The addition of the wireless mouse, specifically for laptop use, is one of the most innovative and convenient technologies we’ve seen in terms of laptop computing in the past few years. This may seem simple, and in many ways it is. But being able to use a wireless laptop mouse, as opposed to a bulky, corded mouse or the often awkward laptop track pad, makes a big difference in how easy laptop computing has become.

Curious about the things a wireless laptop mouse can do? Here is a top ten list of features you can find on a mouse. (Most mice will not feature all 10, but if you’re interested, find a mouse that combines the features that mean the most to you.)

1. Optical technology. More old-fashioned computer mice operate with a small ball that rolls inside as you move the mouse around, but optical mice are more precise, longer lasting, and more lightweight.
2. Size options. It’s amazing how tiny and easy to store and carry around some of today’s laptop mice are. You can get a wireless laptop mouse that is as small as two fingers put together; but pick the size that you’re most comfortable with.
3. Buttons. Some of the simpler, more streamlined mice feature one or two buttons that perform all the functions you need with just a few simple click styles.
4. Extra features. Still other include multiple buttons for increased function. Whether for use with the computer cursor or when giving a presentation, the right mouse really can do it all.
5. Weight. The lighter your mouse is, the easier it is to carry around. Convenience is the point of the laptop, so the mouse should be convenient, too.
6. Energy efficiency. Because these mice are battery operated, look for one with the longest battery life available.
7. USB capability. Some ‘talk’ to the computer via USB port, which many people like for its simplicity and reliability.
8. Bluetooth. Others connect via Bluetooth, which is more high-tech and leaves your USB port open.
9. Ergonomics. Because extended computer use can cause wrist problems, find a mouse designed to be health-friendly in its layout.
10. Price. You can spend anywhere from $30 to $200 on a wireless laptop mouse. Finding one with the price that matches your needs is the best way to be happy with your new mouse.

If you are looking to purchase a wireless laptop mouse for use with your portable computer, it’s a good idea to have an idea of what you want before you go out and make a purchase. It can be overwhelming to stand in the aisle of an office supply store, with a dozen choices on the shelf in front of you. Even online shopping can be overwhelming, clicking from page to page and opening tab after tab with different options.

So before you start comparing models, sit down and figure out what you want in your wireless laptop mouse. Here are some questions you can ask yourself, to help you determine what you want. Once you have these preferences in mind, it is a lot easier to look at a specific model and determine whether or not it has what you are looking for.

One of the first questions you want to ask yourself is “How big do I want my wireless laptop mouse to be?” Some are the size of a standard computer mouse, but there are many designed to be smaller. Some are narrow but the same length, and some are of equal scale, just smaller all around.

If you have a tendency to get a sore wrist or arm when you use your mouse, and you anticipate using the wireless mouse for substantial periods, make sure to get one that is designed with ergonomics in mind.

The next question is “How many buttons do I want?” Some mice will have one button (usually for a Mac), or two, but many have three or more, with some advanced scrolling and clicking functions. Try a few out to see what you want. The more you plan to use it, the more convenient it will be to have additional features. But if it’s only for occasional use, you may be more comfortable with a more affordable, simpler model.

And finally, decide how much you are willing to spend. As with most things, the adage of “you get what you pay for” definitely applies to the wireless laptop mouse. Generally, the more money you spend, the better construction, more reliable connectivity, and smoother operation you will get.

So decide what you’re looking for before you head out, and it’ll be much easier to pick a mouse that’s right for you!

The increased availability and popularity of the wireless laptop mouse should come as no surprise to those who follow the computing industry, or even for those who just use computers. Cheap laptops have made owning and using a computer easier than ever before, and the wireless mouse to use along with it allows laptop users to jump a final hurdle that had been, until recently, the last ‘glitch’ in the convenience of laptop computers.

When people started owning computers in their homes, everyone got very used to using the mouse to control the cursor they saw on their screen. A wired mouse uses either a red light or a rolling ball to measure movement, speed, and direction and then relate that, through the cord, into the computer to control the cursor.

When laptops got popular, people would either bring a wired mouse along with them to attach to the portable computer, or they would use the built-in track pad that came as part of the laptop. But carrying a mouse around is cumbersome and often awkward (after all, the “lap” top computer is easy, but who can use a bulky mouse on their lap?) And the track pad doesn’t deliver the same precision, speed, and consistent control that a mouse does.

One of the biggest advantages of the wireless laptop mouse is its convenience. You get the benefits of a mouse without having to drag around, store, and get tangled in a cord while the mouse is in use.

The other major benefit of the wireless laptop mouse is that it gives you the dexterity and control that the laptop track pad has yet to recreate, but in a way that is perfectly suited to laptop use. Many of these laptop mice are specifically designed to be very small, ergonomic, and easy for portable use.

There are many models of wireless laptop mouse that are just a fraction of the dimensions of a standard mouse. The tiny sized mouse can be easily set on a book or used on any small flat surface nearby. You don’t need to make room for a whole mouse pad or anything like that.

As simple as they are, these wireless mice make laptop computing easier than ever before and are, arguably, the final piece of the wireless puzzle, at least as concerns recreating home computing away from home. But who knows what will be invented next!