Tips To Fix a Gaming Mouse That’s Not Working


As a gamer, it's nearly impossible to get by without a mouse. And chances are you have experienced situations where the mouse refused to work, ruining your game. You don’t necessarily have to throw away a faulty mouse, as it may just need some simple troubleshooting to get it working properly again. There are simple ways to troubleshoot and quickly fix a gaming mouse that’s not working without having technical skills or know-how. 

A gaming mouse that’s not working may be due to hardware, power source, computer settings, or driver issues. To fix problems with the mouse, first, determine if there is a problem with the actual mouse or the computer settings. Then, use the troubleshooting methods in this article to fix the problem.

What Are The Reasons For My Wired Mouse Not Working?

Since various factors could be responsible for the glitches affecting the performance of your mouse, troubleshooting is the first step to solving this problem. To troubleshoot possible mouse problems work through the most common issues that mouse users encounter until you find a solution to the error. Typical mouse issues can range from a loose USB connection to a driver installation error, which can all be rectified easily.

A wired mouse that’s not working may be caused by power or cord-related issues, so check the cord and make sure that the mouse is properly connected to the computer. A faulty USB port could also be responsible for the mouse malfunctioning, so try plugging it into a different port or another computer. 

The following issues could be the reasons for your gaming mouse not working properly:

Reason 1. Power or Cord Problems

If you have a rechargeable mouse like this, try connecting it to a power source because, like any other peripheral, your mouse needs to be powered to work. It could be that you're using a faulty cord to connect the mouse to your computer, so try using a different cord or a different computer to see if that solves the problem. This article from Instructables explains how to fix the cable of a mouse. 

Follow these steps to fix a power or chord problem:

Step 1. Try a Different Cable.

Plug your rechargeable mouse into another power source or disconnect the plug and use a different one. You can try connecting to another computer if one is available. This is an example of a rechargeable mouse that can be used with alternative charging cables that have compatible connection types.

Step 2. Check the Mouse

Plug the mouse into another USB port to confirm if it works. If the mouse works well with another computer, then the problem is not with the mouse. 

Reason 2. Faulty USB Port

When a wired mouse stops working, check to ensure you plugged the cord into the correct USB port on your computer. Unplug the USB cord and try using another port or the mouse with another computer to see if the problem persists. This article by Ifixit explains how to replace a faulty mouse USB connector.

Follow these steps to troubleshoot a faulty USB port:

Step 1. Unplug the Mouse

Unplug the dongle from the computer if the mouse is wireless or the cable if the mouse is wired. 

Step 2. Try Another USB Port

Plug the mouse USB cable into another USB port of your computer, then try using the mouse again to see if it works. However, if the issue persists, consider getting a new computer mouse.

Our guide on how to fix a gaming mouse that is disconnected offers a bit more information on faulty USB connections. 

Reason 3. The Mouse Is Dirty

If your mouse is not responsive or moves inconsistently, it could result from dust or other particles clogging up the mouse. Try cleaning the mouse by moistening a lint-free cloth or a cotton bud with an alcohol spray then carefully clean the mouse. Pointed cotton buds like these are inexpensive and quite handy for cleaning a wired mouse. Now check to see if the mouse works. Check out this YouTube video tutorial by Sheltech for tips on how to clean a gaming mouse.

Follow these steps to clean your mouse:

Step 1. Turn Off and Disassemble the Mouse 

Turn off a wireless mouse before cleaning it. Next, remove the battery, and remove the screws holding the mouse together. Then, use a cotton ball, a lint-free cloth like this one, and alcohol spray to clean the mouse.

Step 2. Thoroughly Dry the Mouse

Allow the mouse to dry before reassembling it. Then give the entire exterior of the mouse body a gentle wipe to remove any dirt. Finally, dry the mouse with a soft cloth. Ensure the mouse is dry before reconnecting it to the computer.

For more help with this task check out our simple tips & tricks to clean a gaming mouse.

Reason 4. Unsuitable Working Surface

While some mice can function well on any kind of surface, some can't. Know what works for your mouse and limit the interruptions by focusing on the light signals it transmits. Try to avoid reflective or uneven surfaces as discussed in our tips to choose between an optical vs. a laser gaming mouse, especially if you're using an older mouse. A mouse pad like this also improves user comfort because it has a softer surface. This article from Computer Station Nation presents a selection of the top three mouse pads, which vary in both materials and designs. 

