Why Mouse Manufacturer's don't use Optical Encoders?

[mclaren85]

I remember like ten years ago Logitech and some other brands were using the Optical encoders which theoretically has an infinite lifespan. But as far as I know, nowadays only Zowie mouses uses this technology.
I wonder, why do manufacturers abandon the newest technology and prefer something technologically much older? In contrast to Optical encoders, the analog ones are also more prone to failures and errors. Do you think it is something to do with planned obsolescence policy?

 

[Ferd]

Though I am not sure , I think optical encoders require more processing, plus having one part responsible of reporting wheel’s position is better than have two parts doing the same , and they probably consume more power , probably in the order of milliwatts but less is always better , as for longevity yes optical has no mechanical wear so it should last longer , but I think the parts have a finite number of operating hours , maybe they figured that other parts of the mouse fail before the encoders themselves fail so it was an opportunity to cut cost , less soldering and less parts to assemble , to me they’re both fine I don’t see a difference in accuracy or lifetime of devices

 

[Deleted member 24505]

Cost probably. If they can do it cheaper, they will.

 

[Shrek]

An optical encoder is mechanical and so more prone to wear and dirt (the ball picks up crud). The scroll wheel remains an optical encoder as it picks up less dirt than a ball.

 

[silentbogo]

There's only one reason: cutting costs.
Optical encoders are cool and all, but require more circuitry to run and cost more. "Infinite lifespan" is a bit of a stretch (LEDs do have limited longevity, as you know), but yeah - it's a lot more reliable than mechanical ones. My good-ole G5 still works, and scroll wheel is the only thing I haven't replaced. I've only looked at swapping the mechanical part, while IR LED and receiver are both perfectly functional after nearly 1.5 decades of service.

But as far as I know, nowadays only Zowie mouses uses this technology.

There are also few A4Tech Bloody models with optical encoders (and optical switches). Logitech still makes a few(G502, MX518).

 

[micropage7]

and mostly use mouse for some years before buying a new one so it will be pretty costly if they use expensive optical for something that their user will replace it next year

 

[Fourstaff]

Logitech uses electromagnetic encoder for their MX3 mouse scroll wheel, I think the industry is slowly stepping away from optical encoder?

 

[Bill_Bright]

I can see how an encoder might add latency which would raise the hackles of gamers.

 

[mclaren85]

Thanks everyone who contributed, but I think it is time to ask the manufacturers and encourage them to use latest innovations in their shiny colorful mices. Analog encoders are definitely not belong to this age.

 

[Bill_Bright]

but I think it is time to ask the manufacturers and encourage them to use latest innovations in their shiny colorful mices.

Not necessary. Tell them with your wallet.

 

[mclaren85]

After My omen reactor mouse scroll behaves strangely, I've remember this topic and wish the manufacturers use optical encoders one more time.

 

[freeagent]

I love my Zowie mouse, it’s gotta be 10 years old by now..

 

[mclaren85]

Is Zowie still being considered the best?

I love my Zowie mouse, it’s gotta be 10 years old by now..

 

[freeagent]

Is Zowie still being considered the best?

I honestly didn't know they were! My G7 died so he brought that one over for me, was pretty much brand new in the box, that was in 2017