Along with the Magic Trackpad 2 and Magic Keyboard, Apple introduced the new Magic Mouse 2.
However, unlike the others, the Magic Mouse 2 failed to introduce new and distinct innovations. Regardless, we can’t exactly complain: it’s way better compared to its predecessor and personally, I’d pick it over the trackpad (I’m a mouse guy).
Anyway, we managed to grab hold of the new Magic Mouse 2 and had a little fun with it. Does the new installment of Apple’s mouse give anything new to its users? Is it a rightful successor to the previous Magic Mouse? What are its notable qualities?
Let’s try to answer all of the above mentioned questions. Read more to find out how the device fared in our tests.
Design and feel
Before we delve into its capabilities, let’s first note the differences between it and its predecessor.
- It looks flatter and feels more comfortable on your hands compared to the previous model.
- Flip it over and you’ll see a noticeable difference. Since it now has rechargeable internal batteries, there is no longer any need for the removable battery cover present in the previous model.
- The latch used to remove the battery cover has been replaced with the Lightning port.
- The plastic rails at the bottom of the mouse has been changed, resulting to a better and a lighter feel.
The Magic Mouse 2 looks sleeker compared to the previous model. It’s ergonomically better on the hands and looks good on the eyes. The materials have not changed: it’s still made of white, durable plastic on top and a silvery shell of aluminum at the bottom.
However, there’s a catch: it’s quite low compared to the other mice we’re used to. It does not bother me one bit, but you might find it hard to use because of this. There is also no crevasse separating the right and left mouse buttons – I never pressed the wrong button, but the experience could be different to some users. Whenever you click, there’s an audible – and satisfying clicking sound which emanates from the device.
Aside from which, there’s no scroll wheel which can be potentially upsetting to others. However, note that the Magic Mouse 2 more than makes up for it with the Multi-touch features.
Setting up and charging
The setup is quite easy: you don’t even have to do anything. Once the mouse is in vicinity, your computer – if it runs OS X El Capitan – will sense its presence and immediately pair up with it via Bluetooth. Note that it won’t connect with Macs running older operating systems, like Yosemite and Mavericks. You need to update your Mac to El Capitan – remember, it’s free and has a few features you will definitely like.
As for charging it, the Magic Mouse 2 comes with a lithium ion battery. When full charged, it can last for over a month, as Apple claims.
The funny thing about it is that the Lightning port, which is used to charge the device, is located at the bottom. This means you won’t be able to charge the device and use it at the same time. Of course, this has been berated by numerous people on various humor websites, sarcastically calling it a “genius” move. However, the flak Apple received from it is not justified: these people are looking for an excuse to bash Apple – it’s a lame attempt at that.
Anyway, though we admit that placing the Lightning connector is a questionable decision by the design team, it does not pose any functionality problems at all. A quick, two minute charge can give you eight to 10 hours of use. Let’s say you’ve been working for four hours and you found out that the battery’s drained. Simply plug in the Lightning connector, grab and bite, go to the bathroom and return to your desk. By that time, the mouse will be good to go and ready for work.
The downsides
There are a few glaring issues while trying the device out. These include:
- The symmetrical design makes it impossible for you to know (if you’re not looking) whether you’re holding the mouse incorrectly. It happened to me several times, clicking on the spot of the mouse where the palm should be rested.
- It doesn’t have any notable new features. Compared to the trackpad and the keyboard, it had lesser additions into its arsenal.
- Not compatible with Yosemite. We’re sure that there are still users who are sticking out with the old operating system, depriving them of the chance of trying out the mouse.
Verdict: should you buy it?
If you’re in the market for a new mouse, then by all means, purchase the Magic Mouse 2. Due to its lack of new features though, it shouldn’t be on your priority list. It’s still a great accessory, considering its long battery mileage and short charging sessions. It’s currently available on the Apple Store for a rather expensive $79.
