'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?
ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.
When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.
ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.
The best silent mouse you can buy: Expert tested
Whether you're a student churning out an essay at a coffee shop or a night owl who's most productive in the evenings, a silent mouse is the easy instrument of choice for disturbance-free computing.
Also: These 5 gadgets leveled up my work-from-home setup
These mice are exceptionally quiet, so you won't wake your housemates or irritate those next to you while you work. They're not as fashion-forward as high-end productivity and gaming mice, but that's by design. What's more? We've tested picks that are easy to travel with, work for those who are left-handed, and are budget-friendly.
Also: The best noise-canceling headphones of 2024
What's the best silent mouse right now?
We surveyed the market and tested some of the best silent mice you can buy today that can help you get the job done -- in silence. Our top pick for the best silent mouse overall is the Logitech MX Master 3S, for its quick-charging, long-lasting battery, and multiple operating system compatibility. See how our other top picks compare to the MX Master 3S below.
The best silent mouse of 2024
- 70-day rechargeable battery
- Quick charge feature
- Controls up to three devices at once
- Multiple operating system support
- Right-handed configuration only
- Some might not enjoy the less-clicky design
The Logitech MX Master 3S is the best silent mouse you can buy. It features button switches that produce 90% less noise than previous models, so you can work all day without bothering coworkers or yourself. It also features a high-performance electromagnetic scroll wheel that provides speedy scrubbing and precision. This versatility makes the wheel useful, whether moving through large spreadsheets or proofing documents line-by-line. The Logi Options+ app lets you customize the seven-button input layout and set up gesture-based inputs for quickly switching programs or controlling two computers simultaneously.
More: Logitech MX Master 3S review
The integrated rechargeable battery provides up to 70 days of use on a full charge, and just a minute of charging gives you three hours of battery life -- handy for when you need to quickly top up your mouse battery before a meeting or presentation. It includes Bluetooth connectivity and the Logi Bolt USB receiver, which can connect up to three devices simultaneously. With up to 8,000 DPI (dots per inch) sensitivity, the MX Master 3S is highly responsive to your fast inputs. The MX Master 3S also supports various operating systems, making it compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux computers.
Logitech MX Master 3S Tech features: 70 days of use on a full charge | 90% quieter than previous models | Programmable input buttons
- Available in small and large sizes, and for left and right-handed users
- SilentTouch switches are as quiet as they come
- Logi Options+ software lets you program mouse buttons
- Ambidextrous design might take acclimating for some
- No USB-C charging
Silent mice are often smaller in size compared to conventional office peripherals. While this generally results in a more compact and sound-proof design, it doesn't help in the comfort department for those with larger hands. That's where the Logitech Signature M650 comes into play.
More: Logitech Signature M650 review
The Signature M650 has four varieties: small and large sizes and left- and right-handed variants. We've been testing the mouse since its launch and found the design and ergonomics exceptionally comfortable. Plus, the SilentTouch switches live up to their name, as we found them nearly inaudible during our hands-on use. This mouse connects via Bluetooth , or the included Logi Bolt USB receiver and uses a single AA battery.
Logitech Signature M650 Tech features: Ambidextrous design | Battery lasts 24 months | Programmable mouse buttons
- Compact size makes for easy travelling
- Suite of productivity features
- Excellent 30-day battery life via two AA batteries
- On the pricier end
- Lacks macOS support via USB
Razer is best known for crafting edgy gaming mice and keyboards illuminated by snazzy RGB lights. The Razer Pro Click Mini veers from that norm and targets the office and productivity space.
More: Razer Pro Click Mini review
The Pro Click Mini is a compact, silent mouse that is arguably the best one for gaming on this list. It's also equipped with nifty features meant to enhance your productivity -- including a high sensitivity to inputs at up to 12,000 DPI, seven programmable buttons (via Razer's Synapse software), a three-function scroll wheel, and more. The mouse uses Razer's silent mechanical switches to produce quiet yet satisfying tactile feedback. It has Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless via USB dongle and works with Windows and Android.
Razer Pro Click Mini Tech features: Seven programmable buttons | Three-function scroll wheel for enhanced productivity | Easy portability
- Affordable, tried-and-true silent mouse
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS
- 24-month battery life
- Compact design might be uncomfortable for some
- Made for right-handed users only
If you want a silent mouse that eliminates extra features for a lower price tag, consider the Logitech M330 Silent Plus.
