Microsoft Arc

Microsoft Arc

Published November 13, 2008 at 01:00:00 AM, by Blair Mathis

Overview

Is there really such a thing as a fashion mouse – and a need for one? Microsoft clearly sees a market for such a product, eschewing all ergonomics and practicality aside for design that only Paris Hilton could love. So is the Arc Mouse (SRP $59.99) a completely new take on the age-old pointing device? No. Is it any good? Ehh… sort of.

Design

Mice are a dime a dozen and the wireless Arc Mouse proves to be a breath of fresh air in the design department. The Arc Mouse utilizes an – you guessed it –arc design element that is collapsible down to 60% of its size for compact travel and storage. It’s not exactly a compact mouse when unfolded, thus making this applicable for use on both notebooks and desktop computers alike.

With a streamlined shape and glossy slick exterior shell, the Arc Mouse is definitely a stunning design piece and has a nice solid feel to it. Materials quality is very good. There are 2 standard buttons, a scroll wheel, and one side button for a total of 4 buttons. Everything is neatly designed around the arc shape for clean and sleek look. There’s also a battery status gauge in the center.

The folding, collapsible tail allows the mouse to be easily stowed inside the included carrying case as well as serve as an on-off function. Fold the mouse up and the mouse shuts itself off for power saving. A neat design element is the placement for the micro USB transreceiver that is magnetically stowed beneath the arc fold when not in use. Just be careful not to lose it.

Features & Performance
While Microsoft is out promoting the latest line of BlueTrack technology as the next biggest thing to happen to mouse evolution, the new Microsoft Arc Mouse makes do with the tried and true Laser tracking system. Tracking is accurate and smooth on most surfaces, and the 2.4GHz wireless technology provides a range of up to 30 feet.

3 batteries are required to power the mouse – yes, three. Fortunately, Microsoft provides your first set on the house.

In actual tests, the Arc Mouse does everything you would ask for in a basic two-button wireless mouse with crisp button depresses and a solid scroll wheel. It’s really the exterior design of the mouse that is at fault from an otherwise, solid product. The arc design, while nice to look at, really is uncomfortable to use after prolonged use. The Arc Mouse just isn’t ergonomic contoured to rest upon your hand comfortably. Worse, the awkward placement of the side button makes it hard for the thumb to reach, forcing you to adjust your hand position each time you need to use it. Other than this design caveat, the Arc Mouse is a solid performer – then again, if you’re in the market for a fashionable device, design would be all that matters anyway.

Conclusion
Microsoft’s Arc Mouse is a classic example of form over functionality…and practicality. The Arc Mouse is a really nice looking device but beyond it’s candy coated outer shell, it functions like any other two-button wireless mouse, only less comfortable. This is strictly for those who crave the attention and desire of a fashion/style-centric device. For the rest of us, you can find better mice that are more comfortable, and offer more features for the same price.

Bottom Line
Ergonomics aside, those looking for a stylish and fun “fashion” mouse will find the Arc Mouse an attractive alternative. Others can move on.

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Technical Specifications

No specifications are available.