EmailBest Reviewed
Computer Mice
- Best wireless mouse Logitech MX 1100 Cordless Laser Mouse *Est. $70
- Best gaming mouse Microsoft SideWinder X8 *Est. $90
- Budget gaming mouse NZXT Avatar *Est. $60
- Best laptop mouse Microsoft Arc Mouse *Est. $40
- Gyroscopic mouse Logitech MX Air *Est. $110
- Basic corded mouse Microsoft Wheel Mouse Optical *Est. $20
- Innovative mouse for Macs Apple Magic Mouse *Est. $70
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Best laptop mouse
- Unique, folding design
- Wireless USB receiver snaps into the bottom for transport
- Sharp styling
- 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.
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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
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
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
Computer Mice Runners Up:
2 picks by top review sites.
Razer Mamba Wireless Gaming Laser Mouse 5600 DPI
 from Amazon.com New: $129.99 In Stock.
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