Tired of the bland and boring mice that most folks have on their desktops? If your computer's color scheme is more glittering 1970s than sterile 2000s, the Targus Desktop Kaleidoscope Optical Mouse may be the input device for you.

The Kaleidoscope features a light inside that cycles through seven different colors as you use it, hence the name. Each color stays on for a few seconds, so it's not a headache-inducing strobe effect, but it is a novel and entertaining feature to add to a mouse.

Apart from the color effects, the Kaleidoscope serves as a respectable input device. There are two buttons and a scroll wheel that clicks for each line you scroll. Unfortunately, you won't find any of the programmable extras that a lot of high-end mice provide. Nevertheless, the Kaleidoscope is serviceable and the optical sensor does a good job tracking on various surfaces.

This corded (USB 1.1 or 2.0) mouse is contoured, so it fits comfortably in either hand and is a good option for left-handed users. The lights get all their juice through the USB connection, so you don't have to worry about changing batteries.

The lights stay on as long as your PC has power, so if you leave your system on overnight, the light cycle continues. A nice feature would have been the ability to control the lights, such as an on/off switch or the option to lock in a single color. However, the Kaleidoscope is what it is.

Targus offers a 1-year limited warranty on the mouse, which can be found for under $25. This is not a bad price for a well-designed optical mouse that does more than just point and click. It would make a good gift for a case-modder who has already lined his or her PC with colorful neon.

The rotating fog light effects aren't for everyone. If you want your desktop in stark colors and normal contrasts, this input device will definitely mess with your feng shui. On the other hand, if you like things in life to be bright and multicolored, the Targus Desktop Kaleidoscope Optical Mouse will brighten your day.

Pros: Funky lighting effects, ambidextrous mouse.
Cons: No programmable extras or lighting controls.

Warranty
1 year limited