SpaceNavigator 3D Mouse review

A stripped-down sibling of the SpacePilot Pro

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SpaceNavigator 3D Mouse
A more affordable 3D mouse

TechRadar Verdict

The lower price makes for a definite compromise on features and usefulness.

Pros

  • +

    Less expensive than other 3D mice

  • +

    Makes handling 3D objects easier

Cons

  • -

    Lack of features

  • -

    Can be uncomfortable to use

  • -

    Not much use for it outside of 3D modelling

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The SpaceNavigator 3D Mouse is the smaller version of the more professional-orientated SpacePilot Pro 3D mouse.

A lot of the additional features of the professional model have been stripped away, leading to a more streamlined and cheaper 3D mouse, but one whose functionality is far more limited.

The SpaceNavigator is made up of the control nub and one solitary button. The nub can be pushed, pulled, turned and twisted to give you better control over 3D objects.

When using this mouse to manipulate 3D objects it works well, although it takes a bit of time to get completely comfortable with using it.

It is not designed to replace either the keyboard or the mouse, but to work alongside them to offer better control in 3D applications.

While the SpaceNavigator eschews the more opulent features of its more expensive sibling for a more palatable price, the lack of a lot of those extras actually ends up making it a less appealing purchase unless you're just starting out in 3D design.

Matt Hanson
Matt Hanson
Managing Editor, Core Tech

Matt is TechRadar's Managing Editor for Core Tech, looking after computing and mobile technology. Having written for a number of publications such as PC Plus, PC Format, T3 and Linux Format, there's no aspect of technology that Matt isn't passionate about, especially computing and PC gaming. He’s personally reviewed and used most of the laptops in our best laptops guide - and since joining TechRadar in 2014, he's reviewed over 250 laptops and computing accessories personally.