Penclic has released the B2 version of it Penclic Bluetooth mouse. It works with OSX 10.1 and later, and works on almost any surface without any pad or tablet. No extra software/driver installation is needed. It's desiged with a focus on artists.
Penclic Bluetooth mouse
There are five buttons and a scroll wheel. The left click, right click and middle click are on the pen shaft’s left side. The backward click and forward click are on the right. It requires an AAA 1.2 volt NiMH recharging battery (included) and the company claims that the battery will operate approximately two months before charging is needed. It goes into energy saving mode when not used for ten minutes.
The Bluetooth version has a resolution of 1200 dpi. The wireless reach is approximately 16.5 feet (5 meters).
How it works
Included with the mouse are a rechargeable battery, a retractable USB to mini USB cable, and a small carrying bag.
Package contents
The packaging is designed to highlight the unique design. There is a two year warranty.
Packaging
Using The Product
The swiveling pen swings freely on a gliding base, letting you swipe and glide with or without a mousepad. On my glass topped desk, I got better traction and consistency when using a mousepad. I found that it took less time to get comfortable with it than I had expected. The button locations are well designed and I found them easy to manipulate.
Using the B2
I dislike mousing with a trackpad. I find that it is difficult to focus on exact locations and I waste a lot of time trying to work with one. Because I continue to rely on a mouse I am tough on those I review. If I am looking at a Bluetooth mouse I expect it to stay connected while in use. If I am looking at a wireless mouse, I don’t want to have to unplug and plug back in the nano receiver every few days because the right mouse button starts acting up.
This mouse glides smoothly, and the claims about better ergonomic use are not exaggerated. I noticed that once I was comfortable with it, I sat straighter in my chair and felt no pressure on my wrist or shoulder. The product is desigbned for right handed users only, and I cannot speak directly to its adaptably for a left handed user, but I think the swivel option would allow both hand preferences to use it easily. The bluetooth connection was stable. The MSRP for the Penclip B2 is US$99.00. I found it on Amazon for US$87.99.
Do I Recommend It?
I do. Although I wasn’t able to test it from the point-of-view of an artist, I think it lends itself nicely to that medium. The ergonomic aspect can’t be ignored and I found it fascinating that I noticed a difference in both my posture and reach within minutes of trying it out. I feels sturdy and the bluetooth element worked well for me. The two year warranty is definately a plus.