I study graphic design at university and find that drawing intricate work using my built-in tracker pad really difficult. I work on a Macbook, so when I use two hands to get more control it zooms in and out of my work... really annoying! I have used a separate mouse for quite a while now, but find it limiting in terms of how much space I have, if I use a mouse with a cord. Therefore, I decided to invest in a wireless version. You might ask why I didn't go with Apple's wireless mouse instead... personally, at £47; they are way too out of my price range! For a fraction of the price I could buy a cordless mouse that does the job just as well!

-SET UP-

This couldn't be simpler! The mouse comes with an AA battery, which you slot into the bottom. On the underside of the mouse there is a USB device, which is removed and plugged straight into your USB port in your computer or laptop. On first usage your computer may have to find and install the device first - but this does NOT involve any software or downloading - it is purely just to check it is safe! Et voila, all systems go!

-DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE-

The mouse is black with silver detail. There is a small light on top, which shows you when the mouse is in use. The roller device is quite clear in appearance and the Microsoft logo is featured on the back of the mouse. It is made from a strong form of plastic.

Microsoft has really thought about the ergonomics in terms of its shape with this mouse. Your hand sits really comfortably and your finger is easily accessible to the roller device on top. The texture is neither rough nor smooth, just right for using at long intervals. It would be suitable for a range of different hand types, including children's.

I find that the mouse works better if you are using a mouse mat, to ensure the surface is really smooth, which helps me to concentrate more on detailed work. However, the mouse does not have a roller-ball like traditional ones so it would work just as well without one. You certainly do not have to wait ages for the mouse to respond to you on screen! In terms of speed, there is no problem!

The USB device on the underside clips back securely, which in turn, turns off the mouse and thus saves battery life. You do not need to worry about losing the separate parts this way and makes it easier for storing in laptop bags for instance.

I have owned this device for nearly three months and use it practically every day. I can honestly say that it is a very robust type of equipment - having dropped it quite a few times! Neither the paint or the casing has been damaged!

-PRICE-

I purchased my mouse from Amazon.co.uk at the end of November 2010 for £12.45 - free delivery - so they are really cheap to pick up. After some quick research, I have found that CBC computers (amongst others) offer it cheaper - for around £9.98 with £1.95 delivery. Check out Google Shopping for a list of other retailers.

-FINALLY-

I would recommend this mouse because of its compact features. Its strongest feature is the fact the USB can be clipped onto the bottom when it is out of use. If you are looking for a reliable wireless mouse that does exactly what it is meant to, then the Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3000 is what you are looking for! Nothing bad to say about it!

5/5

[Also appears on Ciao under the username Strawberry_123]