Everyone knows what a mouse is — or at least we think we do. My baby sister calls them baby rats, and I don’t think she is wrong, the computer mouse does look like a baby rat. A computer mouse though is an input device that converts clicks and motions to activities in a computer system. Also known as pointers, they are small handheld input devices that are used for moving, selecting and pointing at things on a computer system. let us know How Long Does A Computer Mouse Last?
They come in many shapes and sizes and are usually located outside the computer system to send inputs. The primary aim of a mouse on a system is to interact with items in the computer system such as files, applications and other elements.
How long does a computer mouse last?
The durability of any device is usually dependent on a range of factors. Things such as the use, care, type and brand, and manufacturer are top on the list of influences for the longevity of a product like a computer mouse. However, a good computer should be able to last a good five years when used under proper conditions.
Uses of a Computer Mouse
The computer mouse exists in multiple shapes, sizes and brands. The design for a mouse can differ based on the preference of the user and the functionality required. But despite all these, the mouse has a general rule of operation, and that is, it must be placed on a flat surface and moved from one point to another to enable them to interact with the items on the computer display.
Some of the common types of mice out in the market include wired, wireless, BlueTrack, Laser mouse, Mechanical computer mouse, and many more. Each mouse design is unique and specific to the intended use of this device.
One major use of a computer mouse is the scroll function. This feature is important when working on long articles, lists and documents. The mouse scroll enables the user to access the further down or the end of a document. This can be done by rolling the thumb on the wheel of the mouse or holding down the scroll bar and dragging.
Another use of the computer mouse is in Hovering over documents. The hover function is used to highlight items to find out more details. While clicking on any button the mouse performs the function of the opening. Using the click option of a mouse helps with opening, selecting or highlighting options.
For gamers and programmers, special effects and functionality is added to their mouse options. This enables them to perform extra functions.
Types of a Computer Mouse
Some of the common mouse types are discussed below. There are tons of mouse types and the best option to choose is usually dependent on the intended use.
- Wired Mouse: This usually is used as a blanket term to refer to every mouse type with a cord attached to its end. With the introduction of wireless mouse options, most people refer to these as old school, however, they are a lot more efficient, with newer versions being introduced.
A wired mouse is preferred by more people because it means this option does not need battery replacements and has fewer circuits. The wired mouse is powered through the laptop by inserting the cable into the USB ports available.
- Optical Mouse: This mouse type has increased in popularity over the last few years. The Optical mouse replaces the LED and functions by detecting movements using censors and changes. Despite the introduction of laser sensors, the mouse still harnesses mechanical motions and a scroll wheel to perform certain operations.
- Gaming Mouse: The gaming mouse option is popular amongst gamers and made specifically for this purpose. They usually come with diverse functionalities and buttons, programmed to do extra activities
Gaming laptops are usually clunky, and big and have extra buttons attached to them. Although specific for game use, the gaming mouse can also be used for non-gaming purposes. In web browsing and video playbacks and other internet functionality, these computer mouse have proven to be efficient in use.
- Wireless Mouse: This type of mouse comes without a cord or cable attached. Communication with computers occurs through a radio frequency or Bluetooth. These mouse options are easy to carry around. And are also easy to use. With no cable sticking out, the Wireless mouse can be easier to care for and protect.
The drawback to these mouse options is the need to use batteries. Although the battery life for the wireless mouse can last for a very long, changing them is still an extra priority for the user.
- Stylus Mouse: The best way to describe this computer mouse are; large, bizarre, ink-pen-looking type thing. They are made in the form of fat brushes and are used specifically by digital artists. Rated very good for digital paintings and drawings, the stylus mouse is usually the go-to choice when involved in any art form creation.
The stylus mouse is also referred to as a pen mouse. They give incredible precision and control over the PC cursor. They are usually connected using nano receivers connected to a USB.
Some Mouse Brands And How Long They Last
As the world embraces the rise of the digital space, with areas such as entertainment, work and lifestyle becoming fully digitalized, the mouse becomes an important part of our setup. Regardless of the occasion, having a good mouse is important for improving one’s experience online. A good mouse enables higher productivity at work or a surreal gaming experience. Therefore, having the right knowledge of the different mouse brands and the different functions they offer is important.
