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Complicated gaming and high-performance mice are ubiquitous, but most users are content with a simple input device built for everyday tasks. The Dell Wireless Mouse WM514 ($21.99) fits the bill, as it’s moderately inexpensive, and sized for easy portability. Although it doesn’t unseat our Editors’ Choice, the similarly priced and more comfortable Logitech Wireless Mouse M320($44.99 at Amazon)(Opens in a new window), the WM514($69.99 at Amazon)(Opens in a new window) is still a very solid option.
Design and Features
Extremely simple in its design, the WM514 comes with no flourishes or extras beyond the scroll wheel’s middle click and two side buttons used for navigation through Windows 8’s charms. The mouse is black with silver trim, and does not offer a thumb grip or rest. It’s somewhat small at 1.3 by 2.3 by 4.3 inches (HWD) and weighs 2.4 ounces, which makes it easy to stash in a bag. At 1.5 by 2.67 by 4.15 inches (HWD), the Logitech M320 is larger, with a rubber thumb rest.
The overall design of the WM514 and functionality are basic, but the mouse felt well-weighted in my hand once the batteries were installed, and it has a quality feel that belies its all-plastic design. Its odd shape, however, does not feel particularly comfortable in use, with the relatively slight curve of the palm rest failing to offer enough support for your hand and offering nowhere to place your thumb or pinky.
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Setup and Performance
You need to install two AA batteries (Dell says they will last for one year) underneath the top panel of the mouse, which lifts off easily and is cleverly held in place by two small magnets. The WM514 is plug-and-play on all operating systems—insert the nano wireless USB receiver into your system, let it automatically install required drivers, and you’re ready to go. There is nowhere on the mouse to store the receiver when it’s not in use, an oversight that prevents the WM514 from becoming fully suitable as a travel mouse. The Power button is located on the base, and emits a slow, white pulse to let you know it’s active.
The scroll wheel is small, but smooth to use, a slight ratchet confirming each scroll. The 1,000dpi laser is very precise, and the mouse glides quickly and smoothly over a variety of surfaces. It works well on traditional mouse pads, plastic, metal, and wood, with no tracking issues. The default sensitivity is a bit high, but some tweaks in the standard Windows menus can fix that quickly. Once you find your preferred speed, the motion has a very consistent smoothness. The mouse comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Conclusion
The Dell Wireless Mouse WM514 isn’t flashy, but it does the job and boasts a decent build quality. Its odd shape and small size makes it a bit uncomfortable to use at times, though the latter does give it better portability. The Logitech Wireless Mouse M320 remains our Editors’ Choice, due in part to its slightly larger frame and thumb rest, at a similar price—but the WM514 is a good option, given its smooth tracking, simple setup, and easy portability.
3.5
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The affordable Dell Wireless Mouse WM514 is a basic and efficient computer mouse for everyday use.
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Source link : https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/dell-wireless-mouse-wm514
