Getting Started with 3D mice (SpaceMouse) (Video Guide)
Watch: Getting Started with 3D mice (SpaceMouse)
Quick Answer
A SpaceMouse is a six-degree-of-freedom controller: push, pull, and twist the cap to navigate the Blender viewport while your regular mouse selects and edits. Setup is three steps — install the vendor driver, plug in the device, and tune sensitivity in Blender's Input preferences. Blender supports these NDOF devices natively; no add-on is required.
This video provides an in-depth look at getting started with 3D mice in Blender. Below, we summarize the key takeaways with citations to official documentation.
What is a 3D mouse and why use one with Blender?
A second hand for the viewport. 3Dconnexion's devices — the category the SpaceMouse name comes from — sense six degrees of freedom (3Dconnexion coined the 6-DOF navigation category; see background on 3Dconnexion). In Blender, that means simultaneous pan, orbit, and zoom with one hand while the other hand keeps working on the model. Blender's built-in navigation works fine without one; the SpaceMouse removes the constant switching between navigating and editing.
How do you set up a SpaceMouse in Blender?
- Install the vendor driver for your OS — Blender reads the device through it.
- Connect the device (USB or wireless receiver) and confirm the driver detects movement.
- Open Blender — NDOF devices are supported natively; the viewport should respond immediately.
- Calibrate and tune in the Input preferences: NDOF settings control sensitivity, orbit behavior, and which axes are active.
Which model should you start with?
| Model | Strength | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| SpaceMouse Compact | Affordable, same 6-DOF core | First-time buyers, students |
| SpaceMouse Pro | 15 programmable keys, larger rest | Power users with shortcut-heavy workflows |
| SpaceMouse Wireless | Cable-free desk | Multi-device or flexible workspaces |
| SpaceMouse Enterprise | Top-tier keys and ergonomics | Professionals in complex scenes all day |
All four deliver the same 6-DOF navigation into Blender — the differences are buttons, ergonomics, and price, not Blender compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Blender support SpaceMouse without add-ons?
Yes. NDOF/6-DOF device support is built into Blender; the vendor driver handles the OS side, and preferences under Input control the behavior.
Why does my SpaceMouse not respond in Blender?
Check in order: driver installed and running, device detected by the driver, and Blender's Input preferences set to accept NDOF input. Restarting Blender after driver installation resolves most cases.
Can I use a SpaceMouse alongside a normal mouse?
That is the intended setup — the SpaceMouse navigates while the standard mouse selects and edits. They are used simultaneously, not instead of each other.
Top Recommended Products
Here's our complete list of top picks, with detailed justifications:
- 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse Compact 3D Mouse: Compact, affordable 3D mouse that adds 6-degree-of-freedom navigation to Blender, dramatically speeding up viewport navigation and modeling.
- 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse Pro 3D Mouse with 15 Programmable Keys: Professional model with programmable buttons and larger hand rest, ideal for power users who need extensive shortcuts at their fingertips in Blender.
- 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse Wireless with Carry Case: Wireless freedom for desk flexibility, perfect for Blender artists who work in different locations or want a clutter-free workspace.
- 3Dconnexion Space Mouse Enterprise - Premium 6-DOF Controller: Top-tier model with advanced features and superior ergonomics, designed for professional 3D artists working with complex Blender scenes.
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