Wait! Don't Smash that mouse! It's with ME!
Written: Sep 10 '01 (Updated Sep 11 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: small, light-weight, extremely portable, a variety of plug-in options, and a free USB cable
Cons: can't really think of any unless they're giving them away free and I paid cash
The Bottom Line: This little mouse is perfect for it's function, as a peripheral for a laptop. For your PC, there are other options.
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| artbyjude's Full Review: Belkin MiniMouse |
Are you one of those people with a box of no longer usable peripherals in a closet somewhere? You think, maybe they will self -repair, or be aided in their healing by a little nano-robots released from a passing galactic civilization, or maybe you will fix them someday. Someday never comes ,so off you go to the nearest, cheapest place that has one, because although the rodent (mouse) in question no longer feels like working, you have obligations.
Not to belabour the point, but I have pen mice, Microsoft and Logitech mice, a trackball mouse, several 'come with the system' mice, and one I can't identify in that box. Some of them are vintage 1995. Anybody want 'em?
This particular mouse, by BELKIN is called a mini-mouse, not to be confused with Mickey's girlfriend. I bought it for the purpose it was intended, that is to add to a laptop, to reduce the volume of the package, and to be able to use my computer on the airplane during business trips..or whatever.
LAPTOPS WITH TOUCH-PADS
Of the several I have owned, including Gateway, HP, and IBM models, all have had integrated mouse touch-pads or buttons built into the keyboard. They don't however, work well with my lightning-speed executions of solitaire, free-cell, or even Pandora's Box, and even though it may be user-related, it is more work than I want to do to play a game. Hence the search for a compatible mouse.
RULES FOR BUYING MICE (for living mice consult your local grocer)
1. Cheap isn't always the best, and most expensive is not always best either
2. Microsoft will rip you off any way it can-but you know their product will work
3. The generic mouse is probably going to break into less than two months..or never work at all
4. "Ergonomic" is a meaningless word when it comes to mouse appreciation (but not when you are looking for a mouse pad, or an office chair)**
5. YOU MUST have a compatible connection for the mouse. YOU MUST CHECK THIS BEFORE TRYING TO PLUG IT IN.(Go to Systems in your control panel, click on devices. and check the active ports)
6. If you have to load software, it is probably going to create a problem.
7. Save your receipt and take it back if it doesn't work
8. Know what you want before you go in.
Given that premise, you should be able to pick up a basic mouse for $15-20. Even Microsoft carries one with few features, for that price.
BUT WHY A BELKIN mouse?
Belkin got my attention because in another box, I have a lot of video cables, printer cables, camera cables, you- name- it -I've -got- it-cables, and they DO NOT last forever, especially when the plastic/rubber hardens or you are particularly abusive to your toys. Belkin cables have lasted longer than any others for a reasonable price. So it's a simple deduction that I would buy this one over LOGITECH, whose company I curse to darkness for many reasons.
THE GOOD STUFF
1. Equipped with a scroll-wheel, which helps when your are reading and rating lengthy reviews, or wading through 500 comments on some celebrity Epinonator
2. Small and portable, very light. (leaves me room for another digital camera) It also helps when you are faced with airline table service, in the middle seat. The space is a little cramped. (I'll say!)
3. Plugs into a USB slot on your computer, although it also comes with an adaptor for PS2 or Serial mice connections. If yours doesn't, take it back, or get an adaptor from Circuit City.
4. Allows for smaller movements of hand and forearm, which is another plus if you are short on space
5. Works well with minimum friction; I used it on the fabric of my clothes, or the armrest on the airline flight.
6. The size is perfect for my hand, and I feel a lot more control when I overwhelm the mouse with my palm down. Control is important for some of us.
7. Pretty durable because it jumped out of my pocket at the ticket window (trying to escape, I'll bet!) and was slammed with a pullman case by another passenger (hence the title of this review.)
BAD STUFF
1. Actually, I really like the little guy, and have had no problems with it (him). If you are used to working with big clunky Microsoft mice, or huge awkward LOGITECH trackballs, the size may be hard to adjust to.
2. Comes with a disc, but I advise not using it, unless you have to go in and "turn on" the port you are using to connect. WINDOWS has a whole folder on mice, and you have complete control to set it up. I am trying to train it to go out and get me a cup of coffee, but have as yet been unsuccessful.
3. All stories told, it will someday have to be replaced, and will join the box in the closet. But cheer up, you still have another USB cable to play with!
Final Recommendation
For everyday PC stuff I still like my optic Microsoft mouse, because there is no "ball" to get stuck, and doesn't require a mouse-pad. But for your lap-top, you really can't go wrong on this little guy. Does not come in colors to match your outfit.
**Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common problem for many of us. I recommend a gel wrist pad. I have tried the gel-mouse and I can't see any difference.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 13.99
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Epinions.com ID:
artbyjude
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Member: jude paxton
Location: In a state of confusion
Reviews written: 699
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About Me:
If I'd known TODAY was to be my TOMORROW I woulda done better YESTERDAY.
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