10 Best Mice For CAD in 2024

By Robin Owens 7 days ago, Computer Mouse

What is the best cheap mouse for CAD?

best mice for cad

You can hardly accurately work on CAD with no special AutoCAD mouse designed for AutoCAD programs. That is why 3D designers widely use a 3D modeling mouse as the main tool for their projects.

No matter which program you choose – AutoCAD or Solidworks, professional mice increase your productivity and make the whole process easier. In case you’re looking for the best mouse for CAD, you may face some difficulties while making an appropriate choice.

Top 10 Best Mice for CAD

  1. Logitech M570 - Our Choice
  2. Cimetech Slim Wireless Mouse - Cheap
  3. Logitech G600 - Powerful performance
  4. Logitech MX Anywhere - Portable
  5. Kensington Expert - Easy setup
  6. 3Dconnexion Spacemouse - For 3D modeling
  7. ELECOM Trackball - Mouse Replacement for MS Trackball Explorer
  8. 3Dconnexion 3DX-700040 - Perfect SolidWorks mouse
  9. Logitech MX Master 3 - Comfortable CAD mouse for editing
  10. RBT Rebel Real - Many customization options

To provide you with the comprehensive information about the best CAD mouse, we’ve talked to CAD software (AutoCAD and Fusion 360) users. They shared their own experience on the most helpful devices for the task.

Besides, they described the main capabilities, pros and cons of their favorite models. Welcome the list of the best mice for AutoCAD with helpful configurations and convenient design.

1. Logitech M570

Our Choice
best mice for autocad

DPI: 540 (Laser) | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver) | Buttons: 5 | Ergonomic: Right-handed

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⊕ It isn’t necessary to move hands as with a standard mouse
⊕ Accurate cursor control
⊕ Different surface support
⊕ Long-lasting battery
⊖ Feels strange as first
⊖ Noisy clicking buttons

Many users are wondering what the difference between a standard mouse trackball and a CAD trackball is. When we first tried the trackball, it seemed to be uncomfortable.

We started moving it across the desk as a standard device. It was difficult to work accurately and control the device to point it at the particular item. That is not surprising as we’ve never dealt with similar devices before, thus it will take you some time to get used to them.

Within a few hours, it became easier to use the M570 and we enjoyed the process as this mouse for CAD design simplifies the management of the cursor a lot.

For Windows users, we recommend installing Logitech SetPoint Software as it offers different options to adjust the device, such as particular button commands, trackball movements, battery conditions, or exact configurations for gaming sessions.

2. Cimetech Slim Wireless Mouse

Cheap
cimetech cad mice

DPI: 800 to 2400 | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth) | Buttons: 2 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous

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⊕ Great battery capacity
⊕ Noiseless
⊕ Can be used right out of the box
⊕ Overpriced
⊖ Not for people with big hands

The most significant disadvantage of wireless mice is that you have to change batteries when your device stops working. If a mouse comes with a rechargeable battery, it’s possible to charge and use it simultaneously thanks to a special charger.

After purchasing the Cimetech’s wireless mouse, we have made sure to charge it right after unpacking. The battery lasted for more than three weeks which is pretty impressive if you compare it to other devices. What’s more, the mouse charges and syncs pretty quick.

There is an energy-saving feature as well. This best CAD mouse automatically goes into a sleep mode if it’s not being used. It’s especially useful for those, who might occasionally forget to turn it off. You can quickly notice when the battery gets low thanks to the blinking signal.

To charge the device, you can take the special wire that comes with the mouse. The device can be also charged via the Android-phone compatible wire that comes with older versions.

3. Logitech G600

Powerful performance
mouse for cad design

DPI: 50 to 8200 | Interface: Wired | Buttons: 20 | Ergonomic: Right-handed

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⊕ A lot of customizable buttons
⊕ Solid build
⊕ Powerful performance
⊕ Settings are easy to adjust
⊖ Not for small-handed people
⊖ Bulky design, weighs too much
⊖ Inflexible cable

This CAD mouse has a solid build and is in no way inferior to its competitors. Thanks to the matte surface, you will hardly notice any fingerprints or scrapes.

