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Hikergal
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- Review count46
- Helpfulness votes236
- First reviewJanuary 3, 2014
- Last reviewNovember 29, 2023
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
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- Answer count4
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- First answerAugust 13, 2016
- Last answerSeptember 23, 2017
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Prepare a wide variety of foods with this nonstick DeLonghi Livenza digital grill. It includes grill and griddle plates that can be switched out depending on the type of food being cooked. This 14.5-inch DeLonghi Livenza digital grill has a hinged top so you can make delicious panini, and it pairs with a digital cookbook app.
Customer Rating
5
I'm cooking more, eating out less
on June 10, 2017
Posted by: Hikergal
I like panini, pancakes, and grilled burgers and chicken, so I decided to get the DeLonghi — Livenza All-Day Electric Grill. I am glad I did. With its 4 grill plates and the grease pan, there are several parts to assemble, but the instruction manual is straightforward, and everything fit together easily on my first try. After giving the grill plates an initial cleaning, I started cooking. The manual warns that there might be an odor the first time each set of grill plates is used, and there was, but only that first use. I am new to this type of cooking, so I have had a bit of a learning curve, but just a bit. I’ve put the grill through its paces, and everything has been delicious.
Positives:
Panini and other grilled sandwiches come out crisp, not soggy, and very evenly cooked. The result is every bit as good as a good deli or sandwich shop.
The grill plates are so easy to clean. Cooked-on cheese and other stuff just slides off when I put a plate under a hot faucet. I haven’t put the plates in the dishwasher, not only because I don’t want to risk damaging the non-stick surface, but because I haven’t wanted to use dishwasher space for something that’s so easy and quick to clean by hand.
The self-adjusting hinges also can be manually adjusted (Flex Press), so the amount of pressure is up to you. You can even let the top plate hover to get a broil or top-brown effect.
It’s heavy enough to be stable and feel substantial, but still is easy to pick up and move around.
No flipping! No matter how careful I am, I can never get a multi-ingredient sandwich (e.g., Reuben) to flip over without messing it up. With two grill surfaces, that problem is gone.
The grill can be opened up flat, either to use both sides or just to get one side out of the way while you use the other. That also lets you cook two types of foods at the same time without having them mingle with each other — and even set different temperatures.
Negatives:
Some reviewers wish it had a longer cord. However, the cord is as long as the cords on all my other kitchen appliances, and it easily reaches both my under-cabinet power strip and the outlet on the side of my kitchen island.
This is a fairly big device. However, if it was smaller it couldn’t do all of the things that it does.
Bottom line: A good addition to my kitchen that already has me cooking more and eating out less.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Magnifi Mini home theater sound bar system delivers big room-filling audio and surround sound experience you’d expect from a full-size sound bar—all in an ultra-compact design that fits any space. Polk’s exclusive Voice Adjust technology dramatically increases vocal clarity and volume level for crystal clear dialogue no matter what you’re watching. Plus, our patented surround technology and Dolby Digital 5.1 decoding creates incredible room-filling surround sound all from a sound bar that is less than 15” long. Compatible with nearly all TVs, the universal sound bar works with your TV, cable box or satellite IR remote control and features simple setup in minutes with the included HDMI cable. The powerful wireless subwoofer delivers deep impactful bass to your favorite movies, TV, games, sports and music too. And if volume’s too loud during late night viewing, Night Mode lets you easily watch your favorite programs at night without waking the neighbors or other family members in your home. What’s more, bring the concert into your room with wireless music streaming via WiFi, Google Cast and Bluetooth. Whatever you do, just don’t let the MagniFi Mini’s small size fool you—this is that big Polk sound you love from a little bar.
