Cordless Vs. Wireless Optical Computer Mouse

Computer mice have become very sophisticated.

Several types of computer mice are available, two of the most popular being cordless and wireless optical. A cordless mouse has a base station that plugs into your computer's USB slot. An optical mouse has the same, but it has no moving internal parts and works by detecting movements with a light-emitting diode.

Wireless and Cordless

"Wireless" and "cordless" mice are similar in that the mouse is not connected to the computer with a wire, but instead through a radio or infrared signal between the mouse and a USB unit that plugs into the computer. Wireless or cordless mice can be powered with ordinary household batteries or a recharging cradle.

Ease of Use

Neither a wireless optical mouse nor a cordless mouse has wires connecting it, which makes for a less cluttered work space. A mechanical cordless mouse has moving parts, using a small rubber ball to calculate movement. This ball gathers dirt, so the mouse will have to be taken apart periodically to be cleaned. An optical mouse, which uses light, does not have this problem. It has a smoother motion and greater accuracy. An optical mouse also will work on a larger variety of surfaces.

Battery Life

Wireless optical mice have a reputation for using up battery life quickly, so it's worthwhile shopping around for one that has a good battery life, or you'll be spending a lot of money on batteries.

References

• Topbits.com: How A Wireless Mouse works
• Techfuels: Advantages of Optical Mice
• Mouse Arena: Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Mouse