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Why I Hate Apple Mice (and Trackpads), and What I've Done About It
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- Episode 29 - October 29th, 2004The only Apple-branded pointing device I've ever liked, even a little, was the marble-like trackball used in the earliest PowerBooks. Other than that, I've hated some more than others (the horrid round mouse supplied with the original iMacs comes to mind), but there hasn't been a single one I liked even a little.
There's a fundamental flaw in Apple pointing devices, at least for me, and that flaw is that they have since time immemorial, offered only a single button.
Read my lips: A mouse needs more than a single button to be truly useful. How many times a day to you Control-Click, Option-Click, Shift-Click, or Other-Click? Now don't you think it would be easier if you didn't have to use both hands to do those things?
As long as I can remember I've used multi-button pointing devices with my Macs-a Kensington trackball for my desktop system and a Microsoft mouse with my PowerBook. The trackball I'm using today is a Kensington Expert Mouse, with four buttons and a scroll wheel; the one before that, which I liked even better until its untimely demise, was a Kensington Turbo Mouse Pro, which also had 4 buttons and a scroll wheel, but also included six "direct launch" buttons that could be programmed to do just about anything I desired.
Brief aside: Why does Kensington insist using the word "Mouse" in the name of most of their Trackballs? A mouse is a mouse, and a trackball is a trackball; using Mouse in a trackball's name is dumb.
I hate trackpads almost as much as single-button mice. So my current PowerBook mouse is a Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse; the one before it was a full-sized Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer 2.0.
What do I do with all those extra buttons? Let me show you. Here's the software for the Kensington trackball:
(Click the image for a larger version.)
As you can see, the lower left button performs a regular click and the lower right button performs a Control-Click. The upper left button sends the keystroke Command-[ and the upper right button sends the keystroke Command-]. What's so special about Command-] and Command-[, you ask? Well, in many applications including the Finder, Apple Help, and most Web browsers, those are the shortcuts for Back and Forward. I use them a ton so they get their own buttons.
Now here's another cool feature of the Kensington mouse driver-when I click both of the upper buttons at the same time, it's called a "chord," and in this case it performs an Option-Click, handy for hiding and showing applications. If I click both of the lower buttons simultaneously ("chord" them), it performs a Shift-Click, which extends the selection and is another shortcut I use about a million times a day.
See the Application Settings menu? It lets me assign different shortcuts to the buttons for specific applications. So, for example, I can use them for Copy and Paste in programs that don't have a Forward and Back command.
Another reason I like third-party mice and trackballs is that they allow finer adjustments to the pointer speed. As you can see below, I like the cursor to move very slowly when I rotate the trackball slowly, but like it super fast when I move the trackball quickly.
(Click the image for a larger version.)
The Microsoft Mouse software works pretty much the same way and I've got it configured pretty much the same as the trackball (without the "chords," which the Microsoft software doesn't support), as shown below:
(Click the image for a larger version.)
So there you have it. I like multi-button pointing devices and I hate to compute without one. If you're still using an archaic Apple single-button mouse or trackpads, give it a try. I assure you that if you choose a multi-button mouse or trackball, you're going to get more work done with less effort.
As the old Alka-Seltzer™ ads used to say, "Try it… you'll like it!"
Bob "Dr. Mac" LeVitus has been a Macintosh user for a long, long time and has written 49 computer books including Mac OS X Tiger For Dummies and GarageBand for Dummies. He also offers expert technical help and training to Mac users, in real time and at reasonable prices, via telephone, e-mail, and/or unique Internet-enabled remote control software. For more information on Bob and his services, visit www.boblevitus.com.