Summary of Ways To Troubleshoot Gaming Mouse Problems

Wired Mouse Problem How To Fix It Items You May Need To Buy
Power or Cord Problems Make sure the power source is on, and use the cord in another outlet; if the problem persists, consider changing the cord. Multi Charging Cable, Multiple Usb Nylon Braided Charger
Faulty USB Port A faulty USB port can be fixed if changed entirely. Uxcell Mini Usb Type B Female Socket
Mouse Is Lagging or Working Inconsistently Use a cotton ball and an alcohol spray to wipe your gaming mouse. Homefox Cotton Swabs and Amazon Basics 50% Isopropyl Alcohol
Mouse is Not Responding Properly Use the mouse on a Mouse Pad. Jikiou Mouse Pad with Stitched Edge 

What Are The Reasons For My Wireless Mouse Not Working?

A wireless mouse has a more complex configuration than the standard wired mouse plugged into your computer. 

A wireless mouse that’s not working may be due to depleted batteries that need to be replaced. A Bluetooth mouse that’s not working may require reconnection to the computer,  and a USB mouse with a dongle may need to be plugged in again. If the mouse still is not working, try resetting the mouse to get it to function properly. 

Wireless mice are more likely to have interference problems because of the wireless connection. However, the problems with the wireless mouse might not be noticeable at first, but with meticulous attention to detail, identifying and solving the problem is possible.

Your wireless mouse may not be working for the following reasons:

Reason 1. The Batteries are Dead 

If your mouse stops working, the first thing that should come to your mind is to check the batteries. Like every other peripheral device, wireless mice are powered by batteries or an electric power supply. For battery-powered mice like this, open the battery compartment and replace the batteries with new ones to see if it resolves the issue. Depending on the mouse's specifications, it could require  AA batteries like these or AAA batteries like these. The battery designations indicate the battery capacity and size of the batteries. AAA batteries are smaller than AA batteries, and knowing which size fits your mouse is essential.

These steps will help you to fix the problem of dead batteries:

Step 1. Remove the Batteries

Remove the battery cover under the gaming mouse and dispose of the old batteries. This article from EPA.gov explains how to correctly dispose of old batteries. 

A gaming mouse that’s not working may be due to its batteries being flat.
Logitech mice require different sizes of batteries depending on their specifications. Image source: TechNewsToday.

Step 2. Change or Charge the Batteries 

Depending on the kind of batteries, they should either be disposed of or recharged if they are rechargeable batteries like these. Rechargeable batteries, especially Lithium rechargeable batteries, charge efficiently and last longer if used properly.  

Reason 2. The Mouse Disconnects From the Computer

While wired mice like this come with USB cables that connect them to the computer, wireless mice like this come with a USB dongle that connects the mouse to the computer and allows it to communicate with the computer. Sometimes, they can be small enough to be inside the battery compartment, so open it up and check if the small connector is there. Then, remove it and insert it into a USB port to connect the mouse. 

If you've plugged the dongle in before, try unplugging it and wait a few seconds before you plug it in again. Wait for the computer to recognize the mouse and try using the mouse again. 

Follow these steps if your gaming mouse has disconnected from the computer:

Step 1. Check if the Mouse Is On

Firstly check if the mouse is switched on. Next, unplug the mouse USB dongle from your computer,  and plug it back in.

Step 2. Plug the Mouse Into Another USB Port

Then, check if it works with your computer, or just switch the mouse USB with another of your computer's USB ports.

Reason 3. The Mouse Needs To Be Reset

Resetting your computer’s mouse that’s not working will bring it back to the factory default setting, undoing any changes or button configurations that have been made. This means that all changes will return to the default setting after the reset. It is important to note that different mice may have different reset procedures, so you may need to perform a soft or hard reset, depending on the mouse. 

Some mice, like this one, come with functionalities that allow hard resetting, and this resetting method is brand specific. Examples include Logitech, Razer, and Corsair. Windows does not allow resetting your mouse to default settings directly, but you can reset your mouse options individually. Follow this guide from Corsair to help reset your computer mouse. 

Follow these steps to reset your gaming mouse:

Step 1. Open Your Computer’s Settings

Click on the "Win" and "I" button to open your computer's settings and select the mouse option.

Step 2. Reset Your Gaming Mouse

Select additional mouse options to reset your mouse. Our article that explains how to reset a razer gaming mouse that is lagging and freezing also has some helpful tips on how to rest a mouse.

Reason 4. Your Computer Needs To Be Restarted

Sometimes all you need to fix minor glitches on your computer, including a non-responsive mouse, is a simple restart. If your mouse works fine, but after connecting to the computer, it stops working, restarts the computer and then test to see if the mouse is working. This article from Transparent Solutions provides guidance on when and why you should restart your computer. 

