How we pick our products
Computer mice have become the greatest allies of PCs. Over the years, they have evolved and become increasingly accurate and comfortable. New types of mice appeared as technology improved. However, they are rarely given the value they deserve.
The typical mechanical mouse from the early years is now long gone. Mice now have optical or laser sensors. To a lesser extent, a similar phenomenon is happening with cables, which have been disappearing to give way to wireless technology. Be that as it may, mice still have a long life ahead of them.
Summary
- They have evolved a lot since the first mouse appeared in the 1960s.
- A computer mouse is a device with which we work countless hours, so it is worth investing in a good one. Ergonomic models are particularly attractive.
- The type of mouse you need will be largely defined by the use you plan to make of it. With incredible levels of accuracy, certain mice have come to be authentic engineering works.
The Best Computer Mice: Our picks
Here is our comprehensive ranking of the best mice available on the market. While we have tried to make a selection as varied as possible, all products offer great bang for your buck. This should help you choose the mouse that is just right for you.
Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about mice
No two mice are the same. This is why you need to ask yourself a number of questions when you buy your computer mouse. In the following paragraphs, we address the most frequently asked questions from buyers to make the process easier for you. You will then be much more likely to be satisfied with your new mouse.
What is a mouse exactly?
What types of mice are available out there?
They can also be ordered by their type of connection. In this respect, certain mice are directly connected to the USB port, while others offer wireless connections. Trackballs are another type of mouse, featuring a ball at the top to move the cursor.
Another model available, the multi-touch mouse presents a one-piece top case.
What are mice used for?
What are the benefits and inconveniences of a mouse?
Finding any disadvantage with the use of a mouse is certainly not an easy task. If used too often and for prolonged periods, there is a possibility that they end up causing injuries to the wrist joint. Certain mice with very specific uses can also be quite expensive.
How do I use a mouse?
Often overlooked, the configuration of the mouse is another important aspect. You can configure your mouse to suit your needs: cursor scrolling speed, button sensitivity, and other settings can be adjusted to your liking.
What is the carpal tunnel syndrome?
Placing the whole forearm on the desk or using an ergonomic mouse are two ways to avoid this problem.
For whom are mice recommended?
What care does a computer mouse require?
Shopping Criteria
Let’s look at a number of important criteria that you need to take into consideration before you buy your mouse. They will make it easier for you to take the right decision and be satisfied with your purchase. One thing you don’t want is to be disappointed with your new mouse after a few months only.
- Personal use
- Comfort
- Connection method
- Shape and size
- Buttons
- DPI – Sensibility
- Type of sensor
- Brand
Personal use
The type of mouse you need will depend on the use you’ll make of it. The key elements for a gaming mouse are speed and accuracy. However, when your main goal is to perform office tasks, opt for an ergonomic mouse. In contrast, if the mouse is to be used with a laptop, go for a small and handy model.
For those who have little space on their desk, trackball mice are an interesting option. To a lesser degree, a wireless mouse is also a convenient model for tight spaces. How long and how often you use your mouse is another factor to keep in mind.
Comfort
If you have the tendency of spending hours and hours in front of your computer, you will know exactly what we mean. Maximum comfort is absolutely key if you are going to use your mouse often. In that sense, everyone is different and will feel more or less comfortable with each mouse.
Be that as it may, the wisest decision would be to opt for an ergonomically shaped mouse if you plan on using it intensively. This would reduce the chances of suffering discomfort or possible wrist injuries after prolonged use. Better safe than sorry!
Connection method
Depending on your needs, you may need a wired mouse or a wireless mouse. If you are going to use it on a desk with little space, you will probably prefer one that connects via Bluetooth or RF. On the other hand, you will prefer a wired one if you don’t want to worry about having to change its batteries.
Shape and size
You don’t need the same mouse if you use it at home or if you travel frequently. You may want to opt for a large ergonomic mouse if its sole use will be at home or work. If you are a regular traveller, you should probably go for a smaller wireless mouse, as it requires less space in your luggage.
The shape of your hand should determine the shape of your future mouse. Every hand is naturally different, and you should feel comfortable with the surface of the device.
Buttons
The vast majority of mice feature at least two buttons and a wheel for vertical scrolling. However, certain tasks or applications require you to have an extra button. The shape, position and size of the buttons are also aspects you need to take into account.
DPI – Sensibility
DPI (dots per inch) is the number of dots that a mouse sensor is able to recognise within the screen space. A higher DPI number therefore means that your mouse will recognise more dots. The terms DPI and mouse sensitivity are often used interchangeably. That is why you should make sure that the DPI value of the mouse you want to buy is high enough.
But be careful: a mouse with an excessively high DPI may become impossible to handle correctly. Adding two zeros to your screen’s size in inches is a pretty good formula for knowing the DPI value you should aim for. For example, a 15-inch screen requires a mouse sensitivity of approximately 1,500.
Type of sensor
It was long thought that mice with laser sensors were much more efficient than optical devices. Today, optical technology has considerably improved and the difference is hardly noticeable. Generally speaking, a laser mouse offers greater accuracy, but can sometimes pick up too many imperfections on the surface.
Brand
The brand of a product is always a key factor when making any purchase: it is closely linked to crucial aspects such as quality, warranty, durability and price. Logitech, Apple and Asus are amongst some of the most reputable mouse manufacturers.
Certain manufacturers also stand out in specific sectors. Logitech, for example, focuses its mouse models on general use, although some of their models are designed for gaming. For this latter sector, VicTsing and Razer tailor their products for players.
Resume
We frequently use computer mice, often for hours every day. Despite this, we only really give them the attention they deserve when they unfortunately stop working or if our wrists start to hurt after several hours on the computer.
Choosing the right mouse is not as simple as you might think. A series of criteria need to be considered if you want to make the right purchase. Although essential, price is not the only factor you should take into account: size, brand, sensitivity and connection method are also key aspects.
We hope you found this guide useful. If so, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to leave us a comment!
(Source of featured image: 46881909/ 123rf.com)
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