Microsoft Brings Back A Legend, the Radical IntelliMouse

Microsoft has revived the classic IntelliMouse for a second time, after it brought us another upgraded version, about two years ago. 

This new reiteration of the device targets the gamers this time, with Microsoft promising “increased performance, modern gaming features and more customization for work and play.”

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the IntelliMouse, gather around the fireplace for a short story from simpler times. 

Microsoft first launched the IntelliMouse 23 years ago, back in the times full of technological promise of 1996.

It’s most prominent feature was the scroll wheel, though the design was still based on the 1993 Microsoft Mouse 2.0. It was the innovative mouse that changed the game and on which the company continued to improve through the years. 

Microsoft went on to introduce the 1997 trackball IntelliMouse and then, in 1999, the IntelliMouse Explorer followed, that featured the then show-stopping optical tracking technology, which eliminated the need for both the mouse ball and the mousepad.

Back then, Microsoft called it the “most radical computer mouse technology and design advancement” since the introduction of computer mice back in the ’60s. 

It just kept getting better from there but, sometimes we have to circle back to the past, just because. 

Microsoft decided there was still room for improvement so they created this Pro version that features an upgraded tracking sensor, improved key actuation, a textured finish, more responsive buttons, a braided cord and a tail light color you can change to fit your mood or overall setup.

Yes, no more will you have to deal with that dreaded deep-red light.

The mouse features 5 buttons altogether, with three of them customizable. 

“The fundamentals of the IntelliMouse all remain.” Microsoft said in a press release “You’ll appreciate the ergonomic design that has been a vital part of every IntelliMouse. With its wired design, you’ll never wait for it to pair or need to search for a dongle before getting down to work or play. The Pro IntelliMouse is easy to maneuver, with carefully calculated weight, stability and control.” 

The new Pro IntelliMouse comes in black and white color options which Microsoft called ‘Dark Shadow’ and ‘Light Shadow’, and its sensor can support up to 16,000 DPI and a 12,000 refresh rate. 

The mouse actually debuted to China in late 2018 and the company is only now bringing it to the U.S market with a price tag of $59,99.

It should become available quite soon, with European sales set to follow at the beginning of July.