As it has a high profile, it is perfect for a palm grip. Its main selling point is a set of 12 programmable buttons G9–G20 positioned on the thumb rest base. Whether you need to use the device for work or gaming, every button can be programmed for different commands.

What’s more, each of the G-buttons has its unique lighting. Thanks to Logitech’s signature software, a user can choose any lighting color.

Another unique advantage of this best mouse for CAD is that it comes with an extra G-Shift button that is positioned on the top panel near the right button.

The modifier allows assigning any combinations for any button on the go, thus enabling a user to double the number of commands from 14 to 28.

4. Logitech MX Anywhere

Portable
best autocad mouse

DPI: 200 to 4000 | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth) | Buttons: 7 | Ergonomic: Right-handed

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⊕ Good ergonomics
⊕ Great autonomy
⊕ Works on almost any surface
⊕ Option of an ongoing flow
⊖ Poor body materials, wheel gap
⊖ Noisy scroll wheel operation
⊖ Too small for large hands

The Logitech MX mouse may seem cheap in the hand, at the level of the most budget models, not only by Logitech. Moreover, you will notice the rough plastic and the gaps between the buttons and panels through which internal mechanisms are visible.

Also, the wheel gap and noisy work in standard mode unpleasantly surprised us.This worthy AutoCAD mouse is equipped with a Darkfield sensor, which is great for different surfaces.

We used the mouse on glass, on the table and fabric bedspreads. Regardless of the surface, the mouse tracked movements correctly, without unnecessary jerking or delay.

5. Kensington Expert

Easy setup
best mouse for drafting

DPI: 0 | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth) | Buttons: 4 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous

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⊕ Decent quality
⊕ Not difficult to setup
⊕ Full button configuration
⊖ Old-fashioned
⊖ Expensive

The Kensington Expert stands out with a ring, a big ball in the middle, and four large buttons on the outer part of the body. Essentially, you will move the cursor by touching the ball with the forefinger, scroll by spinning the ring and press the buttons for other actions.

Both left and right buttons are controlled by relevant clicks by default. But you can assign them to the necessary options. To do that, you need to install their software on your PC.

It is the best AutoCAD mouse due to its convenience and wrist rest option. The latter can be fastened to the trackball for better performance. Besides, it doesn’t require you to get a mousepad, as the model works ideally without one.

The trackball is wireless, so there is no need to get a cable to connect it to your device. There are two options for the connection – via a 2.4 GHz USB nano receiver or Bluetooth 4.0 Smart (LE). Besides, the mouse has a DiamondEye optical sensor for accurate cursor control.

6. 3Dconnexion Spacemouse

For 3D modeling
best mouse for 3d modelling

DPI: 0 | Interface: Wired | Buttons: 2 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous

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⊕ 3D grip options problems
⊕ One-hand performance
⊕ Ambidextrous device
⊖ High price
⊖ No wireless connectivity

A 3D mouse for CAD is a helpful device for those who usually work in SketchUp and many other 3D modeling software.

It provides you with the ability to move the camera at a visceral level easily across 6 different axes by pulling, tilting, pushing and twisting the puck that is fixed on the front side of the mouse. Mind that you still need to get a standard mouse to operate the work from inside as this 3D modeling mouse supports camera control only.

The device is rather heavy – up to 1lb (460g). The manufacturers made it heavyweight for users to hold the mouse steadily on the table.

You will find two buttons from each side of the mouse that can be programmed to enable the custom radial menu, set particular commands, and run macros created by users.

7. ELECOM Trackball Mouse

Replacement for the MS Trackball Explorer
best mouse for solidworks

DPI: 750 to 1500 | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth) and Wired (USB cable) | Buttons: 8 | Ergonomic: Right-handed

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⊕ Three connectivity types
⊕ Tilted scrolling wheel
⊕ DPI switch
⊕ Nice sensitivity, smooth operation
⊕ Eight configurable buttons
⊖ Too small for large hands
⊖ Troublesome Elecom compatibility
⊖ The DPI switch is difficult to reach

The Elecom Trackball Mouse is the first model that offers three connectivity types in one body – a wireless one via Bluetooth and a 2.4 GHz USB dongle. The third one is wired connectivity via a USB cable.

