Switch Mouse

History:

Way back in 1981 the first computer mouse started to slowly makes it way as an accessory for computers. In 1984 it became more popular when Apple Macintosh began shipping them with every computer. As the computer revolution gained momentum the mouse became a staple item shipped with every computer sold. With expanded use came injuries. Repetitive stress issues started to rise, carpal tunnel syndrome being one of the main results. Who would have thought that having a part of your body under constant stress would eventually lead to problems.

Humanscale developed a mouse in the last 1990's called the Whale Mouse. The Whale mouse was adjustable to more easily fit the hand. Adjustments could be made in length, so hands we not crunching down to grab and move the mouse. Your hand would be completely rested on the mouse to help alleviate stress. The Whale Mouse was replaced by the Switch Mouse around 2007. Offering more natural movements and the ability to use the larger muscles in your arm and shoulders to move the mouse, not just the small ones in your hand and wrist.

My Thoughts:

The Switch Mouse has some of the same features as the Whale Mouse, it's wider than most mice and has an adjustable length for palm support. The most unique feature of the Switch Mouse is the 'V' shape. To better explain the 'V' shape try this exercise: drop your arm to your side and let it go limp. Then moving only your shoulder and elbow, place your arm on your desk. Notice how in a relaxed arm state your have naturally lies on the outer edge of the hand? The 'V' shape of the Switch Mouse is to allow your hand to stay in that relaxed position, removing stress off the little muscle in the hand and wrist. The Switch Mouse can be used either right or left handed and Humanscale did away with the boring scroll wheel. They instead adapted the Switch Mouse with a four directional scrolling pad.

I have big hands, it's true. You know what they say about a guy with big hands... they need a big mouse. I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of set up for the Switch Mouse; it includes directions for fitting the mouse correctly to your hand. The grip of the mouse is comfortable, it does take a little getting used to the mouse 'V' angle. After all these years of flat mousing it seems unnatural. After 30 min of web browsing I the new motions were becoming second nature. The optics on this laser mouse are precise and the motions are quick, I even tried it with one of my favorite games.

Pros to owning one:

• Size is easily changed
• Laser mouse
• Long 80" cord
• Reduces repetitive stress symptoms

Cons to owning one:

• Not wireless
• I would be cautious if you have bad shoulders

Overall Evaluation:

The Switch Mouse is a great mouse. The price might be a little high for light computer users, but gamers, CAD operators, and other heavy computer users this item is a must have. Although the motion takes some getting used to, the movement is fluid. I purposely dropped the mouse a few times and it still worked like a champ. I wish the Switch Mouse was wireless, it would be easier for business professional to tuck into a shoulder bag.

Looks: A-

Durability: A

Manufacturer: A

Value: A+

** Please make a wireless version**