From video and image editing to writing reports or attending virtual classes, a good productivity keyboard and mouse are your front-line tools to boost all workflows with precision and comfort. We’re talking faster task completion, less strain on your hands and wrists, and smarter navigation that works with you, not against you.
What makes a mouse and keyboard great for productivity? How do you choose the right features for your setup? Let’s explore the wide range of options that offer the best bang for your buck.
Why your mouse and keyboard setup matters
You might not notice it right away, but a cramped keyboard or awkward mouse can chip away at your productivity over time. Minor discomforts build up, like poor key spacing on a keyboard or less room to move with your mouse, could lead to fatigue, poor posture, or repetitive strain injuries.
A proper setup keeps your hands and wrists in a more natural position to help improve posture and reduce physical stress. Smooth, responsive typing and clicking also make long sessions less tiring, helping you stay focused longer. Add customizable shortcuts to the mix, and you can speed up repetitive actions and streamline your workflow. Bottom line: better gear means better workdays.
Key features of a productivity mouse
Shopping for a mouse for office work is likely more than just left-click and right-click buttons. Let’s dig into the features that make a difference in your daily flow:
Ergonomics
Look for designs that contour to your hand or even go vertical to reduce wrist twist. Ergonomic shapes keep you comfortable during long sessions and help prevent strain. This is why there are mice purposely designed to accommodate those who’ve suffered repetitive strain injuries or have more limited hand mobility.
Custom buttons and wheels
Many productivity mice come with extra buttons on the side or top that you can program for tasks like copy/paste, switching apps, or even controlling media. Multiple scroll wheels also work both vertically and horizontally to make browsing and navigation much easier. Once you get used to them, you won’t go back.
Precision sensors
A good productivity mouse includes an adjustable DPI (dots per inch), which controls how sensitive your cursor is to movement. Higher DPI settings allow for faster cursor movements with less physical mouse movement, while lower DPI settings require more mouse movement for the same cursor distance. DPIs from 1600 to 3200 or more are ideal when you need quick navigation across multiple screens or large documents, while 800 to 1200 are perfect for tasks that demand precision, such as graphic design or editing spreadsheets.
Adjusting DPI means you can tailor the experience to your task and working style. Whether you’re fine-tuning a photo or zipping through slides, the right setting helps you stay in control and efficient.
Connectivity
Today’s productivity mice offer several connectivity options: Bluetooth, USB-C, or wireless via RF dongle. Choose one that matches your devices—bonus points if it offers both Bluetooth and dongle options so you can switch between systems. The advantage of wireless RF dongles is they reduce latency to a degree closer to a wired connection compared to Bluetooth connections. Bluetooth, however, is very convenient and appealing because they can come in very small sizes for easier transport.
Multi-device switching
A growing number of mice support multi-device keyboard-mouse combo setups, letting you toggle between your laptop, desktop, or tablet with a single button. Ideal for hybrid workers and multitaskers.
Scroll functionality
Modern scroll wheels come with perks like hyper-fast scrolling for long documents, tilt wheels for side-to-side navigation, or even gesture support for zooming and tab switching. Trackballs are something of a hybrid alternative that rely less on actual hand movement and focus more on movement through your fingers instead.
Battery life
Productivity mice typically use either rechargeable lithium batteries or replaceable AAs. Rechargeable options are more eco-friendly and cost-effective over time, especially with USB-C charging.
Key features of a productivity keyboard
Your keyboard isn’t just for typing—it’s your command centre. Here’s what to look for in the best productivity keyboard features:
Layout
Do you need a full-size layout with a number pad? Or do you prefer a more compact tenkeyless version for portability? Some keyboards also come in low-profile formats for a sleeker, laptop-like feel.
Key feel: mechanical vs membrane productivity
Mechanical keyboards give you a tactile “click” and are beloved for precision and speed, though they can be noisy. They sound a little more like old school keyboards from the earlier years of personal computers, so typing feels more retro because of it. Membrane keyboards are quieter and often cheaper, but may not feel as responsive. There’s no right answer—it comes down to personal preference.
Shortcut customization
Productivity keyboards often allow you to program function keys or macros for things like launching apps, controlling media, or executing multi-step actions in creative software. Different brands will offer different setups to accommodate a higher level of customization or to better fit a certain platform or operating system.
Ergonomics
Look for features like a built-in wrist rest, a split layout, or an angled base to reduce hand strain. Some keyboards will offer more key travel or flatter keys to offer different looks and styles. They may appear to be small touches but they can make a big difference during a long typing session.
Connectivity
Like mice, keyboards now come in wireless options that support Bluetooth, USB-C, or RF dongles. Many allow multi-device pairing, which is perfect if you switch between a personal laptop and a work machine.
Battery & power
Battery life matters. Some keyboards last for months on a single charge, while others offer solar-powered or USB-C recharging, reducing downtime.
Build & material quality
Don’t overlook keycap texture or the sturdiness of the keyboard frame. A solid-feeling keyboard with well-spaced keys can make typing more pleasant and reduce errors.
Wired vs wireless for productivity
Choosing between a wired and wireless setup depends on your priorities, though both have clear advantages.
Wired setups provide lower latency, which means faster, more accurate responses because there’s no wireless signal involved. This is particularly useful for developers, editors, or anyone doing high-precision tasks where even a slight delay can be distracting. You also never have to worry about recharging or swapping batteries, making it a dependable option for full-time desk workers.
Wireless setups, on the other hand, give you more flexibility. Without cords, you’re free to arrange your workspace exactly how you like it, no matter if you’re a minimalist or constantly on the move. Fewer cables also mean a cleaner-looking desk and fewer tripping hazards. If you’re a student moving between classes or a hybrid worker switching between office and home, wireless devices are lightweight, portable, and easy to carry.
Ideal pairings: mice and keyboards that work together
For the smoothest experience, it often pays to buy your mouse and keyboard from the same brand. Logitech, Microsoft, and Lenovo offer multi-device keyboard mouse combo kits that connect using a single USB dongle or Bluetooth profile. That means fewer connection issues and less fuss switching between devices.
Logitech MX Keys + MX Master 3S
A top pick for creatives, coders, and power users, the MX Keys S Bluetooth combo combines premium typing with next-level navigation. The MX Keys keyboard offers responsive keys and smart backlighting, while the MX Master 3S mouse includes a fast, precise scroll wheel and ergonomic grip. Both devices support multiple device pairing, making them ideal for multitaskers who switch between systems.
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Desktop
For those prioritizing comfort and posture, the Sculpt Comfort Desktop combo offers a unique split keyboard layout and cushioned palm rest designed to keep your hands in a natural position. The included mouse features contoured shape with gentle angles to reduce wrist strain. It’s a favourite among users with long workdays or those recovering from repetitive strain injuries.
Lenovo MK540 wireless combo
The Logitech MK540 is a dependable wireless combo that blends comfort, accuracy, and convenience for everyday productivity. The full-size keyboard features media hotkeys, reduced noise, and an ergonomic design with palm rest and adjustable tilt legs—perfect for long typing sessions. The ambidextrous mouse offers smooth tracking and soft rubber grips, while the included USB receiver ensures a stable connection up to 10 metres.
Choosing mice and keyboards based on your work style
Everyone’s workflow is different, so your setup should reflect that.
- Writers and editors should prioritize quiet typing and smooth navigation. Low-profile keyboards with soft keys reduce noise and fatigue during long writing sessions, while a precise scroll mouse helps when editing documents or scanning research.
- Designers and creatives need tactile, responsive keys and mice with customizable buttons. These features speed up tasks in programs like Photoshop or Illustrator and offer greater control during detailed work.
- Developers and coders often prefer mechanical keyboards for their faster key registration and tactile feedback. Pair that with a high-DPI mouse for swift, accurate cursor control across large codebases or multiple monitors.
- Multitaskers benefit from devices that support multiple device pairing and customizable macros. Being able to switch from your laptop to tablet with a single button and automate routine actions can shave valuable seconds off every task—all of which adds up fast.
Testing before you buy
Visit the Best Buy store near you and test our demo units to help you find the right fit for your hands. Can’t test in-store? Best Buy Canada also offers a flexible return policy. Most products can be returned or exchanged within 30 days from the date of your in-store purchase or 30 days from the date your online order is delivered. That gives more time to test your new gear at home or in your workspace.
Check out the Best Buy Return and Exchange Policies page for more details.
The right mouse and keyboard for your productivity
Choosing the right productivity mouse and keyboard features can help you finish tasks faster, work more comfortably, and avoid unnecessary strain. So, take a moment to assess your current setup. If your fingers are sore or your workflow feels clunky, it might be time for an upgrade. The right productivity accessories for remote work can transform your space—and your workday—for the better.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
