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Best Mouse For AutoCAD And 3D Modelling In 2023 Review

There are a few things you need to consider when selecting the perfect mouse for AutoCAD or 3D modeling. It must offer accuracy, precision, and a minimum amount of lag. Extra features such as button remapping are also excellent.

There are basically two options for this type of performance: an industry-specific mouse or a gaming mouse. So we decided to review the very best products currently on the market.

So, let’s take a look at them and find the best mouse for AutoCAD and 3D modelling…

Best Mouse For AutoCAD And 3D Modelling In 2023 Review

Top 8 Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling Review

  1. 3Dconnexion 3DX-700052 – Best Industry Specific Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  2. 3Dconnexion 3DX-700034 – Best SpaceNavigator Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  3. Logitech G602 – Best Lag Free Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  4. Logitech M570 – Best Static Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  5. Logitech G600 – Best Programmable Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  6. ELECOM M-XT3DRBK – Best Thumball Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  7. Razer DeathAdder Chroma – Best Gaming Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling
  8. Kensington K72359WW – Best Expert Trackball for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling on Chromebook or PC

1 3Dconnexion 3DX-700052 – Best Industry Specific Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

We must include a mouse that has been specifically designed for use with CAD work. The 3Dconnexion Cadmouse is well regarded in the industry and is an evolution of a Logitech product. So you know it started with a solid foundation.

This is a wired mouse via USB, and it includes a nice soft shell carrying case. The most significant difference between this mouse and a regular mouse is its seven button design, which has been cleverly integrated and almost hidden.

High precision…

Thanks to the high precision laser sensor, the Cadmouse is accurate up to 8,200 dpi. Specially shaped PTFE feet also assist by offering constant responsiveness and vibration dampening for smooth and precise movement.

Featuring a Smart Mouse Wheel, this allows users to control click-to-click zooming in CAD applications. Speedy scrolling is also made possible, complete with inertia effects in browsers and documents.

App-specific customization…

Just as well-designed as the mouse is 3Dconnexion’s software package, by downloading it from their website, you can fully customize your mouse operations to specific programs. It is easy to navigate through tabs and drop-down menus.

Assign the even buttons to perform specific tasks that are suited to each individual program. In addition, by pushing the button below the scroll wheel, you have access to gesture controls, further increasing personalization options.


3Dconnexion 3DX-700052

Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • CAD specific designed mouse.
  • High precision laser sensor.
  • Full customization possible using software.

Cons

  • Not as affordable as other products.
  • No wireless function.

2 3Dconnexion 3DX-700034 – Best SpaceNavigator Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

While our first product was aimed more towards CAD applications, this next product also from 3Dconnexion has 3D modeling in mind. This is not designed to replace your mouse; it is for working alongside your existing mouse.

If you’re right-handed, you will use your regular mouse with your right hand while operating the SpaceNavigator with your left. It allows you to efficiently navigate 3D models on the screen, reducing the need to memorize keyboard shortcuts.

Becomes second nature…

The SpaceNavigator stays static on your desk, unlike a conventional mouse. Movements include vertical by pulling and pushing the rubber dial. Horizontal movements can be made up, down, left, and right, while there is also a left and right twisting movement too.

Once you become familiar with making these inputs with your left hand, your intuition takes over. Each axis is actually incredibly sensitive and only requires minimum input. In addition, there are two buttons that can be mapped to program-specific shortcuts.

More than you’d expect…

While this sounds incredibly appealing for navigating around on-screen 3D models, there are other uses. For those that complete photo editing, being able to navigate around a large image and zoom in and out is excellent.

This way, your left-hand takes care of navigation tasks, while your right hand is left to handle the editing exclusively. This product’s build quality is particularly impressive with a heftiness and sturdiness that offers confidence in a long and productive product life.


3Dconnexion 3DX-700034

Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • Specifically designed for 3D modeling.
  • Intuitive controls with further useful applications.
  • Premium materials and excellent build quality.

Cons

  • Traditional mouse is still required.
  • Software could be more user-friendly.

