An increasing number of people these days are looking for a wireless mouse without USB.
That doesn’t seem right, with the sheer number of mouse options these days that come with a wireless mouse AND a USB receiver.
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Problems with USB Receiver
One of the more common problems with this setup is that you have a very tiny USB receiver to deal with.
It’s so small that it’s not always easy to keep track of it.
It only takes a single instance of losing that fingernail-sized receiver to really get annoyed.
When you lose that receiver, the mouse won’t work anymore.
It’s then a bother finding a replacement receiver, and sometimes the user just ends up buying a brand-new mouse with another tiny receiver they’ll eventually lose again.
Also, in some cases you just don’t want to use a USB port, as you need it for other devices.
The Alternative
Both these reasons lead us to using a wireless mouse without USB receivers.
In most cases, a wireless mouse no USB setup means using Bluetooth.
For the Bluetooth mouse without USB, you’ll need to make sure your PC or laptop has a built-in Bluetooth connection.
5 Best Options for Wireless Mouse without USB
Truth be told, there are actually quite a few options available if you’re looking for a wireless mouse without USB.
So, to help you sift through the options, here are some terrific choices you may want to consider first:
1. TeckNet2600DPI Bluetooth Wireless Mouse
“High Efficiency, Low Cost”
Our Rating: 4.0
If you’re looking for great value for your money when you’re in need of a Bluetooth mouse, this TeckNet mouse should meet your requirements.
This doesn’t come with a USB receiver, and instead it just goes with Bluetooth.
Seamless Pairing
There have been a lot of USB receivers used for wireless mice because lots of people tend to have trouble completing a Bluetooth connection.
According to the specs, this is only designed for Windows PCs.
But this one pairs smoothly with various laptops too, including the Chromebook, the MacBook, and the iMac.
You just need to know how to get to the Bluetooth settings to pair the device with the computer.
Once that’s done, you’re good to go with a solid, hassle-free connection.
Compatibility Issues
Just remember that this won’t work with the iPad Bluetooth connection.
Also, if you use this wireless mouse no USB with Mac OS, you’ll lose the function of the side buttons.
Lots of Buttons
This comes with the usual left and right click buttons, plus the clickable scroll wheel.
But you have 2 extra buttons on the left side, which you press with your thumb if you’re right-handed.
These buttons can be used to go from one web page to another while you’re online.
DPI Buttons
Then you also have an extra button right below the scroll wheel.
This lets you cycle through 5 dpi settings.
You can go with a more deliberate 800-dpi setting for more precise cursor control.
Or you can cycle through up to 2600 dpi for a zippy cursor flying through your screen.
The TruWave technology here lets you work on a lot of surfaces, so you don’t absolutely need a mousepad to get the mouse working smoothly.
Easy Use
The shape of the Bluetooth mouse without USB also tells you right away that a lot of thought has gone to its design.
The right side of the mouse is a bit shorter and smaller, to accommodate the natural positions of your pinkie and ring fingers.
The sides of the mouse have deep contours so that you won’t have to force your hand to spread open for long hours.
These sides have textured surfaces for a surer hold on the mouse, even when your hands get sweaty.
Also, the left and right click main buttons have a slight curve so your fingers rest on these buttons more comfortably.
With this design, you should be able to use the mouse for long hours of work and gaming.
Durability
The mouse won’t just quit on you too easily, as it’s designed to last a good while.
The main buttons can last up to 8 million clicks, so even gaming isn’t a problem.
Efficient Battery Use
The annoying thing is you have to buy 2 AAA batteries yourself, but at least you won’t have to buy new ones for 2 years.
That’s as long as the 2 AAA batteries are expected to last, as the mouse uses the power efficiently.
This also has a very effective sleep mode with 3 levels of Intelligent Power Saving (IPS).
It saves a bit of power every 3 seconds you’re not using it.
It then goes into a second IPS level after 10 seconds of idleness.
It really goes into hibernation mode when you don’t use the mouse for 8 minutes straight.
2. Microsoft Arc Mouse (ELG-00001)
“Cool Futuristic Laptop Mouse”
Our Rating: 4.5
At first glance, this doesn’t look like a mouse.
Instead, it looks like a smartphone melted and someone tried to bend the smartphone.
Actually, this Arc Mouse was specifically made to be bent and straightened for use.
Straight and Portable
This Bluetooth mouse without USB can go in a straight position, so it does look like a prototypical smartphone.
That way, it’s pocketable in a way that most “portable” mice aren’t.
You can just slip it into your shirt’s front pocket or in your back pocket.
