Mouse Connection Types Explained: Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless (2.4GHz), and PS/2

The way a mouse connects to a computer can affect how easy it is to use and carry. It is important to understand the features of each connection type and choose the one that suits individual needs.

With over 20 years of PC experience and using a computer for 8 to 12 hours a day, I have used all types of mouse connection methods. Based on this experience, this article explains the types of mouse connection methods, their features, and the pros and cons of each.

This article summarizes the knowledge needed to choose a mouse.

≫ Related article: How to Choose a Mouse [Features / Compatibility / Points to Note]

あわせて読みたい

PC Parts Estimation & Compatibility Check Tool

Automatically checks each component you need when selecting parts for a custom-built PC—perfect for beginners.

About Mouse Connection Methods

This section explains the types of mouse connection methods.

What is a Mouse Connection Method?

A mouse connection method refers to how a mouse is connected to a computer (or tablet or other device).

The main connection methods today are “USB connection” using a cable, “Bluetooth connection” and “2.4GHz wireless connection” for wireless use, and the “PS/2 connection” used in some older devices.

Each method has its own characteristics, and the best choice depends on the usage environment and purpose.

For example, USB wired is preferred for gaming where response speed and stability are important, while Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless is often chosen for portability and fewer cables.

Comparison of the Four Connection Methods

There are mainly four types of mouse connection methods.

In terms of mouse response (reaction speed) and connection stability, wired connections (especially USB wired) send and receive signals directly, so there is very little delay and the connection is stable.

This is why they are still popular among users who play fast-paced games like FPS.

However, this is mainly a concern for pro gamers or those who are serious about competition. For casual gaming, there is usually no need to worry about it.

On the other hand, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections use wireless communication, so there may be slight signal delays or radio interference.

Especially with Bluetooth, due to its power-saving design and communication protocol, latency tends to be a bit higher.

That said, these differences are technical, and for general office work or daily PC use, there is almost no noticeable difference.

Bluetooth is marked as “△” in the table, but compared to other connection methods, this is only a technical difference. It does not mean that usability is bad, and Bluetooth is comfortable enough for daily use.

Mainstream Connection Methods Today

The three main mouse connection methods today are:

• USB Wired
• Bluetooth
• Wireless (2.4GHz)

PS/2 ports may still be found on desktop PCs, but not on laptops.

Also, PS/2 mice are hardly sold anymore, so if buying a new mouse, it will not be an option.

USB Wired Mouse

This section explains the features, advantages, and disadvantages of USB wired mice.

Features of USB Wired Mouse

A USB connected mouse is, as the name suggests, a mouse that connects with a USB cable.

Many models are relatively inexpensive, making them cost-effective.

Also, since power is supplied from the USB port, there is no need to worry about batteries running out or charging, and it can be used for long periods.

On the other hand, the cable can be inconvenient when moving the mouse on the desk or carrying it around.

Advantages of USB Wired Mouse

The advantages of USB wired mice are as follows:

• Many low-priced products
  No need for extra parts like batteries or wireless modules, so the structure is simple and manufacturing costs are low, making them inexpensive.
• Stable communication and low latency
  Cable connection ensures stable communication with almost no delay. Especially suitable for fast-paced games, and less risk of signal loss or interference compared to wireless.
• No need for batteries
  Power is supplied from the USB port, so there is no need for batteries or charging. There is no risk of work interruption due to dead batteries, making it suitable for long-term use.

Even though they have stable communication and low latency, for general use, wireless connections like Bluetooth or 2.4GHz are usually sufficient, so these are not always reasons to choose USB wired.

For fast-paced games like FPS, pro gamers or those who care about stability and latency may prefer USB wired. Personally, I use a Bluetooth mouse for light FPS gaming and have never worried about latency.

Disadvantages of USB Wired Mouse

The disadvantages of USB wired mice are as follows:

• The cable can get in the way
  The cable can get caught or tangled with other items on the desk, reducing work efficiency and comfort.
• Movement can be restricted by the cable
  Depending on the stiffness or placement of the cable, it can create resistance and make fine movements difficult. Also, when letting go of the mouse, the cable can pull it and move the cursor.
• Occupies one USB port
  Since it uses a USB port, it may be inconvenient on computers with limited ports.
• Limited range of movement
  The length of the cable limits how far the mouse can move, and depending on the layout, it may be hard to use.
• Less convenient for carrying
  The cable can get tangled and bulky, making it less portable and not suitable for use on the go.

The biggest disadvantage is that the cable gets in the way, especially when spreading out documents near the computer, the cable often gets in the way.

Desk space can be limited, and the mouse cable can get caught on other devices, documents, or the keyboard.

When carrying, plugging and unplugging the USB and winding the cable can also be troublesome.

Forcibly bending the cable during storage can cause disconnection or poor contact.

Also, with a light mouse, the cable can pull and reduce usability, or the cursor can move when letting go to use the keyboard, which can be stressful.

Cable length can also be a problem. If too long, the extra cable clutters the desk; if too short, the mouse cannot move freely.

