Review: Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Ergonomic Mouse 6000

I recently used the Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000, an ergonomic mouse often claimed as the most comfortable mouse from Microsoft. One of the most expensive mice available in the market, it was interesting to note if it was worth its value. As I adjusted to the new ergonomic mouse design, there were some good and bad features…

Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Ergonomic Mouse 6000

The first thing that amazed me about Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 was the soft feel of the mouse, it was not plastic-y, but very comfortable to hold and feel without getting rubbery. However, it was definitely heavy. After using the extremely light, wired laser mouse from iBall, it was indeed too heavy. But I guess the bulky mouse design and the batteries might contribute to the excess weight. I had to increase the mouse pointer speed so I did not have to move the mouse too much.

Ergonomic Posture

As I grabbed the mouse, it takes some time to get used to the new hand posture. The ergonomic design ensures you grab the mouse in a tilted lateral position, relieving any carpal tunnel pressure in the wrist (so it’s rather good if you suffer from Carpal tunnel syndrome). The hand pressure is transferred to the hand lateral edge, with new pressure points you need to adjust to.

Buttons and Scrolling

The mouse keys were really easy to click, though larger hands would feel more comfortable using them. As you rotate the scroll wheel, you can again appreciate the exceptional Microsoft hardware quality. The scroll button scrolls very smoothly with no breaks. This middle scroll button can be moved in a 4-way scroll to perform a horizontal scroll, again amazingly comfortable and smoother than any mouse I have ever tried. However, as I clicked the scroll button for use as a middle click button, I was disappointed by the hard to press middle click button.

This 5-button wireless mouse has 2 extra buttons which can be customized to perform any cool task you want. Though it was difficult to reach the button in front without lifting my hand off the mouse (need larger hands!), the button behind was easier to reach with the thumb (I like to use it to minimize windows). Instant Viewer and Magnifier are 2 cool features that help improve productivity.

Performance

Now for the performance – Very smooth and focussed. High Definition Laser Mouse is definitely more precise, more responsive, and delivers smoother tracking. Remember to load the Intellipoint software that comes packaged with it which gives you lots of customizing options for buttons and performance.

The connectivity of the wireless mouse is instant once you attach the connecting device to the computer.

Battery

Battery status is displayed in the mouse itself and the Battery Status LED Indicator glows red when the battery is running low, so you know when you need a battery replacement. Note that there is no power button on the mouse and I guess that the connectivity activates the mouse, which means it gets switched off without connectivity leading to a much longer battery life.

Right Hand Use Only

Unfortunately only right-hand users can use it.

It is available as a standalone mouse for around $80 on websites and Rs 4000 in India or as part of the Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Desktop 7000 combined with the Natural ergonomic keyboard. It’s expensive, but it’s unique, ergonomic, wireless, laser-powered and backed by the high quality of Microsoft Hardware – Would you buy it?