3 Logitech G602 – Best Lag Free Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

After checking out two industry-specific products, it’s now time to move over to the gaming space. Logitech makes high-quality peripherals at affordable prices and has been doing so for nearly 50 years now.

Although this is primarily a gaming device, many of the characteristics required are shared across uses. Both gamers and CAD or 3D designers require responsiveness, accuracy, and precision, all of which this mouse has.

Breaking the barriers…

Gaming products can tend to be a bit obnoxious. This isn’t the case here, with the design being subdued with only a hint of “gamer.” The sculpted ergonomic design, including a wing for your thumb, is surprisingly comfortable, especially after prolonged use.

Overall there are 11 buttons on this mouse. Besides the regular left and right panels, there are also six thumb buttons. On the very left, there are two small buttons for adjusting DPI, along with the clickable scroll wheel.

Make it your own…

By installing the Logitech software, you can completely customize this mouse, remapping the mechanical switches to your favorite functions. Useful when using varied applications, you can change the DPI sensitivity on the fly using the G10 and G11 buttons.

This is a wireless mouse and requires two AA batteries for operation. The signal is sent to the PC via a USB dongle, and a set of batteries will last up to 250 hours. Inputs are received lag-free providing precise and accurate control.


Logitech G602

Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros

  • Subtle design features for a gaming mouse.
  • Comfortable and ergonomic design.
  • Completely customizable functions.

Cons

  • Wireless operation only.
  • Batteries require changing often for regular use.

4 Logitech M570 – Best Static Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

When working on a large project, you could be stuck at your desk for hours on end. It’s during this situation that comfort and ergonomics become paramount. If you haven’t already used a trackball before, maybe now is the time to give it a go.

The Logitech M570 has garnered an almost cult-type following, with users swearing by them. Trackball technology is nothing new, and this product had been around for a while. But by combining a conventional mouse with a trackball, there’s plenty of appeal.

Different, yet familiar…

While the M570 stays stationary on the desk, you place your hand over it like a conventional mouse. There are two panel buttons, a clickable scroll wheel, along with two small back and forward buttons next to the left panel.

Instead of moving the device around, your right thumb controls a blue removable ball. It doesn’t take much practice for you to perform highly accurate tracking. This also allows for use almost anywhere, even on your lap or chair’s armrest.

Complete freedom…

This is a wireless-only device, which connects to your PC using a USB nano dongle. Logitech uses Unifying Technology, allowing connection for up to five other Unifying-compatible devices on the one receiver.

Battery life is fantastic, too, requiring only a single AA battery that lasts up to 18 months. With the use of the Logitech downloadable software, you can even remap all the buttons to perform any function you wish.


Logitech M570

Our rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Pros

  • Comfortable and ergonomic static design.
  • Long and efficient battery life.
  • Remappable buttons using Logitech software.

Cons

  • Larger than a conventional mouse.
  • Learning curve required.

5 Logitech G600 – Best Programmable Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

Next in our Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling reviews, we have yet another product from Logitech, and it’s also a gaming mouse. The G600 could get away with sitting alongside your office computer with its predominantly black design. That is until you check the right side and notice all the shortcut buttons.

There are an astounding 20 buttons available for use on this stealth mouse. That has the potential to reduce keyboard reliance, making single-handed operation possible. It is relatively comfortable and won’t cramp your wrist after heavy workloads.

Accessible layout…

In addition to the left and right panel buttons, plus a pink panel button, a clickable scroll-wheel can also be tilted left or right. Just below the wheel are two more small buttons. An incredible 12 additional buttons can be located in the thumb rest area.

Every one of these functions can be fully customized to perform whatever task you wish. This is all completed using the software downloaded from Logitech’s website. Three profiles can be saved to the software and another three to the mouse itself.

Accurate performance…

Depending on which program you’re using or what task you are performing, you may require different levels of responsiveness. This can quickly be changed on the fly between 200 and 8,200 dpi.

Tracking using this wired USB mouse is amazingly accurate, no matter which DPI setting you have dialed in. Movements are fluid with no noticeable lag, along with control inputs. If you’re prepared to invest the time setting up shortcuts, this could be a particularly useful tool for you.


