Microsoft releases new SideWinder mouse

Microsoft has announced the SideWinder X3 mouse designed for gamers. Like the more expensive SideWinder X8, this mouse is equipped with the Bluetrack tracking system, but the X3 is not wireless.

The SideWinder X3 should replace the older X5 model. Microsoft has given the mouse a slimmer housing and reorganized the mouse buttons. According to Microsoft, the laser on the underside of the X3 has a sensitivity of up to 2000dpi and works with the so-called BlueTrack tracking technology. According to the manufacturer, this would allow the device to better register movement on ‘difficult’ surfaces.

The mouse, which is symmetrical and can therefore be used by both left and right-handers, has a total of eight buttons, two of which are on the side. Five mouse buttons are freely programmable using the IntelliPoint configuration software. The pointing rodent will hit the market in May with a suggested retail price of $40.