1. Introduction

If there's any one thing that continues to boggle my mind about Apple systems, it's the continued usage of the one button mouse. Now granted - I come from the Windows world where I constantly am using the right mouse button for contextual menus and secondary actions but the Mac OS supports that right button too so why not include it? It's pretty darn useful if you ask me. The included mouse from the iMac that I own was also a bit of a pain to use though it did look quite stylish. So there was my dilemma: I wanted to replace the single button Apple mouse with at least a two button mouse that also looked attractive next to the iMac. Though the Logitech and Microsoft Mouse were excellent devices, their color schemes didn't quite match the Apple style. Luckily Kensington released a mouse called the StudioMouse which looks to be a viable alternative to that Apple mouse. Let's see how it performs. As you read this, please keep in mind that I will be reviewing this product using the OS X environment. Those looking for a OS 9 review will probably have to try to picture all of this in your minds.

1.1 Packaging

I actually first noticed the Kensington mouse on the back of some Mac magazine (yes advertising does work sometimes) and realized that it would be a perfect match stylistically to the iMac. A few weeks later, I picked up the StudioMouse from a nearby CompUSA dealer here in the NYC.

Front of the box	Box opened up

Back of the box

The mouse comes in a fairly standard box which of course is oversized. The mouse comes with a USB cable, two manuals and a CD containing OS drivers. You know - if it means we can save a few more bucks by shrinking the packaging - I'm all for it.

The contents

1.2. Specifications

The StudioMouse specifications are as follows:

• Programmable Buttons. Using the MouseWorks software, you can program buttons depending upon the application at hand
  
• The mouse comes with a scroll sensor. Instead of using a traditional wheel, Kensington opted for a non moving part to allow you to scroll through pages and documents.
  
• Rubberized sides for better grip
  
• Requirements include OS 8.5 or later; 1 USB port. This device will also work for the PC using Windows 98, ME, 2000, and XP.
  
• Dimensions: 4.5" L x 1.125"H x 2.375" W
  
• Cord Length: 60"