How to find the best computer mouse for you
Buying computer accessories is seldom a one-size-fits-all scenario. Both the shape of your hand and your primary use will change your definition of a great mouse. When choosing a computer mouse, consider the following:
Optical or Laser: Optical and laser mice are quite similar, says Free Geek's Gilmore. Both use a camera-like sensor to look for changes in the surface to tell the computer how to move the cursor. A laser mouse uses a laser to light that sensor and tends to do a bit better on glossy surfaces. Some can even work on glass. But on a typical wood desk or mouse pad , most users won't notice a difference.
DPI or CPI: The dots-per-inch (or counts-per-inch) specification on a mouse is basically the resolution of the sensor. A higher DPI means a faster mouse, Gilmore says, which is even more important when using a high-resolution monitor. A lower DPI mouse can be more precise. Some high-end mice allow you to choose different DPI settings, so you can switch based on whether you want speed or precision.
Connectivity: A wireless mouse eliminates the cord but uses a USB dongle to connect to the computer. A Bluetooth mouse is similarly wireless but doesn't need that dongle to connect with a Bluetooth-compatible device. You might want to consider that option if you have limited ports. Take a look at wireless and Bluetooth mice's battery lives so you'll get a sense of how often you'll be charging them. Wired mice still have their place, particularly for gaming. Wireless and especially Bluetooth mice may introduce some lag that's noticeable in fast-paced PC games.
Weight: Lighter mice are typically easier to move around. PC gamers tend to consider the weight of a mouse, and so some mice even come with assortments of weights.
Comfort: How a computer mouse feels will depend on the size of your hand, says Kevin Weaver, a clinical assistant professor of physical therapy at New York University. He is also certified by the Board of Certified Professional Ergonomists and the Oxford Institute.
He suggests using both hands with an ambidextrous mouse to halve the time spent with each hand on a mouse.
"As best as you can, centralize your mouse," he said. "If you look at most laptops, the touchpad is built into the base, right under the space key, in a centralized position. That's a best-case scenario because you can use your left or your right and have half the frequency."
If using your non-dominant hand feels too odd, he suggests choosing a contoured mouse that fits with your dominant hand.
"It's important to go test these out in a showroom or store. One size does not fit all, one rule does not fit all," he said.
Via PakApNews