The age old debate of one or two mouse buttons seems to be gaining steam in the recent weeks. PC users have always enjoyed having multiple buttons; mocking Mac users because Apple has never shipped a mouse with more than one button. However, Apple seems to be starting to jump on the multi-button mouse bandwagon, and some users don't like it.
There are two distinct sides here, each one having a logical argument. On the single mouse button side, users say not having to choose which button to click is easier to learn, and makes new users less confused. But on the other hand, pro multi-button mouse users say that once you get used to multiple mouse buttons, everything is easier to use. Both sides have good points, but which side is correct?
The one button mouse argument is quite valid. Many new users have trouble learning how to use a computer, and multiple mouse buttons may confuse them. Having a single button means that when the computer asks for a mouse click, they know exactly what to do. This can be transferred to classrooms as well. If a teacher is explaining how to do something on a computer, that teacher does not need to specify to click the right mouse button, or the left mouse button. This can save time and confusion for a lot of people.
Nevertheless, the multi-button mouse people have just as valid a point. With a two button mouse, users have more control over their systems, and it can be easier to use. For example, if you right click something in the Finder, a contextual menu comes up with options for what you clicked on. With a single mouse button, you would need to hold down the control button, and then click. In that case, two mouse buttons is more convenient, and easier to use. Furthermore, multi-button mice can usually be customized for different applications, so you can use them to their full extent.
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Competitive Advantage If you don't already own a multi-button mouse with a scroll wheel, WarCraft III may be the best reason you've ever had to try one out. Aside from the multitasking the second button offers for in-game actions, the scroll wheel allows you to move the camera (your view of the action) right down to the level of the battlefield. - Apple Computer |
In all this controversy, we look to Apple. What is Apple going to do next? Will they keep their one button mouse style, or will they migrate to multi-button mice? The future is uncertain, but the present shows Apple leaning towards multi-button mice. "How so?", you may be saying. Well, here are three examples. First, Apple has decided to build in support for multi-button mice with Mac OS X. If you plug in any two button mouse (with or without a scroll wheel), Mac OS X will handle it with ease. Second, Apple's new Switch campaign includes Frequently Asked Questions from Windows users. Number 8 on that FAQ addresses the two button mouse dilemma directly. Finally, Apple recently posted a preview of Warcraft III. Within, they included the quote which you see in the box to the right.
It seems as if Apple may be warming up to the multi-button mouse idea, and may come out with one of their own. But will Apple really abandon the simplicity of the one button mouse, which seems to signify their ideal? Only time will tell, but my money is on the multi-button mouse.
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Arbitrary Quote - I finally came up with a punishment for the boy. First, no leaving the house, not even for school. Second, no egg nog. In fact, no nog period! And third, absolutely no stealing for three months!