Wireless Laptop Mice

My Favorite Laptop Mice

After three pretty exhaustive (and exhausting) posts in a row, it's time for a more simple and practical tip. People sometimes ask me, "What is the best mouse for laptop users?" Well, that really depends on what you're using it for. Are you just browsing the Web at home on your couch, or are you doing presentations in front of groups on a regular basis? There are many decent wireless laptop mice out there. But I basically only recommend about three types, and I prefer Microsoft in this category, although Targus and Logitech also make great mice across the board. The first type is for people in the first group. Those who just need a mouse for basic home use, and maybe some travel. If it is just going to be used as a mouse, and nothing more (not a presentation tool), then go with this one, the Microsoft Wireless Optical Mouse 3000 ($29.95). It is small enough to work well with a laptop, yet comfortable, and its USB wireless receiver snaps right into the bottom for easy carrying when you're on the go.

The next step up is the Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse 6000 ($39.95) which has the same snap-in USB receiver, customizable buttons, 4 buttons, scroll wheel, magnifier, and a longer battery (6 months+). There are others in this same price range with similar features by Logitech and Targus, and you can find them at Staples, Office Depot, Best Buy and Radio Shack, among others.

Obviously, not everyone needs to give big presentations regularly, but if you do, I have just the mouse for you. You may want the mouse that has everything. Well, here it is: The Microsoft Wireless Presenter Mouse 8000. I did some research and found this to be the best mouse with the most features. What does it do? First, it is reversible. On the top, it has 5 customizable buttons. Of course it is wireless and has a scroll wheel, but, more importantly, it turns over to become a media remote that will control your Media PC, as well as having a built-in laser pointer and PowerPoint controls that are designed specifically for PowerPoint (from up to 30 feet away), such as a backward and forward button for you to easily go back to a certain slide. How many mice do that? You can turn it on and off (to conserve battery life), it has a battery life indicator, magnifier, 2.4 ghz BlueTooth and a 3-year warranty. Sure, it is expensive at $79.95, but if you give presentations and need the all-in-one mouse that does everything and has very good wireless range, this is it. So, as you can see, there are different levels of pricing and choices to make with mice, just like there are with any other tech product. Good luck making your decision.