Computer Mice and Trackballs

Types of computer mice

Originally, a computer mouse used a weighted rubber ball that rolled across a mouse pad. These mice still exist as an extremely low-priced alternative. Ball-mice cost between $2 and $10. They aren't reviewed, as the only reason to buy one is a low price. Mechanical-ball mice have otherwise been replaced by optical mice, which use an LED, a laser or other light-based technology to track movement and translate the coordinates of that movement to the computer. Optical mice need less cleaning, and they can be used on just about any flat surface, with or without a mouse pad. They don't work as well on reflective surfaces, but an optical mouse is much more sensitive than a mechanical mouse. Most optical mice plug into a USB port, rather than the older PS2 mouse port, and some come with a USB-to-PS2 adapter.

Laser mice are more accurate than LED mice, but reviewers are consistently surprised by how slight the difference is. Reviews say the laser is safe unless you stick it right up to your eyeball. Laser mice can work on pretty much any surface (except mirrors), including glossy or black surfaces. The potential advantage of a laser mouse is increased sensitivity -- meaning it can track smaller movements. This is expressed in dots-per-inch (dpi). While most optical mice can track between 400 dpi and 800 dpi, a laser mouse can track up to 4,000 dpi. High-end gaming mice sometimes come with a set of weights, so you can adjust the weight and drag to your liking.

Reviews say that resolution greater than 800 dpi is only a benefit for gamers, especially those who enjoy first-person-shooter (FPS) games, as well as graphic artists, 3D designers and CAD professionals who want the mouse pointer to register the smallest movements of their hand. Be aware that increased sensitivity means that the mouse moves faster with smaller hand movements. For office applications and web surfing, such high sensitivity can actually be frustrating because the mouse pointer will move with even the smallest twitch of your hand. While reviews agree that a high-resolution laser gaming mouse is overkill for general-purpose use, most gaming mice are adjustable, so you can dial down the sensitivity when you're not playing games or doing precise work in Photoshop.

Along with choosing between a gaming and general-purpose mouse, you must choose between a corded and wireless mouse. A wireless mouse comes with a receiver. It is a small radio-frequency (RF) receiver that plugs into a USB port on your computer; the transmitter in the mouse then communicates wirelessly to the receiver. Though the USB transceiver used to be fairly bulky -- about the size of a deck of cards -- some, such as the one included with the Logitech VX Nano (*est. $45) , are smaller than a postage stamp.

While going cordless can be a boon for smooth, fast mouse movement, a wireless mouse needs batteries, though some, like the Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 7000 (*est. $60) , are rechargeable. Reviewers say that in the better mice, wireless performance is now as fast as with corded mice, although some gamers remain hard-wired fans of the corded variety. Wireless mice are typically $15 to $30 more expensive, plus the ongoing cost of batteries (for non-rechargeable mice).

A variety of alternatives to mice have faded in popularity. Touchpads (as found on most laptops), stylus-based graphics pads, digital pens and trackballs each have fans for specific reasons, including personal taste. Trackballs are the most popular of those, but they command a minuscule market share. The main appeal to a trackball now is preventing (or not aggravating) repetitive stress injuries.

Manufacturers now frequently bundle keyboard and mouse sets as "desktop sets." As these sets usually include keyboards and mice that are also sold separately, we cover the separate products in our reports on keyboards and mice.

Best computer mice for general use

Logitech and Microsoft are the primary competitors in this product category, and Logitech trumps Microsoft in most comparative reviews. However, reviewers stress that you are not beholden to their point of view. Comfort and ergonomics are as important as performance, and the former factors are a matter of personal taste and hand size. Still, we found that a significant majority of reviewers prefer the comfort and ergonomics of Logitech mice to other brands.

Though some Microsoft mice, such as the Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 (*est. $45) , are getting some attention, older reviews, newer reviews and user reviews say that the Logitech MX Revolution (*est. $90) retains its crown as the best general-purpose mouse. Everything USB's Shane McGlaun asserts, "I have used lots of mice over the years, and the Logitech MX Revolution Wireless Mouse is hands down the best general use mouse you can currently get."

Ergonomics are excellent, and the MX Revolution is Macintosh-compatible. The mouse has two low-battery indicators and a recharging (docking) station. The lithium-ion battery never needs replacement, according to one review. Reviewers love the mouse's precision and easy-gliding bottom. Some of the innovative features include hyper-fast or precision scrolling, a one-touch control that lets you switch among open applications and documents, and a one-touch Internet or computer search button. The Logitech MX Revolution cordless mouse has an 800-dpi laser.

Most reviewers initially thought the Logitech MX Revolution was loaded with unnecessary bells and whistles. After mastering the features, however, they found the features provided great efficiency for Internet and business applications. Reviewers cite a few negatives, of course. Price is the obvious drawback, and the Revolution is only available in a right-handed version.

The Logitech MX Air (*est. $130) gets lots of positive press as well, but even its biggest fans say it might not be for everyone. Most critics say that once you've used it -- and gotten used to it -- you will likely be hooked.

