Because sometimes you need to work on the move? I like to get things done on flights, and there's no space for a mouse there.

> Touchpads all stink, including Apple's.

Couldn't disagree more. I've actually ended up getting a Magic Trackpad for my desk - the gestures etc are genuinely useful.

> Because sometimes you need to work on the move? I like to get things done on flights...

Uggh. That sounds like a terrible way to work. If open floor plans are bad, working on a flight has got to be even worse. I guess I'm lucky that I don't have to do any of that.

> I've actually ended up getting a Magic Trackpad for my desk...

Well, you're a rare bird then.

I also use a Magic Trackpad instead of a mouse at work as a dev. I also do music production exclusively with my Macbook's trackpad. I'm definitely more comfortable with it than a mouse for my normal work habits.. and I was able to beat people online in Starcraft pretty handily with a trackpad. I don't doubt that I couldn't become more precise with a mouse over time, but I really prefer scrolling and gestures to what's available on a mouse.

> Uggh. That sounds like a terrible way to work.

Welcome to the real world- sometimes we have to do things in environments that are less than ideal!

Given that Apple have iterated and released multiple versions of the Magic Trackpad, I doubt I'm that rare of a bird.

See if you can find sales numbers for your elitist 5 button vertical mouse vs. the trackpad.... Then we'll talk about who the 'rare bird' is. Grow up.

No, no, no. Travel distance is supremely important, and if you're working on a MacBook the trackpad is right there! I loathe all trackpads except MacBook's. In fact, I have a Magic Mouse and Keyboard that I use when I place my MacBook on a stand, and it feels tiring to move my hand so far to move the mouse.

I use a Mac Pro primarily, but I actually have a mouse, trackpad, and Wacom tablet attached. Each get used for the things they work best at with the trackpad getting the most use.