If you’re a programmer and you work on a Mac or MacBook, you know how critical it is to have a good mouse to help you scroll through endless lines of code and navigate through your workday.
But with so many options on the market and so many gadgets for Windows PCs, finding the best mouse for your needs can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve done the research to bring you the top picks for the best mice for developers who own a Mac.
We’ve considered each of the mice on our list in terms of its performance, ergonomics, and compatibility with Macs. We’ve also evaluated factors like button layout, scroll wheel functionality, sensitivity, and design to bring you what we believe to be the best options on the market. So, without further ado, let’s delve into our roundup.
Best Mice for Programmers Who Own a Mac
- Wireless and rechargeable mouse
- Multi-touch surface lets you swipe and scroll
- Battery lasts up to a few weeks on a single charge
- Comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable
Our top pick for the best mouse for programmers who work on a Mac is none other than the Apple Magic Mouse.
Apple’s second-generation Magic Mouse boasts a built-in, rechargeable battery, a major step up from its predecessor, which relied on external AA batteries. The second generation mouse also features improved rails on the bottom that allow for a smoother gliding of the mouse over any surface.
Apple’s mouse comes with a USB-C to Lighting charger cable and — depending on your usage habits — can last for a month or more on a single charge. This wireless mouse connects to your Mac, MacBook, or iPad via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for cords and wires.
The standout feature of the Apple Magic Mouse is its multi-touch surface, which allows for seamless swiping and scrolling, as if you’re using a touchpad. Its slim and sleek design makes it a pleasure to use, measuring 0.85 inches high, 2.25 inches tall, and 4.47 inches deep, and weighing only 0.22 pounds (just under 100 grams).
Compatible with Macs running OS X 10.11 or later and iPads running iPadOS 13.4 or later, this mouse is a reliable and efficient option for any programmer working on a Mac. Its exceptional performance, wireless functionality, and sleek design make it a must-have tool for any programmer looking for a top-of-the-line mouse.
- Wireless and rechargeable mouse
- Fast, precise, and silent scroll wheel
- Battery lasts up to 70 days on a single charge
- Connects to up to 3 devices, lets you switch between them
- Comes with USB-C charging cable
Our runner-up for the best mouse for programmers who work on a Mac is the Logitech MX Anywhere 3, designed specifically for Macs, MacBooks, and iPads.
This Logitech mouse features a scroll wheel that offers fast, precise, and quiet scrolling, making it easy to scroll through as many as 1,000 lines of code in a single turn. The soft side grips provide a comfortable but sturdy grip, allowing for extended use without discomfort.
With USB-C charging and battery life of up to two months on a single charge, the Logitech MX Anywhere 3 is a reliable and efficient option for any programmer. It can connect to three devices via Bluetooth, letting you switch between them with the push of a button.
Customizable side buttons for your favorite apps and shortcuts add to the MX Anywhere 3’s convenience, allowing you to customize the mouse to fit your specific needs. Overall, our runner-up pick is a solid choice for any programmer looking for a mouse that delivers exceptional performance, comfort, and convenience.
What to Look For
When it comes to finding a good mouse for programming on a Mac or MacBook, there are several factors to consider. To state the obvious, you want to make sure to choose a mouse that’s specifically designed for Apple computers and that’s compatible with your version of macOS.
As a programmer, one of your main uses for a mouse will be to scroll through source code. Our top pick, the Apple Magic Mouse, solves this by allowing you to use it like a touchpad with gestures, making scrolling smooth and effortless. Our runner-up pick, the Logitech MX Anywhere 3, features a sturdy and durable scroll wheel that offers fast, precise, and quiet scrolling.
Wireless mice are generally more convenient than their wired counterparts — they allow for greater mobility and eliminate the need for an additional cable on your desk. Additionally, a mouse with a rechargeable battery is easier to use, charges quickly, and offers a long battery life, typically lasting for one to two months on a single charge.
As a golden rule, the best mouse for programming on a Mac or MacBook should be comfortable to use, have customizable buttons and features, and provide precise and accurate scrolling. Additionally, it should be compatible with your device and offer wireless connectivity and a rechargeable battery.
