Bluetooth Mouse...What are my options?

[Phatpat]

I want a bluetooth mouse to go with my new 15" alubook. Apple won't do...I need two buttons. And I would strongly prefer it not to be microsoft. To my knowledge that leaves logitech and belkin. Both seem really good, but neither lists os x in the system requirements. The belkin said it would work in the press release...but I can't find it on their page for the mouse. Anyone know if either of these will (or eventually will) work?

[pepeleuepe]

Just wondering why so many people don't even consider Microsoft's bluetooth mouse. Personally I have been using a wired Intellimouse Explorer, 5-button mouse, for about a year now. I have never felt a mouse that feels better in my hand than this one, and the BT mouse is the exact same design. Just because Microsoft makes Windows doesn't mean that their mice should be ignored by Mac users. Mine has worked flawlessly and feels great.

This might not be the reason you're ignoring the MS mouse, in which case you should also ignore this message. But I haven't heard anything about the MS BT mouse not working perfectly with OS X. It seems to fit you're criteria, except that it says Microsoft on it.

[bennetsaysargh]

i like the belkin or the microsoft. i know belkin is defiantly compatible with mac os x.

[Freg3000]

The new Logitech MX 900.

It is the same thing as the MX 700, just over BlueTooth, not InfaRed. And the MX 700 is the same thing as the MX 500 without a wire.

So all the mice are the same, but the MX 900 is the nicest one. It has BlueTooth. :)

Good Luck.

[segastyle]

i just got a new powerbook with the built in bluetooth. i would love to have a bluetooth wirless mouse to use with it. i want a multibutton mouse, but microsoft's, logitech's and belkin's are all made for right hands. is there some reason why no one will make either a left-handed bluetooth mouse or non-specific hand mouse?

[Counterfit]

If you don't need more than one button, you can go for Apple's mouse, being symmetrical, I would imagine that it works either left or right handed.

[segastyle]

definitely need a multibutton -- as it just so happens apple's laptops have right-handed centric keyboards (the control and alt keys are only on the left) which makes it difficult just to control-click.

eventually i guess something will come out from someone...

[Counterfit]

I got used to having option and control on the right too. I moved from an extended ADB keyboard. :)

[PaisanoMan]

Personally, I dislike Microsoft's and Logitech's offerings because they're huge -- I would like a Bluetooth mouse I can carry with my PowerBook.

Likewise, I can't find any info on Belkin's mouse. Is it any smaller? Or am I stuck with Apple's (acceptable, but overpriced) mouse?

[gotohamish]

Originally posted by segastyle
definitely need a multibutton -- as it just so happens apple's laptops have right-handed centric keyboards (the control and alt keys are only on the left) which makes it difficult just to control-click.

eventually i guess something will come out from someone...

Try emailing this shop....

http://www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk/shop.html

[gotohamish]

Originally posted by gotohamish
Try emailing this shop....

http://www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk/shop.html

Okay... quoting myself... they have one here (https://shop.anythingleft-handed.co.uk/acatalog/Lefthanded_Shop_Computer_Peripherals_6.html) but it's the ugliest mouse ever made. Says me.

[segastyle]

yeah pretty ugly.... the thing is i don't need a "left-handed" mouse, just a non-right-handed mouse.

currently i use this one (http://www.kensington.com/html/4011.html#) by kensington. give me a bluetooth version of that and i'd be happy. heck microsoft has a new one (http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/mouseandkeyboard/productdetails.aspx?pid=005) which is perfect, and wireless, but not bluetooth. i was hoping not to have something sticking out of my laptop -- it defeats the whole purpose.

maybe i can just become a right-handed mouse clicker.... :rolleyes:

[themadchemist]

Originally posted by Freg3000
The new Logitech MX 900.

It is the same thing as the MX 700, just over BlueTooth, not InfaRed. And the MX 700 is the same thing as the MX 500 without a wire.

So all the mice are the same, but the MX 900 is the nicest one. It has BlueTooth. :)

Good Luck.

I've heard a lot of good things about wireless mice from Logitech. I've used, I believe, the MX 700 before, and I really liked it.

I'm one of those people who still likes to say that one button is enough, but Logitech made me change my mind and see how several buttons could be several times as awesome.

