Are you looking for a new mouse for your computer? Are you confused by the thousands of options out there and don’t know how and which product to choose? Let’s take a detailed look at the different types and the individual features and functions of the various devices, which will help you distinguish them and end up with the one that suits your needs and the use you want to make of it.

Wireless or Wired?

One of the most basic questions that arise when it comes to buying a mouse has to do with the connection to the device it will be used for. In recent years, the market for wireless mice has increased, but in which cases is their use appropriate and in which cases is a wired mouse more efficient?

Wired Mice

This is the first and very common way of connecting mice to the reading device, via cable. Due to the immediacy of the connection, there is better and more reliable response, as they also do not require a battery to operate, resulting in no risk of the function being terminated at the wrong time.

Suitable for workspaces, where there are stationary computers or setups for employees and frequent movement is not required.

However, there is a limitation on the space the mouse can move, which depends on the length of the cable. Also, over time, the cable may suffer wear and tear and initially affect the performance of the mouse, up to complete destruction.

Wireless Mice

On the other hand, wireless mice, as their name suggests, are connected via a wireless source (usually Bluetooth) to the computer. They have a large range of use, can be moved more easily, and can be used from anywhere you want (within range) to control a remote device.

Suitable for those who travel a lot or frequently change workspaces due to the nature of their work. Also, for home use, in cases where you want to control the browser on a smart TV from the couch or have a large office where easy movement from one side to the other is what you are looking for.

Although they sound like the ideal solution, it is worth noting that they need to change the battery or recharge after some time of use, which can cause a sudden interruption of the function. While, there is also the possibility in a space with many wireless devices, their efficiency may be affected.

What types are there?

Mice can be divided into 3 different basic types, and the division is based on their size and shape. You can choose the ideal one for you depending on the use you are going to make, but also the ergonomics you want to have, in relation to your hand.

Vertical

This type of mouse is specially designed so that the hand that handles it is in a vertical position, as its name suggests. In this position, the hand is less strained and this design makes the mouse more ergonomic and user-friendly.

This type of mouse is recommended for those who work long hours and want to do it comfortably, without straining their hand or for those who have any hand or wrist issues, from the long-term use of other mice and prefer to switch to something more specialized and suitable for their condition.

Mini (Notebook)

In this category fall the smallest mice in size. They are simpler in design and are made for use in combination with laptops, where frequent movement and transportation from one place to another is a fact.

This type of mouse is ideal for frequent travelers for professional purposes or for those whose work requires frequent movement from space to space, but also for typical household use of a laptop or tablet, for example.

Standard

While all other mice belong to the last category. We are talking about classic mice in terms of both size and shape, as well as use. They do not have any particularity and do not offer anything more to the user.

These are the majority of mice used by the average person at home or at work.

Right-handed or left-handed?

Since there is no longer any prejudice against left-handed people and the belief that right-handedness is the correct way, mice nowadays, for which the hand each person uses for daily activities plays a major role, are mostly intended for use with both hands. Of course, you can also find individual models for right-handed users or, correspondingly -in a smaller percentage- for left-handed users, if you are looking for something more specialized.

Does the sensor matter?

The answer is yes, of course it matters, since it affects the sensitivity in response, the accuracy in use, as well as performance in relation to the surface on which the mouse is used each time.

There are several different sensors, with different technologies, that are aimed at different users as well. The sensors with optical, laser and bluetrack technologies are the 3 categories we encounter most often.

Optical

This sensor is of moderate sensitivity, while it offers good accuracy. Mice with this type of sensor are not recommended for use on surfaces that reflect light, while we can say that they are ideal for everyday use. They make up the majority and are easier to use.

Laser

Laser-type sensors have high sensitivity and consequently higher accuracy. Mice with this type of sensor can work on most surfaces and are ideal for graphic designers and professionals.

BlueTrack

In this type of sensor, we also find both high sensitivity and high accuracy. Mice equipped with a bluetrack sensor work on any surface.

We also find 3D sensors in mice that offer movement on 3 axes and are aimed at professionals who use special professional applications, e.g. 3D model design. There are also high-precision BlueSpot sensors that work on almost all surfaces such as wood, granite, carpet, etc. Finally, sensors with V-Track technology, which allows use even on glass or marble surfaces.

Additional features & functions

Bluetooth

Connecting via Bluetooth to a mouse enables wireless use, without the need for cables. It can be achieved either directly with the computer, such as a laptop that has built-in Bluetooth, or via a dongle for use with desktop computers, for example, that do not have this function.

Ergonomic

A mouse is considered ergonomic when it allows the hands, elbows and wrists to remain in a natural position, resulting in higher productivity, reduced fatigue and prevention of conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. It is recommended for those who work many hours daily on a computer and are looking for the right solution so they can work productively without straining their body.

Trackball

The trackball mouse, which has a ball either in the center or on the sides, responsible for more comfortable use, causes 20% less muscle fatigue in the hand, wrist and forearm compared to a conventional mouse.

Silent

For a mouse to be considered silent, it must eliminate unnecessary noise, protecting the user's health and productivity. In essence, a silent mouse offers the same click feel, without the characteristic "click" sound, with the ability to provide noise reduction of up to over 90%.

Don’t forget! Taking into account the individual features above and combining those that match your needs and how you use your mouse, you can arrive at the ideal choice for you. Before deciding, you can also take a look at other users’ reviews, so you can see their opinion and experience as well, which may help you reach the final decision much more easily.

If you are -or are thinking of becoming- a gamer and are interested in a mouse, you can take a look at the detailed buying guide for gaming mice.