Whether you’re considering purchasing one or just curious, it’s a common question. What is the difference between the Magic Mouse 1 and the Magic Mouse 2? You might be surprised to find out that there are not many differences.
The main difference that stands out is that the Magic Mouse 1 uses replaceable AA batteries, while the Magic Mouse 2 has an internal battery that must be charged using a Lightning cable.
My name is Eric, and as an Engineer, I often like to explore how devices like the Magic Mouse are designed and how they change from version to version. The Magic Mouse has had a few changes but only a few.
Keep reading if you want to hear about the main change to the Magic Mouse from version 1 to 2. I will also cover a few minor changes and review both devices’ pros and cons.
Contents
The Big Difference
Believe it or not, the main difference between the Magic Mouse 1 and Magic Mouse 2 is the battery. The Magic Mouse 1 has a battery compartment on the bottom, as shown below, holding two AA batteries.
The AA batteries used can be either disposable or rechargeable, but if you use rechargeable batteries, you must take them out of the mouse to charge them.
The Magic Mouse 2 has a built-in, non-removable, rechargeable battery. The battery must be charged by plugging it into your Mac or USB wall charger with the provided Lightning cable. The Magic Mouse 2 has a charging port on the bottom, as shown below.
Despite the difference in battery types, both versions of the Magic Mouse can last about one month on fresh batteries or a full charge. This will depend on usage, and with the Magic Mouse 1, it will also depend on the type of AA batteries you use. With the Magic Mouse 2, it can depend on the age of your device since the battery will eventually wear down.
Other Differences
Apart from the battery types, the two devices have a few other differences. I will get to what they are below, but for the most part, the functionality, the feel, the connection type, and everything else about how the device works is the same.
The battery was the only significant change between versions, but there are two minor things that I have found. For me, they are not enough of a factor to sway my decision one way or the other, but I will list them here.
Color
This isn’t really a factor that would change my mind, but if you are looking to match the color of your MacBook, it might be something to consider. The original Magic Mouse 1 comes only in the Silver color, while the Magic Mouse 2 is available in Silver and Space Grey.
Weight
It’s doubtful that you will notice 0.21 ounces, but there is a very slight weight difference. The Magic Mouse 1 is 3.7 ounces, and the Magic Mouse 2 weighs in at a slightly lighter number of 3.49 ounces. It may seem negligible to most of us, but it is one of the only other differences I could come up with.
Cost & Availability
Ok, this is a factor that will matter to many, but it does not affect the performance or even the style. If it costs too much, you may not be able to afford it, and if it is not readily available anywhere, you will have difficulty finding it.
The Magic Mouse 2 is the newer version, so it will cost you a little more, just as the latest version of anything will usually cost more. The nice thing is that they are readily available and you can easily find one from many different outlets.
The Magic Mouse 1 was discontinued in 2015. If you can find a used one or a new one from someone who stockpiled them, there’s a good chance you can get one for a little cheaper than the Magic Mouse 2. That being said, it might be challenging to find a new or used one in good condition.
Which is better?
As we have seen above, there are few differences between the Magic Mouse 1 and the Magic Mouse 2. The main difference is how it is powered, which will be the main factor in deciding which is better.
Let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of each version considering the differences we discussed above.
Magic Mouse 1 Pros
- The battery compartment and replaceable batteries make it easy to replace them when they are low or die.
- As long as you have spare batteries on hand, there is no interruption in usage, just replace the batteries and continue using the device.
- You have the option to use disposable or rechargeable batteries.
- Since it’s a discontinued version, you will probably have to get a used or refurbished one, and you can get it cheaper.
- It has all the same features as the newer Magic Mouse 2.
Magic Mouse 1 Cons
- You will have to purchase disposable or rechargeable batteries.
- The battery compartment of the Magic Mouse 1 has been known to have issues where the batteries become loose and the mouse disconnects from your computer.
- It only comes in one color, silver.
- It’s just slightly heavier.
Magic Mouse 2 Pros
- No need to purchase disposable or rechargeable batteries.
- It doesn’t have the disconnecting issues that have been reported for the Magic Mouse 1.
- It’s easy to plug in and recharge.
- The mouse charges very quickly. Charging for a few minutes can give you an hour or more of usage.
- A selection of two colors, Silver and Space Grey.
- It’s readily available and can be purchased in many places.
- The mouse is a little lighter.
Magic Mouse 2 Cons
- The charging port is on the bottom side, so you can’t use the mouse while charging.
- If you drain the battery to 0%, you won’t be able to use it until you recharge it for a few minutes.
- The battery can’t be replaced, or at least it is tough to replace, so once your battery is no longer charged, you may need to purchase a new mouse.
- It will cost a little more than a Magic Mouse 1.
So, which mouse is better? It can be a tough choice, and I like both of their advantages. That said, I like the Magic Mouse 2 better, but that is my opinion.
As with anything, you will need to look at the information I have provided above and make the choice that works best for you.
FAQs
Below are a few questions often asked when discussing Magic Mouse 1 and Magic Mouse 2.
Where can I get a Magic Mouse 1?
You can typically find a Magic Mouse 1 for sale on sites like eBay and Amazon. They will usually be a used or refurbished mouse, but sometimes you can find one new in the box that someone had stashed away and is now selling.
Will a Magic Mouse 1 still have a warranty?
No. At least not an original manufacturer’s warranty. Apple stopped selling the Magic Mouse 1 in 2015, so even if someone has a new one in the box to sell you, Apple’s warranty will no longer cover it. You might find that the seller of a used, refurbished, or new device may offer you a small limited warranty for something like 90 days, or you may be able to pay for an extended warranty.
Can I use a Magic Mouse on a Windows PC?
Yes, you can connect a Magic Mouse to a Windows PC machine. It can take a bit of work, but it can be done.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Magic Mouse 1 and Magic Mouse 2 are very similar devices. The only functional difference is the way they are powered. The Magic Mouse 1 uses replaceable batteries, and the Magic Mouse 2 uses a built-in rechargeable battery.
I hope the information provided above can help you if you are trying to decide what type of Magic Mouse you want. As usual, let me know if you have any questions or comments. I would love to hear from you.
