Author: EVula
Date: 8/1/01
Rating: 8.8
Purchase on Amazon.com:
MS Wheel Mouse Optical
Bleh, leave me alone. Yes, I know that I'm using a Microsoft product. Yes, I know that Microsoft makes Windows, the worst OS to ever grace a hard drive. I know all these things. Sheesh, leave me alone.
However, this is a pretty bitchin' mouse. First off, its optical; not only is it the way pretty much every mouse is getting, but its pretty nifty. Second of all, its got a scroll wheel. Third of all, right mouse buttons aren't that bad.
First thing's first: This is an optical mouse. Since there are about 5 different versions of MS's mouse, I have the one that lights up in the back, white top, and only two buttons. All in all, the optical part is really cool, although I don't find myself using it on my leg or a dog that much, so its only an "oooh, purty" type of feature. Plus, I don't have a dog.
Second, the scroll wheel is VERY helpful. You'll find the wheel very helpful when reading webpages or working in Photoshop, as it will scroll the stuff for you, which is damn handy sometimes. You can also click and drag it, allowing you to scroll as fast as you want. All in all, a very nice feature.
The third feature is the right-click button. Our Windows bretheren have been using these for a long time, but since they stole the entire OS from us Mac users, I think the right button is a nice trade way of getting back at them. :P Anyway, it is extremely handy, both in the Finder and in other applications. In the Finder, it brings up the contextual menus (as opposed to control-click) on stuff, letting you get info, print, label, or just plain entertain yourself without having to use your other hand (very useful for porn viewing). In games, it can automate some things you would otherwise have to do in conjunction with the keyboard. In Diablo 2, for example, you can use it to cast spells without command-clicking. I've found this very useful on more than one occassion.
MS's software for the mouse is pretty simple. Too bad they can't write their OS like they can a simple extension/control panel duo. Use the IntelliPoint control panel to customize all of the settings for specific programs (like the Diablo 2 example I gave earlier), as well as universal settings for everything.
All in all, this is a good mouse. I highly recommend it, especially if you are tired of your Apple Pro Mouse. And with a price of only $25, its pretty damn affordable, too.