The venerable Logitech M330 has long been the go-to silent mouse for many, notching a near five-star rating on Amazon among 21,000 customers. The mouse is small but features a 24-month battery life, a 2.4GHz receiver for multi-device compatibility, and silent operation. This silent wireless mouse has a bargain price compared to programmable buttons and a higher sensitivity (the M330 has 1,000 DPI).
Logitech M330 Silent Plus Tech features: Under $20 | 24-month battery life | 2.4GHz receiver for multiple device compatibility
- Form-fitting ergonomic mouse
- Up to 24 months of battery life
- Physical DPI toggle
- Made for right-handed users only
- Build material feels cheap
- Lack of macOS and Bluetooth connectivity
Although the TeckNet Pro isn't as popular as the Logitechs and Razers of silent mice, its supporters consider it the best for ergonomics and hand comfort.
The TeckNet Pro has six back and forward functionality buttons, a better-than-baseline 2,600 DPI, and five sensitivity level adjustments (accessible via a physical switch at the top of the mouse). Better still, its operation is near silent thanks to its quiet button switches. This mouse has an ergonomic design, with an outer curve that makes it comfortable to rest your hand during use. It includes a 2.4GHz USB adapter that can be paired with a Windows or ChromeOS computer but not with Macs.
TeckNet Pro Tech features: Six buttons with forward and back functionality | Compatible with Chromebooks and Windows devices | Under $20
- Portable form factor makes it an excellent travel mouse
- Ambidextrous design fits left and right-handed users
- Silent scroll wheel is a rare find
- Customizable button and sensitivity
- Flat surface takes some acclimation
- Doesn't include USB adapter
If you're shopping for a lightweight, low-profile silent mouse that gets the job done, try the Logitech Pebble Mouse 2 M350s.
The Pebble Mouse 2 M350s improves upon its predecessor by upping the battery life from 18 to 24 months on a single AA battery. Like the prior version, the Pebble Mouse 2 M350s has a slimline, flatter surface than most mice -- which makes it ideal if you use a fingertip grip (only using your fingertips to move the mouse) or you find the typical mouse contour too extreme for your hand. Its practical and portable design features Logitech's SilentTouch technology for quiet operation, even when scrolling. The mouse pairs with up to three Bluetooth devices and works with the extra-cost Logi Bolt USB receiver.
ZDNET's Kayla Solino said she loves using the similarly designed first-gen Pebble Mouse M350 in her everyday work-from-home setup. She said it's easy to bring the mouse anywhere she wants to work in her house, from her standing desk to the kitchen table, and that the lightweight design makes it great for extended travels.
"The Pebble M350 is a great option for traveling or for those without fancy features. It's comfortable to use, quiet, and I love that I could pick from several colors to fit my office theme."
Logitech Pebble Mouse 2 M350s Tech features: 24-month battery life | Lightweight and compact design | Silent scroll wheel
What is the best silent mouse?
The best silent mouse is the Logitech Signature MX Master 3S, chosen for its generous battery life, compatibility with multiple operating systems, and connectivity with three devices simultaneously. This table can help you compare the best silent mouse options based on pricing, availability of use, and battery life:
Best silent mouse | Price | Battery capacity | Ambidextrous design? |
Logitech MX Master 3S | $100 | 70 days between charge | Right-hand only |
Logitech Signature M650 | $40 | 24 months with one AA battery | Yes |
Razer Pro Click Mini | $80 | 30 days with two AA batteries | Yes |
Logitech M330 Silent Plus | $15 | 24 months with one AA battery | Right-hand users only |
TeckNet Pro | $20 | 24 months with two AAA batteries | Right-hand users only |
Logitech Pebble Mouse 2 M350s | $30 | 24 months with one AA battery | Yes |
*Lowest, non-discounted price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.
Which is the right silent mouse for you?
To find the best silent mouse, ask yourself two questions: What functionality do you seek in a mouse, and how much money are you willing to spend?
If you seek a silent mouse with extra conveniences, then the Logitech M650 and Razer Pro Click Mini are your best options. They're pricier than others on this list but do the most for the price.
