5 Bizarre Computer Mice We Can’t Believe Exist – SlashGear

“Novelty” mice are as numerous as stars in the sky. From ones that look like cars, are named after food, turn into dinosaurs, or could be used to make a phone call, these carnival clickers can be found in every shape and color, with every bell and whistle. The Kinniku Muscle Mouse leans hard into that novelty realm.

We won’t blame you if the name evokes images of a Saturday morning cartoon character. While some mice came with tiny little weights to make them heavier or lighter based on personal preference, this one took the road less traveled by including four electrostimulation pads that could be strategically placed anywhere on the body to — you guessed it, provide electrical muscle stimulation.

The goal was to tone muscles without working out. You could sit at your computer and let technology build a leaner, meaner body. Plug the electrode directly into the side of the mouse, attach the pads to your biceps, stomach, or legs, and voilà — watch those muscles twitch. The three available levels of intensity were controlled by buttons on the mouse.

It was Windows and Mac compatible, weighed about 5.3 ounces, had an 800 dpi sensor, and retailed for approximately $50. The idea is sound because electrical stimulation does, in fact, tone muscle and is used routinely for physical therapy. But this was just weird.