Smartfish Whirl

Smartfish Whirl Laser Mouse

The Smartfish Whirl Laser Mouse ($49.95 direct) is being pitched as an ergonomic mouse with its ErgoMotion pivot system. It succeeds in bringing a fresh angle to mouse design, however, this new navigating experience has a learning curve and can be frustrating to get used to if you're heavy-handed. Aside from the raised pivot design, the Whirl is rather plain. It's encased in black glossy plastic, accented by cheap silver-colored plastic framing the scroll wheel. Buttons are sparse, there being only the two designated mouse buttons and scroll wheel. I would like to have seen at least two browser buttons. On the underside of the mouse is an indented space to hold the USB wireless adapter for travel and an on/off switch. The Whirl takes two AA batteries, both of which are included. People, like me, who like to put the weight of their hand on the mouse when navigating may have to readjust, because doing so with the Whirl will result in the mouse tilting forward and involuntary finger clicks soon following. With this mouse you need to take the Miss Congeniality approach and float while navigating on the Whirl, putting a little less of your weight on the mouse and slightly levitate your hand.