Entered CNET Catalog: 03/17/2006
SKU: 097855038944
Manufacturer: Logitech Inc.
Manufacturer description
At last - laser precision for lefties only. The MX610 Left-Hand Laser Cordless Mouse lets left-handed users enjoy the comfort and control of an advanced laser mouse - without compromising their natural work style.Product summary
The good: Comes with extra buttons for easier navigation; friendly for gamers and multimedia multitaskers; ergonomic, left-hand-specific design.
The bad: Expensive; may be too small for people with big hands.
The bottom line: Southpaws are no longer left out with the full-featured, contoured Logitech MX610 left-hand laser cordless mouse.
Editors' review
- Editors' Choice: No
- Reviewed on: 02/05/2007
With a black-and-silver color scheme that fits in with most modern computers, the MX610 left-handed laser mouse is shaped so that your hand rests in an upright, neutral position for better ergonomics. Two volume buttons, a mute button, and the e-mail and IM buttons are lined up on top of the mouse, along the right edge; two programmable buttons are placed further down on the side for easy thumb access. The rubbery scrollwheel moves smoothly, providing tactile clicks but no noise. The wheel also tilts left and right, letting you scroll horizontally. There's a small on/off button on the bottom, and the mouse shuts off automatically when the computer shuts down or sleeps. A battery-indicator light on top of the mouse lets you know when you're running low on power.
Setting up the MX610 left-handed laser mouse was straightforward: we popped two AA batteries (included in the box) into the mouse, then plugged its tiny receiver into a USB port, and it started working right away. We appreciate that the mouse's right button, where a left-hander's pointer finger naturally rests, is preprogrammed as the primary button, eliminating any need to switch the mouse settings within the Windows Control Panel. This is also handy if you share your computer with a right-hander, whose mouse will continue to function normally even if it's plugged in at the same time as the left-handed MX610.
To take advantage of advanced features and customization options, you'll need Logitech's included SetPoint software, which installs cleanly and is easy to navigate. Inside the program you can map specific actions to each of the mouse's buttons, and you can customize the actions for each software program you use. The two buttons for e-mail and chat can be programmed to light up when you receive new messages; SetPoint also lets you select your preferred IM and e-mail clients (though we were unable to pair the mouse with Trillian), the length of time the notification lights stay on, and whether to ignore certain IM senders.
The left-handed MX610 feels far more comfortable than the hockey-puck-style mice that come bundled with most computers. Though it fit our (female) hand perfectly, we suspect those with larger hands might find the mouse uncomfortable. As with most Logitech mice, clicking the MX610's main mouse buttons demands a bit more pressure than we are accustomed to, which can sometimes lead to finger fatigue. Nevertheless, during our use the MX610 responded flawlessly to all our clicks and movements, and we didn't experience any tracking errors. The lights promptly alerted us to incoming instant messages and e-mail.
Logitech backs the MX610 left-handed laser mouse with a lengthy five-year limited warranty that includes replacement or refund if the products are defective. The company's support Web site offers user forums, a knowledge base, and an e-mail form to contact the company.
User opinions
Select a User Opinion to view: 1 2 3 4 5out of 5 user reviews
What a rip off!!!
Pros: IT WOULD NOT WORK
Cons: I had a stroke and can't use my right hand. This is the ONLY mouse Logictech makes yet they DO NOT have software for a Mac.
out of 5 user reviews
Fixed trigger finger in my thumb
Pros: This mouse is very comfortable and the buttons fall in a very natural position. I was suffering from painful trigger finger in my thumb, after using this mouse for about 2 weeks the condition was noticeably reversed and is now completely gone.
Cons: Well, it is a bit pricey, but was worth it to me. The IM and email buttons are mostly worthless as they are limited to the apps that they support. The volume buttons work great are are in the best position.
The mouse works right out of the box without need of installing the Setpoint application. Even the volume and mute buttons work without Setpoint. If you want email notification (Outlook support only) or IM notifications (Windows Messenger support only) or the helpful battery monitor, then you will need to install and run Setpoint. The limited email and IM client support is a definite draw-back.
Batter life is very acceptable and the wireless range is quite good and I've had no problems with either. The mouse uses AA batteries, and you should keep a couple on hand because when they go, they go fast!
If you are left handed and are looking for a comfortable wireless mouse, the MX610 is not only the best option for you, it is (as of this writing) the only option for you. Open up your wallet and pay the piper!
out of 5 user reviews
Why is the L.H. rated .6 higher than the R.H. version?
Pros: Same as right handed
Cons: Same as right handed
out of 5 user reviews
ITS FOR LEFTIES!!!
Pros: Ergonomic desgn for this model is great
Cons: They do not sell these in stores.
out of 5 user reviews
Awesome Mouse
Pros: Works Great. Love the different buttons for easy navigation.
Cons: The Messenger button only works with MSN Messenger or Windows Messenger. I wish it would work with others, including Trillian.