Wired or Wireless Mouse for Gaming: Latency and Myths

In short: modern gaming wireless mice on a proprietary 2.4 GHz link have latency practically equal to wired ones, so "wireless is slower" is mostly a myth. Bluetooth is usually slower and suits the office better than competition. The choice comes down to convenience, weight, price and whether you will keep an eye on the charge.

What is the difference in latency?

• Wired. Stable latency, least dependent on outside factors.
• Wireless 2.4 GHz (own receiver). Makers design modern models with latency on par with wired; the difference is measured in fractions of a millisecond.
• Bluetooth. Latency is usually higher and less stable; better for work than for competitive games.

Exact figures depend on the model, mode and measuring method, so compare using independent tests of specific models.

Pros of wireless

• No cable. The cord does not catch on the pad or drag the mouse.
• Freedom of movement. Especially at low sensitivity with wide movements, see mouse pad for low sensitivity.
• A cleaner desk.

Cons of wireless

• Charge. You have to watch the battery and charge it in time.
• Weight. The battery adds mass, though modern models are light.
• Interference. In an environment with many 2.4 GHz devices glitches are possible.
• Price. Usually costs more than a wired mouse of the same class.
• High polling rate. Drains faster, see polling rate.

Pros of wired

• Never runs out of charge.
• Lower price for the same sensor quality.
• Stable connection.

Cons of wired

• Cable. It can catch on the pad and desk edge. A soft flexible cable and a holder help.
• Less freedom.

What to choose

Common myths

• "Wireless is always slower." Not for modern 2.4 GHz models.
• "Wireless needs more charge for speed." No, but a high polling rate does use more.
• "Wired is more reliable." It is simpler, but reliability depends on the model.