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Mousepad roundup: Razer, SteelSeries, Saitek and Kensington battle for two-dimensional supremacy
Mousepads, who needs them? That's the question that's been keeping Tom's Guide up at night lately, so they've done the only responsible thing a tech site can do and rolled up a mega roundup review of some of the more popular ones. Unsurprisingly, you'll find plenty from Razer's gaming collection, including the dual-sided Vespula and the Engadget-approved Megasoma, which are faced off against entries from Saitek, SteelSeries and lock specialist Kensington. The one that will have inevitably caught your eye, though, is that steel saw impersonator known as the Greensforged Remember Ravensholm pad. Built especially for a Half-Life 2 fan, it's made entirely from steel, but we're told its usefulness is apparently not quite on par with its good looks. Anyhow, dive into the source link for the complete roundup. [Thanks, Ben]
Razer's dual-sided Vespula mousepad: for smooth, seductive mood-swingers
Not that we haven't seen multifaceted mousepads before, but there's something quite delectable about Razer's latest. The craftily-named Vespula is the company's first (update: we forgot about the Exactmat!) dual-sided gaming surface, complete with "speed" and "control" sides that supposedly give you the best of both worlds when switching from one genre to the next. Essentially, the speed side is as smooth as a baby's bottom, while the control side adds a textured layer to pick up on the finest wrist twists. There's also a bundled gel-filled wrist rest to keep the ergonomists happy, and if you're interested, you can get yours right now for $34.99 (or €34.99 elsewhere).
Apple's Magic Mouse: one button, multitouch gestures, Bluetooth, four-month battery life
Ready for some more Apple news? Good. Say goodbye to the Mighty Mouse (for reasons beyond those legal entanglements) -- the Magic Mouse has arrived. Hate buttons or moving parts? So does Apple, and nothing exemplifies the company's march towards a buttonless future more than this "two button" laser mouse, which has one button and no scroll wheel -- just a multitouch surface (a hard acrylic) across the top. With the Magic Mouse you're able to do familiar gestures from the Mac trackpad playbook such as two-finger swipes, but you can also do single-finger horizontal and vertical scrolling, complete with a software-based inertia (see a video here). Sorry kids, no pinch zoom. The wireless device boasts a four-month battery life, and will be available today for $69. Full press release is after the break. Update: Check out our hands-on! %Gallery-75970% %Gallery-75976%
Razer Orochi now shipping in limited quantities, we go hands-on
Remember when Razer introduced its first-ever mobile gaming mouse? No worries -- July was indeed a long, long time ago. At any rate, the Bluetooth 2.0 / USB Orochi, which was engineered to fit within knapsacks and backpacks of road warriors the world over, is now shipping to both US and EU customers... on a limited basis, anyway. Razer claims that stock is arriving in spurts, and if you're greeted with a "sold out" message, there's a special sign-up page to be notified of when the next batch comes in. So, why the fuss? %Gallery-75553%
Elecom's USB numeric touch keypad does touch gestures on the side
Elecom's USB-powered numeric touch keypad is pretty simple. You plug it into your machine, tap your digits on the board and watch the numbers appear in your calculator app. Once that gets boring, you can also use this as a secondary trackpad. And given that it supports a variety of multi gesture functions (zoom in / out, shift up / down, etc.), we'd say the secondary features here may just be more enticing than the primary. Suddenly overcome with a feeling of want? Get yours later this month for ¥6,500 ($72).[Via Akihabara News]
WoW Rookie: A computer to love WoW with
New around here? WoW Rookie points WoW's newest players to the basics of a good start in the World of Warcraft. Send us a note to suggest a WoW Rookie topic, and be sure to visit WoW.com's WoW Rookie Guide for links to all our tips, tricks and how-to's.WoW Rookie has already answered the first question asked by so many new players when they realize "You know, I think I'd like to have my own characters and my own account -- but will my computer run WoW?" This week, we'll burrow into the next level: "We've been engaged for months now. I'm in love, I'm committed, I'm of legal age (level 80, baby!) and I'm ready to drop some cash. What should I be looking for in a computer system to settle down in?" If you're not into PvP, you may have missed PvP specialist Zach Yonzon's excellent series this summer on gearing up for PvP. But wait -- this is no in-game gear guide. Surprise! It's a look at the best hardware for running World of Warcraft. Whether you enjoy PvP or PvE content, here's a look at the gear that'll deliver the eye-popping, mind-blowing, mouse-clicking madness you crave for endgame WoW performance.
