Heavey gamers here (my hubby and I) and opticals are worth the extra cash..

I am a heavy gamer as well, and have just recently switched to the logitech corded optical mouse. I can't see any of the lag that some have complained about, if your not a gamer the optical mouse which seems to go for like $15 and up is great and you will never go back. I don't miss cleaning hairy mouse balls at all.

I recently switched back from optical to my old trusty microsoft ball mouse..............my fault really for buying a cheap cordless keyboard and mouse. I'd would buy an optical mouse if/when this one dies. As far as gaming goes...............a bad gamer always blames his/her tools ;):D

Right I'm outa here I have work to do.............maybe hehehe

Trackball?
 

It takes up little space, it's inexpensive, and stationary. You just use your thumb to move the ball around and click with your (fore)finger. I use it for my little one, since she doesn't quite know how to move a regular mouse around effectively.

Welcome back Nubian!

Blimey trackballs are odd little devices it takes me ages to get used to them if I'm working a PC with one attached. That said though the people who use them swear by them (I just swear at them) It's certainly another option to look at if you just need the mouse for pottering about in windows.

I got a Logitec Optical about a year ago when office max was offering rebates on them. I love it, no more cleaning or anything. My girlfriend actualy complains that its too sensative, but then again, she's a pretty sensative girl. ;) Go for the optical, its worth the extra expense in the begining.

I love my trackball!!!

I figured I'd insert another question here that is somewhat relevant .... anyone run into a good mouse for lefties? I have an Logitech corded optical mouse right now & its pretty good stuff but anytime I use anyone elses ... especially ones at school .... they're curved for a "comfortable" grip which really sucks for the lefties out there cuz i still can't seem to function with a mouse in my right hand.