Microsoft SideWinder Mouse

Microsoft this morning resurrected its SideWinder line of gaming peripherals with the advent of the simply-titled SideWinder Mouse. Hoping to take back share from its rival Logitech, the Redmond-based company's mouse inculdes similar sensitivity switching between 400 and 2000 DPI, adjustable weights, and five customizable button macros. The SideWinder, however, adds the first ever LCD on a mouse and provides both the exact DPI setting and macro recording images to reduce on-screen clutter. A Quick Launch button at the back of the mouse also triggers the Games Explorer pane for Windows Vista users, letting them start playing sooner.

Other minor touches applied to the pointer involve adjustable feet for an ideal glide on different surfaces, a cable anchor to keep the cord at the right tension level, and a wide scroll wheel plus vertical side buttons that promise accurate button strikes every time.

Microsoft hasn't listed official requirements but makes it clear that using all available features will require Windows. The company plans to ship its first SideWinder device in years to shops by October for $80.

By Electronista Staff