[Phatpat]

I don't want a microsoft mouse cause I dislike m$ and I don't want to support them...

What I want to know if if compatability will be an issue for the belkin/logitech. I know w/ usb mice they still work even if they aren't officially supported. Is it the same thing with bluetooth?

[robotrenegade]

I have the studio mouse from logtec and the wireless mouse from apple. I think the apple mouse is better because it leaves an open usb. I also have the wireless keyboard.

[Foxer]

I've got the Microsoft mouse. Love it. Who cares who makes the darn thing.

[iEric]

Why does everyone like bluetooth? Whats wrong with the RF technology for mice and keyboards?

[new user]

my guess for bluetooth over wireless is the extra piece of equipment/transmitter. otherwise, i would like an answer to the last question too.

[segastyle]

i have a laptop with built in bluetooh, so i'd rather not have to plug somthing into the usb port everything i want to use a wireless mouse. if i'm going to do that, i might as well use a wired mouse (which i do now).

[bennetsaysargh]

i guess it would just be a nice thing to have it bluetooth. i personally would want it internal if it was in a laptop (BT or RF). desktop i wouldn't care as much.

[aphexist]

Just to clarify, Bluetooth supports multiple devices from a single transmitter. You may be fine with a RF wireless mouse, but if you have 4 wireless devices, you may not want all the separate cords/transmitters stringing out from your computer onto your work space. With BT transmitter being built into many new systems, this is very appealing. RF also uses commonly trafficked radio frequencies, so any devices are subject to interferance and listening.

Bluetooth is a wire replacement protocol, nothing more. It has better range than radio and it supports secured connections.

It is a low bandwidth protocol, so it is NOT suitable for any significant data transfer.

All that said, I am very pleased with my MS Bluetooth mouse and keyboard.

[Alexander]

I went looking for a Microsoft Bluetooth mouse the other day. Stopped by two different Fry's. Turns out there are two ways to get it: mouse by itself, or in a mouse/keyboard combo package. EVERY SINGLE ONE was a return. Both stores, both package styles. A good 20-30 boxes.

Hmm...

Anyone know when the Logitech MX900 will be available?

[VIREBEL661]

I dunno about you guys (and girls), but I really like MacAlly's products! Check out this mouse..

http://www.macally.com/spec/usb/input_device/mice.html

It's not Bluetooth though!

[PaisanoMan]

Originally posted by Phatpat
I want a bluetooth mouse to go with my new 15" alubook. Apple won't do...I need two buttons. ...

I don't know about the other offerings, but Apple's has a power switch. This makes it very handy for travel with your PowerBook; I can turn the thing off while I carry it or when I just don't need it. It also has a relatively slim form factor, which is the primary reason I didn't buy Microsoft's mouse (I couldn't fit it in my bag without an uncomfortable bulge).

I recommend the Apple mouse, unless you absolutely need two buttons (this is general advice for anyone considering similar options). It's got great range and outstanding battery life [so far].

It's not quite as precise as a wired mouse, but it's close; I think that's a symptom that all wireless mice suffer from to some degree.

[Prabz]

Just heard that Jaguar would be having hot key support for multi-button mice. So a five button mouse is finally gonna be usable:D

...And having it bluetooth makes the deal even better!

[Prabz]

Originally posted by PaisanoMan

It's not quite as precise as a wired mouse, but it's close; I think that's a symptom that all wireless mice suffer from to some degree.

Hmmm... so u reckon it would not be suitable for photoshop users?

:confused:

[meta-ghost]

what is with logitech's "wireless hub" on the mx 900 bt mouse? is it required for their mouse to work? i'm looking for less clutter, not different clutter.

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?page=products/details&CRID=3&CONTENTID=7110&countryid=19&languageid=1

[Phatpat]

I got the impression you could just use the hub to charge the mouse, and use the bluetooth in the computer to connect to the mouse.

[Fat Tony]

Ummm, where's the Mac compatibility?? Almost every mouse they have lists the Mac, yet this new 900 says:

Works with both Windows® 2000 and XP.

I figured it wouldn't be a problem for this to work with a Mac since it's Bluetooth and they've supported Apple on their previous mice. Wonder why there is no mention? Maybe they are waiting for Panther to drop.