The MX Air is a gyroscopic mouse that frees users from the tyranny of the desktop. You can use it like a regular laser mouse, and reviews say that it does an excellent job, with good ergonomics, and it is equally comfortable for righties or lefties. Eric Grevstad at HardwareCentral.com says that it is "comfortable to hold, effortlessly smooth to move, precise to maneuver (thanks to laser tracking), and quick to respond."

But the real magic happens when you lift it off of the desktop. Using internal sensors, the MX Air mouse can track your arm's movements in three dimensions, meaning you can control an on-screen cursor with a wave of the mouse. It works up to about 30 feet from your PC, making it an excellent tool for presenters, or for controlling a multimedia PC from the comfort of your sofa. In fact, CNet.com's Dan Ackerman says that the MX Air mouse is "aimed clearly at the home theater market." Controls include a dedicated play/pause button that Ackerman says works in most media applications, and a volume button. Other controls include the typical left and right buttons, back button and a touch-sensitive scroll panel that replaces the more typical scroll wheel. Most buttons can be reconfigured for other uses.

Critics cite two major negatives. The obvious one is price. Also, mastering the MX Air when unshackled from the desk takes a bit of time. Ackerman says figure on a day or two. Grevstad, on the other hand, found he was still not completely confident even after a week of practice "swooping and steering the pointer."

At the other end of the spectrum, professional reviewers almost never report on sub-$25 computer mice, but users are another matter. We saw strong user feedback for the Microsoft Wheel Mouse Optical (*est. $20) , which is available in white (D66-00029) or black (D66-00069). All but a very small handful say that it's a solid choice among budget options. There are no frills or features, but this corded optical mouse gets top grades for comfort and value, plus largely good grades for build quality. It can't hold a candle in terms of features and performance to more expensive options, but when it comes to shear bang for the buck, this Microsoft mouse is a champ in the eyes of its owners.

Gaming mice

A gaming mouse has higher resolution than other types of mice, generally above 1,000 dpi. This type of computer mouse gets a lot of attention in reviews, but experts also say that 800 dpi and higher is overkill for basic office applications and web surfing. However, if you are a gamer or graphics professional who needs precise pointer control, you'll appreciate a gaming mouse. Most have adjustable sensitivity, so you can dial down the settings when you're using the mouse on more mundane tasks.

Logitech's G9 Laser Mouse (*est. $70) wins high praise for its performance and -- in most reviews -- for its ergonomics. Resolution can be set to as high as 3,200 dpi, but also changed on the fly (two of the G9's nine buttons are dedicated to that task) to as low as 200 dpi, so the G9 mouse is suitable for a wide range of tasks. The included SetPoint software is powerful, with lots of options for peaking performance as well as pre-configured profiles for typical uses: Gaming, General and Productivity. An LED display shows the current profile/resolution.

The G9 gaming mouse features interchangeable grips, which are snapped to the base to give the user a "precision" or "wide load" feel. Reviews for this feature are mixed. ExtremeTech's Jeremy Atkinson says both grips are comfortable, but that some other mice, such as the older Logitech G5 gaming mouse, are "shaped the hand a bit better than the G9." Virtual-Hideout.com's Peter Chng adds that though the grip required to hold the G9 is different than some other mice, it was still comfortable, especially with the wide grip. One definite design shortcoming, however, is that the mouse's LED display is easily covered by an index finger during normal use. You can also adjust the weight of the G9 mouse, changing the way it drags across the desktop.

Aside from a different grip, the one negative named most often with the G9 is its price. If your budget is a little tighter, experts say the Logitech G5 gaming mouse (*est. $50) is an excellent alternative, especially since its second-generation refresh last year.

The Logitech G5 gaming mouse falls short compared to the G9 in sensitivity as it maxes out at 2,000 dpi. However, reviewers love the ergonomics, with some calling it "near perfect." Last year, Logitech fixed what most considered a design error by adding two thumb buttons and updating the sensor. Those improvements were enough to project the mouse to the top of the class in gaming mice in the opinion of CNet's Rich Brown, though most other experts still prefer the G9. Like the G9, the G5 has on-the-fly resolution adjustments and adjustable weight. Its blue/black crackle-look paint job and textured surface is a love-it or hate-it affair. Peter "Stygian" Chng at Virtual-Hideout.net says it has the "pattern and texture of dry, cracked earth." Some user reports say that the texture is a major turn-off.

Laptop mice and travel mice

If you mainly use a laptop at home, you'll probably find a full-size mouse most comfortable. A full-size mouse (such as those discussed above) is large enough that you can actually rest your hand on it. By contrast, a travel mouse or mini laptop mouse is smaller; many are so small that you can't actually cup your hand around the mouse body -- you sort of rest your fingers on top and click or scroll. Still, reviewers say some mini laptop mice are more comfortable to use than others.

The Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse (*est. $45) is the best laptop mouse, especially for travelers. Logitech has gone to new lengths -- or, more precisely, lack of length -- in miniaturizing the RF receiver. When plugged into a port, it protrudes so little that it can be left there permanently, so users needn't worry about losing, breaking or snagging it while on the road. The USB receiver can be stored in the underside of the mouse to spare the batteries (two AAA). Features include a frictionless wheel that can scroll 30 pages on a spin or be switched to more precise scrolling. CNet.com reviewer Michelle Thatcher says the VX Nano "represents the ultimate in portability for mousing on the go."

