Are you a gamer who is looking to upgrade your gaming experience? One essential item to consider is a gaming mouse with side buttons. These buttons can give you an edge in games by providing additional customization options and shortcuts. In this complete guide, we will go over everything you need to know about gaming mouse side buttons.
What Are Gaming Mouse Side Buttons?
Gaming mouse side buttons are additional buttons located on the side of a mouse that can be programmed to perform specific functions. These buttons are typically located on the left side of the mouse, but some models may also have buttons on the right side.
Benefits of Gaming Mouse Side Buttons
There are several benefits of using a gaming mouse with side buttons, including:
1. Increased Customization
Gaming mouse side buttons provide you with additional customization options, allowing you to personalize your gaming experience. You can program these buttons to perform various functions, such as activating a specific skill, opening a menu, or executing a particular command.
2. Improved Speed and Efficiency
By using gaming mouse side buttons, you can perform actions quickly and efficiently without the need to move your hand away from the mouse. This can help improve your reaction time and give you an edge over your opponents.
3. Reduced Strain and Fatigue
Using gaming mouse side buttons can help reduce the strain on your hand and wrist by minimizing the amount of movement required to perform actions. This can be particularly helpful for gamers who spend extended periods playing games.
Types of Gaming Mouse Side Buttons
There are two types of gaming mouse side buttons: mechanical and optical.
1. Mechanical Side Buttons
Mechanical side buttons use a mechanical switch to activate a command. These buttons are known for their tactile feedback and can be beneficial for gamers who require precise button presses.
2. Optical Side Buttons
Optical side buttons use an infrared sensor to detect button presses. These buttons are typically more durable than mechanical buttons and have a longer lifespan.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gaming Mouse with Side Buttons
There are several factors to consider when choosing a gaming mouse with side buttons:
1. Number of Buttons
The number of side buttons a gaming mouse has can vary from one to several. Consider how many buttons you need for your gaming style and choose a mouse with the appropriate number of buttons.
2. Button Placement
Consider the placement of the side buttons on the mouse. Buttons located too far forward or backward may be difficult to reach and can cause strain on your hand.
3. Button Customization
Look for a gaming mouse with software that allows you to customize the side buttons. This will enable you to program the buttons to perform specific functions that suit your gaming needs.
4. DPI (Dots Per Inch) Settings
DPI refers to the sensitivity of the mouse. Look for a gaming mouse with adjustable DPI settings that allow you to control the speed and precision of the mouse.
5. Ergonomics
Choose a gaming mouse that is comfortable to use and fits your hand well. This can help reduce strain and fatigue during long gaming sessions.
What do the Side Buttons on a mouse do?
What do the Side Buttons on a Mouse Do?
Are you curious about the side buttons on your mouse and what they’re used for? While most of us are familiar with the basic function of a mouse, many people are unaware of the additional features that the side buttons can offer.
Understanding Mouse Side Buttons
Most modern mice have two side buttons located on the left-hand side of the device, but some models may have more or fewer buttons. These buttons are typically programmable and can be configured to perform specific actions. Depending on the software you’re using, you may be able to assign different functions to each button.
Common Uses of Mouse Side Buttons
Here are some of the most common uses for mouse side buttons:
Back and Forward Navigation
One of the most popular uses for mouse side buttons is to navigate back and forth through web pages or file directories. This can be a great time-saver for those who frequently browse the internet or use file explorer.
Scrolling
Mouse side buttons can also be used to scroll up and down web pages or documents. This can be particularly useful for those who do a lot of reading on their computer.
Zooming
In some applications, mouse side buttons can be used to zoom in and out. This is particularly useful for photo editing or when working with maps and diagrams.
Tab Switching
Mouse side buttons can also be used to switch between tabs in your web browser or other applications. This can be a great way to quickly switch between different open windows.
Gaming
For gamers, mouse side buttons can be a real game-changer. They can be programmed to perform specific actions in games, such as reloading or switching weapons.
Macros
Mouse side buttons can also be used to create macros, which are sequences of commands that can be executed with a single button press. This can be a great way to automate repetitive tasks and increase your productivity.
Configuring Mouse Side Buttons
The process for configuring mouse side buttons can vary depending on your operating system. Here’s a brief overview of how to configure them on Windows, Mac OS, and Linux:
Windows
To configure mouse side buttons on Windows, you’ll need to install the mouse software that came with your device. Once you’ve installed the software, you should be able to assign specific functions to each button.