[robeen]

I didn't buy Microsoft's mouse (I couldn't fit it in my bag without an uncomfortable bulge).


I'll bet that's the first time a Microsoft product has given someone an uncomfortable bulge.

Rob

;)

[aethier]

Hmm, why doesn't one of us, simply purchase a mx900, try it on a BT enabled Mac, and if it does not work, just return it...?

aethier

[Abstract]

Are you volunteering? ;)
I thought the wireless hub was for computers that don't come with Bluetooth built-in. :o

Anyway, so the conclusion you've all come to regarding the topic is that the only options you have for BT mice right now is the Apple, the big Microsoft model, and the Logitech MX 900 model, which looks pretty good.

I want a small mouse. Otherwise it defeats the purpose of my small, thin, 12" Powerbook. Of course, I won't need a mouse if I'm using it away from a wall socket: I can use the trackpad. However, I still wish there were more options from some of the other companies, like Kensington. They (supposedly) make a great small mouse for laptops, the Pocketmouse or something.

And thanks for the clarification about Bluetooth. I've asked a few times. :)

[aethier]

Originally posted by Abstract
Are you volunteering? ;)

yeah, i think that is what i will do this week, i should actualy purchase both, and see witch i like better, then return the crappier of the two...
Nothing to lose.

aethier

[RBilRamZ]

I want the Belkin mouse but their webpage doesnt show it as being available yet. DOes anybody know where I can get it? I also dont want a huge mouse, the smaller the better, but I need two buttons and a scroll-wheel. Let me know if anybody knows anything. Thanks
Oh yeah, LOVE MY FIRST APPLE, A 15" AluPB!!!

[Ryan1524]

Originally posted by meta-ghost
what is with logitech's "wireless hub" on the mx 900 bt mouse? is it required for their mouse to work? i'm looking for less clutter, not different clutter.

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?page=products/details&CRID=3&CONTENTID=7110&countryid=19&languageid=1

with a BT in your PB, you don't ahve to bring the Hub, it's basically a BT adapter built into the charger. so you don't really need it. just use it to charge the mouse every now and then. :)

[Zachary]

Check out this little guy http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=PAWM10U

If Targus can get an RF mouse that small and that cheap, I'd rather hold out for their version.

[m4rc]

I had to call Logitec today to sort out some equipment for a client, and whilst on the phone asked about the MX-900 working with OS X. Tech dept said that it has not been tried, and they don't write drivers for the MX-900 to work on a Mac. I pointed out that this didn't mean it won't work, and the guy agreed. May well order one and see.

[tryrabbit]

Has anyone actually bought the MX 900 or M/Soft Bluetooth mouse and used it in real life with the Mac OS X system?

Does it work properly?

Are there things that it can't do? (like make use of all the mouse buttons).

Thanks

John

[Phatpat]

I know people have used the M$ mouse and it worked fine...

The logitech doesn't seem to be shipping yet. I've called various places, and the most current estimate seems to be nov 15th.

[G4scott]

It seems as if there are various questions, and "why not this..." comments going around in this thread. It also seems as if the Logitech mouse is preferred over the Microsoft or Belkin.

As to why it should have Bluetooth:
Anyone with a new Aluminum PowerBook isn't going to want to have to carry around another device to plug into their computer, just to use a wireless mouse. Bluetooth is built in, so there's no need for any extra receiving devices.

As to why not Microsoft:
Some people may find the Microsoft mouse ok, but the Logitech has a superior tracking engine. It is more accurate and smoother than the Microsoft one (from what I've heard). I don't think everyone here has the "I hate m$ so I won't buy their mouse" mentality.

So, if you're looking at the Logitech MX900, then you are obviously wondering "Does this work with my Mac". I don't see why Logitech hasn't tested it yet. They just have to take the mouse into an Apple Store, see if it works with a PowerBook, and then tell us yes or no.

I personally am looking at the Logitech MX900. If it works with the internal bluetooth, I'm not going to use the Bluetooth Hub that comes with the mouse. I'll just use rechargeable batteries, and charge them separately.

So if anyone here gives the MX900 a stab, and buys it to see if it works with the built in Bluetooth in the new PowerBooks, let us know how it works...