Below, we take a good look at some of the best mouse options and attempt to identify some of the right mouse brands in the market.
- Razor Pro Click: The Razor Pro Click is an excellent choice for creatives in different industries. Designed for the right-handed, this mouse option offers a very smooth operational functionality. The ergonomically designed mouse developed by Humanscale comes with 400 hours of battery life
before there is a need to recharge. The Razor Pro Click pairs effortlessly with up to four devices and comes with eight programmable buttons, making it excellent for any need or use.
The only drawback to choosing this mouse is the hefty price tag attached. However, with DPI adjustable to over 16,000, for extreme sensitivity, this might just be the best mouse option in the market.
- Logitech Pebble: The Logitech Pebble is priced at $20 and comes with a small compact design that makes it easy to carry anywhere easily. Symmetrically designed for ambidextrous use, the Pebble is compatible with any use. Despite its functionality being limited, this Logitech’s low-cost mouse option offers good value for money.
- Microsoft Surface Mouse: Microsoft is another company offering some of the great mouse in the technology industry. The Surface Mouse is built specifically for Surface users, offering them decent compatibility and smooth connectivity. Users without the Surface can also pick up this option, provided their PC has a Bluetooth connection. However, it is just great for Surface users.
The Microsoft Surface Mouse comes stylishly designed, has a metal wheel that adds to its aesthetics and is another option for ambidextrous hand use. The cost of getting this mouse is about $25.
- Logitech MX Master 3: This is the second Logitech brand on the list. This mouse is applauded by tons of creatives for its aesthetics and ergonomic design. The MX Master 3 has DPIs of over 4000 making them sensitive and a good choice for multiple uses. Although designed to favour right-handed users, the MX Master 3 remains top-rated among users.
This mouse is known for an excellent battery life of over 70days after charging for mere minutes. It can be used on different devices and offers smooth transitioning among them with ease. Having a total of 7 programmable buttons, the Logitech MX Master 3 remains a good mouse option for any use. Asides from the right-hand specific design, one other drawback to selecting this mouse option, is the $92 price tag that comes attached.
- Logitech MX Ergo Wireless: It is official, Logitech has successfully hacked our list, with a third solid appearance. The MX Ergo wireless mouse by Logitechcomes with a very unusual design. For most users, it is either love or hate, no in-betweens. This mouse goes against everything a mouse has formerly been described as, with a tilt, trackball and a scroll option. It takes a while to get familiar with the Logitech MX Ergo.
Designed specifically for right-hand users, the mouse option also comes with an accurate trackball that helps users in performing different tasks. The price of this one is $83 and it is usually advised to take out time in testing and try it out before committing to buy this mouse.
Conclusion
The list of the available computer mouse in the market is endless. And they each have amazing shelf lives and features. Common functionalities, especially for gaming mouse options include things like, programmable buttons, laser sensors, high DPI, resolution switching, and other customizable command prompt and movements. However, mouse in general has different functionality, differentiating one manufacturer from another.
Finding the perfect option is therefore dependent on preference and the specific use case of the user involved. Regardless of needs, there is a mouse that can do whatever you want, you just need to search. As the option of customizability increases, it becomes easier to find your perfect taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How often can I replace my mouse?
Answer:
The option of changing your mouse is largely dependent on the use of the mouse. Gamers for example are top of the list on the frequency of a mouse change. However, for the average mouse user, it is advised to replace a mouse at least once every 2-3 years. Although a mouse can last for almost 5 years, why wait till it’s totally bad to change it?
- What are some signs to look out for when my mouse is dying?
Answer:
Asides from the obvious sign of it not working, here are a few things to look out for when your computer mouse is dying.
- Slow cursor response
- The sensitivity lags and responds slowly.
- Reduced battery life or frequent need to replace batteries
- There’s also the sign of buttons or scrollbars no longer responding.