Customer Rating
5
A good thing in a small package
on June 9, 2017
Posted by: Hikergal
My household is really enjoying the Polk Magnifi Mini. Our new Sony TV does have good sound, but this soundbar system not only provides far better sound quality, but also offers lots of sound flexibility. For example, yesterday I watched an Australian crime drama, and I was able to use the Polk Voice Adjust to make it far easier to understand all of the dialogue. This past Sunday, we streamed the live feed from the Ariana Grande concert to benefit Manchester, and I switched to the “music” setting and heightened the bass. Big improvement. Whatever we are watching – and listening to – this soundbar makes it more enjoyable.
The two parts of this unit are compact and unobtrusive, and the system was very easy to set up. Except for some twist ties, the packaging was recyclable, with molded cardboard inserts that did a good job of stabilizing everything in the box. The instructions were above average, with the kinds of helpful hints I am not accustomed to getting. For example, there was a tag on one of the cables that mentioned removing the plastic caps from it before inserting into the unit. That might sound unnecessary, but those little caps were transparent and so tiny that I did not see them until I read the tag – which was attached to the cable and not buried within an instruction manual. It turns out that I did not need to use that particular cable, but Polk included most every type you might need, including one for the HDMI ARC setup that I am using. This level of thoroughness is both helpful and reassuring.
Syncing my regular remote was easy, and for just altering or muting the volume, I can use that remote by itself. Other reviewers have mentioned the ability to connect with Chromecast, etc., and we are enjoying all of that, as well. The Night Effect feature has even ended my spouse’s requests that I turn down the volume after he has gone to bed. So, this versatile, well-designed Polk Audio Soundbar System has been a good addition to our house.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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This Oral-B Pro 6000 electric toothbrush with Bluetooth allows the brush to connect with your smartphone to give you real-time feedback on your brushing habits. The advanced design of the CrossAction toothbrush head surrounds each tooth with bristles angled at 16 degrees, and 3D cleaning action oscillates, rotates, and pulsates to break up and remove more plaque. The pressure sensor lights up, if you brush too hard to prevent harmful over-brushing and there are 5 modes and a timer to help you brush for a dentist-recommended time.
Posted by: Hikergal
The first time I bought an electric toothbrush, it was at my dentist’s suggestion. That was back when the first Oral-B electric toothbrush came on the market. It had a 2-minute timer, which I really liked (2 minutes is a lot longer than you think it is, and my dentist really did say that was the recommended brushing time), but no other “bells and whistles.” I — and my dentist — liked the fairly small, round brush head, which let me clean all around my remote back molars. My hygienist appointments started taking less and less time. The only reason I replaced that wonderful device was because it had a cord, and the cordless version came out, although I was disappointed that it didn’t have the 2-minute timer. Well, the timer is back. I just replaced that 2nd toothbrush with the Oral-B - Pro 6000 Connected Toothbrush, and it is definitely a worthy successor, with all the bells and whistles anyone could want.
It has a 2-minute timer, but also a Professional setting, which alerts you at 30-second intervals. The alert was a surprise the first time — it makes a sort of stop-start stutter — but I have come to appreciate its fairly subtle yet definite signal. The “you’re brushing too hard” alert is very welcome at our house, because my husband has a bad habit of bearing down really hard on a toothbrush, not only going through brush heads at a rapid rate, but harming his teeth and gums in the process. Problem solved! I also like the action of this toothbrush. In addition to rotating, it also oscillates and pulsates, and the different settings, such as Daily, Sensitive, and Whitening, let you adjust the action to your needs. I can tell that the Oral-B Pro 6000 is getting my teeth even cleaner than the already good older version. The Bluetooth connection is dead simple to use, both for while you are brushing and to check on yourself later. Also, I am guessing that a kid would much rather be coached by an electronic device than nagged at by a parent.
I haven’t found any negatives with the Oral-B Pro 6000 Connected Toothbrush and lots and lots of positives. Well done, Oral-B!
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take your music anywhere with this portable Sony wireless speaker. Lightweight and water-resistant, it has a 16-hour battery life, making it perfect for on-the-go listening all day. This Sony wireless speaker has Bluetooth connectivity with NFC One-touch, and it can also link to a second speaker for stereo sound.
