How to Choose the Best Computer Mouses

With the rise of touch screen technology and mobile phones, one computer component refuses to be replaced: the mighty mouse. 76% of Americans used a computer mouse in the last week, mostly at their places of employment. Unless you’re a computer whiz or into the gaming scene, this peripheral is usually an afterthought.

It’s time for this trend to change. Choosing a computer mouse right for your preferences offers more than a trivial boost in productivity. Proper equipment prevents repetitive stress injuries and enhances fine motor control.

Not sure where to get started? Read on and learn how to choose the best computer mouses for sale this year.

Types of Computer Mouses

Two decades ago, your choice of computer peripherals was limited at best. But times have changed. Nowadays, no two computer mouses are exactly alike, but most fall into distinct categories.

Keep in mind that the best mouse for Mac will also be the best for PC. These devices work on any operating system.

If you want to pick a computer mouse right for you, your search starts here. Here are the four basic types of computer mouses.

1. Standard Computer Mouse

Everyone has touched one of these before. It’s an inexpensive mouse with three buttons, usually with a crescent-shaped contour. Although these are available with varying connectivity and by different manufacturers, the design rarely differs.

It’s suitable for basic computer tasks and light workloads. Those who spend all workday on their computers or perform precise tasks will benefit from a superior mouse design.

2. Travel Computer Mouse

Take the standard computer mouse, remove its wired connectivity, and reduce its mass by half. You’ve got a travel mouse. Manufacturers design these for professionals who are often on the road or in the air.

Since they are lightweight and compact, they’re easier to lug around. That said, they are far from ergonomic. If you use your laptop for more than two or three hours during your travels, you may want to bring a more comfortable peripheral. Your hands will thank you.

3. Ergonomic Computer Mouse

Although higher-end models do keep ergonomics in mind, an ergonomic mouse has a very distinct body shape. These are otherwise known as vertical mouses. Basically, it’s a standard computer mouse rotated 45 degrees to the right.

It’s more like clutching a door handle than a mouse. While it takes time to get used to, it reduces the pressure on your fingers and joints. This is a great option for people suffering from an RSI or arthritis pain.

4. Gaming Computer Mouse

The typical gaming computer mouse comes with additional buttons. Although it is not vertical like an ergonomic mouse, most do feature ergonomic designs to support extended playtimes. you should also expect DPI switches which allow you to adjust the speed of your mouse at will.

Gaming computer mouses are overkill for most office jobs, but graphic designers might choose them over a tablet. Naturally, they are a must-have for gamers who spend countless hours putting their fingers to work.

Connectivity Considerations

Most computer mouses for sale are armed with a wired connection. Once you plug the device into the USB socket, your computer will automatically download the drivers it needs to use the new peripheral.

Wired USB connections siphon energy from your computer, so they don’t run on batteries. They also tend to be the most accurate, as wireless connectivity can sometimes be spotty.

But they are not perfect. The lengthy wire takes up plenty of space, presents a new way to damage your device, and forces you to stay close to your computer.

You could instead consider a wireless USB connection. As long as the receiver is hooked into a USB port, you can place the mouse just about anywhere. That said, you always want to keep a pack of batteries around.

The final type of connectivity is Bluetooth. Bluetooth is basically wireless that doesn’t occupy a USB slot on your computer.

This is ideal for those who plug in a variety of peripherals at any one time. However, Bluetooth mouses tend to have lower battery life compared to their USB competitors.

Computer Mouse Sensors

Any computer mouse on the modern market will make use of either optical sensors or laser sensors.

An optical sensor casts an LED light and tracks movement based on its reflection. This reflective technology hinders optical mouses on surfaces such as glass.

A mouse with laser sensor technology measures movement with a pair of laser diodes. It’s more sensitive and precise than an optical sensor, but the heightened sensitivity can throw off a mouse on an uneven surface.

For standard users, an optical sensor is more than enough. Those who require more precision should opt for the extra sensitivity that comes with laser sensors.

Shopping for Computer Mouses for Sale

In an ideal world, you would first visit a brick-and-mortar store to test a variety of computer mouses. Just because a mouse claims to be ergonomic does not mean it’s right for your hand shape or grip style. Testing the mouse in person is the only way to ensure a custom-tailored fit.

But not everyone has time for that. Buying a computer mouse online is safe enough as long as it comes with a generous return policy.

Rely on user and editor reviews for computer mouses that fall within your price range. From here, you can mix and match the pros and cons to come to a conclusion.

A Real Computer Mouse Is Worth the Effort

Computer mouses for sale are often marketed towards a younger, gamer-friendly audience. Don’t let this deter you. No matter how you use your computer, whether at home or at work, the difference between a default computer mouse and a tailored one is night and day.

Looking for ways to make writing or travel more comfortable? Then search our blog for more!