Best Travel Mouse For Remote Workers
Best Travel Mouse For Remote Workers

So, you're finally ready to take the plunge. After multiple trips without a mouse, you've decided it's best to bring one along. Or, maybe you're traveling right now and looking to scoop one up for the rest of your trip. So, how do you decide which travel mouse is best for you? That depends on your needs.

Some of the basic models on this list are ready for you to turn on and go—no customization necessary. Meanwhile, others have multiple programmable buttons that you can tailor to your specific needs, such as creating shortcuts to speed up your browsing. And, while every mouse technically has a DPI (Dots per Inch) rating, we've called out the models that exceed expectations in this category. The average range is between 800 and 1600, but the higher the number, the faster you can move your cursor across the screen. This is more significant for gamers; however, setting your mouse's DPI to a speed that works for you can make you more efficient and reduce lag.

This table dives into key categories for all of the mice on this list. For more reading, click the name of the mouse you want to learn more about under the Gear List or scroll down!

Product Weight Packability Dexterity Battery Connectivity Price
Microsoft Arc Mouse 2.9 oz (82.5 g) Great Good 2 AAA Wireless Moderate
Logitech Pebble M350 3.5 oz (100.1 g) Great Fair 1 AA Wireless, USB Dongle Budget
Apple Magic Trackpad 8.2 oz (231.3) Fair Amazing 2024 mAh Wireless Premium
Logitech Anywhere 3 3.5 oz (98.9 g) Good Good 500 mAh Wireless, USB Dongle Moderate
Logitech MX Master 3S 5 oz (140.6 g) Mediocre Good 500 mAh Wireless, USB Dongle Premium
Corsair Harpoon RGB Wireless Gaming Mouse 3.7 oz (103.5 g) Good Good 840 mAh Wireless, USB Dongle, Wired Moderate
Razer Orochi V2 2.1 oz (59 g) Good Good 1 AA or AAA Wireless, USB Dongle Budget
Cheerdots CheerPod 1.1 oz (29.8 g) Amazing Good 450 mAh Wireless Moderate
Apple Magic Mouse 3.5 oz (98.7 g) Great Amazing 1986 mAh Wireless Moderate
Verbatim Wired Optical USB-A Mini Mouse 1.4 oz (39.7 g) Amazing Mediocre N/A Wired Budget
Dell MS700 Bluetooth Travel Mouse 2.7 oz (76.5 g) Great Good 2 AAA Wireless Moderate

Our Testing Criteria

Weight
Choosing a mouse that weighs a few ounces more than another won't hurt in the grand scheme of things. However, if you're flying on a budget airline with strict weight restrictions, we recommend going as light as possible. Keep in mind that adding batteries will increase the mouse's weight, and some battery types weigh more than others.

Packability
This takes into consideration the size of the mouse and how easy it is to find a place for it in your bag. Certain mice are thin despite a large footprint, making them fit better inside your tech pouch. It ultimately comes down to where you want to keep your mouse while on the road.

Dexterity
This rating explores how well each mouse glides across a standard surface like a desk or coffee shop table, not a mousepad, since most travelers won’t bring one along.

Best Travel Mouse | An ergonomic feel is essential to keep you productive.
Best Travel Mouse | An ergonomic feel is essential to keep you productive.

Battery
We prefer a mouse with long battery life because we only want to charge it occasionally while on the road, but if you top it off between trips, you can go with a lower battery capacity. Additionally, plan on getting less battery than the manufacturer says since certain settings can reduce battery life. Most of the mice on this list have an internal rechargeable battery, while some use AA or AAAs, which you can find globally. However, both have trade-offs. A rechargeable mouse requires you to have a cable on hand in case it dies midday, and a mouse with AA or AAA batteries is useless until you can replace them.

Connectivity
There are a few options: Wireless Bluetooth that connects to your computer, a USB dongle that you plug into your device to enable a Bluetooth connection, a fully wired connection, or a combination of each. We recommend choosing based on your available ports and speed requirements.

Price
We've broken this section into three qualifiers: budget, moderate, and premium. A budget model is one that you wouldn't be gutted to lose or break and simply gets the job done. A moderate mouse balances price and quality, which is great if you use one daily but don't need any fancy features. Premium is as good as it gets. These cost more, but they're your holy grail—they're reliable and customizable, and you'll likely never need to buy another again (unless your needs or style preferences change, of course).

Without further ado, let's dive in!