Summary of How To Troubleshoot a Wireless Mouse

Wireless Mouse Problem How To Fix It Items You May Need To Buy
Dead Batteries Change old/dead batteries Duracell Coppertop A A Batteries
Bluetooth Mouse is Disconnected or the Dongle Is Disconnected Check the dongle/Bluetooth connection and reconnect it. N/A
Mouse Needs To Be Reset Complete a hard or soft mouse reset. N/A
Restart Your Computer Reboot the system and connect the mouse again. N/A

Troubleshooting for Wired & Wireless Mice

Wired and wireless gaming mice require specific drivers to be installed on the computer so that they operate correctly. Often your computer’s operating system will recognize the new device and prompt you to install the driver directly from the manufacturer's website. Occasionally, the manufacturer may update the driver for the device, and if your computer is not set up to automatically update the drivers your mouse might start to have driver issues. 

To troubleshoot connection issues for a wired or wireless mouse, update the drivers on the computer. Next, run any system updates on the computer and restart it. 

To know more about the differences between wireless gaming mice vs. wired gaming mice check out our article.

Try these tips to fix your wired or wireless gaming mouse that’s not working:

Tip 1. Update the Driver

If the driver for your mouse is out of date, your device may not work correctly or may not connect to the computer at all. 

To solve this, you need to update your drivers by following the steps below:

Step 1. Locate the Driver Manager

This Procedure works for both Mac and Windows. Click “Start”, navigate to “Device manager”, and navigate to “Mice and other pointing devices”.

To fix a gaming mouse that is not working dues to an outdated driver, first go to “Mice and other pointing devices.”
Navigate from “Device manager” to “Mice and other pointing devices.” Image source: Alphr.

Step 2. Update the Driver

Locate "Update driver" and click it. Wait until the update process is complete, and then check to see if your mouse works.

Updating the driver should fix your gaming mouse if it is not working.
The final stage is to click “Update driver” for the driver to be updated. Image source: Alphr.

Tip 2. Update and Restart the Computer

One of many ways you can troubleshoot your wired or wireless mouse is by restarting your computer. A system restart is often enough to resolve many hardware and driver problems. 

To troubleshoot your gaming mouse not working, follow these steps: 

Step 1. Do a Windows Update

This works on both Mac and Windows computers. On your PC, click “Start”, navigate to “Settings”, navigate to “Update & Security”, and navigate to “Windows Update”.

Step 2. Restart the Computer

Select "Schedule the restart" and choose a time that's convenient for you to restart your computer.

Tip 3. Check the Dongle Connection of the Mouse 

Upon connecting your mouse that’s not working to your computer, check that the dongle is in place and hasn’t been moved or shifted out of position. Make sure that you are using a powered hub that is appropriate for a high-powered USB device.

These steps will help to sort out any problem with the dongle connection of the mouse:

Step 1. Plug the Dongle Into a Different USB Port

To check the dongle connection of the mouse, plug the hub into a different USB port on the same computer or another computer. If the issue persists, try plugging directly into a USB port on the computer.

Step 2. Get a New Mouse

However, if it still doesn't work, consider getting a new mouse. Check out our guide on the 7 best wired gaming mice to buy for advice on what mouse will be best for you.

Summary of How to Troubleshoot a Wired or Wireless Gaming Mouse

General Mouse Troubleshooting  How To Do It Items You May Need To Buy
Update Drivers Click Start > Device manager > Mice and other pointing devices > Update driver. N/A
Update Computer Click Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. N/A
Check The Mouse Dongle Connection Connect your mouse directly to your computer USB port. If the problem persists then the mouse may be completely non-functional and may require replacement. Logitech G305 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse

Tips To Fix Gaming Mouse Left-Click Problems

It is possible for a gaming mouse to develop left-click problems but these can also be fixed.

To fix gaming mouse left-click problems, determine if it is a software or hardware issue. Go into the computer settings to confirm that the left button is set as the primary button and that ClickLock is not enabled. For Windows 10, it may be necessary to change a corrupted user profile, run commands, or disable the touchpad. 

Try these tips to fix gaming mouse left-click problems:

Tip 1. Determine if It Is a Software or Hardware Problem

The most used function of the mouse helps confirm commands on your PC and open files and programs. Likewise, its non-functioning is one of the users' most common PC problems. There are dozens of reasons that may not work properly or stop working, and the first is to determine if the left-click malfunction is a software or hardware problem.

