With something as basic and standard as a computer mouse, it’s hard to imagine that there is more than one kind. There are actually many different kinds for all sorts of computer mouse to choose from.
Within the different “species” of computer mice (or mouses), there are some that are more commonly seen like the generic cord mouse or the old school ball mouse. But, there are a few unexpected curveball designs, all of which can be seen in the following list:
Basic Types:
1. Wired Mouse
- A comfortable, ambidextrous shape feels good in either hand, so you feel more comfortable as you work-even at the end of the day.
- With 800 DPI sensitivity, you'll get precise cursor control so you can edit documents and navigate the web more efficiently.
- Side-to-side scrolling Plus zoom lets you instantly zoom in or out and scroll horizontally and vertically. Perfect for working with spreadsheets and presentations.*
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 08:40 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is your average, run of the mill, basic mouse that connects to your PC with a USB wire. There is nothing wrong with this mouse, but there isn’t anything to write home about either. There is a plus point though about this type of mouse: they don’t require a battery, so they won’t ever run out of charge!
If you just need a very basic and reliable mouse, this is the one to get.
2. Wireless Mouse
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A wireless mouse is just the same as its predecessor, but without its tail. It is exactly what the name states; wireless! This type of mouse requires a battery and can be connected to your computer through a USB that emits radio frequencies.
These devices work wither with 2.4GHz wireless or via bluetooth.
3. Ball/Mechanical Mouse
This was one of the first mice seen used with computers. It used a rubber ball to track motion – the ball would spin in the direction you moved the mouse and the sensor detected it to determine what way to move the cursor. This mouse is quite out-dated and rarely seen being used anymore.
4. Wheel/Scroll Mouse
- Stop chasing a mouse around. Your trackball stays in one place and puts control under your thumb, so you don't have to move your arm to move your cursor. And its sculpted shape supports your hand for comfortable control all day long.
- You can go for up to 18 months without changing batteries and the convenient battery indicator helps to ensure that you'll never be caught off guard. Battery life may vary based on user and computing conditions.
- You get precise cursor control wherever you want to use your trackball. Hard tables, comfy sofas and lumpy beds are all no problem for the M570.
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The wheel mouse can come in all forms; wireless, optical, wired and more. The wheel refers to the tiny wheel attached between the left and right click buttons, which allows you to scroll up and down pages without manually having to use the scroll option on the side of the page.
5. Optical Mouse
This is the most commonly seen computer mice these days. It uses an LED light at the bottom of the device where the old rubber ball in a mechanical mouse would exist. The LED detects movement through reflected light. This means the mouse does not work on all surfaces; clear glass and plastic surfaces are not ideal.
6. Laser Mouse
This works much in the same way as an optical mouse. However, it does not use an LED; instead it uses a laser beam to reflect light from the surface it is on. This mouse can be used on surfaces like glass and plastic, but it is not as accurate as an optical mouse.
7. BlueTrack Mouse
- Windows button for easy access to the Start screen
- Compact design for ultimate portability
- 4-way scroll wheel for navigating up, down, left and right
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 08:40 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The BlueTrack mouse was invented by Microsoft; it houses a unique technology that uses a combination of image sensor and pixel geometry to accurately detect movement on all types of surfaces. This mouse can also be used on a carpet with ease.
8. Touchpad
These are most commonly found on laptops. Also referred to as glide pads, they have flat surfaces that require the touch of a finger gliding on them to control the cursor. Though touch pads usually have two buttons, some are pressure-sensitive and can be used as buttons by tapping the flat surface.
Specialty Types:
9. Trackball Mouse
- Optical tracking technology provides precise cursor movement for superior accuracy so you can get where you want on the screen Quickly with less hand movement, improving productivity and efficiency; The blue 40mm ball has been specially designed with an absolute spherical, hard surface for precise tracking and control
- Unique scroll Ring let you move up and down web pages or documents with ease; ambidextrous design works equally well for both right-handed and left-handed users
- Detachable Wrist rest softly cushions and cradles the hand and wrist in an ergonomic position for pain-free productivity during extended periods of activity on the computer
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 08:40 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A trackball mouse looks like an old mechanical mouse inverted. The ball is featured on the top of the mouse and is used to guide the cursor by spinning it.
Its design is more ergonomic because it doesn’t require the user to manually move the mouse – there is less wrist and hand movement involved.
10. Gaming Mouse
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These mice often feature multiple buttons, which can be programmed for gaming purposes. They are sturdy, and made for long-time use. The design features some ergonomics to aid the gamer and they are also known to be more accurate than the average mouse.
11. Vertical Mouse
- Scientific ergonomic design encourages healthy neutral "handshake" wrist and arm positions for smoother movement and less overall strain.
- 800 / 1200 / 1600 DPI Resolution Optical Tracking Technology provides more sensitivity than standard optical mice for smooth and precise tracking on a wide range of surfaces.
- Added next/previous buttons provide convenience when webpage browsing; the superior choice for internet surfers, gamers and people who work at length at the computer.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 08:40 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a very strange looking mouse. It sits upright and is meant to be held with your hand. This design is meant to be a lot more ergonomic than the regular mouse, being better for long-term computer use.