If you're shopping on a budget, consider the Logitech M330 Silent Plus, Logitech Pebble M350, and TeckNet Pro—all of which are excellent silent mice.
Choose this best silent mouse... | If you want... |
Logitech MX Master 3S | Best overall |
Logitech Signature M650 | Best for left-handed users |
Razer Pro Click Mini | Best for productivity with seven programmable buttons |
Logitech M330 Silent Plus | Best for the budget conscious |
TeckNet Pro | Best silent mouse for ergonomics |
Logitech Pebble Mouse 2 M350s | Best compact design for travel |
Factors to consider when choosing a silent mouse:
We recommend keeping the following factors in mind while searching for the perfect mouse for your needs:
- Feedback: Take advantage of crowdsourced feedback and reception from customers across various retailer websites and platforms like Reddit to help you pinpoint what real people thought about particular mice.
- Noise: Consider where you will use the mouse and how much noise it may produce. Each mouse on this list produces little to no noise per click. More importantly, each mouse on this list caters to a specific type of user. If you don't care much about the noise factor, you can broaden your search to include a wider range of mouse options.
- Price: Whether you have an expense account or you're shopping on a budget, there's an ideal recommendation for everyone. Like any purchase, it's important to set a spending limit that you're comfortable with. Not only will this help you narrow your search parameters, but you'll also feel better knowing your final choice fits your budget. Remember, you don't always have to spend a ton to find a great product.
How did we choose these silent mice?
ZDNET expert-researched or went hands-on with most of the silent mice on this list. We use these mice during our daily work and entertainment activities to test out noise level, function, comfort, and more -- not just for a day or two, but over a few weeks to get a feel for a product's add-in value. Can you "add" this product into your life and benefit from its presence, or is it just another fad product that's too good to be true or collects dust after the buzz wears off?
If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for. We also routinely scour the web for new products worthy of testing, follow news on product rollouts and upgrades, and source the best deals.
What's the advantage of a silent mouse?
If you're already eyeing a silent mouse, it's easy to justify buying one. But for those who are on the fence or unsure of its applicability, here's our lowdown.
The biggest selling point of a silent mouse is its noiseless design. If you've ever gamed at night or used a computer in a public library, you may know how loud and distracting a clicky mouse can sound. That silent mice are indeed silent benefits both you and those around you. Less noise means fewer distractions, making it easier for you to focus on your task at hand.
How is a silent mouse so quiet?
Some people can condition their hearing to drown out the mouse-clicking sound. You may not even find it distracting -- and that's normal. So, when using a silent mouse for the first time, it's easy to feel bewildered by the mute feedback.
How do these mice operate in a cone of silence? Manufacturers apply a blend of materials and cushioning to dampen the sound when you press a mouse key. This design approach helps mitigate or eliminate the clickety-clack of traditional computer mice.
Is there a way to make your current mouse quieter?
There are a couple of ways to dampen the sound of a non-silent mouse, but they aren't completely effective at blocking out the noise. One option is to use a thick foam mouse pad. This is especially helpful if you use your mouse on a hard surface, like a wooden or metal desk.
Another trick, which requires a little more DIY, is to disassemble the shell of your mouse (the outer cover) and insulate the click switches with thin foam.
Is a silent mouse good for gaming?
A silent mouse can be a good option for gamers. The Razer Pro Click Mini has 7 programmable buttons to customize your layout for your favorite games and an optical sensor with a maximum sensitivity of 12,000 DPI.
With the choice of Razer HyperSpeed Wireless or Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to run on one or two AA batteries, you'll have more control over how your mouse interacts with your computer and how to power it when batteries are scarce.
What is a silent mouse?
A silent mouse is a computer mouse that uses soft rubber dampers on button switches to cushion them and reduce noise. While it doesn't make the switches truly silent, it significantly reduces the noise your mouse makes when you click a button.
Silent mice are perfect for shared work spaces where noise can be a distraction or annoyance to coworkers. They are also easier to click, making them more comfortable and ergonomic to use, reducing strain on your hand and wrist while you work.
Are there alternative silent mice worth considering?
We selected these best options based on functionality, budget, and other factors. However, there are other quality silent mice on the market. Here are a few: