Apple Magic Mouse vs. Magic Mouse 2 – Differences and Compatibility

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For Mac, MacBook, or even iPad users, the Magic Mouse is the best alternative to a trackpad. In this article, we'll explore the differences between the original Apple Magic Mouse and the Magic Mouse 2.

The Magic Mouse is the first Bluetooth mouse with a multi-touch surface released by Apple for Mac and MacBook devices. Although both models appear to have a single button on the top surface, it serves multiple functions. Mechanically pressing on the left side acts as a single click, while on the right side, it functions as a right-click, similar to any ordinary mouse with two buttons. It's worth noting that enabling the right-click function on both the Magic Mouse (first model) and the Magic Mouse 2 is done by the user through the mouse settings. By default, the right-click is disabled.

The single top button on these mouse models comprises an 85% multi-touch surface across the entire width. This touch surface extends from the Apple logo (the apple) to the front end of the button. A simple swipe up or down serves as scrolling, while other functions like left-right swiping or tapping with one or two fingers are also available. Commands such as:

  • Smart zoom in applications like Photos, Safari, Preview, etc. (double-tap quickly with a single finger)
  • Two-finger left-right swipe for full-screen applications
  • Quick access to Mission Control by double-tapping with two fingers

Button and gesture configuration can be done through: System Settings > Mouse.

Magic Mouse 2 System Settings
Magic Mouse 2 System Settings

Differences between Apple Magic Mouse and Magic Mouse 2

Despite a seven-year gap between the Magic Mouse and Magic Mouse 2, their functions on macOS remain the same. Nothing new has been added, nor has anything been removed. However, if you purchase a Magic Mouse 2, you should know that it is not compatible with older versions of OS X 10.11 El Capitan. If you intend to connect the Magic Mouse 2 to OS X Yosemite, it will not be recognized.

Design-wise, the two mouse models are nearly identical. It's worth noting that the old Magic Mouse is slightly more curved (taller) than the new model. However, if you don't have both side by side, it's very difficult to notice. After over 4 years of daily use with the Magic Mouse, I didn't feel any difference when switching to the Magic Mouse 2. Perhaps the click sound is slightly firmer on the new model, but this also depends on the wear and tear over time on the mechanical part.

Apple Magic Mouse Model fee
Apple Magic Mouse Model fee

Additionally, on the inside, there are subtle differences between the two Magic Mouse models. The Apple logo is white on the first Apple Magic Mouse model, while on the new model, it's black. Insignificant. It's worth noting that the Magic Mouse 2 lacks the green LED indicating activity.

Apple Magic Mouse vs. Magic Mouse 2
Magic Mouse Back

The real difference between the first Apple Magic Mouse model and the Magic Mouse 2 is the addition of the built-in rechargeable battery that replaces the AA batteries in the first model. Additionally, the second model features a Lightning charging port on the underside (much to the internet's amusement), making the mouse unusable during charging. Fortunately, only 10 minutes of charging are needed for 2 hours of use.

Related: Mouse or Magic Trackpad? Touch gestures and options

Using the Apple Magic Mouse on Windows Computers

Related: How to connect Apple Magic Mouse to Windows (Pair Bluetooth Magic Mouse)

The Apple Magic Mouse can be connected to any Windows computer with Bluetooth, but the user experience cannot be compared to macOS. The multi-touch functionality of the Magic Mouse may be limited or even non-existent on Windows, as these functions are optimized for macOS and are not natively supported on other operating systems. Additionally, certain gestures or specific features of the Magic Mouse may not be available or may not work as well on Windows as they do on a Mac.

I am happy to share my experiences in the field of computers, mobile phones and operating systems, to develop web projects and to bring the most useful tutorials and advice. I like to "play" on the iPhone, MacBook Pro, iPad, AirPort Extreme and on operating systems macOS, iOS, Android and Windows.

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