This CAD trackball features a diameter of 44 mm. What you will really enjoy is the quality of high-end synthetic ruby bearings. The trackball movement of this new model is really soft as it’s one of the smoothest models on the market. Besides, it’s rather quiet and easy-to-use while moving the ball.

Due to the easy access to the Bluetooth/USB, you can simply switch this drafting mouse between two devices, like PC and laptop, TV and laptop, etc. In doing so, one of the devices will be connected via USB while the other one via Bluetooth. The button will let you switch from one device to another all the time.

8. 3Dconnexion 3DX-700040

Perfect SolidWorks mouse
3d modeling mouse

DPI: 0 | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver) | Buttons: 15 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous

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⊕ 3D control
⊕ 3Dconnexion and ordinary modes
⊕ Ambidextrous design
⊕ A great choice for SolidWorks and Fusion-360
⊖ Expensive

Just like all 3D-manipulator models from 3Dconnexion, the SpaceMouse Pro mouse comes equipped with a patented 6-Degrees-of-Freedom (6DoF) sensor that makes it easier to move a model or a camera in 3D-space.

With this best mouse for 3D modeling, you can enjoy an all-side view option and a 90-degree rotation feature. Thanks to the SpaceMouse Pro’s quick view keys, you can get access to 12 standard view modes. It makes it significantly easier to find a mistake in the design.

You can also view the result more quickly. By using the rotation mode key, you can switch to another 3D move tool, for instance, to use the zoom or shift options to work on your layout more effectively.

Each of 15 fully programmable sensors allows you to get instant access to the most often used commands. The full-size base with a soft coating layer provides a perfect palm rest making it easier to use this best mouse for CAD.

9. Logitech MX Master 3

Comfortable CAD mouse for editing
best mouse for designers

DPI: 1000 | Interface: Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth) | Buttons: 7 | Ergonomic: Right-handed

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⊕ Amazing performance, adjustable settings
⊕ Noiseless scroll wheel
⊕ Can be connected up to 3 PCs
⊕ Easy-to-customize profiles
⊖ Suitable for small-handed people
⊖ The uncomfortable thumb rest button

Logitech has decided to further enhance the design of its devices by equipping the MX Master 3 with the upgraded MagSpeed scroll wheel. Electromagnetic technology allows making movements more precise.

A user can choose between different modes, for instance, a Ratchet or Freespin ones. To switch, one needs either press the special button positioned under the wheel or use the SmartShift feature via the software that comes with the mouse. Depending on the way you use the wheel, a mode can be changed automatically.

The SmartShift option will be appreciated by those, who work with spreadsheets and multi-page documents. There is a gesture button on the thumb rest that can be easily customized to your liking, depending on the direction of your movements.

This wireless AutoCAD mouse is compatible with USB Type-A standard, making it an ideal accessory for your computer for CAD work, so you can connect it to your computer or laptop via a 2.4 GHz receiver from the distance up to 33 feet (10 meters). Those, who have the Logitech Unifying Receiver, can connect to it up to 6 devices. If you need to connect the mouse to the device that doesn’t have a USB Type-A port, there is another connection option available, namely, the Bluetooth Low Energy mode.

If the speed seems insufficient, it’s possible to raise it in software by using a special slider. The device comes with pre-saved profiles for Microsoft Edge, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Safari, Microsoft Office, and Google Chrome. Those, who have any of these products installed, can automatically get access to the corresponding profiles.

10. RBT Rebel Real

Many customization options
best mouse for autocad

DPI: 500 to 10700 | Interface: Wired | Buttons: 6 | Ergonomic: Right-Handed

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⊕ Designed to reduce wrist pain
⊕ Perfect for gamers
⊕ High precision, a well-thought-out design
⊖ Wired connection only
⊖ It take time to get used to the grip type

While you might find the RBT Rebel not as comfortable to use as other devices at first, you are bound to appreciate it when you take a closer look.

