Product: Verbatim Bluetooth Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse
Manufacturer: Verbatim
MSRP: $39.00     Find Lowest Price @ PriceGrabber
Author: Bill
Date: August 20, 2009

Preface

I reviewed this mouse alongside the Go Nano from Verbatim. Both were included in a single review package, but because of their inherent differences (more than just what frequency they transmit on!), they warrant separate reviews. Some of the verbiage in the introduction and conclusion sections is similar, if not the same, because it is equally applicable to both devices. I apologize in advance for the redundancy. If you are considering either of these devices, please read both reviews. While neither is perfect for everyone, their nuances (as expressed in my reviews) should help any decision-making. As always, thanks for reading!

-Bill

Introduction

I use my laptop as a primary computer, and have become quite accustomed to using a trackpad full-time. I don’t see myself as someone who would carry a mouse with them at all times unless it was more comfortable than using the trackpad, offered more controls, used Bluetooth (which my system supports), and took commonly available batteries or could charge over USB. From the looks of things, Verbatim’s Go Bluetooth should be a contender for space in my laptop bag if it’s comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

Packaging

The mouse is packaged in a needlessly complicated plastic and paper contraption that protects the device while showing it off. It’s designed to be hung in an aisle display, which necessitates good looks, but looses points on eco-friendly and easy-to-use packaging.

Inside are the mouse, driver disks, and documentation.

The Mouse

Verbatim’s mouse is powered by two AA batteries (included), which are accessible by sliding the top of the mouse off. This was not managed in any particularly graceful manner, as two precariously thin plastic tabs hold the top in place. Unlike the Go Nano, this mouse is more technologically fit. Side buttons augment left and right clickers, and the wheel tilts side to side. Moreover, the mouse is driven by a red laser optical system which uses less power and offers more precision.

The mouse is essentially driverless when using it on Mac OSX or Windows XP (and higher). Mouse movement was instantly smooth when used on my OS X platform, but took a minute to settle down from jittery movement in Windows XP. It tracked well on desk surfaces, mouse pads, and all but chromed glass. I found this to be on par with my old standby, the Logitech MX1000 laser mouse. Nothing fools this little guy, and it doesn’t track movements when the mouse is raised from its surface. Unlike the Nano, this mouse uses four disappointing small glide-pads which I foresee falling off in my laptop bag.

Using the mouse for extended periods of time was comfortable despite its cropped form-factor. The rear of the mouse is scalloped to raise your hand’s natural position off of the desk and forward onto the body of the mouse. It’s surprisingly comfortable for its size!

Conclusions

For the same $40, this packs the punch that the Go Nano lacks. Plenty of controls populate the small mouse, which still manages to feel comfortable. Integrated Bluetooth radios and room for 2 AA batteries should power it for a lengthy time, and the optical sensor gives it the high-tech advantage. A few things struck me as being cheap: the flimsy battery/top cover, and the small glide-pads. They worry me, but until they fail, the mouse wins a spot in my laptop bag. If you don’t have Bluetooth on your computer, invest in a miniature USB dongle – this mouse is worth it.

Pros

+ Plenty of controls to customize and use
+ Great mouse performance on a variety of surfaces
+ Integrated Bluetooth eliminates the need for additional receiver units (providing you have Bluetooth capabilities)
+ Comfortable to use, yet small to store

Cons

-Flimsy construction could lead to a duct-tape adventure

Tags: Bluetooth, Laser, Mobile, mouse, Verbatim, wireless