Counter-Strike 2 is a game where accuracy is crucial. With the abundance of gaming mice available, choosing the right one can seem daunting. The Blix team will highlight the developments in the gaming mouse market and provide recommendations on how to choose a mouse and which mice are the best in each segment.
Contents
- 1 Highlights
- 2 Analysis of the Gaming Mouse Market
- 3 Criteria for Choosing a Mouse for CS2
- 4 Connection Type and Polling Rate/Response Time
- 5 Grip Shape/Type
- 6 Sensor and DPI
- 7 Weight
- 8 Buttons and Scroll Wheel
- 9 Market Segmentation by Price Category:
- 10 Budget Segment
- 11 Mid-Range Segment
- 12 Premium Segment
- 13 Overview of Popular Models for Late 2024 – Early 2025
- 14 Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
- 15 Razer Viper V3 Pro
- 16 Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
- 17 ZOWIE EC2-CW
- 18 VAXEE OUTSET AX Wireless
- 19 Technological Innovations and Trends
- 20 Pro Player’s Choice
Highlights
- Top mice for different budgets
- Basic information about the computer mouse market for CS2
- Mouse selection criteria and pro player choice
An update was recently released, you can see the details of it on Twitter:
You may also find this article on customizing How to Improve FPS in CS2 useful.
Analysis of the Gaming Mouse Market
Major companies operating in the PC gaming mouse market are focusing on developing innovative products, such as high-quality wireless gaming mice, to provide an unprecedented gaming experience.
For instance, in April 2024, the U.S.-based electronics company Razer Inc. launched Viper V3 Pro, the latest high-end wireless gaming mouse designed for competitive cyber sports and PC gaming. This new mouse features an ultra-precise optical sensor that delivers up to 20,000 dpi resolution for accuracy and performance.
It features Razer HyperSpeed wireless technology for ultra-low latency and reduced interference and delivers a smooth, lag-free gaming experience. The mouse also features customizable Chroma RGB backlighting that syncs with other Razer devices to create an immersive visual experience.
Manufacturers also emphasize minimizing mouse weight. For example, the success of one of the most popular models, Logitech G Pro Superlight, released in 2023, is closely related to its predecessor, G Pro Wireless. The names make clear the key difference: weight. It has dropped from 80 grams to 63 grams. The lighter the mouse, the easier it is to play and the less hand fatigue.
Manufacturers even invented a design trick – they began to make holes (they are called honeycombs) in the body so that the mouse was lighter. But such models have not caught on.
Logitech also managed to make its mark on the market this year. This summer, the G309 Lightspeed computer gaming mouse was presented. Its price is about $80. The novelty was released in two colors: white and black.
The main feature of the gamer mouse was its support for wireless charging. If you buy a special mat, Logitech G Powerplay, which costs $120, the device will not have to charge at all.
Logitech, Razer, Vaxee, and Zowie dominate the pro scene. Other popular mouse manufacturers include Microsoft Corporation, Dell Technologies Inc., Lenovo Group Limited, ASUSTeK Computer Inc., RAPOO, Genius, Fnatic Gear Ltd., and HyperX.
Not only the choice of mouse is important, you may find the article Best Resolution for CS2 useful.
Criteria for Choosing a Mouse for CS2
Professional gamers believe that the ideal gaming mouse for Counter-Strike 2 is characterized by a blend of certain technical specifications and basic comfort for the hand. So, what’s important to consider when choosing a mouse to play CS2:
Connection Type and Polling Rate/Response Time
The type of connection directly affects the mouse response speed and allows it to turn clicks into frags with less delay. Of course, it’s important that the mouse stutter is minimized, or better yet, not at all.
Although wired mice are typically seen as quicker, the polling rates of today’s wireless mice are high enough that you probably won’t notice any difference, and the absence of wires offers a significant benefit in terms of comfort.
Grip Shape/Type
The Palm grip is the most common because it allows the player to place their entire hand on the mouse, resulting in better motion control.
However, some people prefer the Claw grip, which is named because the fingers bend like claws when using the mouse.
The Fingertip grip allows players to press the main buttons with their fingertips without placing their entire hand on the mouse for increased accuracy.
A discussion about the shape wouldn’t be complete without discussing its other elements: left-handedness and the thumb bulge. Mice with a symmetrical shape suit both left- and right-handed users, while the thumb bulge automatically turns the mouse into a hand-specific device.
These are all individual parameters, and we suggest you observe your hand when you play to determine which mouse is right for you properly.
Sensor and DPI
DPI is one of the key parameters for the best gaming mice for CS2 because it directly affects aiming. Typical office mice have a DPI of around 1,000, while gaming mice should be 3,000+. On the other hand, having a mouse with a DPI of over 6,000 makes almost no sense, as you simply won’t feel the difference.