[m4rc]

I asked a Logitech Technician why they don't just go into an apple store and test thr mouse! He said that for them to be able to say it works with Macs they would have to extensively test the mouse with each and every model over an extended period of time with every application they could. He followed this up by saying that the Applestore might not want him hanging around there for that long! He's got a point.

[tryrabbit]

Well - it's an idea to get them to do it for sure! How about well each call them and request that they test the MX900 on the Mac models?

It's not like there are LESS models in the Windows world right? Of course not - there's thousands of different m/board configs - whereas there are only a few Max OS configs.

The numbers to call are here:
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?page=utilities/contact&countryid=18&languageid=1

in USA you'll have to find other numbers (I'm in London myself)

Perhaps we can make a difference!

[JimDog]

Here's the best of the bunch I think:

http://www.bluetake.com/Products/BT500.htm

Has an on/off switch and looks like it can be used left or right handed. Web page claims that it's small, although hard to tell without seeing it in person. Supposedly available this month (Nov. 2003). I guess the only downside is that I've never heard of "Bluetake" as a manufacturer...

-j

[Zachary]

that Bluetake mouse looks great, how the hell do you order it though? I couldn't find price info anywhere.

[JimDog]

It's not available yet, although supposedly will be available sometime this month. Price seems to be $40, and this place is taking pre-orders:

http://www.buypcdirect.com/product.asp?pf_id=bth%2Dbt%2Dbt500&dept_id=29

[kanker]

Originally posted by iEric
Why does everyone like bluetooth? Whats wrong with the RF technology for mice and keyboards? Actually bluetooth is an RF technology, operating in the 2.4Ghz band- the same place Wi-Fi and newer cordless phones operate. As was stated before it can handle multiple devices- printers, PDA's, cell phones. Check out http://www.bluetooth.com/tech/products.asp

[Westside guy]

Originally posted by tryrabbit
Has anyone actually bought the MX 900 or M/Soft Bluetooth mouse and used it in real life with the Mac OS X system?

Does it work properly?

Are there things that it can't do? (like make use of all the mouse buttons).

Yes, yes, and no. ;-)

I have the MS bluetooth mouse and it works fine. The only thing that might feel a bit weird is if the mouse has been sitting unmoved for a few minutes it drops to a low-powered state (probably all wireless mice do this). So in that circumstance (and ONLY in that circumstance) you'll move the mouse but there'll be a slight delay before the cursor responds on the screen.
When this happens you'll get a brief "connection lost" popup from OS X.

No problems that I can see regarding fine-grained control with apps like Photoshop.

Scroll wheel works fine. All five buttons work - with Panther I've got the standard Exposé view mapped to a "click" on the scrollwheel, plus mouse buttons 4 and 5 are mapped to the alternate Exposé views.

[richc]

Originally posted by aethier
Hmm, why doesn't one of us, simply purchase a mx900, try it on a BT enabled Mac, and if it does not work, just return it...?

aethier

Ok done, picked up a Logitech MX900 mouse last night afterwork at my local CompUSA. They had 6 units in stock as well as the new bluetooth keyboards. Now for the bad news:

If you wanted to use the included bluetooth hub/charging station with a Mac(as I had hoped) forget about it. Mac OS X(10.3.1) does NOT recognize it as a bluetooth module. Interestingly enough the MX900 does move the pointer but NONE of the buttons work. USB overdrive does not work as others have already indicated. Apple system profiler indicates that the included bluetooth hub/charger as a "Logitech Receiver".

I've read elsewhere that the MX900 works with built in bluetooth(ie 12",AL15",17" pbs) and probably with a mac compatible bluetooth module(d-link). But ONLY the left, right buttons, and scroll wheel works. All other buttons DO NOT work, except with Expose`(They can be programmed from the Expose` pref pane).

At this point, I would like to ask everyone here that reads this to please contact logitech either by e-mail or telephone(as stated in above post) and kindly ask for Mac support with these great new products. It's the only way we can let Logitech know we are out here and hope for support.

Here is the direct link for logitech e-mail support:

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?countryid=19&languageid=1&page=support/contactcs

Please help in this cause, thanks.

[meta-ghost]

major bummer...

[Thirteenva]

Originally posted by richc
I've read elsewhere that the MX900 works with built in bluetooth(ie 12",AL15",17" pbs) and probably with a mac compatible bluetooth module(d-link). But ONLY the left, right buttons, and scroll wheel works. All other buttons DO NOT work, except with Expose`(They can be programmed from the Expose` pref pane).


