Currently, when out on assorted travels, this particular hack does away with the laptop-based thumbpad mouse system and plugs in a Logitech V400 Laser Cordless mouse. Counting against the Logitech device is that it eats batteries at speed, but the simplicity is that you plug a USB adapter into the laptop and the mouse then wirelessly connects, plus it's comfortable and hassle-free to use.

The Belkin Mini Scroller Rechargeable Optical Mouse at first glance answers at least one of those problems of the Logitech, and presents itself as a potential usurper of the gap in our laptop bag. Because this device, through use of a small USB cable, can recharge itself while you're working too. A pair of rechargeable AA batteries is supplied as standard.

Other than that, the principle follows the V400's template. A USB adapter is tidily folded into the mouse design, and you unplug it when you need it. It also scores another point here, for the design holds the USB adapter firmly in place when on the move, unlike the V400, which hasn't, in our experience, stood up as well to the rigours of a bumpy journey. Or, more succinctly, more than once our battery charge in the V400 has been hit because the USB adapter fell out of its holding position.

Ergonomically the Belkin device is sound, too, supporting both left and right handers equally. It's quite a chunky device for a small rodent, with a fat and tall appearance that makes it reasonably comfortable to work with, although there's still a little headroom for improvement. Aesthetically it's reasonable enough too.

But we hit problems with this one when we put it properly to work. Our first test system had a fair selection of problems with the device. It picked it up okay, but lost the connection more than once. Considering the supposed 10m range, this was a disappointment.

It's also a rodent with a very sensitive sensor, which will please and frustrate in some measure we expect. We had more joy on a second test system, but still got the occasional drop-out, which had us reaching for the thumpad, an act that defeats the whole point of the thing, really.

For those who depend on and extensively use laptop machines, there are compelling arguments for investing in a separate mouse to take on their travels. Belkin's device certainly has some good punches to throw, and in a couple of areas it eclipsed our V400. But we were left uncomfortable regarding the sporadic drop-outs, and that makes us reluctant to recommend it as a device to rely on.

Verdict
A well thought through and nicely put together wireless mouse, with some wise thinking as to what a laptop user would want. Some performance issues spoilt the party, however.

Company: Belkin

Contact: 01933 352000

Tags: universal serial bus logitech mouse laptop aa battery battery (electricity) battery charger wireless