An Arc Mouse review
We here at techkamuna like good designs, good desings not just only in tech but to other areas of consumer society. But, in this aritcle, we’ll focus on Microsoft’s Hardware department: their Arc Mouse.
I first saw these babies at (ironically) at an Apple retailer and somehow, with it’s unusual design and packaging choices, it gelled with the place. Of course what catches our eye is its design. It’s a mouse on diet, nay, it’s a mouse hot from a plastic surgery. The arc mouse comes in black and red and both look nice and feel sturdy in the hand.
As with nice hardware, Microsoft’s Arc mouse has nice touches awaiting it’s user. It’s foldable as to make it’s dimensions more travel-friendly. When folded open, i note two things: the folding out action turns the mouse on and, reveals the magnetically attached receiver for the laptop or desktop.
It has a total of 5 buttons and a scroll wheel. When used, it feels that it’s at just the right heft. Also, it’s surprising comfortable. But let me give you a warning on that statement, as with products concern close interaction with human parts and limbs, mileage may vary. Windows guy Paul Thurrott mentions it ‘the size of the mouse was suspect…I have large hands.’ Meanwhile, David Coldewey over at Crunch Gear says ‘it feels good to use.’
One thing common i have read and experienced is the side button nearest to the left click was a bit far to reach easily. But, again, let’s say it altogether: ‘mileage may vary.’
Overall, I would recommend opting for more choices before investing on this baby (it sells for more than 2k). As with most of tech hands out there, even a cheapo CD-R King mouse would do the job well enough. But if you are design conscious and enough money aside, Microsoft’s Arc Mouse is a good mouse enough for a try.
3/5 stars.
Tags: design, ergonomics, hardware, Microsoft, mouse, review