Gateway USB Optical Mouse MS.11200.050 MODTUO

The Gateway MODTUO is a basic, wired, usb-style mouse that came free with my brand new Gateway desktop computer. It has a cable about 5 ft long, and it works on a basic USB connection, and not the older PS/2 style mouse connector. It is black. and features the basic left and right mouse buttons. The mouse design is interesting here, because the buttons are hidden, and the plastic that covers the buttons is the same as the plastic on the bottom section, where the palm rests. So there are fewer cracks and parts where dust and other debris can get stuck, which is nice here. It also looks sleek and modern.

The MODTUO Gateway mouse also has a middle wheel, which can also be pressed down, to act like a 3rd middle button. This is fairly common on mice nowadays as well. There are no additional buttons beyond these three, which is standard, and perfect for basic mouse applications. Some mice that I've owned in the past had extra buttons on the sides, but they are generally useless, and you can accidentally press them when you are simply trying to move the mouse around.

The MODTUO is the perfect size to fit most people's hands, and it is not too small like some portable wireless models are. The wired mode of this mouse has some advantages, particularly around wireless musical equipment. I've had a few issues with another wireless mouse, where the reception and connection would be compromised by interference from other devices, and if you have any audio wireless devices, these can definitely interfere with the mouse. So in those instances, having a wired mouse is much more reliable.

Overall, this MODTUO mouse shows that even the most basic of equipment can be well made, and very useful. Just because something is free, doesn't mean it's cheap. Definitely worth keeping!