Recommend a new mouse

MKR

I got my first optical mouse some time in the early '00s for $19.99 at Walmart. It lasted around ten years before failing. I've used a string of salvaged OEM mice since then, and I'm at a point where it won't do anymore.

I found a lot that looked promising, until I found that one review that pointed out how bad the scroll wheel and middle click are. Scrolling and middle clicking are important functions.

Anyone have a recommendation around $20?

Great Scott

I'd recommend an Microsoft Basic Optical Mouse. I've always had really good luck with MS hardware, their stuff is very good. Just like Apple software... I think these companies are in the wrong market?

In any case, here's a direct link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16826105573
Here's the product page: http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/en-us/p/basic-optical-mouse/P58-00061

If you're willing to spend a bit more and/or need wireless I'd suggest a MS Arc mouse. I've heard that the older model had a weak scroll wheel (I haven't seen this), but the new version is fixed. NOTE: Don't pay MSRP for an Arc mouse, they are frequently on sale at Amazon for 33% or more off.

Rderdall

I second Great Scott. I use the MS Basic Optical Mouse for work, and it's bullet proof. This thing's worked flawlessly for like 3 or 4 years. I do a lot of drawings in Visio and use my scroll wheel a ton too and love the way it feels. Very good mouse.

bowen

http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Optical-Gaming-High-Precision-910-002277/dp/B0055QZ216/

bowen

You will never regret owning an MX series mouse from logitech, they are the bee's knees, and worth the extra $5-20 depending on if you can get them on sale.

zepherin

I happen to like Logitech accessories, good price, don't usually break and I had no problem getting them to replace a keyboard that I lost the k key too.

bowen

zepherin wrote: »

I happen to like Logitech accessories, good price, don't usually break and I had no problem getting them to replace a keyboard that I lost the k key too.

They have good customer service. I got a whole new headset because the charger on mine broke.

MKR

I think I'll go with the MS Basic. Thanks for the help.

MKR

One minor thing though: a lot of the reviews on Amazon say newer editions are jumpy and glitchy. I'm not sure what to make of that. :?

bowen

They are probably jumpy and glitchy and entirely dependent on a really nice mouse pad ($20-40) to perform adequately.

Like I said, the MX series mouse fits into your budget, and has great quality (I use it at work and at home for gaming).

k-maps

Yup, just bought one myself. Very pleased.

Sir Carcass

I'll throw in the recommendation for Logitech. I have a G500. I had it a little over 2 years when the left button started double-clicking. Checked the website, saw they have a 3 year warranty. Submitted a ticket, got a response a couple of days later asking for some info. Sent it and they shipped out a new one the next day. Didn't even have to send the old one back.

Inquisitor77

http://forums.penny-arcade.com/discussion/143093/looking-for-a-mouse-for-gaming

MKR

Looks like the G400 is the way to go. I can think of a lot of situations (gaming and otherwise) where more precision and more buttons would be handy.

Dhalphir

A cheap mouse relies on a good mouse pad to not be jumpy and glitchy - a good mouse is more forgiving.

EDIT: such has been my experience, anyway.

Thanatos

Just to echo everyone else:

I have a G400. I love it. It was my first not-a-$10-Logitech optical mouse. I don't notice any jumpiness or anything, using them on free mousepads.

bowen

I don't even use a mousepad!

I like how my advice from 2 years ago was also using the MX logitech mice (The G400 is basically the poor man's version of it).

MKR

My old optical that lasted ten years was a $20 Logitech, so it may even be from the same line. The labels and logos wore off over the years.

Disco11

Just replaced my terrible R.A.T. 7 by a logitech G400. So happy not to be fighting with my mouse everytine I lift it off the mat more then 1mm or decide to move my arm to fast.

Hewn

bowen wrote: »

I don't even use a mousepad!

Best "mousepad" I've ever used is a 12 inch piece of polished black marble tile. Perfect glide, extremely durable, and cost 50 cents on clearance at a home improvement store.