3DConnexion Rato Space Pro Profesional

functionally ok, but scratches on item not expected...

I'm just getting started in CAD, but this device has already helped me tremendously. I won't try to explain all of the finer aspects of it - please read the expert reviews & watch online videos - but I will say that it truly helps you stay focused on the task at hand. Your efficiency will improve immensely within no time at all. Yes - it is pricey. I thought a long while before investing in this tool, but I must say that I'm very happy with my progress and it's really caused me to spend more time improving my designs vs looking down at my keyboard.

I really enjoy using the Space Mouse. I thought it was too much device when I first saw it and opted for the Space Navigator PE but a coworker purchased the Pro. He asked me to try it. The palm rest is quite comfortable and the navigation is very intuitive. The buttons were fairly easy to reach and I could see myself getting used to it. Now that I've had it for about a week, it is fairly easy to control. Lost my model is space a few times to begin with but the Fit to screen button made it easy to bring back. I programmed the 4 buttons to functions I use most often and am getting used to the others. This helps keep my eyes from constantly locating keys on the keyboard and on the screen.

I used a 3-D mouse at a previous job. It was actually a sphere nested on top of a 3-D mouse with programmable keys. It was great to have, but a lot more sticky. The SpaceMouse Pro has a comfortable ergonomic base and the hockey puck on the top has a very smooth action. I have only had this a couple of weeks. I have been without one for a year-and-a-half, so most days I forget I have one. I like it a lot better than my old one. I look forward to increased productivity once I get used to having one again. I love the pre-programmed view keys: Top, front, right, fit, rotate. Plus pan and zoom are a breeze with the knob. The shape fits my hand like a glove. I also like how it lights up when I log in. Like it's greeting me good morning. Ok, that's a little weird, but it is very intuitive and I would be sad without it. ;-P

This is an amazing device. I had looked at the pucks, also the highest end Space Mice before choosing this. The screens on the Pilot Pro are nice-- but chances are you'll be looking at your model, not your manipulator tool! This has the buttons I need, and they feel great. The raised surface makes inadvertent option clicking less likely, the response of the puck is tight and accurate. 3Dconnexion sends you a CD with "games" to play, from the very basic to the full assembly, to get used to using this in whatever CAD suite you have. That was VERY helpful, as it is entirely weird at first. Once you get used to it though... keyboard? Bah! Map your keys as you desire and let loose your dimensioning demons. The feel of it on your hand, wrist and arm is great, and it's not quite as big as I thought, which is good, as my desk is small. Plug in to USB and go. Very well made tool, I'm glad I bought it!