The best sensors of top mice for CS are optical, as they consume less power and provide better accuracy, while laser ones should be avoided in professional gaming.
If you play not only CS2 but also Valorant, you may find the article Convert Valorant To CS2 Sensitivity 2024 useful.
Weight
Many professional gamers choose a mouse that weighs between 50 and 90 grams. This decision reduces the strain of constantly moving the mouse around for hours, which can quickly get out of hand even with lighter devices.
But someone just needs to feel the mouse underneath them, and that’s when 100+ gram mice come to the rescue. This is why confident mouse makers provide extra metal weights that can be attached to the device to increase its weight.
Wireless mice weigh more because they need to accommodate a battery and a wireless module, but today, that generally only adds a few extra grams. Choose what is comfortable for you.
Buttons and Scroll Wheel
The quality and durability of the switches, which are hidden inside the mouse and determine the likelihood of unnecessary clicks or sticking, also play a significant role.
Some gamers prefer stiffer switches to avoid accidental clicks, while others prefer softer buttons to avoid putting extra strain on their hands. Some like to use additional buttons located on the sides of the mouse, tying them down just like the buttons on a keyboard. For example, with 5-6 buttons on the mouse, you can use these extra buttons to bind CS2 grenades, instantly customize a purchase, or quickly access any other in-game function.
As for the mouse wheel, the best gaming mouse for CS2 should have a reliable scroll wheel with a crisp click. Some specific options, such as infinite scrolling, are useless in CS2 games, as no mechanics in the game would benefit from them.
Market Segmentation by Price Category:
Budget Segment
- HyperX Pulsefire Haste
The HyperX Pulsefire Haste is durable plastic with hexagonal indentations for a secure grip and added comfort. The optical sensor with an adjustable resolution of up to 16000 DPI ensures high sensitivity and accurate cursor positioning on the screen.
- VGN Dragonfly F1 Series Wireless Mouse
The Dragonfly F1 series weighs only 49 grams and features Smart Speed wireless technology that eliminates latency. Its extended battery life is up to 130 hours, and it is priced at just $46.
Mid-Range Segment
- Xlite V2 Wireless Gaming Mouse
The Pulsar Xlite V2 Wireless has almost no major objective flaws: it’s a solid mouse with an impressively lightweight, flawless sensor, flawless wireless connectivity, a nice set of basic keystrokes, and an excellent finish. It costs around $70 to $80.
- LAMZU ATLANTIS OG V2 PRO
The mouse is ideal for owners with large palms who prefer claw grip, while players with small palms should at least hold the model before buying it.
It uses the proven Pixart 3395 sensor, a Nordic 52840 microcontroller, and Huano switches rated for 90 million clicks. In Counter-Strike 2, the mouse does not tear down and allows you to shoot accurately, controlling the space pixel by pixel. It costs around $90.
Premium Segment
- Logitech G Pro X Superlight
Despite its age, the Logitech G Pro X Superlight remains a top choice among Counter-Strike pros, and it’s easy to see why. At only 63 grams, it stands out as one of the lightest mice on the market.
Its ergonomic design allows it to be used in various grip styles, making it versatile for different players. The G Pro X Superlight still relies on a Micro-USB connection, while many newer models have moved to more modern Type-C connectors. But its price may scare you a bit – around $160.
- Razer Viper V3 Pro
The Razer Viper V3 Pro has a minimalistic design, and the lack of added frills, such as RGB backlighting, can significantly save the mouse’s battery life. This model features Razer’s third-generation optical mouse switches.
The impressive 8000Hz polling rate allows you to send up to eight times more data per second. The only disadvantage of the Viper V3 Pro may be its price, around 160 dollars.
On Reddit, members also share which mice they use:
Overview of Popular Models for Late 2024 – Early 2025
Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2
- Weight (g): 60
- Sensor: Logitech Hero 2 32K DPI
- Polling rate: 4000 Hz
- Buttons: 5
- Battery life (hrs): 95
- Connectivity: USB receiver
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS
The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 is perhaps the most frequent choice of gamers, as it combines advanced internals with a comfortable, lightweight body and long battery life.
The mouse was first released with a 2k polling rate, but thanks to driver updates, the Superlight 2 can now reach up to 8k. The included LIGHTFORCE hybrid switches combine optical precision with mechanical tactile feedback. In addition, the mouse is suitable for a variety of grip styles.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fast polling rate
Cons
- Expensive
- No Bluetooth connectivity
Razer Viper V3 Pro
- Weight (g): 54
- Sensor: Razer Focus Pro 35k DPI
- Polling rate: 8000 Hz
- Buttons: 6
- Battery life (hrs): 95
- Connectivity: USB receiver
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS
The Viper V3 Pro is Razer’s latest ultra-lightweight model, and it features some of the most outstanding technology in a gaming mouse.
