Microsoft's popular IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 was first introduced several years ago, but it was removed from the market to make room for later models. Many users complained about the missing 3.0 version, so Microsoft has re-imagined the input device and re-released it as a gaming mouse.

The new IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 has the same wide base and curved design of its predecessor, which allows you to completely cover the mouse with your hand. The slight curves do not prohibit a lefty from using the mouse, although there are two buttons on the left side that would be tough to reach for southpaws.

Microsoft has also introduced a number of new features to the IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0. For starters, there are five programmable buttons that can be easily set to perform a variety of quick actions. The magnify feature gives you a more detailed look at small text and images, while the Gaming Toggle function lets you record a keyboard macro of several keystrokes that you use often in your favorite game.

By default, the two buttons on the left side of the IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 are set for moving forward and back in a web browser, and this is a pretty good option for most users. The other buttons are the standard right- and left-clicks, and depressing the scroll wheel can perform an additional action. We found the right-click button to be soft and easy to hit, which is an advantage in some situations. However, we also found ourselves clicking it accidentally when holding the mouse with our entire hand.

The mouse's scroll wheel features detents or "clicks" that take you through approximately one-fifth of a Word document page per click. We like this much better than the freewheeling scrolls of some mice, as it allows for more accurate scrolling while browsing or gaming.

The bottom of the IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 has four Teflon feet that help it glide on any surface, so no mouse pad is required. The red optical sensor glows from the back of the mouse, giving it a nice aesthetic touch.

The Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 is backed by a lengthy 3-year warranty and retails for $40, which is a decent price for a comfortable and well-designed gaming mouse.


Pros: Comfortable, programmable buttons, better scroll wheel
Cons: Right-click button very sensitive, not ideal for lefties

Warranty
3 years