1. Apple Magic Mouse 2
Apple Magic Mouse 2

If you’re looking for a sleek, simple travel mouse and are already in the Apple Ecosystem, you’ve probably already considered the Magic Mouse—you might even already own one. But why should you use it for travel?

The Magic Mouse doesn’t take up much space, has a long-lasting battery (about a month), and is easy to use. It’s sleek, pairs easily with your MacBook, and fits like a glove in most tech pouches, so why not bring it on your next trip?

It isn’t the most customizable Bluetooth travel mouse regarding buttons and connectivity; however, it will do the job for most daily uses. You can’t charge it and use it simultaneously because the port is on the bottom. Some users claim that this ensures your desk is always clutter-free from cables, at least as far as the mouse is concerned. However, it’s still a bummer when you want to use your mouse, and it’s charging.

Why We Like It
  • The sleek design fits well in tech pouches, giving it a super packable edge compared to other travel mice
  • The battery lasts for about a month of use
What You Should Know
  • You can’t charge it and use it at the same time because the Lightning port is located on the bottom of the mouse
  • Not easy to connect it to Windows machines
See Details & Buying Options
2. Logitech Pebble M350
Logitech Pebble M350 Review

If you’ve been looking for the best travel wireless mouse for your next trip, you’ve probably come across the Logitech Pebble M350. And for good reason! Come on, look how cute it is.

The Pebble is small, easy to use, and affordable, regardless of your budget. It comes in numerous fun colorways, so you can get one that fits your personality. The design is simple—two analog clickers and a spinning wheel in the middle that clicks, too, which can be used as a function button. It uses an AA battery for power, which is readily available globally.

It’s about as basic as it gets, so you won’t pay for a bunch of features you don’t need. However, it feels cheaper in hand than some of the models on this list; . We haven’t had any issues with durability, but it’s essential to take good care of tech because some of the gear can break if the going gets rough.

It uses Bluetooth or a USB to connect so you can use it on anything with an available USB-A port. Newer MacBook users will need a USB-C to USB-A dongle to take advantage of that compatibility, so we opt for a direct Bluetooth connection instead.

Why We Like It
  • It’s budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or function
  • The design is easy to use and colorful
What You Should Know
  • The materials feel cheaper than other Logitech mouse models we’ve tried
  • There is very little customization available for users who like to change button features
See Full Review & Buying Options
3. Microsoft Arc Mouse
Microsoft Surface Arc

If you’re looking for a flat, skinny option that doesn’t take up much space, the Microsoft Arc might be the best travel mouse for you. It lays completely flat when note in use, so it’s easy to store in a tech pouch or backpack’s admin panel because of how flat it is. Once you’re ready to use it, bend it in half and it’ll snap into place with an intense curvature that fits your hand ergonomically. The mouse uses two AAA batteries and only connects via Bluetooth.

If you’re used to a mouse with a wide place to rest your thumb on the side, you won’t find that here—in fact, we sometimes rely on the desktop to support that finger. However, if you’re someone who prioritizes packability, this design is comfortable enought to get you by. While this travel Bluetooth mouse will make surfing the web and doing work on your computer easier, it isn’t meant to replace your beefier model at home.

Finally, the Arc works with Microsoft and Mac machines, which makes it a versatile pick. It won’t work with your iPad, though, so look elsewhere for that. There are seven colorways at the time of writing, so pick the one that matches your vibes best!

Why We Like It
  • It doesn’t take up very much space in our tech pouch or backpack’s admin panel
  • Works with Microsoft and Mac computers, so we’re covered if we ever need to switch devices
What You Should Know
  • Its bare-bones design doesn’t have a great place to rest your thumb
  • Some might not like the gear-like scrolling
See Details & Buying Options
4. Razer Orochi V2
Razer Orochi V2

If you are looking for the best travel mouse with many features and doesn’t weigh a ton, the Razer Orochi V2 is a solid option. It has six programmable buttons to ensure all your needs are met and only weighs 59 grams (just over 2 ounces) without a battery. How’s that for features that pack a punch?

You can connect via standard Bluetooth, which offers up to 950 hours of work, or Razer Hyperspeed Wireless, which is perfect for gaming and offers up to 425 hours of playtime. You can use it with AA or AAA batteries, which are both readily available across the globe.

The gaming features might be superfluous for you while traveling; however, they don’t get in the way when you aren’t using them but come in handy when you want to, making this one of the best travel mouse models on the market for those who want a lot of bang for their buck.