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Send impolite comments to DeleteWithoutReading@boblevitus.com, or post your comments below.Most Recent Columns From Dr. Mac: Rants & Raves
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Observer Comments
Fri Oct 29, 2004 10:02 am Subject: better for your hand
Spending 14 or more hours a day on a computer quickly led to carpal tunnel problems for me. Then I found a solution.
www.quillmouse.com
I'm using A MS PocketMousePro on my PB. Though I have to admit I don't mind using the trackpad. I use the mouse for graphics, games, anything that requires more precision than checking e-mail. The mouse is not wireless but it has a recoil mechanism so the cord and the USB plug wind up and fold inside a little door on the side of the mouse. I got it rather than the wireless one because I thought the mechanicals were really cool (it was also $10 cheeper).
One thing I like about OS10 is that USB peripherals work without any drivers. Right now I'm running my iMac G5 with a Micron Computer USB mouse that we had around the shop when my MacAlly iOptinet mouse died last week. Everything works on it including the track wheel.
Fri Oct 29, 2004 11:12 am Subject: Simplicity . . . and keyboard shortcuts!
I've always loved the simplicity of a single mouse button, and the ergonomics of the Apple mice, particularly since the Pro Mouse came out four years ago. The tech support issue is my main complaint with multi-button devices. Talking to PC users continues to be a struggle.
Control-clicking is a rarity for me because I think keyboard shortcuts are faster. I Command- and Option-click more often, but since I usually have my hands on the keyboard anyway, getting there for these combinations isn't such a hassle.
Fri Oct 29, 2004 11:40 am Subject: A must-have to some programs
A 3 button mouse is a MUST have for some programs. Maya, for example. And the up-coming "Sims 2" uses the mouse wheel to navigate the game.
There are plenty of other programs where the wheel is USEFUL, but in these programs it's down-right NECESSARY.
Apple can leave the one-button mouse as the "standard" mouse, but they really need to offer a 3-button mouse as an up-grade item with any Mac purchase.
I don't know anyone who doesn't go out and just buy a logitech with each new Mac. Heck, Apple doesn't have to make 'em, just sell Logitechs. But make it part of the apple store...you should be able to select it as an option just like you can select a larger hard drive.
I have switched back and forth between using a one button and two button mouse for years. I can see both sides of the argument. I like the convenience of a two button mouse but using key commands throughout the day, control clicking isn't that big a deal. Isn't that what a keyboard is for anyway?
Anyway with all that said. My kids (Ages 2 and 5) like the one button mouse a lot better. They get so engrossed with what they are doing - noggin.com is a favorite place to play - that they don't pay attention to hand placement. Mice don't fit small hands very well and they get annoyed when clicking on the wrong button and a menu comes up.
The current mouse offering from Apple works well for them. As for me, I'm flexible but am glad that I have 3rd party options. I would like to see an BTO two button mouse option in the future.
Fri Oct 29, 2004 11:55 am Subject: Re: Disagree
QuoteAnonymous wrote:
The one button mouse is perfect for almost everyone, at least those that never visit a tech column or read techie mags...in other words, "normal" people.
I think you're on to something...I think this is how it should be asked:
* Do you own a SINGLE program (not a suite) that costs more than $400 and isn't Photoshop?
* Do you play a lot of games? Not online games, but ACTUAL games?
If you can answer "no" to both of those questions than (for MOST of you) a one-button mouse JUST FINE for you!
I think this is why Apple works the way it does...they figure that the people who say "yes" to those know how to buy the mouse they want...and why confuse the rest with choices they don't need?
Fri Oct 29, 2004 12:26 pm Subject: Re: One button = single digit IQ=Apple Marketing
QuoteAnonymous wrote:
Apple appropriately garners a lot of ridicule because innovative yes...
This barely qualifies as English so I'm guessing a little bit here...but are you saying that people make fun of Apple for being original?
Because that's usually the one and ONLY thing they get credit for. People tend to fault them for having a small user base, high prices, and tightly controlling their products. But not for being innovative...
Unless I misunderstood you?
Fri Oct 29, 2004 12:28 pm Subject: You must be joking
You've got to be kidding me if you think Windows users never use anything but the left button.
First of all, right-clicking is a staple of Windows life. Just about every program supports it, and it saves a trip to the menu bar. Not to mention the context menu is much more to the point than the menu bar is.
