When you spend long hours in front of your computer, your mouse is an important component of trading productivity. It’s important to make sure you have quality hardware that makes your trading as easy as possible. When I first started selling trading computers, I strongly recommended against using wireless mice. Since then, they have improved so much we offer them as a bonus.
Your mouse needs to fit the way you work. If you’ve been using the basic wired mouse that came with your older trading computer, you might be surprised how much a newer wireless mouse could improve your efficiency.
What’s Important in a Wireless Mouse?
When shopping for a wireless mouse, consider the following factors:
Type of Connectivity: Nowadays most wireless mice use Bluetooth. Bluetooth is a reliable technology that has matured over the years. Many newer computers can support it. But if you don’t have Bluetooth capability on your trading desktop or laptop, or if you don’t want to use it for this purpose, most mice come with an RF (radio-frequency) receiver.
Sensors: Older mice use balls or infrared sensors for tracking movements. Some models use LED lights. Newer, laser-based movement tracking sensors provide the best results.
Design: Your wireless mouse is going to be part of your work area. The principles of Emotional Design encourage us to choose those daily tools we are drawn to. So get a mouse that looks and feels nice to you.
Ergonomics: Hours spent gripping an unsuitable mouse can lead to hand and wrist strains. So, think about the size of the mouse and how well it fits in your hand.
Battery life: Older wireless mice were designed to use AA or AAA batteries. Newer mice have rechargeable batteries that you can charge using USB cables.
Battery life indicators: One of the main hang-ups I previously had with wireless mice was that the batteries could die at unexpected moments. Like, heaven forbid, in the middle of executing a trade. Many newer mice, even those using non-rechargeable batteries, come with an app that estimates remaining battery life and posts notifications when batteries need to be replaced.
Buttons: Besides the left and right-click buttons, new wireless models can have multiple extra buttons that make it easier to navigate through web pages, control video playback, and play games. (Not that you would play a game on your trading computer. ?)
Here are some great wireless mice you might want to consider:
Logitech M720 Triathlon Multi-Device Wireless Mouse
The Logitech M720 Triathlon is a highly-rated mouse that provides an aesthetic design and comfortable grip in one package. It’s also an affordable mouse that will last you for a long time.
Features:
- Connects up to 3 computers with the capability to copy/paste between 2 computers using Logitech FLOW technology
- Scroll wheel makes it easy to navigate web pages
- 6 programmable buttons are designed to last up to 10 million clicks
- Efficient design makes batteries last longer (up to 2 years)
- Bluetooth compatible
Note: Fairly symmetrical in shape, so it may be suitable for left-handed users.
Logitech Signature M650
The Logitech Signature M650 is another great, affordable choice that provides ultra-precise tracking. The primary difference from the M720 is the design.
Features:
- Both left-handed and right-handed people can use it due to the symmetrical design
- Great precision scrolling and movement tracking
- Available in two sizes, small 650 (4.3 inches) and large 650L (4.53 inches)
- Efficient design makes batteries last longer (up to 2 years)
- Bluetooth or Radio Frequency compatible
Logitech MX Master 3S
The Logitech MX Master 3S is for users who want a more high-end experience. Its large size provides a different grip that will be more comfortable for some people. Voted 2023 best wireless mouse overall by Lifewire and PC Magazine for the following features:
- Offers 7 customizable buttons, including a thumb scroll wheel
- Great ergonomic design including thumb support ledge
- Helps you work fast, letting you switch between three different devices at once
- Silent buttons and an 8,000 dpi sensor
- USB-C rechargeable battery with up to approx. 2.5 months of power on a charge
- Bluetooth or Radio Frequency compatible
Note: Not available for left-handed users.
You Won’t Know Until You Try One
Any of these wireless mice have the potential to improve your workflow. If you’ve been using the same old basic wired mouse for years now, take this opportunity to see what’s available. A better mouse can be a pretty low-cost way to boost your trading productivity.
There are more EZ Trading Computers tips like this one in our free buyer’s guide: How To Buy a Trading Computer. Grab your copy today.
Remember, we are here to help with all your technology-related questions. If you think of additional questions about computer hardware or related topics, give me a call. My team and I are here to help. We’re happy to answer any of your questions about trading computers via phone: 800-387-5250.