Most USB mouse cables are about 1.5m, but depending on desk layout or PC location, the usable range may be smaller than expected.

Especially on a large desk or if the PC is under the desk or far away, the cable may not reach, making it hard to use.

If too short, the mouse cannot move freely, reducing comfort.

Bluetooth Mouse

This section explains the features, advantages, and disadvantages of Bluetooth mice.

Features of Bluetooth Mouse

A Bluetooth mouse is a mouse that connects to a computer using the short-range wireless standard “Bluetooth”.

The communication range is about 10 meters, so there is almost no problem for normal use at home or work.

Laptops often have built-in Bluetooth, so they can be used as is.

However, desktop PCs usually do not have Bluetooth, so a compatible PC or an added part is needed.

There are four ways to add Bluetooth, and even those who do not build their own PCs can add it after purchase. Please refer to the related article.

≫ Related article: PC Parts to Add Wi-Fi/Bluetooth to a Custom PC

It is sometimes said that Bluetooth connections can become unstable due to radio interference if there are many Bluetooth or Wi-Fi devices nearby, but in my experience, this is not a big concern.

I live in an apartment where each room has free Wi-Fi, and about 30 Wi-Fi signals appear on my phone. There are probably many Bluetooth signals as well.

Even so, I have not experienced instability or delay due to interference, so there is no need to worry too much.

Also, although it may not be common, Bluetooth mice can be connected not only to computers but also to smartphones and tablets.

Advantages of Bluetooth Mouse

The advantages of Bluetooth mice are as follows:

• No cables for comfortable use
  No worries about cables getting tangled or caught, so the mouse moves smoothly and stress-free.
• Desk area stays neat
  No cables means a tidy desk and more freedom of workspace.
• No receiver needed, does not use USB port, no risk of losing receiver
  Bluetooth connection means no need to use a USB port for the mouse or worry about losing a USB receiver. Even devices with few USB ports, like laptops, can use it without blocking ports.
• Easy to carry
  No need to bundle or store cables when carrying, making it very convenient.
• Compatible with mobile devices
  Can connect to smartphones or tablets that do not have USB ports.

Disadvantages of Bluetooth Mouse

The disadvantages of Bluetooth mice are as follows:

• The computer must support Bluetooth
  A Bluetooth function is needed on the computer. If not supported, an adapter must be prepared.
• Pairing setup is required
  Pairing is needed the first time or when changing devices, which can be a hassle.
• Slight delay may occur
  Due to wireless communication, there may be some delay, which can be noticeable in games.
• Connection may be unstable in rare cases
  Interference from other devices or radio environment may cause disconnection or unstable operation.
• Cannot be used in BIOS
  Bluetooth cannot be used before the OS starts, so the mouse cannot be used in BIOS/UEFI screens.

Bluetooth mice may have slight delays due to wireless communication. For general use, this is not noticeable, but for fast-paced games like FPS, pro gamers or competitive users may care about stability and latency.

Also, in environments with many Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices, radio congestion may cause more delay or interruptions.

However, I have used Bluetooth mice for about 10 years and have rarely experienced instability.

If the same mouse is to be used on another computer, pairing must be done again. Only one device can be connected at a time, so pairing is needed each time the computer is switched.

Some mice allow switching between two or three computers with a physical switch, changing the connection destination.

Therefore, if the same Bluetooth mouse is to be used on multiple computers, a model with a connection switching function is recommended.

Also, since Bluetooth works on Windows, Bluetooth mice cannot be used in the BIOS screen before Windows starts.

When installing the OS or initializing the computer, BIOS may need to be accessed. In such cases, a USB wired or wireless (2.4GHz) mouse is needed.

Wireless (2.4GHz) Mouse

This section explains the features, advantages, and disadvantages of wireless (2.4GHz) mice.

Features of Wireless (2.4GHz) Mouse

A wireless (2.4GHz) mouse uses 2.4GHz wireless communication and connects by plugging a small USB receiver into the computer’s USB port.

Wireless mice are in the same category as Bluetooth mice, but compared to Bluetooth, they are more stable and have less delay, with faster response and less chance of disconnection.

The communication range is about 10 meters, which is enough for use around a desk.

Also, they are less likely to be affected by radio interference and work stably even in environments with many wireless devices.

On the other hand, a USB receiver is needed, so on laptops with few USB ports, care must be taken when using other devices at the same time.

Also, if the receiver is lost, the mouse cannot be used, so be careful where it is stored.

Advantages of Wireless (2.4GHz) Mouse

The advantages of wireless (2.4GHz) mice are as follows:

• Relatively stable and fast communication
  2.4GHz is more stable and has less delay than Bluetooth.
• No cables for comfortable use (same as Bluetooth)
  No worries about cables getting tangled or caught, so the mouse moves smoothly and stress-free.
• Desk area stays neat (same as Bluetooth)
  No cables means a tidy desk and more freedom of workspace.

The comfort of no cables and a tidy desk is the same as with Bluetooth.

In terms of stability and delay, it is not as good as USB wired, but better than Bluetooth, making it a middle ground.

