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Computer Times
November 2008
Editors' Choice
Accessory
Microsoft Notebook Mice
Reviewed by Angie Kibiloski
'Twas the night before
Christmas, and all through the house, the whole family was dreaming, of a shiny
new mouse. So, that’s not exactly how the story goes, but that doesn't mean I'm
wrong. Who wouldn’t want to unwrap a brand new mouse this holiday season? With
this fresh line of mice from Microsoft, you can give every member of your
family a different one to suit their individual tastes. Check out the
Wireless Mobile Mouse 3000, Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 Special
Edition, Arc Mouse, and Explorer Mini Mouse. Each of these
mice are perfectly sized for laptop use, and the wireless technology makes
computing on the go super easy.
The Wireless Mobile Mouse
3000 (Retail $29.99) has a compact size of 2.21 in. x 3.76 in. The wireless
receiver snaps into the bottom of the mouse to not only store securely, but also
turn off the device and save battery power. There is a battery life indicator
LCD, so you can conveniently know when it is time for a replacement.
Ergonomically designed with rubber grips on the sides, this mouse is a
comfortable fit in either hand. With high definition optical technology, and
Microsoft’s Intelligent Tracking System, this mouse is top of its class for
precision, smoothness, and speed. One cool feature is the Back button, located
beneath the Scroll button, which allows you to quickly navigate back through
your web browser or file folders with a touch of your finger. The original model
stylishly comes in either black or white. There is also a Special Edition
line which comes in a variety of pretty jewel tones: blue sapphire, red garnet,
green emerald, pink topaz, and purple amethyst.
The Wireless Notebook
Optical Mouse 3000 Special Edition (Retail $29.99) comes in a rainbow of
colors to fit anyone’s personality. Aloe is my favorite shade, but there is also
pomegranate, dragon fruit, milk chocolate, and crème Brule. This model is
similar to the Wireless Mobile Mouse 3000, with its high definition
optical technology, and the snap in wireless receiver. The dimensions are 2.28 x
3.89 inches. This mouse is also molded to use in either hand, and has finger
contours to make it extra comfortable to grasp. Out of the 4 mice featured here,
this was my favorite to use.
The Arc Mouse (Retail
$59.95) is a very nifty and unique model, unlike anything you have seen before.
The design is revolutionary. The slim arcing 2.32 in. x 4.44 in. body is sleek
and elegant. The 2.4 GHz mini wireless receiver magnetically clips into the
underside, and the body folds in half to save battery power and increase
portability. This impressive receiver can connect from up to 30 feet away from
the laptop. The Arc Mouse also has a battery life LCD indicator, and the
ability to run a program called Windows Flip 3D, which aides in productivity.
The ergonomic design fits either hand, and the 2 minimal points of contact at
the head and tail of the Arc make this mouse glide very smoothly along
your work surface. This stylish model comes in black or red.
The Explorer Mini Mouse
(Retail $59.99) is remarkable for Microsoft’s BlueTrack technology, which
enables this mouse to be used on almost any surface. Granite countertops, rough
wood benches, even carpet are no longer off limits. At 2.74 in. x 3.82 in., this
mouse rounds out the perfectly portable family of new laptop mice. This model
has the same 2.4 GHz wireless receiver, with the 30 foot range, as the Arc
Mouse, which easily snaps into the bottom of the mouse, once again, saving
battery life. The ergonomic design is great for right handed users, and comes
with blue lighting effects for added attractiveness. The buttons are
customizable for your most used commands, and the scroll wheel can scroll 4
directions with its unique Tilt Wheel technology.
As you can see, Microsoft
can provide a notebook mouse to fit everyone’s preferences. With a variety of
color choices and unique features, any of these models would make a perfect gift
for anyone, or everyone, in the family. Classic or unique, striking or
sophisticated, each of these mice has something special to offer. All that is
left is for you to decide which one will be coming home with you this season.
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