Best Mouse for CAD: Top 7 Models (Reviews 2022)
Contents
When you are compiling the ultimate PC configuration for CAD software, which device will be most commonly used? The answer is obvious. It is a computer mouse. You will use it every single time you are using a computer and CAD software. That’s why choosing the best mouse for CAD can be a wise thing to do. There are models that are specifically designed or at least optimized for this purpose. Below, you can see the top 7 models and also buyers guide, where we will reveal how we tested and ranked these products.
Comparison table:
1. Razer Naga Trinity Gaming Mouse
Razer Naga Trinity Gaming Mouse is designed explicitly for gaming. But, thanks to 16.000 DPI and interchangeable plates, among other things, it can be the best mouse for CAD users. You have plates on the left side of a mouse that can be replaced. As such, you will get 2, 7, or 12 programmable buttons to use, which makes things easier. Keep in mind that this model comes with mechanical switches, so it is a pleasure to use, and it feels solid, ergonomic, and appealing. The switches are tested for 50 million clicks! This is a corded PC mouse, so you don’t have to worry about recharging the batteries or replacing them, useful for long hours at a computer desk. This is something most CAD experts prefer.
There is also an RGB colour option. You can adjust it as you like and make the mouse look cool while using it. Of course, you can turn it off if you don’t like this feature. This cad mouse comes with 2 years of warranty, and it is paired with a rubberized scroll wheel for ultimate accuracy, something you are definitely going to need. Last but not least, it is an excellent value for money. You can choose between 3 different versions of this model. Don’t forget it is designed for right-handed users.
Pros:
• Plates can be easily replaced
• Mechanical switches
• Ergonomic design
• Rubberized scroll wheel
• RGB lights
Cons:
• 12 button panel is complicated to use
• Isn’t ideal for users with small hands
2. Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball Mouse
Logitech M570 may look like any other computer mouse, but it is far from that. Let’s start from the beginning. You can have this Logitech model in black, grey or white colour. It is a wireless mouse that uses a Unifying receiver to connect to a computer. The main advantage is the trackball. This is also known as a wireless trackball, and it allows you to control the mouse cursor without having to move your hand. It can be used as a thumb rest as well. You will use your thumb to move it. For CAD, this can be an outstanding feature and the one some users must have. The scroll wheel is pleasant to use, and there are 2 additional buttons next to it. These are forward and backward buttons. A comfortable grip is present as on most Logitech models. It works on 2.4 GHz as most new mouse models.
Batteries will last up to 18 months, which is impressive. The unifying receiver (nano receiver) allows you to connect additional keyboard or hardware designed by Logitech and get a complete set. This simply means you can get a keyboard without a receiver and connect it to your system. Other peripherals are supported as well. The range of wireless connectivity is up to 30 feet. This isn’t a gaming mouse. It is a business-oriented device that comes with an extreme level of attention to detail, stunning design, and so much more. It is compatible with all major operating systems such as Windows and Mac OS. The computer mouse comes with 3 years warranty, and it is the most affordable model on our list! The wireless trackball makes it even better.
Pros:
• Very affordable CAD mouse
• Trackball option useful for 3d modelling
• Easy to connect and use
• Comfortable design
• Battery life
Cons:
• Older model
• Lack of additional buttons
• Quality is average
3. Logitech MX Master 3 Advanced
Logitech MX Master is a fantastic device that we liked on our tests, and we enjoyed using. It comes with a Bluetooth connection system, and it is available in grey or graphite colour versions. You can have the CAD mouse only, with a palm rest or with a keyboard. All units are ergonomic and designed for professionals who spend the entire day in front of their computers. The new scroll wheel allows users to scroll 90% faster and offers 87% better accuracy, which is stunning. All of that and Logitech MX Master is quiet while operating. One feature we liked is the flow cross computer. Basically, you can transfer files and folders to another computer using wireless technology and this mouse.
Being a wireless mouse, you need to recharge a battery. It will last 70 days with a full charge. But, you can also charge it 1 minute only, which will give you 3 hours of use. Users have the ability to customize the mouse operations via special software that comes with support for over a dozen apps. I used the thumb wheel for side to side-scrolling, something that can be essential for all CAD apps. The DPI is 4000, and it is sufficient for this purpose. Logitech MX Master is an excellent choice for all users who need a comfortable, easy to use, versatile computer mouse or a great AutoCAD mouse.
Pros:
• Thumb wheel
• Flow cross computer system
• Can control up to 3 devices
• Battery life and charging
• Available in different variations
Cons:
• Colors are almost similar
• Connecting it for the first time may be complicated
• The user cannot replace the Battery
4. Logitech G700s Rechargeable Gaming Mouse
Logitech G700s is not a simple computer mouse you will get and use for browsing the web. This is a professional, high-end model that offers the best performance, incredible durability, and something more. First of all, this mouse is fast. It will complete a command 8 times quicker than any other USB computer mouse. It also comes with profiles. As a user, you can save 5 profiles used for different games or software. Add the fact there are 13 additional, fully programmable keys, and you understand why this model is so desirable. The older version, Logitech g600, was popular as AutoCAD mouse.
