Technophile: Mice for the tablet computing era

Curt Brandao reviews three computer mice that may be multifunctional enough to survive the 'post-PC' era.

The Logitech Cube. Photo Logitech

GTMax Handheld Rechargeable Mouse

How it looks It's hard to say what the GTMax Handheld Rechargeable Mouse looks like (the working end of a golf driver, maybe?), but we can safely say that a mouse wouldn't be among the top 10 choices.

What it does Think of the GTMax mouse as less of a mouse and more of a game controller for your everyday computing needs. With the help of its trackball, this optical mouse doesn't require a flat surface to operate, so it's great for screen navigation while in a plane, car, or even reclining on a sofa.

Who it's for Those susceptible to repetitive-stress injuries could find the GTMax mouse a lifesaver for their hands and wrists. And if you get tired of holding it like a Wii controller, it can also work on a flat surface like a regular mouse.

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Logitech Cube

How it looks In a "post-PC" touch-screen era, the days of the typical mouse might be numbered. But at least a few are trying to adapt to survive, such as the tiny Logitech Cube, which at first glance looks more like an oversized matchbox than a graphical user-interface device.

What it does The wireless cube can wirelessly move a pointer around your computer screen, of course, but its CV goes much deeper than that. It can serve as a slide presenter by simply lifting it into the air. It can also operate like a laptop trackpad or touch-screen interface, keeping still while you navigate across its top surface with your finger.

Who it's for Slaves to tech style will not be able to resist the unique-looking Cube and many will find its flexible interface functions work well for PowerPoint presentations and the like. However, its odd shape, while attention-grabbing, isn't exactly comfortable for hours and hours of use.

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Microsoft Wireless Mouse 8000

How it looks The smooth lines of this black-and-grey mouse makes it look like a miniature S-Class Mercedes concept car and its shape at least pays lip service to the ergonomic needs of our hands.

What it does The sturdy, Mouse 8000 runs on AAA batteries and connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to your laptop. It has programmable quick-key buttons and features four-way scrolling, meaning you can move your pointer up, down, left and right using your index finger. It can also serve as a PowerPoint controller and has a handy laser pointer.

Who it's for Busy travelling professionals will find the Mouse 8000 a worthy companion for business meetings and presentations. Just keep an eye on that battery life indicator because lasers can really suck up the juice pretty fast.

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