Choosing between Laser and Optical Mice

One of the most common questions I am asked, by people looking at mice, is “What’s better, a laser mouse or an optical mouse?” There is no ‘better or worse’ and purchasing decisions should be based on other factors. These factors include price, environment and the user’s application. In order to answer these questions, it is important to understand the differences between a laser and an optical mouse.


Lasers and Optics
Both technologies replaced the mechanical ball mice, for tracking technologies. They offer much higher DPI (Dots Per Inch) than the older mechanical mice and neither technology has moving parts, making them less prone to mechanical failure and minimizes any required maintenance. Laser and optical mice rely on light ,from laser or light emitting diode, as the method of tracking motion.

Optical Mice
The technology relies on an LED that illuminates the surface, under the mouse, and a camera that would take as many as 1500 images a second. These images are compared and are used to determine the motion of the mouse. This has the benefit of being used on just about any solid surface, however, clear glass desktops can cause problems for the LED sensor. Optical mice have power saving designs, but not as advanced as those used in laser mice. They average 800 dpi but can go as high as 1000 dpi, providing usage for most web browsing, office applications and gaming.

Laser Mice
The major difference between laser and optical mice involves the dpi. Laser technology allows for a higher resolution, up to 2000 dpi or more. This allows for faster movement of the pointer and far more exceptional accuracy. Laser mice are highly sought after by professional graphic artists, architects and high-end gamers. Power management is enhanced by the laser mice design. Laser mice do not require the use of a mouse pad and there are varieties of different lasers that have better resolution on more surfaces, including glass.

What to Choose
There is a great deal of personal preference in the final decision of what to purchase. For budget-minded individuals, the optical mouse provides great quality at a lower price. Mobile users may enjoy the power saving feature of the laser mouse over the ‘always on’ status of most optical mice. For people that require high precision, there is no competing against the laser mouse. Graphic artists and designers can benefit from the precision and gamers, requiring speed and accuracy, tend to favor the laser mouse.

Take a moment to look over the wide variety of optical and laser mice that MANHATTAN can provide for you.