It has a unique design that has been created specifically to help avoid any signs of muscle strain. If you spend long hours in front of your PC, you will significantly benefit from using such a device. We have been testing this best mouse for CAD for about a week and we must conclude that it significantly reduces wrist pain.

The RBT Rebel Real is sold on Amazon for $81.13. As you also have to pay for shipping, it seems quite expensive, especially if you take a look at other high-end gaming devices.

However, if you want to lessen muscle strain and pay attention to your health, then it might be a smart option to consider. I advise you to take a closer look at this mouse if you have to work on your PC for a long period.

Image Name Features  
best drafting mouse
Logitech M570
Our Choice
  • DPI: 540 (Laser)
  • Interface: Wireless (USB receiver)
  • Buttons: 5
  • Ergonomic: Right-handed
CHECK PRICE
triple monitor setup dell 27 inch
Cimetech Slim Wireless Mouse
Budget
  • DPI: 800 to 2400
  • Interface: Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth)
  • Buttons: 2
  • Ergonomic: Ambidextrous
CHECK PRICE
triple monitor setup asus 27 inch
Logitech G600
Professional
  • DPI: 50 to 8200
  • Interface: Wired
  • Buttons: 20
  • Ergonomic: Right-handed
CHECK PRICE

How to Choose the Best Mouse for CAD?

cad mouse

Comfort

One of the most important things to consider when you are choosing a new mouse is how comfortable it feels in your hand if you use it for long hours. Most users prefer large-size mice with a great ergonomic design. Rubber elements near thumb rest and on the sides ensure that a mouse won’t slide on your grip and you will be able to control it easily.

Compatibility

Before making your choice, check if your device can be used with such popular CAD tools as SolidWorks, Revit, Blender, etc. Mac and Linux users should also check if a device of their choice is compatible with their operating systems.

Extra Buttons

Gamers, architects, and designers will benefit from purchasing a mouse with easy-to-customize buttons. You can to quickly create handy shortcuts by using hotkeys. Some devices allow editing objects in a 3D mode. For example, a user can rotate an object. It is useful to have extra keys that can be used for Pan or Zoom options. However, when a 3D mouse for CAD has too many buttons, you might find them difficult to remember. Thanks to programmable buttons, CAD users can solve any task more effectively.

Resolution or Sensitivity

cad mouse

While resolution might be important for advanced users, who need to purchase a high-precision device, it’s not so vital for regular tasks. If you don’t need your movements to be extremely precise, you will hardly notice any difference between high- and low-resolution mice.

Wired or Wireless

Before making a purchase, think carefully about which connection type you prefer. Both wired and wireless devices have their advantages and disadvantages. For instance, you won’t need to replace or charge batteries of a wired drafting mouse but cable management might get a bit difficult at times.

FAQ

  • • Which mouse to choose for AutoCAD?

We believe that the Logitech M570 is the best option.

  • • Which mouse to purchase for design projects?

The best device for designers is the 3Dconnexion Spacemouse.

  • • What makes a CAD mouse different?

It has a well-thought-out design, ergonomic features, and a 7,200 DPI optical sensor. Most of the best mice for CAD can be moved very smoothly and are quite precise.

  • • Which mouse should I purchase for Photoshop?

We are convinced that it's Logitech MX Master 3.

  • • Can I use a gaming mouse for AutoCAD?

Gaming mice with customizable buttons and high DPI settings can work well for AutoCAD. They provide versatility and precision, making them a popular choice among designers.

  • • Do I need a wired or wireless mouse for AutoCAD?

Both wired and wireless mice can be used for AutoCAD. The choice depends on your preference for mobility and battery management. Wired mice offer a constant power source, while wireless mice provide more flexibility.

  • • Can I use a stylus or graphics tablet instead of a mouse in AutoCAD?

Yes, some designers prefer using a stylus or graphics tablet for precision work, especially in 2D drawing. It provides a natural, pen-on-paper feel. However, it may not be as efficient for all tasks as a mouse.

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