Gyroscopic mice compared!

Dan Ackerman
Dan Ackerman Senior Editor October 13, 2008

After years of ergonomically incorrect computer use, many people suffer from a tennis-elbow-like condition sometimes called "mouse arm," causing pain in the wrist and forearm. One solution is a gyroscopic mouse, held in the hand like a remote control, which is a much more natural position for the wrist.

Later on, home theater enthusiasts also discovered gyroscopic mice, and these devices have become a popular, if not exactly common, choice for controlling the functions of a Media Center PC from the living room couch.

The very latest version is the Gyration Air Mouse, a smaller $99 travel version of the company's standard Gyration Go model. Unfortunately, the Air Mouse feels flimsy and it rattles in your hand.

More satisfying, but also larger, is the standard Gyration Go. We've literally used one of these every day for several years, and found it an effective solution for wrist and arm pain.

Logitech got into the gyroscopic game with the MX air, which, while not cheap at $149, adds plenty of media-friendly features, such as playback and volume controls.

Finally, for travelers who find even the travel-friendly Gyration Air too large, there's the literally pocket-size Gyrotransport, which is essentially a small presentation mouse for controlling PowerPoint and the like, and lacks the optical mouse function found in each of the other gyroscopic products we've looked at.

Product Gyration Wireless Air Mouse
Price $44.99
CNET editors' rating 3 stars
Average user rating 4 stars
Release date October 1, 2008
Bottom line
Gyration's new travel version of its excellent gyroscopic mouse falls a bit short, but anyone with wrist or arm pain should seriously consider something from the company's line.
Product Description

Gyration Air Mouse

Packaged Quantity

1

Device Type

Mouse

Connectivity Technology

Wireless - 2.4 GHz

Wireless Receiver

USB wireless receiver

Movement Detection Technology

Laser

Buttons Qty

3

Features

Trigger

MotionSense technology

Scrolling wheel

Battery

2 x AAA type

OS Required

Microsoft Windows Vista / XP

Manufacturer Warranty

2 years warranty

Full specifications Full specifications
Buying choices Prices from 1 store