Computer Accessories

Buying a Computer Mouse

Buying a computer mouse used to be a simple task. But now, buying computer mice involves dozens of small buying decisions. We take a look at a few questions you'll have to answer before you purchase a new computer mouse.

Mouse technology has come a long way since the early days of computing.

The first generation of mice offered simple units with few (if any) additional features. But today's pointing devices are high-tech miracles that effortlessly synchronize hand movements with computing activities.

The development of mouse technology has created no small amount of purchasing confusion for business leaders. The majority of business leaders lack the time (and quite frankly, the desire) to spend hours analyzing the latest point-and-click hardware offerings. The bottom line is that you need a dependable mouse that can move as quickly as you can think -- and you need it now.

Why Computer Mouse Selection Matters

Does it really make a difference which mouse you use? Sure it does. The Internet, word processing software, spreadsheets, CRM applications and more depend on mouse technology to function properly. If your mouse is cumbersome or unresponsive, it can severely hinder normal business processes. When you consider available desktop real estate in a crowded office, the purchase of advanced mouse technology can deliver huge benefits for the average small business user.

Computer Mouse Options

• Ball mouse technology. Traditional pointing device solutions navigate with a ball located on the underside of the mouse. Although this technology is less prone to technical breakdowns, it has its limits, not the least of which is surface requirements (e.g. mousepads).
• Laser vs. optical. Many of the mice that are currently available in the marketplace utilize either laser or optical technology. Optical mice function independently of the surface beneath them and use optoelectronic sensors to detect and transmit movement. Laser mice use infrared laser diode light to detect movement and offer a much higher degree of precision than either ball or optical mice. Like the optical mouse, the laser mouse can function effectively on a wide variety of surfaces.
• Wired vs. wireless. Wired mice are the most cost-efficient option and are usually part of the computer purchase package. Wireless mice are an upgrade, but they give the user freedom of movement and eliminate clumsy cords that litter your desktop.
• Other features. Depending on your use requirements, features like trackballs (on the side of the mouse) and scroll wheels (on top of the mouse) can greatly improve your ability to navigate websites or large volumes of content.

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