You have to install the logitech control center software to really take advantage of the extra buttons. I have the MX500 the wired version of your mouse and i am able to do a number of things with the extra buttons by assigning them within the logitech control panel.

I would imagine that would apply to the BT version as well.

(i understand in your case about none of the buttons working and my response is in the the sentence quoted directly)

[Counterfit]

Originally posted by Abstract
However, I still wish there were more options from some of the other companies, like Kensington. They (supposedly) make a great small mouse for laptops, the Pocketmouse or something. Yes, there's the PocketMouse, PocketMouse SE, PocketMouse Pro, and the PocketMouse Pro Wireless. I have the Pro, and it's great. The tracking is accurate, and the retractable USB cord is very handy when traveling. If they end up making a Bluetooth version, I'm going to beat the rest of you suckers and be near the front of the line :p

[Douglas _Allan]

I just e-mailed Kensington.

I'm guessing they are already working on a Bluetooth rev. at least SOME of their 20 or so mice. But I don't know this.

Isn't this what industry standards are for? So we can have great periferals at for the same price as PC users? with just a mac specific driver.

I'll post their reply when/if I get it. I stressed our (new AL PB users) need for a great multi-button, scroll-wheel Bluetooth mouse. And I said a small one would be good also.

[stcanard]

I set my goals that the minimum I would accept was a 5 button (for expose) bluetooth mouse. After looking through the competition that produces something like this (read microsoft and logitech) I swallowed my pride and bought the microsoft mouse. 3 reasons behind this:

1) Microsoft has a reputation for building good hardware (ironic isn't it).

2) It was cheaper than I've seen the logitech mouse listed for

3) As far as I can tell logitech isn't selling the 900 in Canada yet (which is a pretty big problem).

The microsoft mouse was immediately recognized by my powerbook, and works perfectly. No tracking problems and all the buttons are recognized.

I may dislike Microsoft software but with any luck we can convince them to leave that business and do what they're good at being; a hardware company :D

So if you're looking for a good quality bluetooth mouse it's hard to beat the microsoft one.

Now I just have to figure out what to do with this useless bluetooth hardware that these outdated PC's seem to required. Anybody want to buy a bluetooth dongle and station? :rolleyes:

[joker2]

Part of the anti-M$ bias may be a tad unjustified. Last I checked, they subcontract the hardware out to other manufacturers (I think Logitech was making their keyboards for a while?) instead of having their own physical plants, so it isn't really "Microsoft" making the products. (Just my $0.02)

[illumin8]

Originally posted by JimDog
It's not available yet, although supposedly will be available sometime this month. Price seems to be $40, and this place is taking pre-orders:

http://www.buypcdirect.com/product.asp?pf_id=bth%2Dbt%2Dbt500&dept_id=29
Wow, that is the mouse I want. Small, only $40, takes two rechargeable AAA batteries, and has an on-off switch so it won't drain itself in your laptop bag. I called BuyPCDirect because their website says it will be available in November. They said the manufacturer has shipped to them already, but it might not arrive until the first couple of weeks of December. They asked me to call back on December 1st. Let me know if you find anyone else selling this mouse because I want one now! :D

[reanime]

