The Apple Mouse (originally branded as the Apple Pro Mouse) was introduced in July 2000 at the Macworld Conference & Expo in New York City. Apple Computer was the first company to ship an optical mouse as the standard input device with all its desktops. While the industrial design of the Pro Mouse was handled entirely by Apple. Also known as the Triathalon Mouse, Logitech's low-cost, high-powered wireless mouse is a great mid-range product. It's called the Triathalon Mouse because it has three Bluetooth device connections. You can use it with your iMac Pro at home, your MacBook Pro on the go, and your PC at work. A mouse typically has one button on the left and one on the right. To select an item on the screen, you must move the mouse to point at that item and then press and release (click) the left mouse button. If you know how to point and click, double-click, and point and drag the mouse, you've mastered the basics of controlling your Mac with a mouse.
Apple Magic Mouse 2, Magic Keyboard, Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, and Magic Trackpad 2 work wirelessly with your Mac via Bluetooth when they're paired and turned on.
The Apple Magic Mouse 2: Rechargeable Wireless State of The Art Technology. If you want a product that incorporates the very latest in innovative touch-sensitive technology from Apple and fits perfectly with the look and feel of your MacBook Pro, or Air, then you will be wanting the Apple Magic Mouse 2. The MacBook Pro is a powerful computer, but it's common knowledge that any laptop trackpad can restrict your ability to work productively, especially if you have larger or shaky hands. Additionally, the trackpad limits some functionalities you would normally have with a mouse, such as an easy secondary click or programmable buttons.
If your devices came with a new iMac, they're already paired with the computer. Just turn them on when you first turn on your Mac. To make sure that your device is turned on, check its power switch. If green is visible, the device is on.
If you bought your devices separately — or if they've become unpaired from your Mac — follow the steps below to pair them.
How to set up current Apple wireless devices
Follow these steps to set up your Magic Mouse 2, Magic Keyboard, Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, or Magic Trackpad 2:
- Connect a Lightning to USB Cable1 or a USB-C to Lightning Cable to the Lightning port on the device2 and connect the other end of the cable to your Mac.
- Make sure that the device's power switch is in the ON position. (Green is visible under the switch when the device is on.)
- Choose Apple () menu > System Preferences, then click Bluetooth to open the Bluetooth preferences window. When the device pairs with your Mac, it appears in the list of devices.
- Check the Bluetooth preferences window to see your device's charge level. When the device is charged, unplug it for wireless use.
1. If your Bluetooth device came with an iMac, a Lightning to USB cable was also included in the box.
2. Magic Mouse 2 can't be used while connected to the cable.
How to set up earlier Apple wireless devices
If you're not sure which device you have, you can learn how to identify your Apple wireless mouse, keyboard, or trackpad.
Then use a wired mouse or trackpad — or the built-in trackpad if you're using a Mac notebook — and follow these steps to set up your earlier Apple wireless devices (such as the Apple Wireless Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad):
- Turn on your device.
- Wait until your device's LED starts blinking, which means that it's in Discoverable Mode. (If the LED is on but not blinking, your device is already paired with another host. To unpair it, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Bluetooth. Hover the pointer over the device you want to remove, then click the button that appears next to the device's name. Turn the device off, then start again at step 1.)
- Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Bluetooth.
- Wait while your Mac searches for your device. When your device appears in Bluetooth preferences, click Pair1.
1. Apple Wireless Keyboard requires the passcode that appears on your Mac. Enter the 8-digit passcode on the keyboard, then press Return. Earlier models of Apple Wireless Mouse or Apple Magic Trackpad will connect automatically or show a dialog. If you see a dialog, click Pair or press Return.
Learn more
The MacBook Pro is a powerful computer, but it's common knowledge that any laptop trackpad can restrict your ability to work productively, especially if you have larger or shaky hands. Additionally, the trackpad limits some functionalities you would normally have with a mouse, such as an easy secondary click or programmable buttons.
Getting a mouse for your MacBook will allow you to maximize the use of your laptop while providing extra comfort and reduce strain on your hands. Since you have plenty of options, we'll take you through some of the best products available and help you decide which mice or style is the best for you.
We also include some tips that you'll probably find useful to keep your mice in good shape and make the most of your devices. Read on for more!
Quick Summary
If you prefer a mouse with:
- a sleek design and great Mac integration, look no further than the Apple Magic Mouse 2.
- connection via Bluetooth for the greatest ease of use, Logitech M557 Bluetooth Mouse is a great choice.
- multiple tertiary buttons (gaming, advanced apps), get Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse.
- a wired connection for stability and reliability, we recommend VicTsing USB Wired Mouse.
Do I Need A Mouse for My MacBook?
If you haven't already used a mice with your MacBook Pro, what are you waiting for? Almost everyone can benefit when taking a break from the trackpad in favor of the easier-to-operate mice. It will expand your workflow, provide additional functionality, and allow you to work in greater comfort.
A mouse might also be necessary if you work with complex software such as those for creative editing or engineering, where multiple click buttons are needed to properly execute commands.
However, we would like to acknowledge that some users might have less use for a mouse than others. If you travel frequently or work in uneven places a mouse will quickly become unwieldy, but you may still want to consider one for use at home.
