Why the Logitech M196 is the Perfect Wireless Travel Mouse

The Logitech M196, priced at $9.99 (was $14.99), exists because people know there are times when a proper mouse is a whole lot better than a trackpad, especially when you’re stuck away from your desk at some dodgy internet cafe, on an airport, in a hotel room, or fighting for space on a cramped airplane tray. Trackpads just don’t cut it in these situations and can often turn into the route of frustration. A mouse like this one steps in, unsung hero that it is, and solves the problem nicely without drawing any attention to itself.

When it comes to travel, size really is the one thing that matters, fitting neatly into a laptop sleeve, a jacket pocket, or the smallest of backpack compartments. The M196 is fantastically light, too, so it won’t weigh you down when you’re carrying all your other gear.

Paired with Bluetooth, setting up the M196 is about as easy as it gets: You just pair it once, and then it connects with your laptop, tablet, or even your phone in a second or two; it doesn’t require any no USB dongle to lose, or an extra port hogging up. That reliability is a lifesaver every time you whip out your device in a cramped plane seat, or in a meeting in some conference room. The connection remains good even up to about 30 feet, which covers most real-world situations without any dropouts.

Another feature that stands out about the M196 is battery life. This thing runs for 12 months on one AA battery, and turns itself down to power-save mode when not in use. In fact, you’ll need to change batteries maybe just once a year. That’s it. Taking nothing but this mouse on vacation is heaven because you’re not stuck dealing with some other thing at the hotel or airport outlet.

The ergonomic design of the mouse is comfortable in both hands. It’s curved just right with features intended for use by both left- and right-handed computer users, which means no more cramping from using flat mice or tiny mice even for several hours of computer usage. The buttons click audibly with adequate feedback, while the optical sensor glides smoothly on any surface, whether it be a hotel desk, airplane meal trays, or café tables, all without needing to use a mousepad.