As close to perfect as you can get.

Having recently purchased my first computer (a laptop), I needed a real mouse to complement its touch pad.  If I was going to play online games and surf the web, I would certainly appreciate the extra control.

I bought the Logitech V450 mouse for $30 considering my comfort level with other Logitech devices.  Included with it are two AA batteries, instructions, and software. 

Design

The V450 is perfectly symmetrical so those who are left or right-handed will be equally appreciative of it.  It's compact, and while I don't have the specifications on the top of my head, it is slightly smaller than the average human fist.  You could fit it in your desk drawer if you wanted to.

The body is incredibly curvaceous, enhanced with black trim on the bottom, smooth dark rubber on the sides, and metallic silver on top where the clickers are.  In the center is a scroll wheel that not only scrolls the page up or down, but can also be pressed down to serve additional functions.  Every button has a good quality sound and feel to it when used, and the rubber scroll wheel is well-dampened so it doesn't feel cheap.

Underneath is a detachable USB reciever that should be plugged into the computer during use and put back when the day is done.  When removed, it exposes a small switch that pops off the battery cover.  All you have to do is insert two AA batteries and you're off. 

Set-Up

Your computer must have the following before the included software can be used:  Windows 98 or newer, or Mac OS X 10.2.8+.  However, Sony Playstation 3 users can skip the software and use the mouse without any side-effects.

Set-up is quick and easy, and the software does not need to be used except if you need to fine-tune the controls.  If the software is installed, though, you can use the scroll wheel to click and then zoom in/out, allow for a "trail" to follow the cursor on-screen, set the sensitivity, and change the amount of assist (the more assist, the quicker the mouse moves).

Wireless

As mentioned, the mouse relies on a small 2.4 GHz USB reciever to send signals to the computer.  This type of technology is new to me, but then again, after owning a Playstation 3 with wireless controllers, it shouldn't.  In all honestly, you could fool someone into thinking it was Bluetooth if they were not too technically inclined.

After trying as hard as I could to find any lag, I failed to notice any.  Not once has there been any delay between my movements and the ones on the screen, nor has there been any interference with other devices.  I play a lot of fast-action games, and regardless of how quick I am, it keeps up with me.

Laser

The laser technology in this mouse is by far my favorite feature.  Unlike optical technology in other mice, the invisible laser inside works on any surface (except mirrors and clear glass).  For example, since owning my laptop, it's been hard to find space to use the V450.  Instead of actually cleaning off my desk, I have instead used it on my lap.  You do not need a perfectly smooth, flat surface.  If there is such a thing as an all-terrain mouse, this is it.

Battery Life

Logitech claims that you can use the V450 for up to an entire year on one set of batteries.  While I have yet to wear out the batteries, there are many features that help extend their life.  On the bottom is a power button that turns the mouse off while you're away, and inserting the USB device back underneath automatically shuts it off as well.  One interesting tidbit, though:  The power button on the mouse lights up when you lift it, but during use or sitting stationary it turns off to conserve energy.  How cute!

I am a big fan of energy conservation, and if the V450 isn't efficient, it's not because it wasn't trying.

Conclusion

I fully stand behind the Logitech V450 mouse because it it is simply the best value around.  I cannot find any real drawbacks to speak of, and from day one I have been completely satisfied with its performance.  

~Scott