Microsoft Explorer Mouse


Amazon Marketplace UK	15.97
E-buyer	17.28
Amazon.co.uk	17.99
E-buyer	18.00
Amazon Marketplace UK	19.40
Misco UK	19.99
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Sensor	LED
Wired? / Docking Station?	Non / Oui
Battery	1 x AA
Frame Rate	NC
Maximum Resolution	800 ppp
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Reporting Frequency	125 Hz
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Vincent Alzieu
Test date: September 16, 2008

BlueTrack vs Laser

When laser mice were unveiled, there was universal acclaim from manufacturers for the new technology that allowed you to use your mouse on virtually any surface--unlike red LEDs that go crazy if you life them off the mouse pad.

It was all true enough, but things have moved on, and BlueTrack works on even more surfaces, with the only exception now being clear glass and mirrors. We tried it on marble, and it does indeed work--but there is certainly some marketing hype going on here. How many people really need to be able to guarantee their mouse works on marble?

Microsoft has launched a new technology called BlueTrack. It claims to work on virtually any surface, including granite ,carpet and rough-grain wood. The idea behind this is that many people don't use their computer at a desk any more. Instead, they're just as likely to writing an e-mail or listening to music sitting on the sofa, on a plane or even in bed ...

All of those people who work away from a traditional office need a mouse that works anywhere. That's what the new BlueTrack technology promises, and it manages to edge out laser mice, which are already very versatile.

The Explorer Mouse 2008 is the first one to boast this blue sensor, and Microsoft makes sure you know about it. A blue LED glares when the mouse goes into action, lighting the room around you a vibrant electric blue. Thankfully this lasts just about ten seconds.

The Explorer mouse is both long and tall, which means your hand can rest on it completely without touching the desk, which is more comfortable, even though it can be an unusual experience at first for those used to smaller mice.

The asymmetric shape means you can only use it with your right hand. It has two buttons at thumb level and a tilting scroll wheel. Underneath the mouse are two connectors that allow you to dock the mouse in a charging station.

You can't change the resolution on the fly to gain precision in gaming. With its bulky shape, this really is a mouse that aims at maximum comfort rather than high-end gaming.

Charging Station

Works on virtually any surface

Two thumb buttons

Bulky, but well-designed and comfortable

No customisation for gamers

Logitech's USB Dongle is smaller

Scroll wheel on Logitech mice is easier to use

This new Microsoft mouse looks more and more like a Logitech model. While the competition is concentrating on a smarter scrollwheel, the emphasis here is on the new BlueTrack sensor which works on virtually any surface.