Microsoft Rolls Out New Hardware Line

Microsoft on Tuesday introduced six new mice and two keyboards as part of a revamped hardware lineup that features high-definition optics and advanced ergonomics. The new arrivals include Microsoft's first wired laser mouse designed specifically for gaming.

Three of Microsoft's new mice are for notebook users. The $54.95 USD Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse 6000, $44.95 USD Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 4000, and $34.95 USD Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 all boast a magnifying tool and new Tilt Wheel while remaining compact for those on the go.

The $54.95 USD Notebook Laser Mouse features a snap-in USB receiver and Microsoft claims the hardware offers more than six months of battery life. Its $64.95 USD desktop counterpart -- the Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 -- is Microsoft's first desktop mouse to use the new optical technology, which provides more accuracy and control.

Microsoft's popular IntelliMouse Explorer, meanwhile, has been rebranded as the Wireless Optical Mouse 5000 and will retail for $54.95.

On the comfort side, Microsoft has introduced a new ergonomic keyboard based on its popular "Natural" series. The Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 sports a 14-degree gable, which Microsoft says "brings the keys closer to the users’ fingers, reducing unnecessary motion while encouraging a more natural typing position."

The $64.95 USD Natural 4000 also features a slider for zooming the screen, as well as back and forward buttons for more easily navigating the Web. A My Favorites key pulls up commonly used documents. An optional 7-degree palm rest lifts the keyboard up for a reverse slope, further alleviating typing pain.

On the low end, the Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000 will run $24.95 and features a 6-degree curved keyboard layout. The Comfort Optical Mouse 3000 is priced at $29.95 with a shape that provides more contact with a user's hand.

All of Microsoft's new hardware products will be widely available at retail outlets this month.

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