However, if there is a lot of interference in the 2.4GHz band (Wi-Fi / Bluetooth / microwave ovens, etc.), performance may decrease.

Disadvantages of Wireless (2.4GHz) Mouse

The disadvantages of wireless (2.4GHz) mice are as follows:

• Occupies one USB port
  A dedicated receiver must be connected to a USB port, so on laptops with few ports, it may be difficult to use with other devices.
• Risk of losing the USB receiver
  The USB receiver is small and easy to lose.

Laptops usually have about two USB ports, so using one for the mouse is usually not a problem.

However, if two other devices need to be connected at the same time, the USB mouse cannot be used, so the built-in trackpad must be used instead.

It is not that the cursor cannot be operated, but if not used to the trackpad, usability may decrease.

For example, to print data from a USB memory, both the USB memory and printer need to be connected. Or, to transfer data directly between two USB memories, two ports are needed.

In this way, there are rare cases where the limited number of USB ports on a laptop is not enough.

If the laptop has few ports or if such situations are likely, a Bluetooth mouse that does not use USB is better.

Also, some mobile laptops under 14 inches now only have USB Type-C ports, so in that case, a Bluetooth mouse is the choice.

Some mice have a type where the USB receiver can be stored in the mouse body, which is recommended.

If it cannot be stored, it is easy to lose the receiver when carrying or storing the mouse.

PS/2 Mouse

This section explains the features, advantages, and disadvantages of PS/2 mice.

Features of PS/2 Mouse

A PS/2 mouse is a connection method that was once standard for desktop PCs.

Since the late 1990s, new interfaces like USB and Bluetooth have become common for connecting mice and keyboards.

As a result, the once mainstream PS/2 standard is now rarely used.

The PS/2 port is a round 6-pin connector, with green for mouse and purple for keyboard.

Recently, connectors that are half green and half purple can be used for both mouse and keyboard.

Also, PS/2 does not support hot plugging (plugging/unplugging while the power is on), so always turn off the computer before connecting or disconnecting the mouse.

If plugged or unplugged while the power is on, the mouse may not be recognized, or in the worst case, the computer or mouse may be damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mouse Connection Methods

This section answers common questions about mouse connection methods.

How do Bluetooth and Wireless (2.4GHz) Mice Differ in Stability and Latency?

Comparing the stability and latency of Bluetooth and wireless (2.4GHz) mice, wireless (2.4GHz) mice are better.

Both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth use the 2.4GHz band, but their communication designs are very different, which affects stability and delay.

2.4GHz wireless is often designed for dedicated one-to-one communication with the USB receiver, allowing for a relatively wide bandwidth.

This provides high stability and speed, with reduced delay.

On the other hand, Bluetooth is designed to connect with many types of devices, using frequency hopping to switch between narrow channels quickly.

This is good for power saving and connecting multiple devices, but the communication control is more complex, making it less responsive and stable.

However, for general use, the difference is so small that it is not noticeable, so there is no need to worry.

How Often Do Bluetooth and Wireless Mouse Batteries Need to Be Changed or Charged?

The battery replacement frequency for Bluetooth and wireless mice is usually once every few weeks to a few months, and rechargeable types last about one week to one month per full charge.

The actual period varies greatly depending on the mouse type and usage, but this is a general guideline.

I use a rechargeable Logitech MX Master 2S, and after using it for 12 hours a day for 2-3 weeks, I recharge it.

There are three LED indicators, and when only one is left, it turns red, so I charge it at that time.

Since I do not wait until it is completely empty, it could probably last a bit longer.

For dry batteries, it is often troublesome if there are none at home when needed. For those who find this management bothersome, rechargeable batteries are recommended.

How Can a Bluetooth Mouse Be Used with Multiple Devices?

To use a Bluetooth mouse with multiple devices, use a Bluetooth mouse that can switch between multiple connection destinations.

With a regular Bluetooth mouse, pairing must be redone each time the device is changed, which requires opening the settings screen each time.

To avoid this hassle, choose a mouse that can remember connection information for two or three devices and switch with a single button.

With a multi-pairing model, switching between multiple computers, tablets, or smartphones is smooth.

I also use a mouse that can switch connections, and for those who have multiple computers and want to use a Bluetooth mouse, this function is essential.

Summary: Choose the Connection Method Based on What is Most Important!

This article has summarized the advantages and disadvantages of mouse connection methods in an easy-to-understand way.

Here are the key points again.

Each mouse connection method has different features, and the best choice depends on the purpose and environment.

If stability and low latency are important, USB wired is best. For those who want a tidy desk or use the mouse on the go, Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless is convenient.

Also, consider USB port usage, battery replacement, and use with multiple devices.

Each method has pros and cons, so choose the one that fits your style and create a comfortable PC environment.

This article summarizes the knowledge needed to choose a mouse.

≫ Related article: How to Choose a Mouse [Features / Compatibility / Points to Note]

あわせて読みたい

PC Parts Estimation & Compatibility Check Tool

Automatically checks each component you need when selecting parts for a custom-built PC—perfect for beginners.