Introduction

Whether you're buying a mouse for a home-built PC or replacing one that is wearing out or dead, you need to get a mouse that is compatible with your computer.

Step One

Buy a mouse with a rectangular serial connector if you have a very old PC.

Step Two

Get a mouse with a (round) PS/2 connector if you have a PC manufactured after 1994 (including all Pentium and newer computers).

Step Three

Buy a mouse with a USB connector if you have a PC that has available USB ports and you want a faster response from your mouse. All Pentium II and newer computers have USB ports.

Step Four

Choose a mouse with a round serial connector (also called Apple Desktop Bus, or ADB mouse) if you have a Macintosh with a mouse connector built into the keyboard.

Step Five

Select a mouse with a USB connector if you have a Macintosh with USB ports (G3 and newer machines). Make sure the package says the mouse is Mac-compatible.

Step Six

Buy a mouse with extra buttons for increased functionality and productivity.

Step Seven

Look for a scroll wheel between the mouse buttons if you spend a lot of time using word-processing or spreadsheet applications or working on the Internet.

Step Eight

Avoid replacing your mouse again by buying a mouse without a rubber ball. Expect to pay considerably more for the increased ease-of-movement, speed and durability.

Step Nine

Compare the ergonomics of various mice. Look for a shape and size that is comfortable for your hand.