With the rising prominence of touchscreen based devices such as the iPad and iPhone, it is easy to overlook the significance of choosing the proper mouse in a more traditional desktop environment. Though Apple includes it’s slick and versatile Magic Mouse with every new iMac, if you’re looking to add a mouse to a Mac Mini or Notebook it is important to pick the best mouse for the job.
Different mice can accommodate for different uses, and picking the right one can help streamline your workflow. When picking a mouse for layout and design work, I ultimately chose Apple’s Mighty Mouse. This updated take on Apple’s classic Pro Mouse design features an optional hidden right click in addition to programmable side buttons, and a 365° scroll ball. While the multi-touch based Magic Mouse is certainly more technically advanced, and arguably sleeker, I elected to use the Mighty Mouse as I’ve been familiar with the Pro Mouse design since it was introduced in 2000.
While style and features come into play when selecting a new mouse, ergonomics and comfort are also important factors to consider. If you’re going to be using the mouse throughout the work day you’ll want to pick something that fits comfortably in your hand, and isn’t awkward to use. Other uses such as gaming mandate an entirely different set of features. Comfort is the name of the game when selecting a mouse for gaming, but connectivity (most folks prefer wireless) and programmable buttons as well as button layout are essential to consider as well. Something like the Logitech MX 1100 Cordless Laser Mouse would be a good pick for gaming.
When it comes down to it, there really is no right or wrong mouse. Its all about what feels best in your hand and has the features you’re looking for. For many, the Magic Mouse will work fine, but not all mac users find it agreeable. The most important part of selecting a new mouse is going hands on with it and taking it for a test spin (or scroll). We have tons of mice on display at both of our retail locations for our customers to demo. If you don’t feel like stopping by however, you can check out the full selection here