Invented in 1963, the mouse is one of the oldest computer peripherals. Its role is to send commands to the computer. Even today, this external component is still used with both desktop PCs and laptops. Admittedly, its basic functions have hardly changed, but its design and ergonomics have evolved a great deal.
Ease of use, responsiveness, comfort, practicality… several criteria can help you choose the mouse that best suits your needs.
What will you use it for: office work or gaming?
The overall objective for any user is to find a mouse that lets them control the computer with precision. But your expectations depend entirely on how you use your computer.
Mouse for gamers
In general, video games require a mouse with:
- high responsiveness,
- fast execution,
- extreme precision,
- increased sensitivity.
The most important value to watch is DPI (dots per inch). This corresponds to the number of points detected by the mouse sensor when it moves over a distance of one inch. A high DPI allows you to move the cursor quickly across a very large area of the screen with very little hand movement.
In all cases, you should adapt your search criteria according to the type of game. For games where characters have several skills, a mouse with multiple buttons is ideal. For FPS shooters, precision and sensitivity matter more than the number of buttons.
Mouse for office tasks
For office work and Internet browsing, users do not have any particular requirements. However, there is nothing to stop you investing in a mouse that can improve your performance in your daily tasks.
The key qualities of a mouse for office PCs are:
- ergonomics,
- comfort,
- and ease of use.
One technical detail that is of little use to gamers becomes important for office mice: the scroll wheel. It should be smooth and without jerks so you can scroll web pages and Excel spreadsheets precisely.
As a general rule, go for a mouse whose size and design suit the shape of your hand. If you are left-handed, consider an “ambidextrous” mouse. These models are just as ergonomic for left-handed users as for right-handed users. Mobile users can opt for a thinner, smaller mouse – models that are easy to carry around.
Which technology: optical or laser?
You have two technological options: a mouse with an optical sensor or with a laser sensor.
The optical mouse
Optical technology uses an LED that projects light onto a surface (mouse mat, table, cover, etc.). The surface then reflects the light back to the sensor, which calculates the mouse’s trajectory and adjusts the cursor’s movement on the screen.
The laser mouse
Laser technology uses a laser beam instead of LED light.
The laser sensor provides a more precise trajectory thanks to much sharper images. It is also more responsive than an optical sensor.
This technology does have some drawbacks: it only works optimally on a glass surface. In fact, this kind of device performs poorly on rough or dusty surfaces. Also note that frequently lifting and putting the mouse back down can disrupt its proper operation.
A mouse with an LED sensor tends to work well on all types of surfaces. You can lift and reposition it as often as you like without affecting its performance.
Wired or wireless mouse?
There are two main types of mouse: wired and wireless. The first is connected to the computer using a USB cable or a PS/2 port. The second works via Bluetooth technology or radio waves.
Gamers prefer a wired mouse to avoid ending up with a device that stops working in the middle of a game. Wireless mice are powered by disposable batteries or rechargeable batteries, so they can run out of power at any time. Note also that wireless mice are generally less responsive. They also tend to be heavier and therefore harder to handle.
If you are a gamer and you want to use a wireless mouse, look for a model with longer battery life. Also avoid mice that use radio waves, as they can interfere with the game.
A wireless mouse is more suitable for office use. It is less cluttered and reduces the number of cables on your desk. This type of product is also easier to carry in your laptop bag.
Two buttons or more than two buttons?
Today, you can find mice equipped with additional, programmable buttons. These allow you to access extra functions. For gamers, this type of mouse can be used in much the same way as a game controller. Some buttons can also act as keyboard shortcuts.
Mice with multiple buttons come with software that you install on your PC. This driver lets you assign specific commands to each button.
Hand position on the mouse: fingertip, palm grip or claw grip?
The way you hold your mouse is very important when you use it for long periods. Your movements can cause muscle or joint strain in different parts of your hand. Fortunately, there are models that allow you to adopt the position that suits you best.
Fingertip grip: only the tips of your fingers rest on the mouse. Your fingers handle all movements (button clicks and moving the device). This position offers greater responsiveness because you can move the mouse quickly in all directions. However, fingertip grip can be tiring when you make large, fast movements.
Claw grip: your fingers are arched over the buttons and your palm barely touches the body of the mouse. This position gives you more precise movements and a lighter touch. But if you use the mouse for many hours at a stretch, this position creates tension in your forearm.
Palm grip: your whole palm rests on the mouse, with your fingers extended over the buttons. Here, it is your palm that moves the mouse. This position is the most comfortable.
