There was a time when Microsoft was popular for its PC accesories, from keyboards to mice consumers used to flock to Imbi Plaza to get the new off-white coloured compliments for their CPU and monitor. Among the items were the then premium Microsoft IntelliMouse, originally launched in 1996, it became instantly famous with gamers and highly regarded as a great gaming mouse.

Now Microsoft is reintroducing the IntelliMouse version 3.0 designed with the right ergonomics which gives the mouse asymmetric form and with its sculpted buttons and finger rests the shape has a nice snug that fits perfectly in the hand.

It also uses long life Omron switches, and coupled with a low force to fire and low key idle, the buttons are easy to press, and activated with minimal slack before engaging the switch.

In remembering the classic mouse, Simon Dearsley, Devices Design Director at Microsoft, discussed the legacy of the Microsoft IntelliMouse “Microsoft has a long and rich history of designing incredible mice. The first Microsoft IntelliMouse was released in 1996 and was based on the Microsoft Mouse 2.0 from 1993 and introduced the innovation of the scroll wheel to our users. We saw it as a game changer in terms of ergonomics, tactility and mouse precision.

“The timing of the release of the Classic IntelliMouse is really interesting. We’ve reached a point where tracking and switch technology and price has matured immensely. We saw this as an opportunity to improve on an icon by updating it with modern technology. We know how important the IntelliMouse range has been and wanted to take a moment to reflect on the history of it and do something special for our fans.”

Two main factors that has changed from the 2003 design is the tracking sensor and the tactility and feel of the buttons. Underneath the hood it’s all brand-new technology, brand new mechanical engineering and brand-new structures with the Omron switches for the left and right click, and added three Kailh switches for the middle wheel button and side buttons.