The DPI is 8200, and it is high, as you may know. An exciting advantage here is that you get wireless and wired mouse all in one. It is a wireless button mouse. But when you need to recharge a battery, you can attach it to a USB cable and use it as a wired mouse while recharging the battery. This makes it an ideal 3d modelling computer mouse. You don’t need to wait while the battery is being recharged. Users also get amazing software include. It will allow you to change the settings, control features, and more.
Pros:
• High DPI
• Wired and a wireless computer mouse in one
• Superb quality
• Onboard memory
• Ergonomic construction of CAD Mouse
Cons:
• Expensive
• Battery life
• Possible issues with software
5. Razer DeathAdder Chroma
Razer DeathAdder Chroma may look like a standard mouse. It is simple, there are no advanced (obvious) features, and it even looks obsolete. But, all of this changes when you look under the cover. The unit comes with 10.000 DPI, which is exceptionally high and offers the movement of up to 2100 inches in a single second. It features 50G acceleration. So you can see it is far from an ordinary computer mouse. It is comfortable to use, making it the best mouse for AutoCAD or similar software. It is designed for games, heavy-duty use, apps that need accuracy and precision. It will ‘’feel’’ movement of 1mm on almost any surface, including glass. This made it a popular choice for users who have glass computer desks or use laptops on coffee tables.
There is also RGB lighting included in the mouse. You can optimize it to look precisely as you like. Both buttons are mechanical. This gives you a nice feeling when using them and also makes the mouse more durable. Considering all of these, including the optical sensor specification, the model is very affordable. The scrolling wheel has small dots all over it, which makes usage more appealing and pleasant. It is also a fantastic gaming mouse.
Pros:
• DPI capabilities
• Accuracy
• Works on almost any surface
• Value for money
• Amazing RGB lights
Cons:
• Issues with software for Mac
• Possible problems with sides
• Poor user manual
6. 3Dconnexion Space Mouse Enterprise (3DX-700056)
3dconnexion spacenavigator may not look like a computer mouse, but it is. The most important feature here is 6 degrees of freedom, also known as degrees of freedom 6dof. It gives you the ability to precisely navigate any 3D model in any 3d space or any design you are working on. This feature works excellent, but you will need some time to get used to it. At first, it may seem unnatural and complicated. After a few days, you will love it. There are 32 programmable keys on the mouse itself. You have 12 buttons that are known as intelligent function keys and will complete any command instantly. Add the fact there is an LCD display where you can keep track of the basic functions and controls, and you can see this isn’t an ordinary computer mouse. 3dconnexion spacenavigator also has the most commonly used keyboard buttons such as Enter, Delete, Shift, CTRL, etc. There are 8 buttons of this kind. Six degrees of freedom paired with the buttons can make this an extremely versatile computer mouse. The extra buttons are one of the best features here.
The design is extremely ergonomic, and it feels nice while your hand is on the mouse. All models come with 3 years warranty. As you can assume, this isn’t an ordinary device used for browsing the web or playing games. It is a powerful tool used by CAD users and many experts. The quality and durability are both at the highest level possible. Sadly, all of this comes at a high price, which may be an issue for some of you.
Pros:
• Interesting design
• High level of accuracy
• Attention to detail
• Keyboard keys
• Comfortable
Cons:
• Requires some time to get used to the design
• Expensive
• Complicated to use
3Dconnexion 3DX is specifically designed for 3D modelling. You can use the 6 degrees of freedom feature to rotate, zoom or pan the model and get the perspective you want almost instantly. Space navigator comes with a great design, intuitive features, and overall quality. It can be the best mouse for CAD if you are looking for something else. Despite the small size, you do get 2 programmable buttons and a special commercial license. The support is amazing as well, precisely due to these reasons.
There is no need to add that space navigator can be used by people right and left-hand orientation. There are no issues of any kind, and there is no need to adjust or change anything. Navy blue colour makes the computer mouse look elegant and stylish. It will be noticed on your computer desk. When we say small, we can see the dimensions of only 3 x 3 x 2 inches and a weight of 1 pound! Thanks to its design, this computer mouse will save space on your desk. If you are limited by space, this is a way to go. It works with all operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS and Linux. There are no additional steps of settings you need to worry about. Just plug and play.
Pros:
• Appealing to use
• Technical support
• Precision
• Saves space
• Durable
Cons:
• High price
• Doesn’t support 3D viewing in Chrome or other web browsers
• Heavy
• Driver issues
Buyers guide for the best computer mouse for CAD
How can you find the best model that will serve you well in any CAD or similar software and will help you get the job done in less time? You will need to take an in-depth look into the buyer’s guide. Here we will list all the features or, better said, factors you should consider to get the best mouse for this particular purpose. Only then can you see the pros and cons of a model and deuce it is the right model for you. We have been using the same criteria when testing and ranking the models you saw earlier. Without further ado, let’s begin.
