Computer Mice: Laser Vs. Optical

A laser mouse uses a laser instead of an LED light.

At first glance, laser and optical mice look fairly similar. Both are trackball-free, wireless and glide over a variety of surfaces. Both use light to track movement. But depending on your mouse application, one may be better than the other. Optical and laser mice may have much in common, but are completely different when it comes to functionality. By understanding the subtle differences, you can choose the best mouse for the job.

DPI Sensitivity

Both laser and optical mice work by measuring movement as you navigate the mouse across a solid surface. The more dots per inch (dpi) that a mouse can measure, the more sensitive it is to movement. A laser mouse, which uses an actual laser, can register 2,000 dpi, while an optical mouse uses an LED light and can only measure around 400 to 800 dpi. This does not make a laser mouse automatically better than an optical mouse; it may make a laser mouse more accurate for certain applications. Unfortunately, laser mice can also be oversensitive in some cases, but you can change the sensitivity using the mouse settings in your system's Control Panel.

Uses

Since a laser mouse is generally more sensitive than an optical mouse, it works best for applications in which precision is key. Any time your mouse is necessary for precise work, like architectural rendering, engineering, artistic and graphic design or some gaming, a laser mouse may give you the added edge you need through control and precision. Optical mice are best when precision isn't a concern and act as a good utilitarian piece of computer hardware.

Surfaces

One of the clear differences between laser and optical mice is the surfaces that they work best upon. Laser mice are known for their ability to be used on almost any surface, removing the need for a mouse pad in many instances. Optical mice may have some trouble on dark or shiny surfaces because these can disrupt the way the LED lights track movement. As long as you use a mouse pad, your optical mouse should serve you well.

Price

Laser mice typically cost more than optical mice, but it's not a hard-and-fast rule. Depending on the features you select, an optical mouse can cost as little as $10 and as much as $70. A laser mouse is close to the same price range, from $19 to $100, as of March 2011. Choose your mouse according to sensitivity needs, applications and daily functionality.

References

• CNET.com: How Are laser and Optical Mice Different?
• Got Frag: FPSLabs Home: Laser vs. Optical