Features:

The SideWinder mouse has a few features to make it more of a ‘special’ gaming mouse, the first of which is the on-the-fly sensitivity adjustments. By default these allow you to change between 400, 800 and 2000 dpi with two methods of visual confirmation, one being the light under the button itself, the second being the number in the LCD status panel. The preset sensitivity for each setting can be adjusted through the Microsoft Intellipoint software, and once they’re adjusted the settings are locked to the mouse, not the software, so the mouse can be installed on other PCs with the same sensitivity settings, very handy.

Sensitivity Buttons

Unlike the Logitech G9, which is one of the SideWinder’s main competitors, the SideWinder cannot store macros and button assignments on the mouse itself, these functions are still software dependant for the SideWinder and require the Intellipoint software to function.

Intellipoint Configuration Software

There are more functions available to each of the mouse buttons than just macros, they can be programmed to perform any keystroke combination or open any program, as well a few dozen standard Windows commands and functions. The buttons on the SideWinder can also be configured for the “quick-turn” feature, which is great for First Person Shooter games, all you have to do is press a button and you’re facing the other way as quickly as the game will allow. This is done by teaching the mouse (or software really) how much movement is required to complete a 180 degree turn, then the mouse executes this as quickly as possible. Very cool.

intellipoint Showing Options Available to Every Button

Like many other high end gaming mice on the market, the SideWinder uses an adjustable weight cartridge to allow the user to personalise the feel of the mouse. The cartridge is inserted/removed from the right hand side of the mouse and has 3 weight slots while a total of 4 weights are included, 3 x 10g and 1 x 5g weight(s), so you can add from 5g up to 30g in 5g increments. Even at full weight there’s not a massive difference in how the mouse feels, but certainly enough for you to know they’re there and give it a slightly more solid feel.

Weight Cartridge Out

Weight Cartridge Installed

Another part of the SideWinder that can be configured to suit the user is the mouse feet. There are 3 sets of different feet included that can be changed very easily to suit the mouse surface you’re using, or how much friction you want. Microsoft don’t state which feet are for which surface so again it’s just a matter of personal preference. Quite a unique inclusion.

Base of Mouse - 5 Feet

Feet are Easily Removed and Changed

These goodies (the feet and weights) are all supplied and kept in a special Microsoft branded case that has its own special function as well. The case is weighted and supplied with a non-slip underside so as to make it hard to move on your desktop, and when you open the cover there is a special channel to place the mouse cord into, and once you close the top the mouse cord will be secured. This means you can put this case with the mouse cord in tow at the back of your desk and it will hold onto the mouse cord, stop it falling behind the desk and pulling the mouse with it, or having the cord getting caught in and around other items on your desk. This is a brilliant idea, but perhaps could have been done with a smaller box to take up less space.

Accessories Box - Closed

Accessories Box - Open

Cable Holder

Cable Holder Closed

The last feature I’m going to mention, (and probably the only feature left) is the quick launch button on the top of the mouse. This cannot be customised and only has one function, well two actually, as it differs depending on the operating system you’re running. Under Vista it will open up your games folder for quick access to your games, which really saves you what? About 3 seconds? While on XP it opens up the Intellipoint control software, which is handy but hardly worthy of its own button on the mouse which could have been used for something far more worthwhile and useful.

Quicklaunch Button

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