The first mouse I like
3.4.2019
Translation: machine translated
Everyday objects must not only function well. They should also look good. At least that's what I think. In my eyes, a PC mouse has finally achieved this.
I find it uncomfortable to work on my laptop for long periods using the touchpad. That's why I now need a wireless mouse. It has to be user-friendly and visually and haptically appealing. The more the hardware is hidden behind a soft shell, the better. I have finally come across a PC mouse in the Galaxus range that fulfils these criteria. Most of them have all looked the same to me so far: Egg-shaped and clunky.
The "Surface Arc Mouse" from Microsoft is different: I was immediately impressed by its delicate silhouette and matt colour. Like most models on the market, it is not only available in black, but also in light grey, bordeaux or cobalt blue. The mouse owes its minimalist shape to a special mechanism. Thanks to this, you can fold it out "flat as a flounder" when not in use, as Community member Elvetós notes.
What Elvetós also notes is that the mouse is mainly suitable as a mobile solution. Sounds good. Because I can also use a gadget that is designed to be as compact and flexible as possible for travelling in everyday life. I don't need it for gaming. So it's no wonder that the Surface Arc Mouse ends up in the cart of a design lover like me.
The look
Inexplicably, I have a weakness for things that are round. Whether it's spherical lights, curved accessories, or designs that incorporate a half circle somewhere, I have to have them. The organically shaped Surface Arc Mouse fits into my loot scheme. It is foldable and looks like an arc. Its exterior has no unnecessary chichi like cables or wheels. You can scroll across the touch surface to scroll and tap right or left to click.
Light as a feather
As soon as the mouse is unfolded, it sets itself up and is connected to my Apple Macbook Air via Bluetooth in no time. I still find its silicone surface and weight comfortable even after a while. At 82.5 grams, it is a flyweight among mice. Because I'm used to not having to carry anything around with me, I'm particularly happy about this. When folded up, it fits into even my smallest handbag the size of a clutch and doesn't stand out as a gadget on my desk. It sits inconspicuously next to my flat notebooks.
I'm right-handed, but the Surface Arc Mouse can be used with either hand thanks to its shape, configurable settings and Bluetooth function. It doesn't matter which side the cable connection of your PC or laptop is on. Vertical scrolling works perfectly, horizontal scrolling less well. This requires three fingers to move across the surface at the same time, which can be a challenge for large hands on the small surface. The mouse also has AA batteries which, according to Microsoft, should last up to six months. I can't judge this at the moment because I haven't owned it for that long.
"Click"
Like member Bsm2423, I have noticed that the loud click of the Arc Mouse cannot be ignored. Even with the settings that the software offers me to download, this cannot be changed. The options for controlling gestures are limited. Since I usually listen to music with noise-cancelling headphones, this doesn't bother me much.
Conclusion
The Surface Arc Mouse impresses me with its curved, colourful shape and soft casing. It feels light and is not bulky in a bag. As I mainly use it for scrolling through the internet and image editing, I don't mind that its gesture settings are limited. The only thing I criticise about it is that the silicone surface magically attracts dust lint and grease stains appear. So don't apply cream before using this mouse. Compared to other glass or plastic housings, I still find it better. Not least because its texture provides a good grip. It doesn't seem to me to be suitable for large hands, because part of my hand is already dragging on the table surface. If you prefer to put your whole hand on the mouse, the aforementioned chunky Bluetooth mice, which are not made for travelling, are the better solution for you. [[image:20963477,20965971]]
Header image: Unlike the rest, this wireless mouse looks like an art object.
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a design cheerleader, I walk the world attentively and consume art, design and fashion like candy. I especially love to immerse myself in the magic of new places when I travel and to track down trends at trade fairs or on the streets. In everyday life I enjoy the design of my own four walls and podcasts.