Logitech G600

Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros

  • Fully customizable controls.
  • 20 buttons available.
  • Precise and accurate, lag-free inputs.
  • Change the dpi settings on the fly.

Cons

  • Need to invest time in setting shortcuts.
  • Number of buttons can be overwhelming.

6 ELECOM M-XT3DRBK – Best Thumball Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

You might have been intrigued by the trackball mouse that we showed you earlier. It’s amazing how fine the motor skills can be in your thumb. This translates perfectly to a static trackball-style mouse.

The ELECOM thumb-operated trackball mouse is excellent for when you need to spend hours at the computer. Less hand movement results in less strain on your wrist, elbow, and arm, resulting in higher performance with reduced fatigue.

Going beyond convention…

Similar to the other trackball mouse, apart from the ball in the thumb rest area, it appears to be a conventional mouse. Besides the left and right panel buttons, there are an additional two for use with your ring finger and pinky.

On the very left, there are two small buttons that can be programmed to perform any task you wish. Between the left and right buttons is the clickable scroll wheel. This can also be manipulated left and right for additional functions.

Packed with features…

This is a wireless device that connects to your Windows or Mac PC using a USB dongle. This mouse is powered by one AA battery, and battery life averages over a year before replacement is necessary.

Sensitivity can be controlled by adjusting the dpi setting between 750 and 1,500 dpi. It is easy to reassign any of the control functions to perform any function you prefer by downloading the software package.


ELECOM M-XT3DRBK

Our rating:5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

Pros

  • Comfortable design reduces strain and fatigue.
  • Reprogrammable buttons and controls.
  • Compatible with both Windows and Mac.

Cons

  • Trackball needs to wear in before feeling smooth.
  • Software not as user-friendly as competitors.

7 Razer DeathAdder Chroma – Best Gaming Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling

Next in our reviews of the Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modeling, we go back to another gaming mouse, this time from Razer. If you know anything about gaming, you’ll also know that Razer doesn’t really do subtle. This is from their Chroma line, which means that it can perform incredible RGB light displays.

If that hasn’t put you off, then keep reading because there are some other huge benefits to this mouse. Especially when it comes to precision and accuracy, which is of utmost importance for both CAD and 3D modeling.

Absolute precision…

The laser sensor in this mouse is capable of providing sensitivity of up to 16,000 dpi. That is the highest level of any product here. Being a wired mouse via USB also means that there is absolutely no noticeable lag when making inputs, either.

Compared to some of the other gaming products we’ve shown you, the controls are much more basic. You get a left and right panel button, two thumb buttons, and a clickable scroll wheel, which are all fully customizable.

Hold on to it…

The DeathAdder feels a lot slimmer than the other products so far. It is still comfortable to hold and feels like it curves naturally to your hand shape. There is a rubber panel in the thumb rest area that is soft and provides excellent grip.

The scroll wheel also has some nicely textured rubber that gives a satisfying feeling of control. If you’re looking for a mouse with minimum fuss, along with stable, precise, and accurate performance, then this is for you. Oh yeah, and 16.8 million different light colors to choose from.


Razer DeathAdder Chroma

Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • Up to an incredible 16,000 dpi sensitivity.
  • Almost zero lag encountered during use.
  • Comfortable to hold with soft rubber grips.

Cons

  • RGB lighting might be too much of the office.
  • Limited controls compared to other products.

8 Kensington K72359WW – Best Expert Trackball for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling on Chromebook or PC

For our final product, we have another trackball mouse. While the other trackball products are operated using the thumb, the Kensington is a little bit different. Instead, you use your fingers to manipulate the ball.

The design is the least conventional of them all but manages to offer a tremendous amount of comfort. This is a wireless device that connects using the old 2.4 GHz USB dongle and is powered by two AA disposable batteries that should last up to 12 months.

Interesting design…

Upon first inspection, the device looks comfortable thanks to the detachable leatherette wrist rest. Sitting front and center is the large red trackball. Surrounding the ball is what’s called a scroll ring, which functions just like a scroll wheel.

