Last year we looked at the most prominent gaming mice from Logitech, Microsoft and Razer and while we loved Microsoft's subtly shaped Habu, the awkward SideWinder ended up as the worst of the bunch.


We have to believe gamers felt about the same which pushed Microsoft to update their gaming mouse shortly after, and then again this year with the SideWinder X8. One of the technology highlights of the X8 is the use of Microsoft's BlueTrack technology which differs from the standard laser sensors used on most high-end mice today. The mouse also uses a 2.4GHz wireless signal and an internal rechargeable battery said to be good for 30 hours of gaming action non-stop.

With twelve buttons, seven of which are programmable, the SideWinder X8 is more subtly shaped compared to its predecessors. The mouse is available for pre-order for $99.99, while the older versions of the SideWinder have dropped below the $50 range.