The mouse is a peripheral overlooked by the majority of PC users, and
it is highly likely that you are still using the same one that came
with your machine when you bought it. There are many benefits to
investing in a new model though, particularly if you use your PC
heavily. Newer mice work better over uneven surfaces, offer more
features and are more comfortable to use for an extended period of
time.
If you�re not a frequent user, a simple 2-button mouse with a scroll
wheel should be more than adequate. Optical mice are becoming more
popular and you can pick up a basic model for around $10 that will sit
in the hand quite nicely.
However, if you�re a heavy user then you would be wise to invest in a
model designed with ergonomics in mind. As mice are designed to be
largely generic, they will of course be more comfortable to some than
others, so it is always a good idea to try a mouse out before buying.
Many larger PC stores have mice out on display, so you can see how well
different models sit in your hand, how accessible the buttons and
scroll wheel are and so forth.
You should also look at a more fully featured mouse if you are a keen
gamer. Many manufacturers release mice with gaming in mind, which offer
greater precision and additional buttons. Again, try a mouse out before
buying and make sure that all the buttons are within easy reach � it is
no good having three extra buttons if you cannot use them! If you are
going the optical route, you may wish to look for a model offering a
higher dpi engine which will give you greater control over small
movements.
Another consideration is the weight of the mouse itself. Although it
may feel reasonably light, consider what it will be like using it over
a period of time. You should also consider the addition of a battery if
the mouse is wireless, which may add significantly to the devices
weight.
For a higher end mouse suitable for heavy office use or gaming, you
should be looking to spend around $50-$100. Although it may sound
steep, a good quality mouse will help you avoid RSI, last longer and
make everything from everyday office tasks to first person shooter
games that little bit easier. More expensive mice not only perform
better but feel better, and build quality is considerably better than
those at the budget end of the scale.
Wireless mice are also becoming popular, though limited range and the
necessity of batteries do hinder their appeal slightly, particularly if
you are going to be using the device for extended periods of time.
Again, you can expect to pay a little extra on top for a mouse with
wireless capabilities.
The mouse is a peripheral overlooked by the majority of PC users, and
it is highly likely that you are still using the same one that came
with your machine when you bought it. There are many benefits to
investing in a new model though, particularly if you use your PC
heavily. Newer mice work better over uneven surfaces, offer more
features and are more comfortable to use for an extended period of
time.
If you�re not a frequent user, a simple 2-button mouse with a scroll
wheel should be more than adequate. Optical mice are becoming more
popular and you can pick up a basic model for around $10 that will sit
in the hand quite nicely.
However, if you�re a heavy user then you would be wise to invest in a
model designed with ergonomics in mind. As mice are designed to be
largely generic, they will of course be more comfortable to some than
others, so it is always a good idea to try a mouse out before buying.
Many larger PC stores have mice out on display, so you can see how well
different models sit in your hand, how accessible the buttons and
scroll wheel are and so forth.
You should also look at a more fully featured mouse if you are a keen
gamer. Many manufacturers release mice with gaming in mind, which offer
greater precision and additional buttons. Again, try a mouse out before
buying and make sure that all the buttons are within easy reach � it is
no good having three extra buttons if you cannot use them! If you are
going the optical route, you may wish to look for a model offering a
higher dpi engine which will give you greater control over small
movements.
Another consideration is the weight of the mouse itself. Although it
may feel reasonably light, consider what it will be like using it over
a period of time. You should also consider the addition of a battery if
the mouse is wireless, which may add significantly to the devices
weight.
For a higher end mouse suitable for heavy office use or gaming, you
should be looking to spend around $50-$100. Although it may sound
steep, a good quality mouse will help you avoid RSI, last longer and
make everything from everyday office tasks to first person shooter
games that little bit easier. More expensive mice not only perform
better but feel better, and build quality is considerably better than
those at the budget end of the scale.
Wireless mice are also becoming popular, though limited range and the
necessity of batteries do hinder their appeal slightly, particularly if
you are going to be using the device for extended periods of time.
Again, you can expect to pay a little extra on top for a mouse with
wireless capabilities.