It’s only 2.9 ounces in weight, with dimensions of 5.18 inches in length, 2.17 inches in width, and just 0.56 inches in thickness.
Looks Great
It actually looks great, and you have 4 colors to choose from.
If you don’t like the usual black, you can go with soft pink, sage, or lilac.
This is great for use out in public, especially with your laptop.
Curved Use
When you’re ready to use this, you can just snap it into its curved position.
The loud snap tells you that it’s ready to get to work.
When it’s curved, you then have a traditional mouse shape on which you rest your whole hand.
You can then use your pointer finger on the top part of the mouse acting as the track pad.
You’re able to scroll vertically or horizontally much more easily.
There’s a left and right click too, and it tracks very accurately as well.
Wireless Bluetooth
This works with any computer or laptop with Bluetooth 4.0 enabled.
It’s also supposed to be just a Windows mouse, and it works for Windows 8 onwards.
Windows will recognize the Arc Mouse among your Bluetooth devices.
It only needs a few seconds to pair.
Compatibility with Mac
But we also tried this wireless mouse no USB with a 2019 MacBook Pro 15, with Bootcamp for Windows and Apple OS.
While the MacBook didn’t quite recognize the Arc Mouse right away, we just pressed and held the Bluetooth button on mouse.
After 3 seconds of holding the button, the mouse connected to the MacBook.
The range is about 5 meters in an office setting, but can extend to 10 meters in a more open outside area.
Easy Maintenance
This now gives you the ability to scroll without actually having a scroll wheel.
More to the point, you no longer have that opening where dirt and dust can get in to muck up the works.
This also uses 2 AAA batteries, and your purchase includes 2 alkaline batteries.
These batteries should last for 6 months with normal use.
Versatility
At first, it seems like a very simple mouse with left and right click areas, plus the scrolling including side to side.
But it works nicely for work, and you can use it for games like you’d use a regular mouse.
Your best bet is to use it with a Windows 10 OS, and then you can download the Microsoft Keyboard and mouse Center software.
This lets you adjust the scroll sensitivity and dpi settings.
We found it ideal to set the dpi to 1,200 dpi, so that you get accurate screen travel without lags.
3. Logitech M535 Bluetooth Mouse
“Reliable Travel Mouse for Laptops”
Our Rating: 4.5
It’s been said that there’s no list of the best mice for any category without at least mentioning a single Logitech model.
It’s one of the foremost brands in the mouse industry, with a solid reputation for building a wide range of mouse models with reliable performance and durability.
This one is meant for mobile use, as it’s excellent with your laptop.
It’s very much like the M335, except that the M535 is a wireless mouse without USB.
Bluetooth Versatility
As long as you have a device with Bluetooth enabled, you can use the M535 with no trouble.
This Bluetooth mouse without USB connects with a PC, laptop, or even a tablet.
You can get this to work with Windows (Windows 7 onwards), Macs (Mac OS X 10.8 onwards), Chrome OS, and Android (3.2 and onwards).
However, there may be issues using this wireless mouse no USB option with the newest versions of Windows 10.
Logitech Options Software
If it does work, you can then use the Logitech Options Software to adjust the button configuration of the mouse.
With the software, you’re able to enable gesture support on MacOS and Windows
This works with lots of different table surfaces, including metal tables in coffee shops and wooden desks.
The laser-optical sensor offers accurate control over the cursor.
This should work well, though you may want to adjust your Bluetooth settings.
Prevent connections and power from being disabled (which usually happens to save battery power) and you’ll have a secure wireless connection.
Comfy Shape
This has a symmetrical shape, so it’s familiar when you hold it, which means it’s okay for left-handed users.
It has rubber grips on the side, with deep contours for a sleeker shape that’s easier to grasp for long periods.
It’s not too big at all, and even smaller hands (or bigger hands, for that matter) won’t have any trouble with its size.
It’s less than 4 inches long, with a width of 2.4 inches and a height of 1.3 inches.
It weighs barely anything, with a weight of just 82 grams.
Even after hours of use, the shape and the weight won’t tire out your hand too much.
Helpful Buttons
This doesn’t come with just a clickable scroll wheel.
The scroll wheel here actually tilts left and right, so that you’re able to scroll sideways.
If you’re dealing with a large spreadsheet document or an image to edit, this feature can really simplify your work.
Battery Power
This works with a single AA battery, which does help to cut down on the mouse weight.
But this single battery on its own can last up to 10 months of use.
The LED light on the mouse will tell you when you’re losing too much battery juice so you can replace the battery at a convenient time.
