The ProLab mouse combines the features of a Bluetooth trackball mouse, wireless remote, and media controller in a size similar to a stack of seven quarters. The company sent a production unit to test out. Spoiler alert; this mouse is a new favorite for tech everyday carry (EDC).

Unboxing and Features

The ProLab mouse comes packaged in a white box that evokes elegant minimalism. Inside is the device, a USB-C cable for charging, and a finger holder/kickstand. Instructions are not included. But they are available online (and helpful to review). Although the ProLab mouse works like a multi-function gadget, it’s still a wireless mouse and remote at its core. One could figure out all the modes and functions just by playing around with it.

Compact enough to fit into the small Levi’s jeans pocket, the ProLab mouse tucks away without drawing attention. Like its product box, the design is minimal yet functional. The directional pad has glossy arrow marks etched in the matte surface. A single raised dot provides reference to the ‘up’ direction just by touch. On opposite sides of the body cylinder are the USB-C port and side (switch) button. USB cables plug in snug (no wiggle). Although physically simple, the mouse offers appreciable function.

The ProLab mouse features three modes, toggled by the side button. Upon switching, the trackball glows to indicate the current mode: blue for keyboard, green for mouse, and cyan for media control. In fact, any button press lights up the trackball, so there is no need to actually switch modes for a reminder. A long press-hold of the switch button turns the ProLab mouse off (it also shuts off automatically after 5 minutes of non-use). Press the trackball once to turn it back on and connect.

Handling and Performance

The ProLab mouse’s super light weight (8 g) almost makes it seem like a toy. Smooth edges and practical construction highlight the care in design. The directional pad sits firm (i.e. no loose wobble) and delivers snappy clicks when pressed. The trackball is lightly springy to the touch, rolls with ease, and also clicks nicely. All buttons respond immediately and, over several weeks of daily use, have yet to perform erratically (e.g. lag, instability, double/phantom clicks, etc.).

There is a short learning curve in the beginning. This is mostly related to remembering how button commands change as you cycle through the modes. Otherwise, operating the ProLab mouse is straightforward and easy. Commands in each mode work as intended. Essentially, mouse mode covers mouse functions, media mode controls music/movie volume and track selection, and keyboard mode assists navigation like a directional pad.

Each mode offers remote functionality that ties in with whatever app or screen is currently in use. Plan to take a selfie with your phone camera? The ProLab mouse doubles as a remote shutter, not unlike the S-Pen for Samsung’s Galaxy Note series. Reading a book on your smartphone via the Kindle app? You can turn pages with a click of the mouse, all without having to adjust the grip on your phone.

The Bluetooth connects quickly and works up to the standard range of 10 m (30 ft). The connection remains stable, even among a dozen other Bluetooth and wireless devices operating within the same general space (indoors). Battery life and charging time also match up with the listed specifications. With regular on and off use, the ProLab mouse has needed charging only every few days (just to keep the battery from running empty).

Trackball

The ProLab mouse is tiny, due to the miniature trackball centered on the pad. Thankfully, mouse movement has acceleration built in. Flick your thumb quickly, and you can send the cursor from the bottom to the top of a Galaxy Note 9 screen. Roll the trackball slowly, and you can move the cursor pixel by pixel, if desired. However, there is a learning curve for that smooth “in between” speed. Those accustomed to using trackballs regularly are likely to acclimate quicker.

The cursor speed is adjustable by pressing the switch button and up/down on the directional pad to increase/decrease. Although this works, there is no indicator for hitting the maximum or minimum thresholds. It’s also hard to tell how many total steps there are. You just have to adjust and feel the mouse movement to find out what works best. With enough practice, cursor control is comfortable and functional. It just can’t compete with a full-featured trackball mouse. (But it wasn’t designed to either).

One notable drawback with using the ProLab mouse is the difficulty of click-and-drag/select. Although doable, it’s not as natural as one might prefer (especially for those who are left-hand dominant). The trackball alone can click and select/drag, but precision takes a lot of practice. Alternatively, you can use a second finger to hold the button as the thumb moves the trackball. Either way, dexterous hands definitely gain an advantage here.

Those with larger/thicker fingers may find this kind of click-and-drag frustrating and clumsy; there is only the one centimeter of space between directional pad button and ball. However, it may not be that big of an issue; it depends on the intended use. People who frequently draw/design in apps, or select text or spreadsheet cells, may opt for a touchscreen or regular mouse in such instances. Other than that, this mouse works well the way it does.

Overall Impression

The ProLab mouse packs a lot of utility for something the size of a piece of candy. This multi-function tool works best for smartphones, tablets, and laptops, but also well enough for desktop computers in a pinch. Sure, it can’t truly replace that daily-use, non-basic mouse. However, the ProLab mouse isn’t limited by the need for flat surfaces or open space. It also delivers the best features of a wireless/air remote, but without the typical odd/bulky (or gimmicky) shape.

The Bluetooth wireless connectivity and battery life are excellent. There are no mushy buttons, double/phantom clicks, or anything complex with using the ProLab mouse (other than click-drag). One minor concern, which applies to most PC mice anyway, is keeping the cracks free from dirt or grime. The ProLab mouse’s trackball is non-removable, so it’s worth being mindful of clean thumbs during use.

Worth it

Expected to retail for approximately US$59 dollars, the ProLab mouse feels appropriately priced. You get a lot of function with a minimal amount of bulk, which is absolutely fantastic for anyone who appreciates being able to do more with less. It’s comfortable to handle and quite useful once you adjust to the trackball. If you’re a fan or follower of EDC (particularly tech) gear, this mouse fits the bill and delivers as promised.

The ProLab mouse just launched on Kickstarter, and the campaign has 41 days of funding left to go. Super early bird pledges for one ProLab mouse (in black) start at about $34 dollars, saving 45% off the planned retail price. If everything goes according to schedule, backers can expect shipments to start June 2021.

Product page: Kickstarter

Source: The sample for this review was provided by Prolab