You do not need to spend more than $5 for a functional mouse. Basic wired mice with USB connections can serve for typing, surfing, even school, or light work. If you shop carefully, you can get a decent one for under or around five bucks for a Windows PC.
At that low price, you must accept some trade-offs. The buttons might not last long, the cable may be thin, or tracking might not be high precision. But for basic tasks like email, documents, and light browsing, they are often more than enough.
The Best Computer Mouse Under $5 on Amazon
1. AmazonBasics 3-Button Wired USB Computer Mouse
This is a basic wired USB mouse with three buttons (left, right, scroll), 1000 DPI optical tracking, and plug-and-play use. It is compatible with Windows and Mac. The cable is about 4.9 feet. Good for everyday tasks like browsing, typing, or as a spare.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable when bought in bulk or during sales | No wireless option, must use USB-A |
| Simple, reliable design; many users report it works well for basic tasks | Plastic materials feel cheap; less durable under heavy use |
| Button clicks are quiet but not premium; the scroll wheel is basic | Button clicks are quiet but not premium; scroll wheel is basic |
| Compatible with many systems; no driver needed | The 1000 DPI optical sensor is decent for typing / normal work |
2. Guiheng Ergonomic Wired Mouse
A simple wired optical USB mouse, ergonomic basic shape, usable for a laptop, Chromebook, or desktop. It lacks extra features but has enough functions for everyday use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Price is often above $5 depending on the seller or shipping | Price is often above $5, depending on the seller or shipping |
| No battery needed because it is wired | The build is light plastic, with lower durability expected |
| Scroll wheel and solid optical tracking for simple work | Few extra buttons or features; cable might be thinner than higher-end mice |
3. Retail Digitals 3-Button High Precision USB Wired Mouse
This is a 3-button wired mouse with claims of higher precision tracking than the cheapest models. It is minimal, with a scroll wheel, used for basic computer work or as a spare mouse.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good value when discounted; basic layout meets essential needs | Fewer reviews, so quality can vary across units or batches |
| Precision tracking claims may offer better smoothness on many surfaces | Likely shorter lifespan compared to premium models |
| Light and simple to use; plug-and-play | Lacks ergonomic shaping, advanced features, or durability in the cable |
4. Optical Computer Ergonomic Compatible Wired Mouse
This is a basic wired USB optical mouse with ergonomic contours, designed to fit comfortably in the hand. It has a scroll wheel, standard left/right buttons, and works via plug-and-play. Intended for business or home use, it is simple with no extra features.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ergonomic shape helps reduce hand fatigue during longer use | Lack of brand recognition may mean inconsistent build quality |
| A wired USB connection means no batteries needed | Likely basic sensor; precision or smoothness may be limited |
| Simple design with minimal features so fewer things to break | Cable quality and durability may be basic |
| Good value when on sale or bought in multiples | No advanced features like adjustable DPI, extra buttons, or software support |
5. Logitech B100 Wired Optical Mouse
This is a full-size wired USB mouse with three buttons (left, right, scroll), 800 DPI optical tracking, and an ambidextrous shape that works with either hand. It is plug-and-play, works with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook.
Though its price is above $5, many users choose it for durability, comfort, and reliable daily use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Built by a trusted brand, with known reliability and support | Higher price, not in the under-$5 category |
| Comfortable full-size ambidextrous design is good for many hand sizes | Basic sensor; not suitable for gaming or high precision needs |
| Wired connection: no batteries to replace | Cable may be stiff; buttons are simple, no advanced features |
| Tested for durability: withstands many cleaning cycles, designed to last in schools or offices | A few users report double-click issues or button wear over extended heavy use |
Check recent user reviews (last 6-12 months) for comments about double-click issues, scroll wheel failure, or cable break. Also, check if the seller is “fulfilled by Amazon” for easier returns.
Only partly. If you do basic work or browsing, a DPI of 800-1200 is usually enough. Higher DPI claims in budget mice often are marketing; what matters more is tracking smoothness, not just the number.
Wired is almost always better under $5. No battery issue, usually a more reliable connection. Wireless often has costs in battery, signal stability, or the need for a small dongle, which may push the price up or reduce reliability.
Also Read: 5 Best Wireless Mouse Under $15
Budget mice like the AmazonBasics 3-Button and other under-$5 wired options give you the essentials without overspending. They are not premium but cover everyday needs like browsing, office tasks, and school work reliably.
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With over five years of experience in the tech industry, Kazim excels at simplifying complex topics, making them accessible to tech enthusiasts and general readers alike. He has contributed to several renowned publications worldwide, including WindowsReport and Allthings.how, bringing insightful coverage of key developments in the field.
Kazim has extensively covered the Windows ecosystem, from the early days of Windows 7 to Windows 11. Unlike many in the field, he’s optimistic about Windows 11, calling it the most user-oriented iteration to date.
When he’s not writing, you’ll find Kazim planning weekend getaways or diving into tech verticals beyond his expertise.
