The Apple Mouse charges through a Lightning port on its underside

The Apple Magic Mouse charges via a Lightning cable — the same connector used on iPhones and iPads. You plug the cable into the small Lightning port on the bottom of the mouse, then connect the other end to a USB power adapter or your computer. The mouse does not have a battery indicator light, so you will need to check the charge level through your Mac or iPad instead.

Charging takes about two hours for a full battery from empty. You do not need to turn the mouse off while it charges, though you cannot use it while the cable is plugged in — the port is on the underside where your hand rests. Most people charge overnight or during a break from work.

Apple includes a Lightning to USB-A cable with the mouse, but the power adapter is sold separately. If you do not have a USB power adapter, you can plug the cable into your computer's USB port instead, though this charges more slowly.

Key Takeaways

  • The Magic Mouse charges through a Lightning port on the bottom using the included cable and any standard USB power adapter.
  • A full charge from empty takes about two hours, and you cannot use the mouse while it is plugged in.
  • Check battery level in System Preferences on Mac (Bluetooth settings) or in iPad Settings (Bluetooth) — there is no light on the mouse itself.
  • The mouse holds a charge for weeks of normal use, so you only need to charge it once or twice a month in most cases.

Where to find the Lightning port

The Lightning port sits on the flat underside of the mouse, toward the back edge. You will see a small rectangular opening about the size of a grain of rice. This is the only port on the device — there are no other connectors or buttons on the bottom.

To charge, flip the mouse upside down and insert the Lightning connector straight in. It only fits one way. Push gently until you feel it seat — you should not have to force it. The cable will stick out at an angle while charging, which is normal.

How to check the battery level

On a Mac, open System Preferences, go to Bluetooth, and look for "Magic Mouse" in the list of devices. The battery percentage appears next to the device name. You can also click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar at the top right and select "Open Bluetooth Preferences" for the same view.

On an iPad, open Settings, tap Bluetooth, and find Magic Mouse in the list. The battery percentage shows there as well. If the mouse is not paired yet, you will need to pair it first — hold the mouse near your device and follow the on-screen prompts.

There is no way to see the battery level on the mouse itself. Apple does not include a light or display, so checking your device's settings is the only method.

What power adapter to use

Any USB power adapter works with the Magic Mouse. Apple's own 5W USB power adapter (the standard iPhone charger) is sufficient and widely available. You can also use a 10W, 20W, or higher-wattage adapter — the mouse will charge safely at any of these levels.

If you have a USB-C power adapter, you will need a USB-C to Lightning cable instead of the USB-A to Lightning cable that comes with the mouse. These are sold separately from Apple and third-party manufacturers.

Charging through your Mac or iPad's USB port works but is slower than using a wall adapter. This method is fine if you are not in a hurry, but a dedicated power adapter charges the mouse in less time.

How often you need to charge

The Magic Mouse battery lasts two to four weeks on a single charge with normal daily use — typically a few hours per day. If you use the mouse for eight hours or more every day, you may need to charge every two weeks. Light users might go a month between charges.

The battery does not degrade quickly, so you should not notice a significant drop in runtime over the first few years. If the mouse stops holding a charge for more than a few days after a year or two of heavy use, the battery may be wearing out and the mouse may need service.

Troubleshooting a mouse that will not charge

If the mouse does not charge, first check that the Lightning cable is fully inserted into the port. The connector should be flush with the bottom of the mouse with no gap. Try disconnecting and reconnecting it a few times — sometimes the connection needs to seat properly.

Next, try a different power adapter or USB port. The cable itself may be damaged, or the adapter may not be delivering power. If you have another Lightning cable (from an iPhone or iPad), test with that cable to rule out a faulty one.

If the mouse still will not charge after trying different cables and adapters, the Lightning port or internal battery may be damaged. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store to discuss repair or replacement options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the mouse while it is charging?

No. The Lightning port is on the underside where your hand rests, so the cable blocks normal use. You will need to unplug the mouse to use it again. Most people charge overnight or during breaks to avoid interrupting their work.

Does the Magic Mouse come with a power adapter?

No, only the Lightning to USB-A cable is included. You need to provide your own USB power adapter, though most people already have one from an iPhone, iPad, or other device. Any standard USB adapter works.

How do I know when the mouse is fully charged?

Check the battery percentage in your Mac or iPad's Bluetooth settings. When it reaches 100 percent, the mouse is fully charged. There is no light or notification on the mouse itself, so you must check your device's settings.

What if the battery drains very quickly?

If the mouse only holds a charge for a few days after previously lasting weeks, the battery may be failing. Try charging it fully and using it for a few hours to confirm the issue is real and not just a display glitch. If the problem continues, contact Apple Support.