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Microsoft Arc Mouse

*Est. $40

Reviewed November 2009
Microsoft Arc Mouse

Best laptop mouse

pros
  • Unique, folding design
  • Wireless USB receiver snaps into the bottom for transport
  • Sharp styling
cons
  • No rechargeable option
  • Feels a little cheap
  • Some owners complain of reliability issues
 
 
 
 

Over the years, Microsoft has repeatedly taken risks with its mouse designs -- many of which have paid off, according to reviewers. The latest unusual -- and successful -- product is the Arc Mouse, a lightweight, portable, wireless mouse that folds to just 60 percent of its normal size. Its wireless USB receiver snaps into the bottom when not in use so you can simply toss the mouse in a laptop bag and go. The Arc Mouse works over the 2.4 GHz band, and runs on two AA batteries that last six months in normal use. Reviewers praise its design and performance, but consistently point to the lack of a rechargeable option as a downside.

Some reviewers, including PCMag.com, ExtremeTech.com, CNET and NotebookReview.com complain about the compromises the Arc Design introduces, such as the fact that the mouse can't be used unless it's unfolded, and that the side buttons are tough to use. Notably, some Amazon.com user reviews complain that the Arc Mouse simply isn't durable enough for long-term hard use.

Where To Buy
 
 
Featured StoresStore RatingNotesTotal Price
CompuVestCompuVest rated 4.00 (524 reviews)524 store reviewsIn Stock. $39.16
TigerDirect.comTigerDirect.com rated 4.50 (5272 reviews)5272 store reviewsIn Stock. Order Today, Ships Today NEW$39.99
Microsoft StoreMicrosoft Store has not yet been reviewed0 store reviewsIn Stock. $49.95
 
 
 

Our Sources

1. PCMag.com

PCMag.com's Brian Neal is taken with the Arc Mouse; the site gives it 4.5 stars and an Editors' Choice award due to its folding design, the snap-in USB receiver and the fact that it's "virtually weightless." Neal finds a few nits -- notably the lack of a recharging option and that the mouse can't be used while it's folded.

Review: Microsoft Arc Mouse, Brian K. Neal, Oct. 10, 2008

2. ExtremeTech.com

Jeremy Atkinson also likes the Arc Mouse, although he awards it just 3.5 stars. He says that the Arc Mouse gets the job done and has a "zippy and accurate" laser sensor as well as an ergonomic design. However, he prefers the older Microsoft Explorer Mini Mouse for portable users, saying that it has a better tracking system and a more comfortable design (at a cost of $20 more).

Review: Microsoft Arc Mouse Review, Jeremy Atkinson, Oct. 23, 2008

3. CNET

CNET praises the Arc Mouse for its unique appearance, folding design, easily transportable wireless receiver and simple set-up process. However, reviewer Rich Brown finds the side buttons difficult to press, and says that the arc design means that the mouse can't be used while folded up.

Review: Microsoft Arc Mouse (red), Rich Brown, Sept. 30, 2008

4. Notebook Review.com

NotebookReview.com's review isn't especially detailed, but contains plenty of useful personal experiences from the reviewer. Overall, the site finds the Arc Mouse a good product, saying that it's relatively compact, reliable and attractively designed, even if it's not as streamlined as a Bluetooth wireless mouse (which wouldn't need a separate USB receiver, assuming the PC had one built-in).

Review: Microsoft Arc Mouse Review, Allison Johnson, March 27, 2009

5. Amazon.com

Amazon reviewers are slightly less taken with the Arc Mouse than most technology sites, awarding it an average of 3.5 stars across more than 75 user reviews. Many reviewers praise the Arc Mouse's size, design and laser accuracy. But some say it broke within the first one to three months -- not surprising given the sophisticated hinge, very lightweight plastic and emphasis on portability (meaning an increased tendency to take it out traveling, where it can be damaged).

Review: Microsoft Arc Mouse, Contributors to Amazon.com

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2 picks by top review sites.

     
 
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