Microsoft’s Surface Mouse is back, now with haptic feedback – and I need it

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Microsoft is launching a new Surface Mouse with haptic feedback.
• The mouse also comes with a customizable action button.
• Priced at $80 the new Surface mouse will reach stores on October 13.

I’ve tried a lot of different mice with my Windows desktops and laptops. But the ones made by Microsoft have always been my favorites. I’ve used both the IntelliMouse and the Surface Mouse; however, both have been unavailable from Microsoft for years. Now, the Surface Mouse is finally making a comeback.

Also: Microsoft’s most underrated Surface accessories are coming to business users

In a blog post announcing new Surface devices, Microsoft snuck in a surprise about a new Surface Mouse soon to hit the market. Available in stores on October 13 and priced at $80, the new mouse marks the first return of this classic device since the original launched in 2016. This one, though, comes with a few twists.

Haptic feedback and customizable actions

The new mouse offers haptic feedback, which means you’ll feel a sensation when you click on the screen, snap a window into place, or align an object. Microsoft promises that the sensation will be subtle but noticeable. I think of other devices that provide haptic feedback, such as my Apple Watch, and I look forward to experiencing this on a mouse.

Next up, there’s a customizable action button. Though it’s designed to be used with Copilot, you can tweak it to perform other actions. For that, you’ll need Microsoft’s Surface app, which comes preinstalled on Surface laptops but is available for non-Surface computers via the Microsoft Store. Just download and install the app, and you’ll be able to use it with Surface accessories such as the new mouse.

Also: I went hands-on with new Surface devices

Focusing on the action button, my fellow ZDNET writer Adam Doud has good news and bad news. The good news is that the mouse can be reprogrammed to do different things. The bad news is that you can’t change what it can do for each app individually, as you can with other mice.

In its description, Microsoft also said that the mouse would offer everyday shortcuts. The new model sports a redesigned ambidextrous shape, so you can use it in either hand. Though I’m right handed, that design is certainly a boon to left handers who often can’t use certain mice.

Outfitted with Bluetooth 6.0, you can pair the mouse with different computers and devices and switch among them. The new version is also made with 30% recycled plastic, another plus.

Microsoft discontinued its lineup of keyboards and mice in 2023. As a workaround, Phone case and accessory maker Incase has been selling a new round of peripherals “designed by Microsoft.” I’ve tried a couple of these in the stores, but they just don’t have the same feel and comfort as Microsoft’s own products.

Also: How to keep track of your mouse pointer with the PowerToys Mouse utilities

I currently use a Microsoft IntelliMouse that I had to pick up on eBay since these haven’t been sold in retail stores for some time. But based on the promised features and upgrade, the new Surface Mouse is going to earn a spot on my desk as soon as it’s available in October.

Lance Whitney is a technology journalist with an IT background. He's written for TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, and Time, among others, He also teaches classes in AI, cybersecurity, and social media. See full bio