The most essential travel computer gadget

(MoneyWatch)  Desktop PCs are an endangered species. Most of us routinely work on laptops, both in the office and out on the road. But just because you work on a laptop doesn't mean you should feel shackled to the built-in trackpad.

Recently, my good buddy and former MoneyWatch writer Rick Broida railed against the trackpad in PC World. His words rang true for me, and I felt compelled to spread his message far and wide.

• Microsoft's Arc Touch is perhaps the most portable mouse ever
• Revive a dead wireless mouse


• An 18-Button Mouse?

Rick observed that wherever he goes -- coffee shops and elsewhere -- he sees many people making do with the trackpad built into their laptops. But trackpads are a device of last resort, sort of like the ejection seat in a jet plane or the "vegetable medley" on a restaurant menu. Trackpads are not ergonomic and -- thanks to the ease with which you can brush the surface and cause unintended edits to a document -- highly accident prone.

It doesn't have to be that way. Do yourself a favor and pick up a small and inexpensive travel mouse that you can use wherever you taker your laptop. Rick recommends the Logitech M125, a nice little mouse that can be had for as little as $10.

Personally, I like the Microsoft Arc Touch mouse, which I've lauded in the past. It transforms from perfectly flat to a curved, ergonomic device with a snap.

No matter what kind of mouse you choose, though, choose something. You'll thank me (and Rick).

[JMannion100]

I don't know if anyone else has this experience, but using a mouse is actually far worse for me, ergonomics-wise, than my track pad. I've tried all types of mice, and a variety of placements, but my track pad is the *only* thing that keeps my shoulder happy. Also, regarding the comment that track pads are "accident prone" and can cause one to lose content ... that's just silly. Almost all programs have an "undo" function, and if you aren't saving your work frequently, well, you need to change your habits.

[drkr100]

I am not against you guys using mouse. But as you wrote that using track pad is highly error prone, I don't agree with that. Probably you have not practiced it enough. Taking your hand from the keyboard and holding the mouse when u are in a car or plane is not easy for me.
I still prefer track pad when I am outside.

[Donna21100]

I have 2 little mice (one even has a cute little pouch) - both were vendor giveaways at conferences. The cords are on the self-rolling spool (I've also seen w/ small electronics) and plug into the USB port.

I refuse to use the trackpad (I'm not even a fan of touchscreens - I always use the tethered stylus on the ones at the grocery store).

[barryaz99]

I couldn't agree more with Dave on the mouse vs. trackpad debate. A wireless mouse and a thin mouse pad have always been part of my kit. I do hate dealing with the trackpad.

[rufustel]

It's funny, but: I just love the trackpad on my laptop. When using my laptop while reclined and watching television, the trackpad is handy and easy to use, while a mouse is clumsy, needing a separate, flat surface. Matters are different when seated at a desk--this situation reverses. But for casual, reclined use--the trackpad rocks!