Difference Between Optical and Laser Mouse

Of late, not much—at least not for average computer users. The optical and laser mouse differ in terms of the technology they use to follow movement. The ideal optic mouse makes use of an LED light to follow movement, and the laser mouse, as the moniker indicates, makes use of a laser.

A laser mouse has higher dpi, meaning it can track more dots per inch, and with that making it more sensitive to movement. But although this may have somewhat of an issue before, both laser and optic mice can now hit high dpi marks, and you won’t be able to take note of the difference. Graphic designers and gamers might still perceive one of them and have their personal preferences for each device.

The technology in computer mice has greatly evolved over the previous rollers and ball, which were used on analog mice. The choice between laser and optical mice is normally a matter of individual preference and the person’s tech budget. One of the main differences between these two devices is how the mice’ movement is tracked; either through laser or LED light.

Optical mice use digital image processing tech to track and trace mouse movement, and interpret that position on a computer screen using a cursor. In actual matter of fact, it comes with small camera that takes a staggering 1,500 pictures per second. An optical mouse can also be easily maintained as it doesn’t have any moving parts, which are prone to fail.

In many cases, optical mice are plug and play devices which don’t require specific software to install. One notable advantage of the optical mice is that it doesn’t require a mouse pad, and will still work even if you run on a non-even, non-flat surface. Certain models may however experience trouble on shiny or black surfaces.

The main objective of laser and optical mice is to offers means of interpreting motion from the mover’s hand into a digital signal that the computer can make use of. The main difference between an optical and laser mouse is the kind of light both devices use to track movements on to the computer screen. Although the optical mouse utilizes LED light, laser mice contain small laser beams that are used to monitor mouse movements and represent them onto the computer screen. This is one feature that makes the laser mouse more expensive.

When you go out shopping for a mouse, it is always important for you to consider dots per inch (DPI) on the model you are considering. Ann optical mouse can generally track in the range of 400 to 800 DPI. When comparing, laser mice generally track more than 2,000 DPI. This allows the cursor move further and freely on screen.

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