Razer Naga MMO mouse (and Megasoma mat) unboxing and hands-on
Razer's got a knack for cranking out the unusual, and from the First Edition Boomslang, the outfit has also had a thing for developing gaming mice that demanded respect. The recently announced Naga (which is now shipping out to customers, by the way) is one of the most bizarre mice yet, boasting no fewer than 12 buttons on the left side and a promise of making your MMO gaming a more enjoyable experience. Alongside the wired USB critter, Razer also introduced a patently gigantic gaming surface, the $49.99 Mesasoma. We were able to spend some time with each of these peripherals, so hop on down to the gallery for a closer look and on past the break for a few impressions. %Gallery-73385%
SteelSeries Aion limited edition Zboard keeps MMO addicts stuck in the basement
You've got to hand it to 'em, SteelSeries knows its market. Following up on its array of WoW-themed gear, the company has just issued a new limited edition Zboard aimed at to-be Aion gamers, which just might be "the most anticipated MMO of 2009." As with most of the outfit's MMORPG-centric keyboards, this one also packs a colorful motif, a swath of dedicated action keys, menus and chat commands, full customization of each key and quick-access "emote keys for greeting, intimidating, or taunting your opponent." In related news, the firm is also dishing out an Aion Asmodian mousepad, which may or may not be superior to the stained napkin you're currently using to raid on. Both units are available for pre-order right now at $19.99 and $14.99, respectively, and we hear that UPS totally delivers to dingy basements for a nominal fee. [Via Coolest-Gadgets]
Scratch-n-Scroll noteable mousepad puts the "do" back in "To Do" list
Can't seem to keep an unused stack of sticky notes near your dear mouse? Fret not, as the geniuses over at Quirky have popped out yet another 'well duh / must-have' product in the Scratch-n-Scroll. Rather than promising that its newest surface can help you frag more intently, smell better or just appear more heroic, this 'noteable mousepad' is apt to be one of the poorer mousing mats on the market. But frankly, that's not the point. The point is that you can jot down vital notes with just a fingertip right on the pad, and once you've transferred 'em over to something a touch more permanent, you simply lift up the semi-transparent top sheet, let it fall flat and marvel at the vanishing act. It's all yours for just $9.49, so really, why aren't you giving that read link some love?
Razer adds a dozen keys to Naga MMO mouse, intros rollable gaming surface
Who says MMO gamers are alienated by everyone accessory makers? Across the pond in Germany, Razer has stepped up to serve the needs of basement-dwelling World of Warcraft players with its first dedicated MMO mouse. The Naga, as it's so beautifully called, gives users a dozen customizable buttons on the side in order to take some of those keyboard macros (or just the 1 - 12 number keys) and put them within thumb's reach. The mouse (shown in video after the break) also ships with a robust software suite that can save unlimited profiles and program "thousands of different in-game commands for each character you choose to play." In case that's not enough to get your juices flowing, the company also outed an all new gaming surface (the Megasoma) that can be rolled up and tucked away for easy transport between LAN parties. Check the read link for all the nitty-gritty details, and get ready to hand over $79.99 for the critter and $49.99 for the mouse when they ship worldwide later this year.
SteelSeries adds Xai and Kinzu to gaming mouse family
After the extravagant aesthetics of the World of Warcraft-branded mouse, SteelSeries has returned to its roots with a pair of ambidextrous high-definition mice. The laser-powered Xai grabs the major price tag of just under $80, and in exchange offers a 10.8-megapixels per second sensor, up to 5,001 CPI, and a design engineered in accordance with the whims of professional gamers. Most intriguing is the built-in LCD menu system, where you can fully configure the mouse and then store those settings within the peripheral itself, making for a consistent experience across multiple computers. The Kinzu is the slightly smaller, LCD-deprived optical brother of the Xai, and will set you back a more conservative $34.99 when the two mice, alongside a freshly polished new gaming surface, become available in August.
Razer intros Orochi portable Bluetooth gaming mouse, fancy Kabuto surface
It's been a few months since the reptile fanatics over at Razer dished out a new input peripheral, but the wait for yet another ends today with the introduction of the ambidextrous Orochi ($79.99; ships mid-August). Rather than shooting for the desktop gamer, the company is aiming squarely at the laptop crowd with its freshest portable Bluetooth laser mouse, which is the first to offer a 4,000dpi Razer Precision 3G laser sensor and dual-mode wired / wireless functionality. There's also seven programmable buttons, Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity and on-board memory for setting up performance profiles. In related news, the outfit is also issuing a new gaming surface in the Razer Kabuto, an ultrathin, ultra-soft mat that's probably nice, but not quite $19.99 nice.