These steps will help to determine whether it is a software or hardware problem:

Step 1. Connect the Mouse to Another PC

To check if it's a hardware issue, you can simply connect the mouse that’s not working to another PC and see if it works. If there is no access to another computer, you can connect another mouse to your computer to check if the problem persists. If the hardware turns out to be faulty, your mouse needs to be replaced with something like this.

Step 2. Uninstall the HID (Human Interface Device) Compliance Setting

If the hardware of your mouse is working well, but the mouse is still behaving strangely, then the problem might be a software issue. You can quickly get this sorted by uninstalling the HID-compliant mouse on your computer settings.

To fix your gaming mouse that is not working, you may need to uninstall the “HID-compliant mouse” setting.
Access the interface for troubleshooting software glitches. Image source: Hongkiat.

Tip 2. Confirm That the Left Button Is Set as the Primary Button

The left button of your mouse might not work if you've not set it as the primary button. Follow these steps to set it up. (Both Mac and Windows have the same procedure).

This is how you set your mouse’s left button:

Step 1. Select ‘Left’ as the Primary Button

Go to your computer Settings, select “Devices”, and under the “Mouse” option, “Select the primary button” to be “Left”.

If the left button of your gaming mouse is not working then it has to be reset in the mouse settings of your PC.
Set the left button of your mouse to be the primary button. Image source: Technewstoday.

Step 2. Confirm and Close Settings

Click "OK", close the settings window, and your mouse should be working fine.

Tip 3. Make Sure the ClickLock Feature Is Disabled

To have a better experience with your mouse, make sure the ClickLock feature is disabled. 

Mac and Windows follow the same procedures, so follow the steps below to uncheck the ClickLock Feature on your computer:

Step 1. Navigate to the “Additional Mouse” Option

Open Windows Settings, click  Devices, navigate to “Mouse & touchpad”, then locate and click “Additional mouse options”.

Step 2. Deactivate ‘Turn on ClickLock’ and Save.

Be sure to deactivate "Turn on ClickLock," then click “OK” to save the changes.

If the left-click button of a gaming mouse is not working then the “ClickLock” feature needs to be disabled.
Deactivate the ClickLock feature to get the buttons of your mouse working properly. Image source: Techcult.

Tip 4. For Windows 10, Change the Corrupted User Profile

Follow these steps to change your corrupted user profile and fix your mouse left-click:

Step 1. Add Another User 

Make a new local account by navigating to “Start”, then to “Settings”, then to “Accounts”, and to “Family and Other Users”. Locate and click "Add Someone Else to This PC”. The app will require the new user's sign-up details and name. Enter the details, and a new user profile is ready for use.

Your gaming mouse may not be working properly because of a corrupted user profile.
Changing a corrupted user profile by creating a new one. Image source: Makeuseof.

Step 2. Log Into the New Profile

Log into the new profile and check to see if your mouse’s left-click button is working. Try copying all your user data to the new profile to deter further file corruption.

Tip 5. For Windows 10, Run the SFC and DISM Commands

Running SFC and DISM scans on your computer is one of the best ways to fix the mouse clicks problem, provided your mouse issue is from virus contamination. 

To run SFC and DISM commands on your computer, follow these steps: 

Step 1. Run the SFC/scan now

Open the “Command Prompt” option on your computer, and click "Command Prompt (Admin)" on the list. In this window, type in "SFC/scannow" to run the SFC scan and the command: "DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /restorehealth" to run the DISM command, then press "Enter." 

If your mouse is not clicking properly you may need to run the SFC scan and the DISM command.
To fix a mouse-clicking problem run the SFC and DISM commands. Image source: Onecomputerguy.

Step 2. Restart PC

Restart your PC, and your mouse left-click should be fixed.

Tip 6. For Windows 10, Disable the Touchpad

If you use an external mouse with a laptop, turn off the laptop's touchpad. There is a chance the touchpad might be interfering with the external mouse.

Step 1. Locate the Touchpad and Turn it Off

Press the Windows key, type “touchpad”, and press “Enter”. In the Touchpad settings window, click the “Touchpad” toggle switch to the “Off” position.

If the external gaming mouse is not working it could be as a result of the computer’s touchpad interfering with it.
Disable the computer’s touchpad, as it could be interfering with the external mouse. Image source: Computerhope.

Step 2. Close “Settings” and Use the Mouse

Once the touchpad has been disabled close the “settings” and start using your mouse.

