Microsoft Mobile Memory Mouse 8000

The good: Works with both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth; rechargeable battery; 1GB of flash memory on the receiver.

The bad: Receiver doesn't snap into base; stunted design not suited for long-term use.

The bottom line: Microsoft's ambitious, if slightly awkward, Mobile Memory Mouse 8000 covers all the bases with built-in memory, both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz, and even a rechargeable battery.

While Microsoft isn't usually the first brand name that springs to mind when you think of computer hardware (software's another story), the tech giant wants to be your peripheral provider of choice, offering a variety of mice, Webcams, and keyboards. Microsoft has a handful of new laptop mice, including the $99 Mobile Memory Mouse 8000, which the company calls the world's "first rechargeable notebook mouse with 1GB of flash memory built right into the transceiver." We've actually seen a gig of flash memory in a wireless mouse dongle before, but the Gyration Pro Gyrotransport doesn't use a rechargeable battery, so Microsoft is technically correct.

With the Mobile Memory Mouse 8000, Microsoft attempts to cram in everything but the proverbial kitchen sink, providing 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, a transceiver with 1GB of flash memory, and even a rechargeable battery. It's an ambitious package that probably has more than you need, but it could come in handy in a crunch (no empty USB ports, sudden need to sneakernet a file from one machine to another, etc.).

The mouse is short but wide, 3.4 inches long and about 2.5 inches wide, making for a somewhat awkward fit for larger hands. The brushed-metal accents are a nice touch, but the mouse's thickness (1.5 inches in the middle) makes it a tough fit for many of the smaller pockets in your laptop bag. Additionally, the USB receiver doesn't snap into a slot on the bottom of the mouse, like on the Microsoft Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse 7000 or the Kensington Ci75m Wireless Notebook Mouse, which means there are more parts to get lost in the bottom of your laptop bag.

The most basic way to hook up the Memory Mouse 8000 is through the USB receiver. It's a little larger than most, but serves triple duty, with 1GB of built-in flash memory and a connection on the end for hooking up the recharging cable. Unlike other laptop mice, which use AA or AAA batteries, the Mobile Memory Mouse 8000 uses a single rechargeable AA battery that can be recharged with an included cable. The cable attaches, via tiny magnets, to the underside of the mouse and the end of the receiver.

If you don't want a USB receiver hanging out of the side of your laptop, you can switch into Bluetooth mode by opening the battery compartment and flipping a small switch. Not all laptops have Bluetooth built in, but for those that do, it's an easy way to hook up wireless peripherals without dongles.

We liked desktop-like extras, such as the two thumb buttons and the four-way scroll wheel, and while a stunted mouse like this may not be comfortable for multihour use, its flexibility makes this a useful tool to have in your road kit.

Intro: The Microsoft Mobile Memory Mouse is a laser, mobile mouse.Compared to other mobile mice on the market, it is very expensive at around $80.This device is black in color.Backed by a three year warranty.This model connects to any available USB port.

Noteworthy Features: Has laser movement detection, which is more advanced than some similarly priced mice.Has a resolution of 1000 dpi, which is very high when compared to a standard mouse.Offers a high definition laser technology, scrolling 4-way button, and magnifier.(Using a scroll wheel reduces repetitive motions and makes it easier to quickly scan documents and web pages.)

Weaker Features: None noted, given available product data.

Suitability: A mobile mouse, suited for mobile computing.

Value: In general, this mouse's features are in line with its price.

Suggestions: You might be interested in comparing this with a mouse that received Editor's Choice on CNET.