Posted by: Hikergal
The SONY XB10 Bluetooth Speaker is small, highly portable, and has some power. It was easy to use out of the box. I gave it a full charge, then turned it on near my desktop computer. It paired instantly, and I was listening to music while I worked. After that initial pairing, I just held the “on” button down for a few seconds, and it paired with my iPhone without effort. It has a comfortable plastic ring and a short cord that make it easy to carry around, and so I did – around our 2-story house, out the front door to the mailbox, all while getting the signal from my desktop computer. Of course, there is a limit to how far it can be from its source and still pick up the signal, but its range is extensive enough that I can keep the XB10 with me or park it in a convenient spot with no interruption. I haven’t really tested the extent of its battery life, because it lasts through a full day, and that’s enough for me. The sound is excellent for the speaker’s size, clear and rich. I compared it with another, well-respected brand’s small Bluetooth speaker, and there was no meaningful difference. I have only the one XB10, so I haven’t tried adding an extra one and getting a stereo sound, but I like that this would be a possibility. The markings for the various function buttons are small, pale, and not easy to see, and that does pose a problem for me. However, it does have small raised dots at the “play” and “increase volume” buttons, so as I get more accustomed to using them I probably won’t have to look to activate those. Overall, the SONY XB10 makes a nice addition to my listening options.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep unwanted hair to a minimum with this Philips grooming tool. The waterproof design lets you use it in the shower, and eight attachments make this trimmer perfect for grooming different sections of the face. This Philips grooming tool has a turbo setting to increase cutting speed, and it charges in just one hour to reduce wait time.
Customer Rating
4
At last: a powerful cordless
on December 3, 2016
Posted by: Hikergal
I have used other cordless trimmers and was always disappointed by their lack of power. Not only does the Philips Norelco Multigroom 7400 Wet/Dry Trimmer have plenty of power in its regular mode, it also has a turbo boost function when needed. So far I have used it to cut hair, do body grooming and precise trimming, and eliminate nose and ear hair. It has performed all of these functions easily and very well. I especially like the way it feels in my hand: hefty enough to seem substantial, but well shaped and balanced so that it maneuvers easily. There is a bit of a learning curve, as with any new piece of equipment, but the instructions are adequate and it wasn’t long before I felt comfortable changing out the attachments and performing various tasks. It charged quickly out of the box, and I have never sensed any lessening of battery power during use. I recharge it after every use, but that might not be necessary. Too soon to tell how well it will hold up, of course, but it certainly feels like it is well made.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Store and manage your digital life locally with this Seagate Backup Plus Slim STDR1000100 hard drive, which lets you back up content from select social networks or media stored on select mobile devices. The slim design facilitates portability.
Customer Rating
5
Mac and PC compatible
on November 20, 2016
Posted by: Hikergal
Verified Purchase:Yes
I work on two desktops, an iMac and a PC, and I need to have my files available and backed up for both. I can and do use Dropbox, but I also want a physical, portable drive. I chose the Seagate Backup Plus Slim 1tb External USB 3.0/2.0 Portable Hard Drive because it is compatible with both systems, with no reformatting required. It has performed as advertised and as I had hoped. It was easy to set up, moves seamlessly between my two computers, and has fast transfer times.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Play games or program tech solutions on the wide 23-inch screen of this HP LED HD monitor. The antiglare flatscreen offers views from any angle, and the 1920 x 1080 display offers super-sharp images. This HP LED HD monitor has HDMI and VGA inputs, letting you connect a variety of peripherals and devices.
Customer Rating
5
Very good office monitor
on October 28, 2016
Posted by: Hikergal
I have this 23-inch, 1920 x 1080 resolution monitor in my home office, next to an iMac that has a 27-inch, 2560 x 1440 resolution display. Although there are some inevitable differences, the HP monitor does not suffer by comparison.