Why We Like It
  • It’s incredibly lightweight without cutting back on ergonomics
  • Standard Bluetooth mode offers up to 950 hours of battery
What You Should Know
  • The gaming features aren’t as useful if you don’t game on the road
  • Some users may not like how hallow it feels
See Details & Buying Options
5. Apple Magic Trackpad
Apple Magic Trackpad

We know what you might be thinking: The Magic Trackpad? Really? Isn’t that thing massive? Short answer—yes. Long answer—it’s complicated.

Yes, the Apple Magic Trackpad is big. However, it’s also skinny, so you can slide it almost anywhere inside your pack or rolling luggage. If you do design work, enjoy using a trackpad, or like extra real estate for your hand to work with, this might be the best travel mouse for you.

At the time of writing, you can use the newest Trackpad with any Mac with OS X 10.11 or later, and it will work with iPads with iPadOS 13.4 or later. It charges using a lightning cable, which works if you have an iPhone or AirPods. Essentially, this operates as a (most likely) better version of the trackpad that’s on your laptop.

If you travel with a small computer, using the Magic Trackpad might be a good solution to have more space to work with while on the road instead of sticking to the tiny trackpad on your computer. Plus, you can use it at home, too!

Why We Like It
  • It’s incredibly thin, so we have no trouble finding space for it in a backpack
  • The touchpad is very responsive
What You Should Know
  • The large footprint may not fit in all tech pouches and weighs significantly more than most mice
  • Doesn’t move with your hand on a surface like a traditional mouse, which has a significant learning curve
See Details & Buying Options
6. Logitech MX Anywhere 3S
Logitech MX Anywhere 3S

If you don’t like charging or changing batteries, the Logitech MX Anywhere 3S might be the best travel mouse for your next trip. The 500mAh battery charges using a USB-C cable and will last up to 70 days on a single charge, which is a long time for a feature-heavy model. Plus, you get about 3 hours of use after charging it for a minute, so you only have to be without a mouse for a short time before it’s usable again. Then give it a full charge back at your accommodations.

For the price, you should get more for your buck compared to other Logitech mice; however, it isn't overpriced compared to other Bluetooth travel mouse models on this list. You're paying for a higher-end Logitech mouse but aren't getting the same functionality offered by similarly-priced models. However, the long battery life is worth a shout. It feels like a regular mouse, but you’re paying a little more, which is worth mentioning.

It charges using a USB-C cable, which is the type commonly used to charge laptops and tablets. This means that you can use the cable you already brought for your devices to recharge the mouse.

Why We Like It
  • The battery will last up to 70 days on a single charge, which will cover most trips
  • It charges using a USB-C cable, which you likely already have on hand while traveling
What You Should Know
  • In our experience, the price is steel for the features offered
  • There are not a ton of customizable options compared to other Logitech models
See Details & Buying Options
7. Dell Bluetooth Travel Mouse (MS700)
Dell Bluetooth Travel Mouse (MS700)

Have you ever wanted a Bluetooth travel mouse that’s also a fidget device? We’re joking on that last bit, but the Dell MS700 Bluetooth Travel Mouse is a ton of fun to play with. To save space when not in use, you twist this model in half so the curvature lies flat and it takes up less room in your pack than needed. It’s a fun and quick process, which we dig.

This mouse is sleek, but getting used to it takes some time because it lacks a scrolling wheel. However, after a few minutes of using it, we noticed that it started to feel natural.

You can connect to up to three devices at once, so you can use this with your home computer and your travel laptop without needing to disconnect it from the device you aren’t using. It operates at up to 4,000 DPI, so you won’t experience lag while working and can get outside to enjoy your trip. That’s the point, right?

Why We Like It
  • The design rotates in the center when not in use to become more flat, making it easier to fit in tight spaces.
  • The design is sleek and ergonomic to use
What You Should Know
  • Some users might not like the the non-mechanical scrolling features
  • The rotating design doesn’t save that much space, as it’s just as long and only a little less wide
See Details & Buying Options
8. Corsair Harpoon RGB Wireless Gaming Mouse
Corsair Harpoon RGB Wireless Gaming Mouse

If you enjoy the perks of a wired connection but occasionally need the freedom of a Bluetooth travel mouse, look no further than the Corsair Harpoon RGB Wireless Gaming Mouse. You can utilize a USB-wired connection, standard Bluetooth, or Corsair’s SLIPSTREAM WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY, which is essentially fancy Bluetooth.

Although this is technically a gaming mouse, it can also be used for other things. It has six buttons you can program to meet your needs, whether playing Diablo in the hotel or doing design work at the coffee shop. Plus, you can change the lighting color on the mouse, which is fun way to personalize your setup no matter where you take your computer.

