Microsoft has launched a new gaming mouse today. The SideWinder X3 mouse is the latest to join Microsoft’s range of gaming mice, sitting below the original Sidewinder, the Sidewinder X5 and the new wireless Sidewinder X8.

Microsoft Sidewinder X3 Mouse

With a 2,000-dpi laser-tracking engine, five programmable buttons, and macro recording the X3 should make a good gaming mouse. Included in the driver software is a new Quick Turn macro that enables you to check your surroundings within a game with a single click. Designed for use with Windows XP and Vista, the Sidewinder X3 has a polling rate of 500Hz and can be used at a maximum speed of 45 inches/second with up to 20g of acceleration.

The two main left and and right buttons have been rated to 10 million clicks, although it may take some time for you to test that rating, but at least the X3 should be capable of withstanding a hammering.

The Sidewinder X3 will be available in May for $40 or £40 retail. If you like the sound of the X3 you can get into the queue early by pre-ordering the X3 on Amazon.