I too bought the MX900 and just like 'richc' already told us, I too discovered that NONE OF THE "Other buttons" are functional except for using Expose commands, and that aint the only reason why you shouldn't even touch this pricey mouse until its made for mac. Even when you install the MX 700 mouse software (file "lccinstalldisk111.dmg") and try to use it for the MX900 bluetooth mouse, there is absolutely no communication between the bluetooth mouse and the MX700 settings you assign in the installed (MX700) preference pane settings found under system preferences. Trust me it doesn't work and it will not work! Don't even think about it. I do like the Bluetooth aspect of not having to rely on and connect via the big bulky wireless USB receiver sitting on my desk which although is RF, still requires a near line of sight conduit and for that reason alone I might consider buying the MX900 when Logitech finally, or should I say, eventually maybe will consider supporting the Mac market and get their shiite together and make it mac-compatible, but until then the RF version MX700 is superior. I also was quite disappointed in the "action" and precision of the MX900 mouse...that is, its not as smooth (in fact almost choppy) compared to the MX700, but this was before I accepted the fact that this device wasn't made for Mac and that is why they're not advertising it as being Mac-compatible, as it simply is not "optimized" for the Mac yet. Until then, it is definitely a NO-GO at this time! I was excited to know, however, that it worked via the bluetooth connection, and it did so seamlessly (recognized by hitting the "connect" button on the underside of the mouse or keyboard) and going into the "bluetooth preference pane" and checking 'discovered' devices and then "pairing" with the 'discovered' Logitech mouse and/or keyboard, but it is nowhere near acceptable cause it simply aint ready for primetime..... As you will quickly notice that it is only fairly accurate in mouse tracking, and without the ability to assign various commands made simple using the Logitech preference pane, why pay that kind of money to have a multifunctional bluetooth mouse just for the tracking. As for the keyboard, I didn't have the energy to go thru the plethora of assignable keyboard commands, but I would imagine these too would be incompatible with the MX700's pref pane.
AGAIN, I believe this will be the best Bluetooth mouse and/or keyboard out there when its ready, but accept it, its not ready cause it hasn't been optimized for Mac plain and simple. It aint cheap either. comp usa, ah-hem, ...conveniently.... stocked only the keyboard and mouse as a combo purchase rather than the mouse alone for a whoppin' $196 tax included.....ouch! I thought about the Microsoft bluetooth mouse and keyboard, but Microcenter said it was proprietary to PC as well, and it doesn't have as many command buttons as Logitech, not to mention a cheesy blue appearance (in my opinion) and monolithic receiver dock......what can I say, I'm sold on the Logitech and will hold out till its ready for Mac. Fortunately, I have a PC in dire need of bluetooth keyboard security and bluetooth range, and after taking it on a test run on my PC I think I'll keep this bad puppy and use it on the system it was optimized for thus far, the PC. The horror and irony that this dark-age system (PC) gets all the attention of cool peripherals. As far as performance on the PC, it totally ROCKS! Extremely accurate (same as wired mouse) and NO interference even nested in a pile of potentially interfering wires and completely hidden out of sight between huge magnet speakers and two large Cinema displays which would have sent my cursor into hyperspace when I was using the MX700 on the PC. As for my Mac setup, I use a G5 and simply plugged in a D-Link into the back of my Apple display's USB hub. (D-link is a tiny USB device that acts as your sole bluetooth receiver (D-Link model: DBT 120)
Darn! I really wanted this mouse for my Mac G5 and have written Logitech multiple times to get going on this thing. I also expressed to them that if they don't do something soon I'll buy from competitors and that they'll not only lose a Mac customer's business, but also a multi-PC customer equivalent to 5 sales, are you listening Logitech????

[richc]

After reading reanime's post, which is a darn good one btw. I am pleading with anyone one who is reading this to please contact logitech support via the e-mail link below and ask for Mac support:

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?countryid=19&languageid=1&page=support/contactcs

It takes less than a minute to fill out the form.

If you feel like going the extra mile, here's Logitech's Public relations address:

Logitech Inc.
Attn: Public Relations
6505 Kaiser Drive
Fremont, CA 94555"

I've already written them a letter last week.

[craigkal]

I can't get my Microsoft Bluetooth Intellimouse explorer to work well with OS X. When I try to browse the device, I get a message that the "device lacks the proper services"--it then works ok, but when it powers down after not being used for a few minutes, It cant be brought back no matter what

[stcanard]

Originally posted by craigkal
I can't get my Microsoft Bluetooth Intellimouse explorer to work well with OS X. When I try to browse the device, I get a message that the "device lacks the proper services"--it then works ok, but when it powers down after not being used for a few minutes, It cant be brought back no matter what

Which version of OSX? On 10.3.1 with the most recent bluetooth update it worked flawlessly.

If I leave it alone long enough that it powers down, I do get a "connection lost" message on the laptop. When I move the mouse it takes a second for the mouse to react, but it wakes up and reconnects with no problems.

As for the "Device does not have the necessary services", I don't think a mouse has the necessary services -- there is nothing to browse.