Second, scroll wheels are used all the time in Windows. Browsers in particular need scroll wheels for true convenience, and having a forward/back button is just wonderful. Everyone who has a wheelless mouse comes to me and asks for a wheel mouse replacement.
Using both keyboard and mouse to click is just lame. Especially now that OS/X supports context menus the one button mouse's usefulness is pretty much done.
Fri Oct 29, 2004 12:32 pm Subject: Furry Mice are Better...
The last few desktop Macs I bought, I never even unwrapped the mice and actually SOLD them. Now that I've gone pure PowerBook, there's no need.
Mice are awful. They're too slow and too much of a pain... figuratively and physically. I HATE running out of space on my desk and fishing for more room.
My favorite pointing devices? A Kensington TurboMouse Pro on my desk and a WACOM Graphire tablet which travels with my PowerBook (and makes guest appearances on the desk).
I do VectorWorks CAD and 3D, Photoshop and I do actually play games. A trackball is far more intuitive than a mouse as well as faster, more accurate and pain-free. There's no mouse claw hand grip cramping. You use only your fingertips to move the cursor around, not your entire arm. The multiple buttons are good to have and Kensington's software is excellent. I've been using trackballs for 15 years, BTW.
The tablet is fantastic. For Photoshop and CAD work it can't be beat. As a portable tool, it's perfect. I even have the stylus' side toggle switch set to double-click and Control-click. It fits nicely in my bag.
I wouldn't be without either!
I DO carry a Kensington Optical Mouse Pro (with the retractable cord). It's not bad, but it's still a mouse.
As for the continual One-Button-Mouse debate. That's what third party input devices are for are for.
When I gave my uncle, who had recently switched from a PC to a PowerBook, the choice of an Apple One-Button-Mouse or the Kensington Optical Mouse Pro... I talked up the scroll wheel and multiple buttons... he emphatically picked the Apple mouse. For him, ex-Navy helicopter pilot and Jaguar driver, multiple buttons were too confusing and unnecessary.
Fri Oct 29, 2004 1:54 pm Subject: whether apple should include a 3 button mouse is moot
Fri Oct 29, 2004 2:45 pm Subject: Choice vrs No-choice
Fri Oct 29, 2004 3:10 pm Subject: Its a trade-off....BUT:
IMO...
Apple was on the right track back in the 1980's (and even the 1990's) with the idea that a one-button mouse would not be a too intimidating step up from a keyboard for all of the GUI Novices.
But it ain't the 1990's anymore. The marketplace isn't mostly first-time-ever PC buyers anymore who's used to a typewriter and may be terrified of a mouse interface. Apple (perhaps reluctantly) knows this, and that's why we no longer see TV Ads like the iMac's "There is no Step 3".
The good news is that a nicely affordable USB 2-button/wheel mouse for a PC is a straight "plug-n-chug" device under OS X.
I thought about my Apple mouse, still unwrapped, and decided that I'd be less upset with having an Apple mouse go to "waste" than if Apple's price for a multi-button mouse cost significantly more than the LogiTeck one that I bought on my own.
This is pretty much a "ditto" in terms of my external USB floppy drive, too, and maybe both fall within Apple's perspetive on this: when you can get away with it, don't bother to make low profit margin products.
-hh
Fri Oct 29, 2004 3:57 pm Subject: Re: it's a trade off but...
The marketplace isn't mostly first-time-ever PC buyers anymore who's used to a typewriter and may be terrified of a mouse interface.
I've been using Macs since 1985, (and 8-bit PCs before it.) but I still find the two button mouse useless. I like the scroll wheel, but I've got another hand, why NOT use it for command-shift?
Kensington Turbo Mouse Pro RULES. The trackball is as big as a cue ball. It has scroll wheel, 4 buttons, and even internet hot keys. An for apples mouse...it looks real cool. But I do CAD and CAD or anything with an intense interface with a mouse SUCKS. Apple ideally could give the BTO option of no mouse, that would slash what 40$ off the price. Seriously that will never happen, So quit whineing and deal with it, the options ARE out there.