Mac OS
On Mac OS, you can configure mouse side buttons by going to System Preferences > Mouse > More Gestures. From there, you can assign specific functions to each button.
Linux
The process for configuring mouse side buttons on Linux can vary depending on your distribution and desktop environment. However, most distributions provide a graphical tool for configuring input devices, which should allow you to assign specific functions to each button.
Gaming Operations that the side buttons can perform
The side buttons on a mouse can perform various gaming operations depending on the game you’re playing and your personal preferences. Some of the most common gaming operations that can be assigned to mouse side buttons include:
- Weapon switching – You can assign different weapons to different side buttons, allowing you to switch quickly between them in the heat of battle.
- Reload – Reloading can be a time-consuming task in some games, so assigning it to a side button can save you valuable seconds.
- Melee attacks – In some games, melee attacks can be just as important as ranged attacks. Assigning a melee attack to a side button can make it easier to execute.
- Ability activation – Many games have special abilities or powers that can be activated with a button press. Assigning these abilities to side buttons can make it easier to use them when you need them.
- Inventory management – Managing your inventory can be a tedious task in some games. Assigning inventory-related tasks to side buttons can make it easier and faster to manage your items.
- Jumping and crouching – Jumping and crouching are essential movements in many games. Assigning them to side buttons can make it easier to execute them quickly and accurately.
Overall, assigning gaming operations to mouse side buttons can help you react more quickly and efficiently in-game, giving you a competitive edge over other players.
General Operations by Side buttons on a gaming mouse
In addition to gaming operations, side buttons on a gaming mouse can also perform general operations that can be useful in day-to-day computer use. Some examples include:
- Back and Forward Navigation – You can assign the back and forward navigation functions to side buttons, making it easier to navigate web pages and documents.
- Copy and Paste – Copying and pasting is a frequent task in many applications. Assigning these functions to side buttons can make the process quicker and more efficient.
- Media controls – You can assign play/pause, skip, and volume controls to side buttons, making it easier to control your music and video playback.
- Zooming – Zooming in and out can be useful when working with documents or images. Assigning zooming functions to side buttons can make it more convenient and easier to do.
- Application switching – Quickly switching between open applications can be a time-saver. Assigning application switching functions to side buttons can make it easier to switch between different programs without having to use the keyboard.
- Task switching – Similarly, assigning task switching functions to side buttons can make it easier to switch between different tasks within the same application.
Overall, assigning general operations to mouse side buttons can help streamline your computer use and make common tasks quicker and more efficient
Pros and Cons of Side Buttons on a Gaming Mouse
Pros
- Increased functionality: Side buttons provide additional functionality to the gaming mouse, allowing gamers to perform various actions quickly and easily. For instance, a gamer can assign a side button to reload a weapon, switch weapons, or perform a particular action in a game. This can significantly improve the gaming experience, making it more immersive and enjoyable.
- Enhanced productivity: Side buttons are not only useful in gaming but also in productivity applications. Gamers can assign side buttons to perform various functions such as copy, paste, undo, or redo, making them more productive while working.
- Improved ergonomics: Side buttons on a gaming mouse can improve ergonomics, especially for gamers with smaller hands. Instead of stretching their fingers to reach buttons on the keyboard, gamers can use side buttons, which are within easy reach. This can reduce hand fatigue and strain, making gaming sessions more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Customization: Side buttons on a gaming mouse can be customized to perform various functions, allowing gamers to tailor their gaming experience to their preferences. This customization can significantly improve the gaming experience, making it more immersive and enjoyable.
Cons
- Learning curve: Side buttons can be confusing to use, especially for gamers who are not used to them. It can take some time to learn how to use side buttons effectively, which can be frustrating for some gamers.
- Cost: Gaming mice with side buttons tend to be more expensive than regular gaming mice, which can be a barrier for some gamers.
- Accidental clicks: Side buttons are located close to the thumb, which can lead to accidental clicks, especially for gamers with larger hands. This can be frustrating, especially in competitive gaming situations.
- Limited customization: Some gaming mice have a limited number of side buttons, which can limit the amount of customization that gamers can do. This can be a drawback for gamers who want to customize their gaming experience to a greater degree.
Are side buttons good for gaming?
