines the level of fell during the gameplay. Some manufacturers like Logitech provides the weight management feature, which allows to add or remove weight according to your needs.
Profile
It is a software feature which comes in handy when switching between the genres and games, it is a faster way to specify different actions for buttons. some company offers cloud sync to save these setting and other configurations.
Lift-Off Distance
Usually, it is not much important but it plays an important role in competitive gaming. The lift-off distance is also customized by the mouse software.
Wrapping it up
Nowadays, there is tons of gaming mouse which are offering higher DPI, programmable buttons, customizable macros, and many other features that are suitable for all type of gamers. It is certainly a good thing but on the other hand, it might be confusing for an average gamer. I have created a list of the best gaming mouse with side buttons for 2023 to make thing easier, and I hope this list should solve your all gaming mice buying woes.
What do you think about these 2019 best gaming mice, do you have any questions regarding them? You can simply comment down below, I will back to you shortly.
Thank you very much, have a great day!
