Smartfish Ergo Motion Laser Mouse Review and Giveaway

Momma Told Me: Take breaks, or you'll get stuck like that!

My generation's been raised on technology. I recall the very first commercially available home PC system, which ran on DOS and later took the world by surprise with AOL Online. By 10 my father/daughter bonding time consisted of an hour of networked 'DOOM,' and summer studying meant educational CD-ROMS. As I moved forward into my teens I found myself spending more and more time plugged in with a laptop and PC of my own. My mother, with care, was always sure to remind me the glowing beast of entertainment also put infinite strain on both my eyes and hands. "Make sure you get away from that computer, and take breaks, or you'll get stuck like that!" she'd shout as she walked down the hallway past my room.

Today, I panic when the internet goes down for an hour, let alone when I'm forced to hit the road sans laptop. My computer is an extension of me, my life, and my income- a valuable tool which also commands more energy than I realize. It wasn't until just last year I began to note the changes my body underwent from hours of static work at a PC. Not only was I experiencing more headaches from eye strain, but my wrists felt like those of someone twice my age. I rely on my laptop primarily for work, and blogging, which often means little space for luxuries such as a mouse or laptop. I don't have room to navigate a rolling mouse, and the touch-pad often requires my wrist to twist unnaturally, fingers barely leaving the keyboard.

When I first saw the Smartfish Ergo Motion Laser Mouse I was a bit overwhelmed, yet extremely curious. The Ergo Motion technology claims to apply motion to experience, in a format that translates to fight Repetitive Motion Injury common with fixed position mice. Designed within a major orthopedic hospital, the innovative mouse utilizes a naturally encouraged pivot system with cutting edge laser sensitivity to function as fluid as possible with the users natural movement. The base of this stationary mouse has cutting edge 800dpi laser tracking, while the egg shaped design offers fluid ambidextrous use. Additionally, the USB communication, via compact receiver, is compatible with both MAC and Windows operating systems.

I was sent a Smartfish Whirl (ERV: $49.99), with anti-gravity pivot, for review here on Momma Told Me. Externally, the mouse itself is sleek with black and silver toned plastic- nothing flashy. Inside the packaging is the mouse itself, with a built in pivot stand, and tiny USB plug in receiver. This receiver has 'plug and play' functionality which allows for immediate wireless use between your laptop or PC and the device. This is a big benefit for those often overwhelmed by new technology as there are no programs to load, and no drivers to start up. The USB nano-transceiver is also very small and unobtrusive, so you can confidently leave it plugged in. For those concerned about power consumption, the Smartfish Whirl offers a convenient on/off power saver mode.

Utilization of current laser tracking technology in the base means I can place my Whirl on a variety of non traditional surfaces, without a mouse pad. I had fun using this mouse on wood, throw pillows, and even the carpet! This is probably my favorite feature, because it enables me to take back my computer with mouse functionality from the comfort of my favorite arm chair. Using the mouse was certainly an experience to get used to. I had the instinct to drag the device, through the rubber footing discourages this. I also found I wanted to over-correct much more than was necessary. A small tilt was all that was required to send my pointer to the other side of the screen. However, after a few days I was hooked as everything became second nature. I even noticed a decrease in joint pain at the end of day's use.

The Smartfish Ergo Motion Whirl is well worth the money, in my opinion and a great gift for every skill and need. It's simple plug and play function means it won't overwhelm the less tech savvy, while those who live attached to their electronics will adore the RSI relief! The price point is more than reasonable, considering the new technology, though I'd like to see more color options, or an executive finish.

What Daughter Says: Don't let your technology rule you, take back your body with the Ergo Motion Laser Mouse from Smartfish!

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Giveaway begins December 28, 2010 and ends 12:01 AM PST on January 13, 2011. Winner will be notified via email, and posted here. Entries valid within US. Winner has 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be drawn. Prize will be transferred via sponsor.

As required by the FTC: I received no monetary compensation for this review. I received a product sample for the purpose of my review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.