Setup is a breeze. Just assemble the monitor and plug it in per the pictures on the Quick Setup sheet, and if you are happy with the factory settings (I am), you’ll have it done in seconds (assuming your computer accepts an HDMI or VGA cable, and most do). If you do want to make any adjustments, there are some well-hidden buttons underneath the bottom right of the screen, but you also can right-click on the screen and go to Display Settings.
My office is well lit, and this monitor has given me zero glare issues. Its thinness, small base, and compact screen size – 24.25-inch physical size for a 23-inch display – also are welcome. I wish its height was adjustable, but the tilt mechanism is smooth and stable.
I am a graphics designer, and I do my image creation on the iMac. I use a Windows-based computer and this monitor for auxiliary tasks, such as creating Publisher documents (Publisher isn’t available for Mac) and various office tasks. When I move back and forth between the two displays, I don’t notice any significant change in color, contrast, or clarity. I also don’t experience any difference in eye fatigue – a big concern when you stare at a screen as much as I do.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enjoy powerful performance with this compact HP Pavilion Wave computer. The Intel i3 processor provides fast data handling, while the 1TB hard drive lets you store plenty of files. This HP Pavilion Wave computer has 8GB of RAM to run the latest applications and four USB ports for connecting multiple accessories.
Customer Rating
5
Very good thing in a small (attractive) package
on October 24, 2016
Posted by: Hikergal
It appears that HP has taken a concept from another manufacturer – a small computer tower whose internal components are arranged vertically in a cylinder – and provided it in a more affordable configuration. That’s HP’s Pavilion Wave. It’s not a big, clunky box you’d want to stash under your desk, but more like a stereo speaker (complete with fabric cover) that you are happy to have out in plain view. I believe that was HP’s thinking for the Pavilion Wave – to provide a very functional computer in a compact, attractive package. (The first time my husband came into the room to see it, he asked, “Where’s the new computer?”)
My experience with the Pavilion Wave suggests that users will find it very easy to set up, and that they can expect it to handle complex office functions with speed and ease. Even though I am using the lower range configuration for this computer (8MB of RAM, Intel Core i3 processor), I find the Pavilion Wave very responsive when opening and using programs, and it has no problem downloading and using the very large image files that are part of my work.
I am a graphics designer and do my design work on iOS computers. However, sometimes my clients need things in Publisher, which isn’t available for iOS. So, the first thing I did with the Pavilion Wave is connect it to my Wi-Fi – couldn’t have been faster or easier. Next, I installed Office 365 on it and connected it to my Dropbox account (again, fast and easy to do). Now, all the graphics I create on my iOS devices are immediately available for use on the Pavilion Wave. That means I can create complex Word and Publisher documents on the Pavilion Wave using the very large image files created on my iOS device, moving seamlessly between the two. That makes me and my clients very happy.
My previous PC towers have produced enough noise and heat to be annoying. Haven’t had either problem with the Pavilion Wave. The only sound I have heard is the quiet rumblings of the hard drive. And, although all computers produce heat, this one uses a series of vents and pipes that take advantage of the “heat rises” principle to transfer heat up and out the unit’s top, instead of using fans to blow it out sideways.
I plan to keep the Pavilion Wave in my office, but I have tried it out in other locations. Its small size and speaker-like appearance go well beside our den TV, where it can function as part of a home theater capable of 4K video. I also have used it to play music while I work. The unit was designed around its audio system, a Bang & Olufsen speaker that projects sound upward to reflect off the underside of the unit’s top and go in all directions. Although it won’t replace a high end sound system, it sounds very good to me, and it is built in, not a separately purchased add-on. Also built in are dual microphones that work well for hearing Cortana voice commands and talking on Skype. HP says these are noise-cancelling microphones designed to grab your voice even when you are not right next to the Wave’s tower. I haven’t tested that theory yet, but when I used the Pavilion Wave to Skype, my listener said it didn’t have any of the annoying sound gaps or volume changes that can occur.
