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As with all gadgets, not one is spared from the cord-cutting trend. This goes double for the realm of computer mice. Look into any list when selecting the best computer mouse; you’ll find it littered with wireless options. However, when many unbox their brand-new mouse, they find that it comes with a dongle that needs to be plugged into their computer, taking up a much-needed port. There are often ways around this, and below we’ll give you the scoop on how to use a mouse without a dongle.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
And if you’d like additional mice-related resources, we have more articles, like this one explaining what to do when your wireless mouse isn’t working. Also, for those looking to double up, we have a guide on how to use two mice on one computer.
Insider Tip
For those looking for gaming mice, it’s often better to use a wired mouse. This is because wired devices are less prone to lag.
For many wireless mice, you don’t need to connect them via the physical dongle. Check to see if your mouse is Bluetooth-enabled. If this is the case, you’re lucky because it means you have a wireless device. Therefore, you won’t need to take up a USB port with the wireless receiver.
There are, in essence, two types of wireless mice. One type is a Bluetooth mouse, and the other is a Wi-Fi mouse. Depending on your type, you can ditch the wireless receiver.
For more helpful info, check out our guide on what batteries wireless mice use. And for those looking for alternative ways to connect a mouse to their computer, we have a guide on how to use a mouse dongle for a Bluetooth connection.
Look into your user manual and check to see if you’re mouse is powered via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. If it’s Bluetooth, then proceed to the next step. If it’s a Wi-Fi mouse, you won’t be able to connect via a receiver-less connection.
Go to your computer’s control panel and type “Bluetooth” into the search bar. Then click on the option “Bluetooth and other device settings.”
Locate the button functions on your mouse that makes your device discoverable. Then, hold the button down until it blinks.
Wait a few seconds until your device appears on the computer screen. Once the name of the mouse appears, press “Connect.” Then wait for the connection to complete. Finally, test out the mouse to make sure it works properly.
Warning
Using a wireless connection leaves your mouse open to the chance of the signal cutting out.
STAT: The first ever computer mouse was invented in the 1960s. (source)