4. Kensington Expert Wireless Trackball Mouse (K72359WW)
“Prevents Repetitive Strain Injury”
Our Rating: 4.5
A single look at this mouse will immediately tell you that it’s not your usual mouse.
There’s a huge red track in the middle, which should be a clue.
But if you’re tired of having painful hands and wrists after using a regular mouse, it’s time to think of this trackball from Kensington.
Wireless Options
You can use this to pair with your computer or laptop through Bluetooth 3.0/5/0 LE, and that frees up a USB port for other uses.
But if you want, you’re also able to use a nano receiver.
The main problem with the Bluetooth mouse without USB option is that you have no other way to connect if you’re having issues with the Bluetooth connection.
If you’re having any trouble with Bluetooth for any reason, at least you have a backup wireless connection to rely on.
This doesn’t work with Macs if you’re going with a Bluetooth connection, but it works fine with the nano receiver.
Configuring the Controls
This has a large red trackball measuring 55 mm.
You can turn that any which way to control the cursor and move through web pages and documents.
The trackball is absolutely spherical, with a hard surface to help your fingers cat a firm connection to it.
Around the trackball, you also have buttons you can use.
Download the free Kensington Works customization software, and then you’re able to assign various specific functions to all of the buttons.
The software also allows you to set the scrolling speed and adjust the cursor speed.
Smooth and Reliable
The DiamondEye Optical Tracking system is absolutely reliable, and you’re able to move the cursor quickly to wherever on screen you want it to go.
The trackball moves fluidly, so the cursor goes where you want.
Comfy Use
You can use this comfortably, whether you’re left-handed or right-handed.
The symmetrical design allows for ambidextrous use.
There’s also a detachable wrist rest with soft cushioning for your hand and wrist.
You just set your hand here, while your fingers manipulate the trackball without moving the mouse in place.
How to Use it Well
Your best bet is to set either the upper left or upper right button to drag lock.
This keeps you from manually dragging stuff on the screen.
It’s one of those activities that tend to end up with repetitive strain injury.
You just use the button to click on an item, move it with the trackball, and then drop it wherever you want with the same button.
As for the trackball, it’s best if you just use the index finger, with some help from the middle finger every now and then.
What you don’t want to do is use your thumb with the trackball, which will just lead to RSI as well.
5. Logitech M557 Bluetooth Mouse
“Reliable Bluetooth Mouse”
Our Rating: 4.5
This is one deceptive mouse, because at first glance it looks so simple.
But a closer look reveals its many features that make life easier for you when you’re working on your PC.
Compatibility
When this was launched, it was during the time of Windows 8.
This was made to make life easier with that infernal OS, but it’s actually compatible with Windows 7 and 10 too.
It works with Mac OS X 10.6.8 or later, and it works with Chromebook as well.
Just make sure you’re using a Bluetooth-enabled device, and you’re okay.
Simple Shape
This looks like an unassuming bar of soap, with a basic rectangular symmetrical design.
It’s made with both left and right-handed users in mind, as this symmetrical design doesn’t keep lefties from using this.
It measures 100 mm long (about 3.9 inches), 58 mm wide (2.3 inches) and 34 mm thick (1.3 inches).
It only weighs 107 grams, and that’s with the batteries inside.
It offers a nice fit for your hand, whether you’re using a palm or fingertip grip on the mouse.
Basic Controls
You do have the familiar left and right click buttons, along with the expected scroll wheel.
This scroll wheel is a bit more advanced, though, since you’re able to tilt it left and right.
That makes sideways scrolling a much easier exercise.
Configurable Buttons
In fact, everything here seems to make life much easier.
Sure, there’s the Windows 8 Start Screen Button, which doesn’t make much sense for most people who don’t use that rather unpopular OS.
But if you do use Windows 8, the button right under the scroll wheel lets you switch between the full screen Win8 interface and the regular Windows desktop.
For others who use Windows 10, it helps that the buttons can be configured.
You’re able to assign functions to the buttons for greater efficiency.
You’re also able to adjust how each button works to match your needs and preferences.
Long Battery Life
This uses 2 AA batteries, and they’re usually part of the purchase.
You can expect the batteries to last about a year before you need to replace them.
It has a smart sleep mode, and you can always just switch it off when you’re not using it.
The indicator light will tell you when it’s time to change the batteries.
Wireless Mouse without USB: Conclusion
If you’re loath to use the USB port on your laptop, then you can go with the wireless mouse no USB alternative.
You also won’t have to worry about losing the tiny nano receiver.
With our options for a wireless mouse without USB, you’re sure to have a solid wireless connection, with an ergonomic design and enough buttons for your needs.
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