Physical Characteristics, Ergonomics, and Aesthetics

Sitting the original and the updated versions right next to each other, the first thing you notice is the difference in color. Microsoft chose to go with a darker grey color over the original silvery, almost white look. Also, the side buttons are silver versus a dull gray on the original. However, other than the color the mice are aesthetically identical. The shape, size, and feel have no differences in any way. Okay, so the sides on the updated version have a slightly rubberized plastic, but that is it. A few of you were curious about the location of the optical sensor, and you can rest assured it is still in the center. I regret to inform those that are left hand inclined will not find this mouse comfortable. It is ergonomically identical to its predecessor, which was designed with the right handed folks in mind.

Keep in mind that this mouse may be larger than what you are used to. Below is a picture of this mouse next to the Logitech MX518, the Logitech G3, the Razer Diamondback, and the original IME 3.0. By no means is this a small or medium mouse. If you are used to a smaller mouse, there will be some inherent growing pains during your transition. This is due to a much larger object to push around and to flick. Luckily, the IME 3.0 weighs in at 3 5/8 oz. (104g) and is relatively lightweight for its size. It's asymmetrical design will also lend to these growing pains if you are transitioning from a symmetrical peripheral such as a Razer product or the Logitech G3. As a result of the necessary adjustments, some gamers may find themselves having a hard time with movement towards the right. Furthermore, these gamers may then overcompensate for this and end up having the opposite problem. The likelihood of this effect is slim, but worth mentioning nonetheless.

I would like to point out a few minor things that were changed on the mouse that do not change the mouse very drastically. This would be the addition of Teflon feet versus the plain old plastic feet that accompanied the original. Also, the detents on the wheel are a bit more defined, which make for a noticeable increase in scrolling accuracy. That statement alone may sound a bit stupid, but weak detents can allow for over-scrolling and detents that are too deep can make it damn near impossible to scroll. Lastly, different insulation, or different materials all together, were used on the updated version of the cord. The cord on the original was very stiff and did not drape like a good cord should. The new cord is up to date and lightweight so that it gives the feeling and freedom of wireless even though it gets the performance of a wired mouse.