Although this isn’t the best travel mouse on the market in terms of packability, the gaming features mixed with Bluetooth and wired capabilities make it a good shout for those who want a specfic type of versatility

Why We Like It
  • There’s an option to use it wired that doesn’t get in the way when you don’t want it
  • Six customizable buttons
What You Should Know
  • Gaming features might be excessive if you don’t game on the go
  • Using it wired adds another cable to your tech pouch
See Details & Buying Options
9. Cheerdots CheerPod
Cheerdots CheerPod

For those constantly trying to combine gear to save space and weight, we have a unique item to check out. The Cheerdots CheerPod is a mouse, trackpad, and laser pointer in one! For the traveling businessperson, it’s a one-stop shop for all your presentation needs and working before and after the big day.

It has two modes: ground for when you’re working on a desk, and air for moving around the room presenting.. It’s relatively small, which means you’re sacrificing a lot of comfort for packability, but this makes it easy to transport from home to your meeting. Plus, if you’re not a frequent mouse user, this works perfectly fine in a pinch.

For a casual traveler, this might be overkill. However, if you’re constantly switching between devices for work, this might be the solution to finding the best travel mouse, trackpad, and laser pointer for your next trip!

Why We Like It
  • It’s a mouse, trackpad, and a laser pointer all in one
  • You can use it at home, on the road, or to present at a meeting
What You Should Know
  • The laser pointer isn’t as useful as the other two features for most travelers
  • It isn’t excellent at anything but is okay at everything—sometimes that’s all we need
See Details & Buying Options
10. Logitech MX Master 3S
Logitech MX Master 3S

If you’re a fan of Logitech, the MX Master 3S elevates the game to a whole new level. It looks and feels similar to many of their Bluetooth mouse offerings; however, the features offer a superior quality for not much more money. Let’s dig in!

This MX Master 3S has seven buttons that you can customize to fit your needs. It has better ergonomics than cheaper mice thanks to the raised palm area, too. Like other high-end Logitech mouse models, this one offers DPI between 200 and 8,000 in increments of 50, so you can tailor it to your exact needs for the kind of work that you’re doing. With such high options, you can use this mouse for light gaming, including shooters requiring fast movements. It’s larger than other travel Bluetooth mouse models because of the thumb rest, but it’s comfortable and customizable, which we dig. Plus, even considering its size, it’s surprisingly easy to fit into a larger tech pouch.

This mouse has the same 500 mAh battery that others from Logitech have, which can last weeks, though you may get less depending on your settings. The additional side support gives your long days working on your computer or sessions gaming with your friends back home.

Why We Like It
  • Takes the features that you love about Logitech mice, like programmable buttons, to the next level
  • DPI can be set manually up to 8,000
What You Should Know
  • The extra buttons and ergonomic features might be superfluous for some users
  • It has the same battery as less feature-heavy mice, making it die faster
See Details & Buying Options
11. Verbatim Mini Wired Travel Optical USB-A Mouse
Verbatim Mini Wired Travel Optical USB-A Mouse

Sometimes, you want to have a backup. Or, maybe you’re the kind of person that plans for every possible outcome. Heck, perhaps you’re the kind of person who likes fun little gadgets. If you fall into any of those categories, the Verbatim Wired Optical Mini Mouse is for you.

This tiny wired mouse has a cord catcher in the middle that holds onto the cable so there isn’t any clutter. Once you want to plug it in, simply pull on the cable to extend it to full length. It can be finicky sometimes to spool in and out and can end up uneven on either side when fully retracted, but eventually, you’ll get the hang of it.

The mouse is tiny—like, really tiny—which is hard to get used to and definitely not made for for extended work days. However, it isn't a bad gadget as a backup or an extra for your work trip. It comes in both USB-A or USB-C models a the time of writing, so you can get one that works for your needs.

This is far from the best travel mouse on the market, but it’s budget-friendly and handy in a pinch, so why not give it a go?

Why We Like It
  • It’s an excellent backup option if you rarely need to use a mouse
  • There are USB-A and USB-C models available, so you can match it to your tech
What You Should Know
  • The cord retractor can be funky to work with and sometimes jams
  • It’s too small to use all day long, so it works best as an emergency mouse
See Details & Buying Options

So there you have it! Some of the best travel mouse brands and models on the market. Hopefully, you’re ready to knock your work out of the park to return to enjoying the trip.

December 12, 2023

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