What Is Difference Between LED and Laser Mouse?

Computer mouse.

Optical computer mice share benefits over mechanical mice such as increased resolution and usability on a variety of surfaces. LED and laser mice also differ when it comes to how they operate.

LED

An LED mouse is an optical input device that uses a light-emitting diode, or LED, to detect the computer mouse's movement by bouncing red light against the surface on which it travels.

Laser

A laser mouse is an optical computer mouse that uses a laser to detect the mouse's movements.

Sensitivity

LED mice have resolutions up to about 800 dots per inch, while laser mice can have resolutions up to 4,000 dots per inch, allowing them to detect smaller movements than LED mice.

Uses

Because of their sensitivity, laser mice are better for gaming because the slightest movement can be detected, but less-sensitive mice, such as LEDs, may be better for office applications.

Price

LED mice such as the Logitech Optical Wheel Mouse, sold through Amazon for the list price of $9.99, generally cost less than laser mice, such as the Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000, which sells for $79.95 from Microsoft.

References

• Consumer research on Computer Mice: What to Look For

Resources

• Definition of Optical Mouse