The Viper V3 Pro utilizes the Razer Focus Pro 35K Gen-2 optical sensor, which offers granular wireless polling up to 8k and 35,000 DPI. The Focus Pro sensor is designed to calibrate the mouse to your needs, and it features features such as dynamic sensitivity, DPI pitch, smart tracking, and asymmetric cutoff.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Extra-large feet provide consistent glide
Cons
- Expensive
- No Bluetooth connectivity
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro
- Weight (g): 63
- Sensor: Razer Focus 30k DPI
- Polling rate: 8000 Hz
- Buttons: 6
- Battery life (hrs): 90
- Connectivity: USB receiver
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS (No software compatibility)
Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro is the best choice for those who prefer a palm grip. Weighing only 63 grams, this mouse combines a light touch with a reliable mechanical response, providing a pleasant click without the risk of accidental double-clicking. The high-quality optical sensor enhances accuracy for flawless tracking and input.
Pros
- High DPI sensor
- Feather light
- Great click latency
- Long battery life
Cons
- High price ~$160
- Side buttons have too much post travel
- Shape change might not sit well with everyone
ZOWIE EC2-CW
- Weight (g): 77
- Sensor: PixArt PAW3370 20k DPI
- Polling rate: 1000 Hz
- Buttons: 5
- Battery life (hrs): 70
- Connectivity: USB receiver
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS
The Zowie EC2 has long been a favorite when choosing a mouse for Counter-Strike, revered for its reliability and performance. The release of its wireless version, the EC2-CW, in 2023 has quickly garnered attention, especially among professional players like ZywOo.
While other mice on the market offer faster polling speeds, better battery life, and a lighter design at a similar price, the EC2-CW excels in simplicity and durability.
Pros
- Comfortable shape
- Onboard adjustable DPI and polling rate
Cons
- The polling rate is less than that of similar competitors
- No software compatibility
- Not as light as the competition
VAXEE OUTSET AX Wireless
- Weight (g): 73
- Sensor: PMW 3395
- Polling rate: 4000 Hz
- Buttons: 9
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS
VAXEE values durability and build quality over weight and aesthetics. The OUTSET AX provides a very stable aiming. It is an excellent mouse to consider if you need a heavy-duty and reliable ergonomic gaming mouse built for games like CS.
This palm-dominant mouse is designed for people who use either a full palm grip or a hybrid grip.
Pros
- Great ergonomic shape
- 4KHz compatible since March 2024
Cons
- There is a slight wobble on the mouse when holding the button
Technological Innovations and Trends
Manufacturers will go to any lengths to make their mice the best. And they continue to do unimaginable things:
- Ultralight Gaming Mice
Many companies are going out of their way to reduce the weight of their computer mice. Some go below 60 grams—the Razer Viper V3 Pro weighs only 54 grams and is wireless. With a symmetrical design, the Fnatic x Lamzu Maya X 8K weighs just 47 grams and has a polling rate of up to 8000 Hz.
- High-precision Sensors
Modern mice are equipped with high-quality sensors that offer a range of DPI (dots per inch) settings from 200 to over 30,000. Market leaders Logitech and Razer are integrating 30K DPI sensors to minimize latency.
- Wireless Technology
Wireless technology is evolving. While there used to be a perception that a wireless mouse had worse responsiveness and limited battery life, many of the best models, such as the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2, now offer nearly as much responsiveness as wired devices. It’s convenient, and the wire doesn’t get in the way.
Pro Player’s Choice
Pro players often play with four brands of mice: Logitech, Razer, Vaxee, and Zowie. Some clubs have a sponsor—a manufacturer of computer peripherals—and then cyber athletes usually play on their partner’s devices. NAVI, for example, has Logitech, so everyone has Logitech mice in their lineup. However, before joining the new team, Aleksib, jL, and iM used Logitech. Some Logitech players use the same model—G Pro Superlight—but only the colors differ.
The second most popular model is Razer’s Deathadder V3 Pro, which 21% of casters play with. The third is the legendary EC2-CW from Zowie (15%). The EC line is 13 years old, and those two letters are initials. Emil Christensen is a former pro player who played for NiP in CS 1.6 and participated in mouse development.
Devices from Vaxee, which former Zowie employees founded, are gaining popularity. There are other models from Razer, Zowie, and mice from Xtrfy.
The trend is wireless mice, which are getting better and not inferior to wired ones. Only 4/5 out of 10 pro gamers use a corded mouse.
