The Microsoft Arc Touch mouse is both stylish and clever

Mice designed to live on the move generally look it, and not in a good way.

But not the Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse, which has some clever ideas and a sleek black design. The most obvious is the shape: it's flat when not in use.

Bending it into shape turns it on and bending it flat switches it off to save power. It's powered by two AAA batteries that are easy to get to on the underside.

It connects wirelessly to the computer, with a supplied adapter that attaches to a USB socket and, when not in use, is held in place magnetically on the mouse.

It works with Windows XP and later versions and no software is required but the Microsoft Intellimouse software is worth downloading from the website for extra control and customisation.

There is no scroll wheel - instead there is a touch-sensitive area that responds to a finger being swiped up or down. It vibrates lightly to simulate the movement of a real wheel, worked well and was comfortable to use. Flicking a finger over keeps scrolling until it's tapped again.

Sadly, despite the clever design it isn't very comfortable to use for long periods. But as a travel mouse it's both stylish and convenient, though expensive: the Microsoft website lists it at £70 though it's available cheaper online.