What is debounce time on a mouse?

Debounce time on a mouse refers to the period of time that the mouse's switch is held in the "clicked" state before it is registered by the computer as a valid input. This debounce time is typically measured in milliseconds.

The purpose of debounce time is to prevent unintentional double-clicks or erratic behavior when clicking the mouse button. When a mouse button is pressed, the physical switch can bounce or make multiple contact closures in a very short amount of time. This bouncing can result in the computer registering multiple clicks instead of just one.

By implementing debounce time, the mouse's firmware or software can ignore any rapid, unintended input caused by switch bouncing. Once the debounce time has elapsed, the computer will register the click as a single, valid input.

Debounce time can vary between different mouse models and manufacturers. Some mice may have fixed debounce times, while others may allow for customization or adjustment of the debounce time settings. It is an important factor in the performance and accuracy of a mouse, especially for gaming or other activities that require precise clicking.