I guess there is two sides to everything. I can't stand trackballs, they are all garbage in my book. I hate having to use muti-button mice on pc's. That one of the many cool things about macs. You have the control. You never have that on windows. Right hand for the one button mouse and left hand for keyboard shortcuts. Nice and simple, muti- and trackball lead to too much complexity. Yes, I am a graphic designer, two buttons don't help the average designer. Granted the hockey puck mouse was a piece of crap, but my mom who is a teacher thinks they are great for the kids (small mouse small hand). I love my Apple one button laser mouse, the best mouse I have owned.
personally, right now i have the kensington PocketMouse Pro with retractable USB cable-- works great with my iBook
the scratch pad is good, but i find the problem of letting my other fingers relax and the multiple input sending the pointer flying across the screen-- i know this is easily fixable, but i prefer mice anyway
i took a look at the quillmouse mentioned in the first post, and would like to test it before dropping $100 on a mouse when i could be easily happy dropping less on another mouse (which may not be as good, but it works)
single button is great for confused users, but if i were head of sales for apple, i would propose this sales solution
it is $49 to upgrade from your wired mouse and keyboard to a wireless mouse and keyboard ($99-$50 for boletooth module), now lets add another option to apple's site for purchases. separate the keyboard and mouse-- lets presume the replacement is $20 for the mouse and $29 for the keyboard, and initial mouse costs are $30 and $50 (i dont actually know)
bluetooth pulldown, $50 to add bluetooth
mouse pulldown, wired one button standard, add $20 for apple bluetooth one button, subtract $30 for no mouse
keyboard pulldown, standard wired apple pro keyboard, add $29 for wireless keyboard, subtract $30 for no keyboard
have those options available, because if you have a keyboard and mouse you like, then you arent charged extra for something you arent going to use
just another thought
TRO
QuoteRoger Plowman wrote:
...Browsers in particular need scroll wheels for true convenience...now that OS/X supports context menus the one button mouse's usefulness is pretty much done.
You can scroll the browser window using the up/down arrow keys. That's "true convenience," too.
BTW, Macs have supported contextual menus since Mac OS 8 in 1997...
Sat Oct 30, 2004 4:03 pm Subject: Another vote for the single button mouse
This whole argument boils down to a matter of taste. Apparently some users, primarily casual users and novices, do fine with one button, my preference closely matches the author's. Now all we need is useful compact keyboard that will allow us to keep one hand on the pointing device.
(I believe the "short yellow bus" is a reference to the school bus for students with special needs - in other words, the poster was describing Apple engineering and marketing as "a bunch of retards".)
Sat Oct 30, 2004 6:18 pm Subject:
I see both sides, and think the current system works good. I can't stand one button mice. I have a Logitech MX 700 and 500. 8 Buttons. It's awesome. Can't stand using one button mice when I'm on other people's computers.
But, as someone else pointed out, the vast majority of computer user's I've watched, who don't use the computer to make their living and are generally not "tech savvy" type of people, NEVER use the second button anyway. They don't even know what it does. They just go to the menus.
Tech savvy people, graphic designers, programmers, those who make a living on their living with their computer, they know the difference and use multi-button mice. But they know the difference, and they will buy what ever they want anyway.
Current system is fine.
Sat Oct 30, 2004 7:17 pm Subject: Why I love the Apple Mouse-Goodbye to carple tunnel!
I was a system administrator for a wintel company. I noticed most of the users use only the left click and are not aware of what the right click does. So, one button do fine with most users.
However, at home, I am using a Kensington three button mouse with a scroll wheel for my iBook. Somehow I am not able to get use to using mousepad though my wife is pretty at ease with the pad.
I agreed with Jon's "Tech savvy people, graphic designers, programmers, those who make a living on their living with their computer, they know the difference and use multi-button mice. But they know the difference, and they will buy what ever they want anyway."
Personally I like the Macally beastie, very little delay, wakes up reall