Wireless mice are pretty much ubiquitous on devices these days, whether you use a laptop or desktop. In the past, this kind of accessory only connected to your computer using a wireless receiver, but then Bluetooth became mainstream, as it was easier to configure and there was no USB dongle involved.
Although using Bluetooth to connect your mouse is more convenient, and you save a USB port in the process, there are some limitations. For example, when using Bluetooth more often than not, you’ll come across connectivity problems, such as stutter, lag, or freeze as you try to move the pointer around or the peripheral will stop responding entirely.
Alongside the connectivity problems, because of most Bluetooth chips being embedded with the wireless network adapter, sometimes there are driver conflicts or configuration problems.
Also, and perhaps more importantly, Bluetooth only works when Windows 10 is running. If you need to access the advanced recovery options or the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) firmware or Basic Input Output System (BIOS), you’ll need to use a different mouse.
On the other hand, wireless receivers, such as the Logitech Unifying adapter use a different wireless technology that (in my experience) are less susceptible to the problems you may encounter using Bluetooth.
Yes, they use up one of the USB ports available on your computer, but you’re likely to come across fewer problems, and it’ll work to move around the Windows 10 recovery environment and UEFI or BIOS without the need of a cord mouse.
Of course, this solution may not be possible on every scenario, as many devices, such as tablets, only includes one and sometimes no USB ports. However, if you have the choice, for example, if you have a Logitech MX Master 2S mouse, which can connect using Bluetooth or the Logitech Unifying USB receiver, you should consider switching to avoid problems.
Do you use Bluetooth or USB receiver to connect your mouse? Tell us in the comments.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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