The scoop: Swiftpoint Mouse, by Swiftpoint Ltd., about $70.

What it is: This very tiny mouse is aimed at notebook users who don't want to carry around a traditional travel mouse, as well as those who can't stand their notebook's touchpad. The small size of the Swiftpoint Mouse allows users to operate the mouse in the area right below the keyboard and to the side of the touchpad. The design also makes it feel like your hand is using a pen, and not a mouse.

Home and office gear gift ideas

Why it's cool: The extremely small size makes it perfect for mobile workers – you can leave the USB receiver in the slot and it won't break – in addition, the dongle has a magnetic port that recharges the mouse when it's not being used.

Some caveats: The design of the mouse requires that you change some of your mousing habits. For example, your index finger activates the left-click and right-click buttons – leaving nothing for your middle finger to do. Scrolling is also handled differently – you need to tilt the mouse to the right and then physically roll the scroll wheel on your mousepad or notebook surface. Using the mouse does take some practice, and you could experience some scrunching pain in your fingers if you're not careful. I would recommend this only if you're using this with a notebook and have limited space for mousing activities.

Shaw can be reached at kshaw@nww.com. Follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/shawkeith.