Mice for MacBook Pro: What to Consider in 2020?
Size/Shape
The size and shape of will greatly impact how you use it. Some mice come in 'travel' sizes which can be easy to transport but difficult to use, whereas larger mice are more comfortable to work with but bulkier. You should consider when and where you plan to use it before deciding a style that works best. Additionally, mice come in several shapes that may be more or less beneficial depending on how you use your mouse. For example, gaming mice typically have a bit more grip and are sturdier whereas the minimalist Apple Magic Mouse works smoothly but is meant for less intense work.
Style and Tools
Every brand offers unique features to their mice. Everything from touch gestures to programmable buttons are available, but it's up to you to determine which features you'll actually use and which will be a hindrance. For example, 'gaming' mice traditionally include a plethora of buttons for specific commands, but if you use your laptop mostly for browsing the web, these buttons could quickly become annoying. Thus, make sure you know what you need before deciding which type of mice best suits your needs.
Connection
There are several possible ways for the product to be connected to your computer. How to install izotope on mac. The classic wired one offers stability and reliability but includes a bothersome cord. Bluetooth mice eliminate the chord, but require batteries or charging to connect and may have pairing errors. A mouse with a USB dongle functions similarly to Bluetooth and requires batteries, but takes up one of your USB ports on the Mac which is super precious if you're on a newest MacBook model.
The Best Mouse for MacBook Pro in 2020: Our Picks
Please note: These choices are listed in no particular order and do not represent the individual merits of each recommendation.
1. Apple Magic Mouse 2
A product built by Apple for Apple, the Magic Mouse won't disappoint you. You'll be able to be more productive by taking advantage of the touch gestures it supports, and the slim design fits smoothly in even the thinnest of computer bags for easy transport. It charges by lightning cable and connects to your MacBook Pro with Bluetooth.
Mac Pro Mouse
Pros:
- Sleek design, lightweight, and rechargeable.
- It's a reliable product from one of the most reliable companies in the world — Apple.
- Fully optimized to work with your MacBook through gestures and it's extremely light.
Cons:
Mac Pro Mouse Freezes
- There's no physical button separation or scroll wheel, might not be optimal for some applications.
- Also, the scrolling feature may not work if your MacBook is running an older macOS version.
2. Logitech M557 Bluetooth Mouse
If you're looking for something wireless but sturdy and well designed, this one from Logitech will check all your boxes. It's slim and compact for easy travel, but still big enough to be used comfortably. The scroll wheel has multiple functions, and the optical sensor will work on a variety of surfaces.
Pros:
- Thin and minimalist design is great during use and travel, lengthy battery life of 12 months, and designed for both left and right-handed users.
Cons:
- While equally functional on both Mac and Windows, the 4th button is only useful to Windows PC users.
3. Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse
If you're a gamer or simply enjoy having a mouse with plenty of programmable functionality, this model from Razer is sure to meet your needs. The wired mice will allow you to create custom key functions and the smooth shape will fit neatly in your grip while gaming or working.
Pros:
- Manufactured by a well-trusted brand, this product has a great shape for fitting in your hand with raised buttons that are easy to find.
- Programmable functions lend a huge amount of versatility, and it even features a color-changing logo and scroll wheel.
Cons: Mac foundation nw15.
- Not the right choice if you only need a few buttons, slightly larger than a normal product.
4. VicTsing USB Wired Mouse
This simple product maintains the classically curved hand rest and in addition to the primary and secondary click buttons, includes a physical scroll wheel (with button functionality) and a fourth, additional button in the middle. You'll have the familiarity of a desktop mouse at your fingertips for use with your MacBook.
Pros:
- Wired design lends reliability and functions immediately upon being plugged in, buttons are smooth and sweat-resistant, includes settings for sensitivity adjustment.
Cons:
- 5-foot cord may be excessive for use with a laptop, it is chunky compared to the slim MacBook Pro and doesn't make for easy travel.
Additional Tips
If you're a staunch Apple fan or simply enjoy the feel of the Apple Magic Mouse, you'll want to make sure to keep it clean and in working order. Whether you own a rechargeable model or a battery-operated model, they can both benefit from having their sensors checked and exterior cleaned. Follow this guide from Apple to keep your mice safe while you clean it.
Not sure if a mouse is for you but still want more space than the built-in trackpad? The Magic Trackpad 2 from Apple will give you six inches of trackpad space, and comes with the relatively recent Force Touch feature. It has a low profile and connects via Bluetooth, so you can use it with ease.
Also, a mouse pad may be worth considering if you want to protect your mice from physical scratch and have a smooth moving experience. The Belkin WaveRest Gel Mouse Pad with wrist support is a great choice.
Final Words
Purchasing a mouse to use with your MacBook Pro can be a great way to increase your productivity and simplify your workflow. It will make working with complex programs easier, as well as allow you to use your MacBook in a more relaxed format, without confining your hands to a small space.
What mice do you use with your MacBook Pro? Or you don't use one at all because you're used to the trackpad? Tell us and share the stories and reasons why you like it.