Computer Mice

Since the beginning of the computer  revolution, the mouse  has become a staple item. It is comfortable to use, simplistic, accurate and takes up very little room on your desk. It can be used for any and all applications, from general productivity to gaming. Below are some tips on how to find the right mouse for your needs.

Mouse Types

Several mouse types have been created over the years, starting with the standard mouse with a rolling trackball  within the body of the mouse. While the trackball model is slightly out-of-date, it does suffice for the basic computer user. However there are many newer types, which although more expensive, offer particular advantages over the old standard.

When choosing, there are two things to consider:

1. How mobile do you need to be? The more you move around, the more you should think about going cordless.
2. How uncomfortable is it to use the mouse you have now? Maybe it's time to go for something ergonomical. See our guide on Ergonomic Mice.
3. Are you a gamer? You should probably look into Gaming Mice.

Mechanical Mice  The oldest of mice technology involves a sensor tracking a ball as it rolls around inside the mouse on a mouse pad. Options include number of buttons (usually two or three) and scrolling button (seen here). Reasonable for the average computer user. Inexpensive. Requires periodic cleaning.	Optical Mouse  Works on just about any surface using an LED light that acts as a highly receptive sensor instead of an internal trackball. Optical mouse is a slight misnomer, as many mechanical mice use optical sensors to detect the movement of the ball. Much more precise with smoother scrolling. Wireless models available and some may even include an optional scrolling trackball for more versatility. For gamers, an optical gaming mouse  is a must. Read our guide on gaming mice  for more information.	Wireless Mouse  Wireless mice are usually optical or laser. Very few use trackballs. Conventional wireless mice operate with a radio or infrared signal and require a receiver, which attaches to your computer's PS/2 or USB port. Some are compatible with a wireless keyboard.  Don't forget about the batteries.  Optical mice will drain battery five times faster than mechanical mice and will need to be recharged often. Not the best choice if you must use the mouse all day long.

Trackball-style Mouse  Ergonomical design is better for your hands. It doesn't roll, but it uses a trackball that you control with the tips of your fingers. Usually wired, but some use optical technology. Trackball mice require some getting used to because they feel different. There are a limited number of left-handed trackball mice on the market. They require periodic cleaning like mechanical mice do.	Biometric Mouse  Built-in fingerprint reader for extra security. This new security technology is the latest in state-of-the-art technology. Not as popular in the mainstream market, because it has yet to switch over to optical technology. Pricier than the other mice, which are still quite dependable for the average user.	Bluetooth Wireless Mouse  More expensive than conventional wireless mice. No receiver required; you connect directly to your computer. Reduces clutter, but may still require a base stand for recharging. 10-meter range. This is excellent for giving presentations. Because it is "Bluetooth," it can connect to 7 Bluetooth devices at once, such as a computer, input device, PDA, scanner,  printer  or mobile phone.

Compatibility

When choosing a mouse, you don't need to worry about it being compatible with your computer. Almost every mouse made by any company will work on your PC or Mac. As long as the mouse has the correct USB or PS/2 connections, you can use any mouse you choose. Just be sure to double check specifications should there be any operating system requirements. Below are some special mice: one made for PC and one made for Mac.

Microsoft Intellimouse  is a scroll button, optical, cordless mouse that is also ergonomical to reduce wrist strain and the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injury. It runs on batteries and features a tilt wheel, Microsoft's version of a 4-way scrolling wheel/button. Apple's newest mouse, the Mighty Mouse,  features an all new scrolling mouse button that not only scrolls vertically, but also horizontally and can also roll in a circular fashion. Its single-click exterior is deceptive as it can actually both right and left click. It can also be squeezed on its sides, which for Mac  users (Tiger  OS X primarily), allows them to directly interact with Exposé.  Check this information on Apple's Web site.

Major Manufacturers Logitech  Microsoft  Evoluent  Hewlett Packard  Kensington  Micro Innovations

Number of Buttons

The number of buttons has been one of the most contentious aspects of mouse design since the mouse was introduced to wide use by Apple.

• For a long time, the single button mouse was standard for Macs (now replaced by the "Mighty Mouse" ), while most other PCs used a two or three button plan.
• Buttons on newer models are often programmable.
• Two and three button mice are still available, but now there are mice with a slew of features:
• Thumb button or buttons.
• Scroll/tilt wheel which doubles as a button.
• "Hand" buttons positioned under the middle finger, behind the wheel.
• Pinky buttons.

Connecting to Your Computer

There are a number of ways that your mouse can "talk" to your computer.

• PS/2 Port
• The oldest form of connection still widely available, looks like a round port with several pins.
• Probably has a glyph of a mouse near it. Color-coded turquoise. (Keyboard connections are color-coded purple.)
• PS/2 ports serve their purpose; it is sometimes better to have dedicated keyboard and mouse ports so that they don't take up USB ports.
• USB
• USB mice are becoming more popular because every computer available today has a USB port.
• Many mice come with PS/2-USB adapters so that they can be used on many computers.
• Keep in mind that some computers, especially laptops, do not have PS/2 ports. You will probably need an adapter to use an external mouse with your laptop if the mouse doesn't have a USB cable.
• May be somewhat faster than PS/2.
• Bluetooth
• If your computer is Bluetooth-ready (Mac users, I'm looking at you!), a Bluetooth mouse can communicate directly with your computer, without wires or ports.

Mouse Resolution

• Resolution, you say? It's just as important for a mouse as for your digital camera. 
• The higher the resolution, the more accurate it is and the less it has to move to create a response.
• The normal level of pixels for a mouse is about 400 to 800dpi, but a mouse used for gaming has up to a 1600 dpi resolution, which makes it very precise. If you are interested in precision mice, please see our Gaming Mice guide

Innovative Mice

The Logitech MX Revolution  features a beautiful, ergonomic design allows your fingers to melt into the curves of this wireless laser mouse. Two frictionless allow scroll wheels that let you click or fly through documents and Web pages. Even better, the scroll button detects the document type to adjust the scrolling speed. Quick Internet search with a click of a button. Simply highlight any word in any application and you'll be rerouted to a search on your preferred search engine. Low battery indicator lets you know when it's time to recharge. Starts at $100.

The Foot Mouse  an interesting product that is useful for anyone who has problems with carpal tunnel syndrome or is otherwise unable to use a hand mouse. Shown left, the Finger Mouse  is a new mouse design that attaches to the user's finger The Pointer Mouse  a snazzy addition to your desktop, when it becomes available. The Evoluent Vertical Mouse 2  is a different take on your typical horizontal mouse, which is meant to reduce the stress and fatigue that causes carpal tunnel syndrome. It offers three buttons, scroll and a thumb button.

Don't Forget

• Mice and keyboards  are often sold together as sets and have been designed to work together as a unit.
• Certain programming features may or may not function if the proper accessories  aren't teamed up with their counterpart.

Video Review

Kensington Expert Optical Mouse

Submitted by: joshrose
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Kensington Expert Optical Mouse

Submitted by: joshrose | Submitted on: 2006-06-14

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