[craigkal]

Just to clear this up, and for future potential users--It does seem to be working fine now. Don't know what I was doing wrong before--I could swear that I set it up properly at first, but when it subsequently lost contact I was trying to reconnect with the Bluetooth device browser--probably not the way to go. But now I can confirm, The Microsoft Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer for Bluetooth works flawlessly with Mac OS X 10.3.1!

Thanks--I was almost ready to give up and sell it on ebay, then wait for the Belkin or get the Logitek.

[justswitched]

where's the best place to order the microsoft mouse?

i would like it for the powerbook that i just ordered.

thanks in advance:D

[Phatpat]

I just got the MX900. It works flawlessly. I use the internal bluetooth connector in my powerbook, and the included dock to charge it. It connects easily and rapidly, and tracking is great. Plus I think it looks tons better than the MS one...

[craigkal]

I agree the Logitek looks nicer--also not quite as big as the MS, although this doesn't really bother me that much.
The recharger is a definate plus that beats the MS's two AA batteries hands down.

You can find where to get one by clicking the 'online retailers' button here:

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm?page=products/details&CRID=3&CONTENTID=7110&countryid=19&languageid=1

[superbovine]

Originally posted by Prabz
Just heard that Jaguar would be having hot key support for multi-button mice. So a five button mouse is finally gonna be usable:D

...And having it bluetooth makes the deal even better!

where did you hear that?

[inocen1]

________________________
But ONLY the left, right buttons, and scroll wheel works. All other buttons DO NOT work, except with Expose`(They can be programmed from the Expose` pref pane).
_______________

This is untrue.
The button above and below the scroll wheel work just fine. Sure they pretty much do the same job as the scroll wheel and you can't program them, but hey it's something right?
I have a new 15 in pbook with the bluetooth module built in btw.

[rariasjr]

I just returned my MX900.

It was too big, too slow and the worst part is that it had no switch to turn it off. It's drains continuously while not in it's cradle. Also, the lack of Mac Drivers made all it's nice buttons worthless. The search goes on for the perfect notebook bluetooth mouse. Kensington, please don't fail me.

Rechargeable, Small w/wheel and on/off switch. Back/Forward buttons are nice too.
Please.

[sethypoo]

I don't know if someone has already submitted this, but check out www.macmice.com. Or, more specifically, http://www.macmice.com/themouse.html.

Good luck!

[Zachary]

how is this relevant in a BT post? PS: don't settle for a small RF mouse, I just bought the IOGear mini RF and it sucks ass. It skips worse and more consistantly than when the rollerball mouse on my old Performa got really dirty.

[Counterfit]

Originally posted by sethypoo
I don't know if someone has already submitted this, but check out www.macmice.com. Or, more specifically, http://www.macmice.com/themouse.html.

Good luck! C'mon sethy, you should know that punctuation goes outside the [url] tags :rolleyes:

[reanime]

I was disgusted with Logitech for putting out another specialized Bluetooth product.......for the PC!!!!! Ridiculous! For gods sakes man, listen to your customers! There is NO competition for a decent bluetooth mouse for Mac, and yet you morons continue to ignore a loyal clientelle and direct your R&D towards a Bluetooth multimedia keyboard mouse for the friggin PC. Enough already. I can deal with the Bluetooth keyboard made by Mac, but I'm sick of this dinosaur of a mouse you left us with, MX700. Chaps my arse. Sod off Logitech.

[reanime]

I'm praying that rumors of new Mac Mouse will include BT capability:

Tuesday, March 16 Afternoon

Big things may be happening to the Apple Mouse this year. Bolstered by the recent detailing of patents applied for by Apple on March 11th of this year for just such a device, sources have been coming out of the woodwork this week to solidly confirm what MOSR has been periodically showing the world in mock-up images and broadly sourced reports since early 2003.

Taking cues from the iPod's highly successful wheel-based touch interface, Apple's new mouse will use a wheel-like optical trackpad on top of the mouse to act in the place of a traditional scroll wheel and may be used in concert with other mouse design changes to mount an effective response to ever-intensifying criticism of Apple's single-button mouse design (readily available after-market options notwithstanding).

If these latest reports prove true, we might just be lucky enough to get our first look at this new mouse at WWDC on June 28th -- after all, a mouse with such revolutionary potential would very likely bring with it significant corresponding developments with Mac OS X itself.