Though Nano refers to the receiver, the mouse itself is small and some say that those with larger hands might not find it comfortable to use. However, others find the size to be no concern at all. For example, Eric Grevstad of HardwareCentral.com found it so nimble that he switched it to his desktop for regular use after his review period was over. The VX Nano is shaped so that it can be used by lefties as well as righties.

If you prefer a larger laptop mouse, a pair of nearly identical mice from Microsoft bears some consideration. Except for styling, the chief difference between the Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 (*est. $45) and the Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 7000 (*est. $60) is that the latter is rechargeable and includes a charging base. However, most reviews say that if you don't mind the slightly higher weight of the 6000, and the slightly higher long-term cost for batteries, the price difference between the two makes the 6000 a better value.

Like the VX Nano, these mice have a small USB (though not as small as the one with the VX Nano) that snaps into a compartment underneath the mouse so it's harder to lose while traveling. Experts say that the Microsoft 6000 is comfortable to use. Its 1,000 dpi laser means you only need a few inches of spare space next to your notebook to use the mouse effectively. Reviewers, including ExtremeTech's Jeremy Atkinson, say that it performs as well as most of the best general-purpose mice when it comes to its desktop manners. HardwareCentral.com's Eric Grevstad says it shouldn't be that hard to find room in your briefcase for a mouse that’s only two inches bigger than some notebook-specific alternatives. "As such, the 6000 is a first-class candidate to be your only mouse -- to use both when you're at your desk and when you're mobile."

Important Features: Computer mice

Reviewers say the following about shopping for a mouse:

• For most applications and web surfing, an 800-dpi optical (corded or wireless) mouse is the best choice. Reviews say 400 to 800 dpi is right for most uses, sensitive enough to ensure accurate cursor and pointer placement, but not so sensitive that the mouse registers minute hand movement.

• Gamers, graphic artists, engineers or CAD professionals will prefer a higher-resolution gaming mouse. These have adjustable sensitivity up to 4,000 dpi. Some also come with a weight kit to change the feel or drag of the mouse.

• Laptop mice and travel mice are small, but are sometimes not as comfortable. Wireless laptop mice usually have storage in the mouse for the RF receiver.

• Corded vs. wireless. Corded mice plug into a USB port, but some come with an adapter for the older PS/2 mouse port. A wireless mouse doesn't have a "tail," but, except for rechargeable models, it does need batteries.

• Most basic mice can be used with both PC and Mac computers. Higher-end mice are usually PC-only.

• Finding a mouse can be a challenge if you're left handed. Some mice are symmetric, and can be used by lefties or righties, while others are right-hand only. The Logitech MX610 is an exception; only the left hand version remains current.

• Look for a retailer with a 30-day return policy. Reviewers say trying a mouse in-store is likely to give you a false impression. You are used to one or two mice, and anything else often initially feels "wrong." You need to try a mouse for a couple of weeks to learn whether it is comfortable. This is especially important if you are considering an unusually shaped ergonomic mouse.

Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
All The Reviews Reviewed chart.

# of picks	Model (with retailer links)	Details from Amazon.com
6	Logitech G9 Laser Mouse (*est. $70)	details
4	Logitech MX Air (*est. $130)	details
4	Logitech MX Revolution (*est. $90)	details
3	Logitech G5 laser mouse (*est. $50)	details
2	Logitech VX Nano (*est. $45)	details
2	Microsoft SideWinder (*est. $65)	details
2	Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 7000 (*est. $60)	details
2	Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 (*est. $45)	details
2	Microsoft Wireless Notebook Presenter Mouse 8000 (*est. $65)	details
2	Microsoft Wheel Mouse Optical: White: D66-00029 (*est. $20) Black: D66-00069 (*est. $20)	details
1 each	Zalman FPSGun FG1000 , Cyber Snipa Stinger , Razer Lachesis , Razer DeathAdder , SteelSeries IKari, Microsoft Habu , Kensington Expert Mouse (trackball) , Logitech Cordless Trackman (trackball) , Logitech MX610 Left-Hand Cordless Mouse , Logitech VX Revolution

Input devices stay on the market much longer than other computer accessories. Some still-available mice, such as the Razer Copperhead, haven't been revised or re-reviewed since their introduction years ago, and older reviews lose relevance as products are replaced or refreshed. Because of that, no reviews before 2007 are included in our consensus chart.

Although competition is stiffening, particularly from Microsoft, Logitech mice continue to hold the edge in most reviewers' eyes. Although we do include the budget Microsoft Wheel Mouse Optical in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers for this update, Logitech dominates with the best mouse overall (Logitech MX Revolution), best gaming mouse (Logitech G9), best laptop mouse (Logitech VX Revolution) and budget gaming mouse ( Logitech G5). The Logitech MX Air is a unique gyroscopic mouse that takes some time to learn to love, but everyone eventually does.

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