Side buttons on a gaming mouse can be very useful for certain types of games. They can provide additional inputs that can be easily accessed without taking your fingers off the primary buttons or the mouse itself. This can be particularly helpful for games that require a lot of different inputs or that benefit from the use of macros.
For example, in first-person shooters, you might assign one of the side buttons to a specific weapon or action, allowing you to quickly switch between them without having to cycle through your inventory. In real-time strategy games, you might use the buttons to quickly select groups of units or activate special abilities.
That being said, the usefulness of side buttons will depend on the specific game you’re playing and your personal play style. Some gamers may find them essential, while others may not use them at all. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what works best for you.
How Many Buttons Should A Gaming Mouse Have?
The number of buttons on a gaming mouse depends on the individual gamer’s needs and preferences. Some gamers prefer a minimalist approach and only require a few basic buttons, while others require more advanced features and additional buttons. A standard gaming mouse usually has at least two buttons, a left-click and a right-click, and a scroll wheel. However, many gaming mice come with additional buttons, such as side buttons, which can be customized to perform specific actions. Ultimately, the number of buttons a gaming mouse should have depends on the gamer’s specific needs and how they plan to use the mouse while gaming.
How to Program a Gaming Mouse?
Programming a gaming mouse can be a complex task, but most gaming mice come with software that allows you to customize the buttons and settings. Here’s a basic guide to programming a gaming mouse:
- Install the software: First, you need to install the software that comes with your gaming mouse. This software will allow you to customize the buttons and settings on your mouse.
- Open the software: Once the software is installed, open it up and connect your gaming mouse to your computer. The software should recognize your mouse and allow you to start programming it.
- Customize the buttons: Most gaming mice come with extra buttons that can be customized to perform specific actions. You can assign different functions to each button, such as macros, keybinds, or even media controls.
- Adjust the settings: In addition to customizing the buttons, you can also adjust the settings of your gaming mouse. This includes things like the DPI sensitivity, polling rate, and RGB lighting.
- Save your settings: Once you’ve customized your gaming mouse to your liking, be sure to save your settings. This will ensure that your mouse is set up the way you want it every time you use it.
3 Best Gaming mouse with multiple side buttons
There are many gaming mice with multiple side buttons available on the market, but here are three options that are popular among gamers:
- Logitech G600 MMO Gaming Mouse: This mouse has 20 programmable buttons, including 12 thumb buttons on the side. It also features a G-Shift button that allows you to double the number of functions of each button. The G600 is designed specifically for massively multiplayer online (MMO) games, but its side buttons can also be useful for other types of games.
- Razer Naga Trinity Gaming Mouse: The Naga Trinity features three interchangeable side plates, each with a different number and configuration of buttons. This allows you to choose the best layout for your preferred game. The mouse also has a total of 19 programmable buttons, including the side buttons.
- Corsair Scimitar Pro RGB Gaming Mouse: The Scimitar Pro RGB has 12 side buttons that are customizable using Corsair’s software. The mouse also has a 16,000 DPI optical sensor and customizable RGB lighting. It’s designed for MMO and MOBA games, but can be used for other games as well.
These three mice all have multiple side buttons that can be programmed for different functions, and are designed specifically for gaming. However, there are many other options available, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a gaming mouse.
What Does The DPI/CPI Button On A Gaming Mouse Do?
The DPI (dots per inch) or CPI (counts per inch) button on a gaming mouse allows you to adjust the sensitivity of the mouse. DPI/CPI refers to the number of dots or counts that the mouse sensor can detect per inch of movement. The higher the DPI/CPI, the more sensitive the mouse is to movement.
When you press the DPI/CPI button on a gaming mouse, you can switch between different sensitivity settings. This allows you to adjust the mouse sensitivity on-the-fly, depending on the game or task you’re performing. For example, if you’re playing a game that requires precise aiming, you may want to increase the DPI/CPI to make the mouse more sensitive. Conversely, if you’re doing something that requires more precise movement, such as photo editing or graphic design, you may want to decrease the DPI/CPI to make the mouse less sensitive.
Most gaming mice allow you to customize the DPI/CPI settings using software. This allows you to set up different sensitivity profiles for different games or tasks, and switch between them quickly and easily. By adjusting the DPI/CPI settings on your gaming mouse, you can improve your accuracy and precision, and take your gaming or productivity to the next level.