Getting a new laptop means shopping for a bevy of accessories, especially if you're upgrading to a different-sized laptop. From cases to keyboard covers, it can end up being quite a monumental task making sure you have everything you need before lugging it to school or work. And despite the fantastic progress Apple has made with the humble laptop trackpad, some people just prefer using a standard mouse. A good mouse can provide a more accurate, functional experience over even the best trackpad from gaming to general productivity.
If you're picking up one of the new M1 Pro or M1 Max MacBook Pro models, you'll be happy to know that virtually any USB-C or Bluetooth mouse on the market will work fine. Like so many newer laptops, Apple's latest MacBook Pro doesn't have a standard USB A port, so we'll be focusing on USB-C and Bluetooth mice to avoid necessitating a burdensome dongle on your new laptop. Let's take a look!
Apple Magic Mouse
Apple's Magic Mouse is definitely divisive. It's relatively small and slick for a mouse, and the charging port is inconveniently located on the bottom of the unit. But if you're an Apple fan that has adjusted to the style and feature set of the Magic Mouse, then there's really just nothing else quite like it.
It connects via Bluetooth, supports multi-touch gestures with its touch-enabled surface, and fits cleanly with the aesthetic of any other Apple products you have lying around. So if you're already invested in Apple's ecosystem, then it's worth considering to maximize the potential features of your new MacBook Pro.
Logitech MX Anywhere 3 Compact
If you've used a mouse at all in the last in the last few decades then chances are you've used a Logitech mouse at some point. They're one of the biggest computer accessory manufacturers and that you've used a mouse at all in the last few decades, then chances are you've used a Logitech mouse at some point. They're one of the biggest computer accessory manufacturers, and their MX line is presented as their premiere branding for their higher-end products. The MX Anywhere 3 Compact is a smaller version of their MX Master mouse and packs a metric ton of features in a very small, travel-friendly package.
The scroll wheel supports shifting between ratchet and free-scrolling modes, the sensor works on glass surfaces, the buttons are re-programmable, and it's rated to last for up to 70 days after a full charge via USB-C. If you need a travel mouse but don't want to compromise on features, then the MX Anywhere 3 is the mouse to choose from.
Razer Orochi V2
If you're the type to game on your new MacBook Pro, you're going to want a gaming-friendly upgrade from the built-in trackpad. Razer has a few Bluetooth mice out there, but the Orochi is a good middle-ground between portability and gaming features.
It's a lightweight Bluetooth mouse with great battery life, Razer's newest mechanical switches rated at 60 million clicks, and an 18K DPI sensor. It also takes either AA or AAA batteries, which many gamers prefer to avoid charging a mouse mid-session. It comes in black and white but is also eligible for Razer's customization program that lets you choose from a bevy of different art designs.
Logitech MX Ergo
The MX Ergo is another entry from Logitech and its MX line, a solid, high-end thumb trackball mouse. Trackballs have always gotten less attention than more traditional mice, but many ergonomic and productivity fanatics swear by them. Like most trackball mice, the MX Ergo provides full mouse functionality without the need for a large surface to use your mouse on.
With a tilt up to 20 degrees, a wide base, and a maximum DPI of 2048, it's an easy choice for those of you prone to repetitive stress injuries. It comes with a 2.4 GHz USB receiver that will work with the MacBook Pro via a USB-C dongle and supports native Bluetooth connectivity.
Razer Basilisk X Hyperspeed
If you're not chasing the portability offered by the Orochi, then Razer's Basilisk X Hyperspeed could be a much better fit for your gaming sessions. This Bluetooth mouse offers Razer's mechanical switches rated at 50 million clicks, six programmable buttons, 450 hours of battery life (via Bluetooth), and a wider footprint with a thumb flange for comfort during extended gaming sessions.
It sports a 16K DPI sensor and can store DPI settings on the mouse for quick shifting regardless of the computer you're using it on. And Razer's Synapse software works great on Mac for those of you wanting to take the customization to its limit.
Logitech G603 Lightspeed
It's honestly hard to get away from Logitech when talking about computer accessories, and for a good reason: they just make a ton of different peripherals with different feature sets. The G603 is a dual-mode USB/Bluetooth mouse powered by dual AA batteries that sport Logitech's high-end Hero sensor, six customizable buttons, and 500-hour battery life.
It's probably the least exciting mouse on the list here at face value, but the G603 is solid all-around with its balance between usability and portability. It's just a great mouse to chuck in a backpack for nearly any task. At the end of the day, few of us use a mouse for one specific task, so having a jack of all trades often trumps excelling at a single task.
Choosing a mouse is all about assessing your individual needs. Most of you out there will be able to get by with a good general purpose mouse, but for some a gaming or high-productivity mouse is essential. So don't let yourself be relegated to the trackpad on your new M1 Pro or M1 Max-powered MacBook Pro when you need to get some real work or gaming done!
For more hardware recommendations check out 2021’s Best Mouse for FPS Games and 2021’s 5 Best Wi-Fi Cards for PC Gaming on Pro Game Guides.
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Published: Oct 28, 2021 11:49 am