If your focus is power gaming or you like to tinker around with the inside of your computer, look at something else. But, if what you want is a highly functional, very versatile computer with the bonus feature that it will look good in your den as well as have a small footprint in your office, the HP Pavilion Wave is worth serious consideration.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep your home dust-free with this Bissell AirRAM cordless vacuum. Its high-performance F.U.E.L. cell provides up to 30 minutes of run time, while the advanced compression technology lets it store as much dirt as typical bagless vacuums. This Bissell AirRAM cordless vacuum has a low profile for easy maneuvering around furniture.
Customer Rating
5
Powerful and lightweight cordless vacuum
on October 21, 2016
Posted by: Hikergal
In my experience, cordless vacuums are never as powerful as you need – but the Bissell AirRam Cordless 2-in-1 Stick Vacuum changes that. We have 2 large dogs and 2 cats who use a pet door, which means they are continuously tracking stuff in from outdoors. We also have a litter box in a tile-floored bathroom, which means bits of cat litter stuck down in the grout lines. The AirRam Cordless handles it all with ease. Recently the dogs tore apart a rope tug toy, and pieces of cotton thread had worked themselves down into the den carpet. I tried to clean it up with our expensive upright vacuum, but it did only a fair job. The next day the AirRam Cordless arrived. I charged the battery (very easy and fast) and ran the AirRam Cordless across the carpet, which now had only the most difficult to remove threads left. One pass and it was all gone. Took it to the (upstairs) tile-floored bathroom, and in seconds there was no more cat litter in the grout lines.
I have a very bad back, so I find pushing a heavy vacuum difficult and lifting one up the stairs impossible. I have no trouble using the AirRam Cordless or carrying it around our 2-story house. It not only is light and compact, but also has handles strategically placed to balance its weight for carrying. I have used it to clean carpeting, area rugs, and laminate and tile floors with no more effort than needed to walk around. The LED lights made it easy to see under tables and in dark corners, and it easily swivels and maneuvers into all those places.
The closest thing to a negative I can think of – and it derives from a positive – is that the AirRam is so effective that it picks up more than I expected and therefore will need emptying more often than my old cordless vacuum. Fortunately, the dirt bin is easy to empty. With my old cordless, the dirt bin was difficult to grip and remove, but some smart designer put 2 low profile but effective gripping flanges on its dirt bin, and lifting the bin out is a breeze. It then has a slider that helps remove all of the debris. The internal filter also is easy to remove and clean, and when I saw the dust embedded in it I realized how effective it is at removing dust.
I know I am gushing, here, but I am so happy with the Bissell AirRam Cordless. It is solving problems for me and performing beyond my expectations. No way to know how durable it will prove to be, but the 2-year warranty offers hope on that score.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Orbi Whole Home WiFi System delivers up to 3.0Gbps high-performance WiFi. Sleek, modern design with high-gain internal antennas for up to 5,000 square feet of coverage. FastLane3 Technology creates a dedicated Tri-Band WiFi for seamless 4K streaming and gaming everywhere in your home. Keep a single WiFi name for uninterrupted connections as you move from room-to-room. Circle Smart Parental Controls runs on Orbi Routers for a smart way for families to manage content and time online, on any connected device. Provide internet access to guests without sharing your personal network password. Orbi is ready right out of the box and compatible with your ISP. Just use the Orbi app to get started with better WiFi, everywhere in minutes.
Customer Rating
2
Nice idea, but problematic
on September 23, 2016
Posted by: Hikergal
I really wanted to like this new Orbi router. The components are nice looking, and I liked the idea that it has a satellite router that has the same password as the primary router, because we live in a 2-story house with a back porch and want to use our Wi-Fi devices all over. However, there have been “bugs” in this system from day one.
Initially, it seemed that everything was okay. I was able to install the primary and satellite router in a few minutes and begin using the Wi-Fi for my iMac desktop and my iPad and iPhone. However, when I went to use our Dell desktop, it could not connect to the Orbi. Further, the Orbi signal kept dropping out, and I repeatedly have had to go through the process of selecting the Orbi router (instead of my next door neighbor’s guest Wi-Fi, which my devices have no problem detecting).