Wired or wireless CAD mouse
The first thing you will need to consider is, are you looking for a wireless mouse or wired computer mouse? Wireless models allow you to use them when far away from the computer. They can control devices in another room, which can be useful in some cases. You can use them to play a movie or video while you are in bed. But, wireless models have a battery that will either need to be recharged or replaced. They also have lag issues (in some cases), and they will be inactive when not used for some time. You will need to press a button or move the wireless mouse in order to activate it.
Wired models use USB cable and can be used only while you are at a desk. They don’t have batteries, and they are generally more responsive. But, they cannot be moved, and you may need to worry about cable management. At the end of the day, choose the type you are most comfortable with.
DPI
DPI stands for dots per inch, and it is basically a figure used to explain how fast and how far a cursor will move once you move the mouse. We believe that higher is always better. This is partially true in this case scenario. If you are using 2 monitors or a screen with a massive resolution, you need a computer mouse with a high DPI. CAD experts generally prefer models with 10.000-16.000 DPI. But, if you have a small screen, you may need a model with a lower DPI. Always opt for a model with an adjustable DPI. This will make your device suitable for different purposes and be useful if you replace a computer screen or use different software. That mouse offers long-term usability.
The comfort of the best mouse for AutoCAD
A comfortable to use mouse is mandatory. Keep in mind that you will hold the gadget in your hand for hours per day. That’s why you need a unit that will feel solid and natural in your hand. Some special models are made for this purpose only. You can see the strange design, but they are very comfortable, designed to provide fatigue-free use. Ergonomic design is something that every use will need.
Always aim for an ergonomic design. A computer mouse with this feature will be a fantastic choice, and you will love using it. You can tell which one is ergonomically designed. It will feel nice in your hand, and it will be easy to use. Ordinary, plain computer mice that look like the ones from the 90s are not ergonomic, and they are not appealing to use! Ergonomic design is a must-have.
For some, the right mouse is the one with programmable buttons. These are additional buttons that can be either programmed to do something you like, or they are already programmed. We prefer units with buttons that can be programmed by a user. If you are using a single feature, you can now assign it the button and execute it immediately. More keys of this type are better, but programmable buttons can make your mouse more complicated to use, keep that in mind. A mouse for cad needs this.
You will need between 3 and 7 buttons of this type. More may look more appealing, but it makes a mouse more complicated to use, and making a mistake is more common. You will need 10-12 buttons if you are a gamer. If you use CAD, you will get the job done with the first option we have explained here. More buttons on the side can make any mouse the best CAD work machine. Customizable buttons are useful for various purposes, not only as function keys.
Laser or optical mouse
Of all mouse features, this can be the most important one for the highest number of users. In a nutshell, both types have light used to track movement. They do not use balls you were able to see in old-school computer mice. Laser and optical models use the variation of the same technology. The laser unit will use laser, while the optical will use LED light. There are differences between these two.
Laser models are more accurate, and they work on more surfaces. They will work on the glass, which makes them appealing for certain cad work users. But, they will move the cursor faster when you move the mouse more quickly and another way around. Optical models don’t have this issue. However, they are less accurate, and they won’t work on all surfaces. For CAR users, you can choose, but laser models are more popular. For gamers, optical units are better.
Size
If you have small hands, a small computer mouse is mandatory. If you have large hands, you will need a bigger mouse. Large hands-on a dedicated middle button, or extra buttons inst appealing. This is a mandatory factor to keep in mind, and there is no way to eliminate it from the equation. An Auto CAD mouse will feel more accurate and more appealing if you get the size right. Look at the dimensions and try to see and feel a model in real-life first (if you are ordering online). Models with more features and buttons are generally bigger. Customizable buttons affect the size.
RGB lights
It is an utterly irrelevant feature we all like. A model with RGB lights can make usage more desirable and make your computer configuration better. Being able to customize the colours and always get a combination you like is another benefit of this system. For others, this can be a distraction, so you should opt-in only if you want to make your working space looks fantastic.
Warranty
Don’t forget that a professional model for this purpose will cost you a lot. That’s why you need one that comes with a great warranty. A warranty of 2-3 years is excellent. If you get an even longer one, that’s even better. But, avoid models that come with 6 months warranty. These are usually poorly made units that cannot last long, and you will have to replace them within a few months.
Compatibility
This was an essential factor, but today, it isn’t. Nevertheless, some models are designed specifically for a particular operating system. They may work on other OS, but you will encounter issues. Make sure that the mouse you are looking at is compatible with the operating system you are using.
Conclusion
Here you can find the best mouse for CAD. We have presented you top 7 models that will work perfectly with this kind of software, and that will make your work more appealing, easier and allow you to complete it in less time. Pick the one you liked the most and use it. It is that simple. All 7 models are a bit special and different, so choosing the right one for you is easy.