In each of the four corners outside the trackball and scroll ring are four buttons. With your middle fingers resting on the trackball, your thumb and pinky will naturally sit over the front left and rear right buttons. Each of the four buttons can be manually programmed.

Connect your way…

If you prefer not to take up a USB port with the dongle, and your PC supports it, you can connect using Bluetooth 4.0 instead. This not only extends battery life substantially but also offers a wireless connection over a frequency with less chance of interference.

This mouse is not only compatible with Windows PCs. It has also been optimized for use with Chrome OS. That makes it the perfect companion for anybody who has made the switch to a Chromebook from their Mac or Windows device.


Kensington K72359WW

Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • Comfortable.
  • Ergonomic design reduces strain.
  • Connect using 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth 4.0.
  • Compatible with Windows and Chrome OS.

Cons

  • Buttons are noisy when clicked.
  • No rechargeable battery.

Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling Buying Guide

Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling Guide

We bet you never knew how many choices there were available when looking for a mouse to complete AutoCAD and 3D modeling. Each of the products we have just shown you are excellent in their own unique ways.

When it comes to choosing a product that suits your own needs exactly, that can become a little more difficult. That’s why we’ve included this handy buying guide. We will identify some key differences that you may not have already considered.

Conventional Style

For those that prefer a conventional mouse, there are four to choose from here. The 3Dconnexion has been specifically designed for CAD work, while the remaining three were designed for gaming.

The Logitech G600 and G602 are both understated, while the Razer DeathAdder gives the full RGB gaming treatment. Each of these products offers fantastic, precise function, and it will come down to how many programmable buttons you would prefer.

Unconventional Designs

Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling Design

Three of the products use the older style trackball. Although there will be a learning curve required, the results will be a much more accurate and responsive performance. The Kensington uses finger control, while the other two use thumb control.

Both the Logitech 502 and ELECOM are similar; however, the ELECOM has a slight edge with more programmable buttons. We really liked using the trackball, even if just for the relief it provided to our wrist, elbow, and arm.

The Ultimate Combo

For the ultimate combination when it comes to either AutoCAD or 3D modeling, pairing the 3Dconnexion products together is incredible. Being able to navigate with the SpaceNavigator in your left hand and edit with the mouse in your right provides a next-level experience.

Hopefully, you have a much better understanding by now and more confidence to make that final decision before purchasing one of these great products. If you are still unsure, then hang around, as, up next, we reveal what we think is the best mouse for 3D modelling and AutoCAD of them all.

What’s your Vocation?

We have several reviews dedicated to highly vocation-specific use. For reviews of the latest digital workspaces, please read our Top 5 Best Touch Screen Monitors Review, our Best Standalone Tablets for Graphic Designers and Artists Review, our Best Chromebooks for Artists Review, our Best Drawing Tablets Review, and our Best Fine Point Stylus Pen Review.

Or suppose you need an optimized physical workspace? No problem! Head to our Best Desk for Artists Review and our Best Drawing Boards Review!

For all your printing and scanning needs, read about the Best Printers for Art Prints, our Best Plotter Printers Review, our Best Printers for Photos Review, our Best Portable Photo Printers Reviews, our Best Scanner for Artwork Review, our Best Photo Scanner with Feeder Review, our Best Large Format Scanner Review and the Best 3D Printers currently on the market!

For further mouse options, check out our Best Vertical Mouse Reviews and the Best Mouse for Architects in 2023!

OK, back to the best AutoCAD and 3D Modeling Mouse…

So, What is the Best Mouse for AutoCAD and 3D Modelling?

To be awarded the title of the best product, we have taken the following areas into consideration. The product must be well constructed, comfortable to use, offer useful features, and superior performance.

The mouse we feel covers all these areas best is the…

ELECOM M-XT3BRBK

It feels solid, can be used for extended periods in comfort, can be customized to suit your needs, and performs with high precision and accuracy. Everything that’s needed for either AutoCAD or 3D modeling.

Happy designing!

About Paul S. Brunet

Known as the "Tech Lover", Paul is an expert of current and trending technology. Here at TinyGrab, he makes "tech" easy to understand for the average person.

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