In the week since obtaining the Orbi, I have exchanged several emails and phone calls with NETGEAR’s support department (the folks there have been pleasant and responsive). Sadly, the problems remain no matter how many times and ways we reconfigure the channels and other settings. Our Dell desktop is now able to get the Orbi signal, but every time I am off all my devices long enough for them to “go to sleep,” when I return to any of them I again have to select the Orbi router instead of my next door neighbor’s guest Wi-Fi, which my devices still have no problem detecting.
I will give the Orbi a few more days of effort, then I will have to go back to my (other brand) router so that I can get my work done.
My Best Buy number: 2702011452
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Hikergal's Answers
Complete your cleaning routine with this Shark IONFLEX vacuum. Its 2x ION power pack system includes two LiIon batteries to provide backup power and longer run time, and it bends to reach floors under low-lying furniture thanks to its MultiFLEX technology. Convert this Shark IONFLEX vacuum into a handheld vac to clean ceilings and small corners.
How do you clean the roller?
You can lift off the lid to the roller area to get access to the brush and soft rollers for cleaning them. You also can pull out the soft roller and clean it by just brushing it off or rinsing it in water (dry it thoroughly before reinserting it).
6 years, 7 months ago
by
Hikergal
Orbi Whole Home WiFi System delivers up to 3.0Gbps high-performance WiFi. Sleek, modern design with high-gain internal antennas for up to 5,000 square feet of coverage. FastLane3 Technology creates a dedicated Tri-Band WiFi for seamless 4K streaming and gaming everywhere in your home. Keep a single WiFi name for uninterrupted connections as you move from room-to-room. Circle Smart Parental Controls runs on Orbi Routers for a smart way for families to manage content and time online, on any connected device. Provide internet access to guests without sharing your personal network password. Orbi is ready right out of the box and compatible with your ISP. Just use the Orbi app to get started with better WiFi, everywhere in minutes.
Will this product cover a 2000 sq. ft., one level house with only one (1) WiFi Name? The reason for this question is I'm currently using an extension to my router which has given the front of the house a different wifi name from the back of the house.
The Orbi router and its satellite's signal are transmitting throughout our 2,400 square foot house with only 1 Wi-Fi name.
7 years, 7 months ago
by
Hikergal
Logitech M310 Wireless Mouse is an easy-to-use, full-size mouse that feels just right. Feel comfortable for hours on end - in your right or left hand - thanks to its contoured, ambidextrous design with soft rubber side grips. M310 comes with a plug-and-forget nano USB receiver that is small enough to stay in your USB port so you won't lose it no matter where you take your laptop. Navigating on your PC or Macbook is simple, with smooth, responsive tracking and Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity. For hassle-free use and extreme reliability and durability, choose M310 wireless mouse.
How do you get this to get to connect to your laptop?
This mouse comes with a small, separate USB item that plugs into a USB outlet on your laptop. It enables your laptop to communicate wirelessly with the mouse.
7 years, 8 months ago
by
Hikergal
Logitech M310 Wireless Mouse is an easy-to-use, full-size mouse that feels just right. Feel comfortable for hours on end - in your right or left hand - thanks to its contoured, ambidextrous design with soft rubber side grips. M310 comes with a plug-and-forget nano USB receiver that is small enough to stay in your USB port so you won't lose it no matter where you take your laptop. Navigating on your PC or Macbook is simple, with smooth, responsive tracking and Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity. For hassle-free use and extreme reliability and durability, choose M310 wireless mouse.
Most wireless computer mice show a tiny square piece that comes (usually displayed to the right) with the mouse. What is the name of this device? Can it be bought by itself? Will this piece work with any wireless mouse?
I don't know the technical name for this tiny square piece or if it is interchangeable among all wireless mice, but it is the USB item that plugs into the computer and communicates with the mouse.
7 years, 8 months ago
by
Hikergal