Behold: the illuminated calculator / mouse pad / USB hub
Sure, you may have seen plenty of calculators / mousepads / USB hubs in your day. But how about a calculator / mousepad / USB hub that lights up? Didn't think so. Head on past the break for a glimpse of that magic, and hit up the link below to get one of your own for just $17.99.[Via Engadget Chinese]
The graphic designer's holiday gift guide
From tablets to type, finding the right gift for the choosy graphics expert in your life can be frustrating. Here are plenty of ideas at a variety of price points that should make any designer merry and joyful. Graphics Tablets For any designer, a graphics tablet is a great way to illustrate, or just precisely control your mouse. I started using one about eight years ago to cope with RSI, and I've never looked back. Wacom offers the Graphire Wireless 6" x 8" tablet that connects to your Mac via Bluetooth. (It's not entirely wireless, however: you have to plug it in to charge it.) You can use it up to 30 feet away. If Bluetooth isn't your thing, or charging your tablet every night doesn't sound like fun, the Intuos 3 USB tablet is available in a variety of sizes, including 6" x 8". The USB version also offers more dynamic pressure sensitivity, touch strips, accessories, and a five-button mouse. Wacom Graphire Wireless 6 x 8 tablet: $249 Wacom Intuos 3 USB 6 x 8 tablet: $329 SlimKey v2 Keeping your desk tidy is a constant challenge for the designer. Designers tend to fall into three categories when organizing their desks: the piler, the spreader, and whatever. In any case, keeping your monitor up and away from the mess is sometimes helpful (or, it gives you more room to spread stuff into). The SlimKey v2 raises your iMac or Cinema Display with a spiffy ribbon of aluminum designed to match your hardware. Plus, it features four powered USB 2.0 ports: very handy if you have an iMac and a lot of peripherals. SlimKey v2: $65
Roll-up mouse pad encloses a hub, speakers, and our hearts
While our minds know that today's mice, particularly those with lasers, work just fine on virtually any (non-moist) surface, that doesn't stop our hearts from missing the soft, forgiving feel of our home mousing surface while on the road. That's partly why the traveler-friendly Roll-up Mouse Pad caught our eye. Sure, just about any pad can be made into a tube and stuffed into a carry-on, but if you pack this one you'll also get a 4-port USB hub and dual, side-firing speakers out of the deal. Sure, the build quality may be sub-par (check the jagged plastic after the break), but for $22 this could make that hotel suite a little bit more inviting for you and that special peripheral you'll be cradling all night.
Crapgadget: how to ruin a gift-giving experience edition
Especially in North and South Dakota, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Disgustingly, that also means that the onslaught of horrifically crappy gadgets to celebrate the occasion are making their way out in full force. In this episode of the world's lamest excuse for gadgets, we see a smattering of gizmos that you should never -- under any circumstance -- give to anyone you love (or like, or don't loathe). On the other hand, these are all perfect for gifting someone you aren't particularly fond of. Check out the catastrophes below, and toss in your vote for most pathetic in the handy poll down there.Read - USB animal hand warmer / massagerRead - Ornament ball digital photo frameRead - Santa stocking USB driveRead - Dog mat mouse padRead - Banana peeling simulatorRead - Santa / Snowman digiframes %Poll-22095%
Nova explodes your brain with the Slider X 600 gaming mouse and OVER Slide pad
If you're having trouble choosing which gaming mouse to sink your teeth into next, here's a newbie to add to the ever growing pile: the Nova Slider X 600. Not surprisingly, it's tethered to a "recommended" mouse pad -- a cornerstone product for this French based company. As for the laser mouse it features "indestructible" super-glide ceramic feet for speed and precision, along with 8 programmable buttons, a gold-plated USB connector, five luminous color options, and a cable that is notably positioned to the side. The 16.5-inch x 11.5-inch "OVER Slide" mouse pad boasts a 12,000 dpi ceramic surface, and promises "zero lag and optimal conditions" for the laser -- you know, way better than that magazine you've been using. The mouse and pad can be had for $99.99 and $39.99 respectively this November.[Via Everything USB]
Crapgadget: pathetic peripherals on parade
Seriously, our hands are trembling at the mere thought of having to actually use any of these shameful peripherals. A camera that takes the good with the (mostly) bad? A star-shaped mouse guaranteed to accelerate the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome by 409%? A USB fan that blatantly lies about purifying the hot air coming from that clogged up tower of yours? All present and accounted for, sir, and that's not even the half of 'em. We have all ideas you too would want to keep your digits far, far away from any of the disasters linked below, but give the list a look and let us know which one you think is the most pitiful of all.Read - Mouse pad / USB hub / micRead - USB Whack ItRead - Yang Ying CameraRead - Star MouseRead - Key-shaped USB keyRead - Totally original touchscreen MP3 playerRead - USB fan with super-secret germ killing powers %Poll-19184%
Wooden mousepad works great with wooden mice
What better to complement a wooden mouse (and wooden keyboard, for that matter) than a wooden mousepad? Nothing, that's what. This masterfully constructed jewel not only brings the tree to your workspace, but it's slightly angled for ergonomic pleasure and can likely be used upside-down in a pinch. Yeah, the $60.31 sticker makes this thing absurdly overpriced, but your wooden PC just wouldn't be complete without it.[Via CrunchGear]
Capcom gives Koreans pearl necklaces (and mousepads)
When the Nintendo Wii launches in South Korea this April 26th, Zack & Wiki will be sitting pretty on store shelves, too, beckoning adventure gaming fans to pick up a copy to accompany their new consoles. Rather than rely on the critically-acclaimed game's looks to generate sales, Capcom is offering two gifts with each preorder -- a Zack & Wiki-decorated mousepad and a treasure box filled with what looks like candy. If that isn't enough to motivate Korean gamers, one hundred of those treasure boxes will contain a real pearl necklace! What a strange but awesome incentive! We wish someone would offer to give us a pearl necklace. All we ever received when we picked up Zack & Wiki was a look of derision from the GameStop clerk and a dim-witted quip about kiddie graphics. %Gallery-3283% [Thanks, Nick!]
