Wireless Mouse vs Wired Mouse
A mouse is a crucial component in the current digital age, and it comes in two varieties, wired and wireless. Wireless mice have become increasingly popular because of their freedom of movement and sleek design, while wired mice remain popular due to their reliability and simplicity. This post will examine the differences between wireless and wired mice to determine which one is better.
Connection
The most apparent difference between the two mice is their connection method. Wired mice physically connect to your computer's USB port, whereas wireless mice rely on radio-frequency (RF) or Bluetooth signals to connect.
Wired mice require no setup, other than being plugged in, and are not subject to interference from other wireless devices. They also offer a faster response time while gaming or other intensive use cases, as they provide a direct connection to the computer. A wired mouse can transfer data at a rate of 125 - 1,000 reports per second (Hz), making it more responsive than a wireless mouse with an average report rate of 250-1000 Hz.
Wireless mice come with the challenge of having to pair with your computer. They might experience interference from other wireless devices in your home that can cause latency, which directly affects how fast the mouse responds. But the latest wireless mice use Bluetooth and RF technology that addresses interference issues are reliable and can connect faster than earlier Bluetooth versions.
Overall, while a wired connection has less latency, wireless mice now perform well in offering an almost lag-free experience.
Latency
The mouse latency is the time taken for a computer to receive and process the signals sent by the mouse. A mouse with low latency can help perform tasks faster and provide a better experience to the user.
Wired mice have lower latency than wireless mice. Due to the direct connection with the computer, wired mice have a latency of 1ms. On the other hand, wireless mice' latency ranges from 1-5ms, which is still quick enough. Gamers, however, might still prefer wired mice for the lower latency and higher reporting rate.
Battery Life
The battery life of a wireless mouse depends on multiple factors, including the type of battery used, the frequency of use, and the brand. For example, a gaming mouse targeted at esports may consume more power than an average mouse.
The lifespan of a battery for Wired mouse is not a concern since they don't rely on batteries. In contrast, a wireless mouse uses rechargeable or replaceable batteries, which means you'll need to replace the batteries once they run out, or recharge them in the case of rechargeable batteries.
A mouse with a rechargeable battery typically lasts between 14-45 hours. But some mice, such as the Logitech G900 Chaos Spectrum and Razer DeathAdder Elite, can last up to 32 and 50 hours, respectively. Long-lasting batteries help in saving energy and reducing the cost of replacement batteries, which is a bonus point for wireless mice.
Portability
Wireless mice are more portable than wired mice in terms of ease of movement and storage. Wireless mice are convenient to carry because they don't require cords or wires to connect, which also means they are much easier to pack in a bag. However, they need to be carried with their receivers, which can be lost more quickly than wired mice. Wired mice are harder to carry around and are suitable for use in a fixed location, such as a desk.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between a wired mouse and a wireless mouse, it comes down to user preference. Wired mice offer reliability, faster response, and are suitable for intense gaming, while wireless mice offer convenience, portability, and additional freedom of movement.
Wired mice have less latency and do not run out of battery, while wireless mice are more portable and do not need a cord or wire to function. The advantages and disadvantages of both types of mice ultimately depend on personal preference, the intended use, and the amount someone is willing to spend.