Summary of Gaming Mouse Left-Click Problems and Fixes

Mouse Left-Click Problem How To Fix It Items You May Need To Purchase
Hardware Problem Reinstall or update your mouse driver; if the issue persists, consider getting a new mouse. Glorious Gaming - Model O Wireless Gaming Mouse.
Primary Button Mix-Up Open Windows > Settings > Devices > Mouse. Under "Select your primary button," set the option to "Left." N/A
ClickLock Feature Issues Open the mouse software settings on your computer to turn the ClickLock Feature ON or OFF. N/A
Corrupted User Profile Create a new user profile to fix the problem of a corrupted User Profile. N/A
Touchpad Problems Reset your touchpad and If the problem persists, consider getting a new touchpad. Replacement Touchpad for Hp Chromebook Laptop 
Left-Click Malfunction in Windows Hard reset your computer. N/A

What Are The Reasons For My Mouse Not Tracking?

A mouse could stop tracking unexpectedly, which can affect your gaming performance drastically.

If a mouse is not tracking, it may be due to sensor problems. Clean the sensor and try using the mouse on a mousepad or different surface and see if that solves the problem. Replace the batteries and try plugging the mouse into a different USB port to ensure the problem does not stem from connection issues.

A mouse could stop tracking or start slowing down in which case our article that explains how to fix a gaming mouse that is slow could be helpful.

These are common mouse tracking issues and their fixes:

1. Sensor Problems - Clean the Mouse and Sensor

Wipe the top and sides of your mouse with a cotton swab or non-abrasive cloth, and flip it over to inspect the pads on the bottom. If you see lint buildup around them, remove it using a toothpick. Locate the mouse sensor and gently clean the lens area using a ball of cotton, like this, dampened with rubbing alcohol like this, if you see a smudge on the lens. Dry the mouse with a non-abrasive cloth like this, and ensure it is thoroughly dry before plugging it back into your computer. This article from Microsoft explains exactly how to clean your mouse and keyboard without damaging them.

Your gaming mouse may not be working properly because it needs to be cleaned.
An alcohol wipe can be used to clean a mouse. Image source: Trustedreviews.

2. Uneven Surface - Try Using the Mouse on a Mouse Pad

Are you experiencing difficulty when moving your mouse due to uneven surfaces? Getting a mouse pad like this would quickly solve the problem. A mouse pad has a softer surface which will be smoother and more comfortable than your desk. You might also get an ergonomic  mouse pad with wrist support like this to raise your wrist to a more natural angle. This article from the International Journal of Industrial  Ergonomics explains the benefits of using wrist support.

For a gaming mouse to work properly it should rest on a decent mousepad.
A mouse pad is the best surface for a mouse to function optimally on. Image source: Howtogeek.

3. Power Failure - Replace the Batteries In a Wireless Mouse

If you're having trouble with your wireless mouse, like not being able to locate or track your pointer, or your pointer keeps drifting or skipping, replacing your mouse battery should sort it out. Flip your mouse over, remove the battery cover, remove the old batteries, insert new ones, and put the battery cover back in place. Once you have completed the process, your mouse should work properly again. 

To fix a gaming mouse that isn’t tracking properly or if the pointer isn’t working properly, simply change the batteries.
If the pointer of a mouse starts disappearing it is an indication that the batteries need changing. Image source: Alphr.

4. A Faulty Connection - Try Plugging the Mouse Into a Different USB Port

If you're experiencing a faulty mouse connection, try connecting your mouse through a different USB slot on your computer. The same thing applies if you use a USB port hub like this and there seems to be a problem, just connect the mouse cable to another USB hub port.

If your gaming mouse doesn’t seem to be working properly simply plug it into a different USB port.
Try plugging the mouse cord into different USB ports if the mouse isn’t working optimally. Image source: Computerhope.

Summary of Why a Mouse May Not Be Tracking Properly

Mouse Tracking Problem How To Fix It Items You May Need To Purchase
Sensor Problems  Clean the mouse sensor. Pharma-C-Wipes 70% Isopropyl Alcohol Wipes
Uneven Working Surface Use a gaming mouse pad. Gimars Large Smooth Superfine Fibre Memory Foam Ergonomic Mouse Pad
Power Failure Replace the batteries of a wireless gaming mouse. Energizer AA and AAA Battery Charger with 4 AA NiMH Rechargeable Batteries
A Faulty Connection Plug the USB cable into a different port. Usb Hub 3.0 Splitter,7 Port Usb Data Hub

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