12. Stylus Mouse
These are expensive alternatives to your regular mouse are not used by the average Joe. These are specifically meant for digital designers. It is the perfect combination of a pen and a mouse, and great for those who free-hand draw on their PCs. Newer models are also pressure sensitive, detecting the intensity of your stroke.
13. Track-point Mouse
Have you ever wondered what those red or grey rubber spheres between the “G”, “H” and “B” keys on some laptops are? Those are track-point mice. Though laptops also have track pads, this pencil eraser looking mouse allows you to track the cursor without removing your hands from the keyboard.
14. Foot Mouse
This is the weirdest mouse on this list and probably the least common of the lot. This allows the PC user to navigate the cursor with their feet so they don’t have to remove their hands from the keyboard – talk about efficient!
As you can see, you can find a mouse for all your needs, even if you want to use one with your feet! We hope this list helps you pick the perfect one for you.
What is the best computer mouse type for carpal tunnel?
If you’re suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, you already know how excruciatingly painful it could be to perform some basic tasks such as holding a computer mouse.
Fortunately, you can find a computer mouse that is comfortable to use, even with this condition. You don’t have to experience the numbness, pain, and tingling sensation in your hands when using your computer.
Undoubtedly, it would be best to look for a computer mouse that is ergonomic if you have carpal tunnel. In general, an ergonomic computer mouse can allow your wrist to stay in a neutral position as you use it, creating a straight line with your forearm.
Mice with trackballs are also ideal for carpal tunnel sufferers. They allow you to navigate the mouse cursor around your computer screen using your fingers, which eliminates all the tension from your wrist.
They’re also much effective if your carpal tunnel symptoms trigger pain in your thumbs since you can operate them with your other fingers much easily. As an added advantage, trackballs are often more accurate than conventional computer mice.
Wired vs. Wireless Computer Mouse Types
The common difference between these computer mice is that one uses a cable while the other doesn’t. However, there are far more aspects separating these technologies than what is visible to the naked eye.
Below are their main pros and cons.
1. Wired
Pros
– Often better for gaming
– Usually has a maximum power input
– Often less expensive than their wireless counterparts
– Zero outside interference
– Faster response time
Cons
– Sometimes a bungee is needed, adding to the overall cost
– Cable might be annoying
2. Wireless
Pros
– Premium models offer excellent gaming performance
– Easier to travel with
– Much more user-friendly
– Look tidier
– More versatile
Cons
– Batteries add weight to its design
– Often more expensive
– Prone to interference
– Higher latency
As of now, we find ourselves in an era where wireless gaming mice are among the best the market can offer – coming with similar high-performance specs that we get in wired alternatives. It’s no longer the time when wireless mice were regarded for office or general-use only.
Best computer mouse for Designers and CAD work
Choosing the ideal mouse for CAD work is an essential task for designers. The mouse is the primary input device and, as a CAD drafter, you’ll be spending about 8 hours a day holding this device.
There are several things to consider when selecting the right mouse for CAD work.
For example, the higher the computer mouse DPI, the better. The best experience with your mouse is when it has high precision and quick reaction.
In definition, the Dots Per Inch (DPI) is a measurement of a mouse’s sensitivity. Therefore, the higher a mouse’s DPI, then the farther your screen’s cursor will move once you move the mouse.
Although the highest DPI mice are often used for gaming, having a good mouse DPI will be crucial for your CAD work.
Furthermore, thumb buttons are helpful and can be programmed. Typically, you could set one of your mouse’s thumb buttons to press ENTER and the other to press ESC.
If you consistently work in similar programs, it can be extremely helpful, and they’re generally easy to set up. So, for CAD work we recommend a mouse with programmable buttons.
What to look for when buying a computer mouse
– Wired or wireless type
It’s more about preference. Buy a wireless mouse if that’s what you need. You won’t have any difficulties fitting a wired mouse into your bag.
But if wireless feels like an added convenience for you instead of a much-required feature, your ideal mouse likely lies in the wired category.
– Size
Accuracy-wise, it would be prudent to avoid little mice, no matter how portable and compact they may be. However, if performance is not an issue, you may explore mice of all sizes and shapes.
If you have large hands, getting a large size mouse is essential though.
– DPI sensitivity
As aforementioned, a lower DPI mouse will have more mouse movement for a particular movement on-screen.
Generally speaking, it might be helpful on a small desk. On the other hand, a higher DPI means a much finer level of control is needed. There are some mouse models that allow you to change the DPI settings so you have the best of both worlds.
– Ergonomics design
If you’re behind a computer device for most of your day, it’s vital to buy a mouse that feels comfortable. If ergonomics are your utmost priority, there are numerous options available. A trackball mouse is excellent for wrist problems of for carpal tunnel syndrome.
– Weight
The inertia differences because of different masses in the mouse imply a different level of force is needed for it to move. It could help when working on fine control stuff since you wouldn’t want the mouse skittering around while performing pixel-level activities – therefore, a heavier mouse would be better.
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