What to consider when purchasing a mouse

Posted on Monday October 18, 2021

Everyone is familiar with the traditional two-button mouse with a cord, but this type of mouse has become increasingly unpopular over time. Nowadays, many people prefer to use a wireless mouse, especially the new models that tend to provide more comfort and convenience over prolonged use. A wireless mouse is easy to carry around, which is particularly useful for those who work in different places. But if you are looking to buy a new mouse, there are other things you need to consider besides choosing between corded and wireless.

Cabled or wireless?

First of all, when planning to purchase a new mouse, it’s important to consider whether to get a wired or a wireless mouse.

A wireless mouse is generally more comfortable to use since your range of movement isn’t limited by a cable, and it’s portable. However, a wireless mouse can have latency and connectivity issues, making it frustrating to use at times. Sometimes, a wireless mouse can also interfere with other wireless devices nearby. Using it requires batteries, which can cause problems when the battery gets drained. And if you use the same mouse for both work and home computers, you run the risk of losing the tiny USB receiver for your wireless mouse when you travel to and from the office.

On the other hand, a wired mouse is cheaper and easy to plug and play. One major problem you’ll have to worry about is dealing with tangled wires. So when you’re deciding on a new mouse, think about whether you’re looking for comfort or convenience.

Ergonomics matters

You’re going to be using the new mouse for a while, so it’s important to choose one that feels comfortable in your hands. When deciding on the right mouse, focus on the size and the grip of the device. The size of the mouse usually comes down to hand size; someone with smaller hands will find a larger mouse quite unwieldy.

Certain mice can also accommodate different types of grips — fingertip grip, palm grip, and claw grip. Users who want high-precision control of their cursor should opt for a mouse with fingertip grip, those who value comfort should get a palm grip mouse, and if you want both control and comfort, the claw grip mouse is the way to go. Many gaming mice have unusual designs aimed at improving response time and usage efficiency, so look into those as well.

Dots per inch (dpi)

Higher sensitivity is necessary for precise mouse movements, especially if you’re editing images, videos, or audio files. A mouse with 1200 dpi or greater guarantees finer, sharper control.

Although mouse specifications like dots per inch might be the last thing on your mind when it comes to buying new hardware, it still pays to consider your own comfort. A good mouse with the right fit can make you more efficient and reduce the risk of injury.

If you need assistance setting up the best hardware for your company, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll be happy to help.