Hey everyone! In this quick review, we're exploring the SpaceMouse Wireless Bluetooth edition from 3DConnexion. This is a very slick simple but powerfull gadget for any 3D artists and designers.
First off, let's talk about what this device is all about. The SpaceMouse Wireless Bluetooth is essentially a more compact and streamlined version of the SpaceMouse Pro Wireless. Despite its smaller size, it packs the same punch in terms of functionality. The main thing for me is that the SpaceMouse allows me to manipulate the 3D space in various applications in exactly the same way... For instance, I can jump between ZBrush, Substance Painter, Blender and PureRef and they all respond to the same navigation. Not only that but it is super smooth since you are manipulating all axis at once so zooming while panning and rotating the objects make it very intuitive and natural.
One of the first things you'll notice about the SpaceMouse Wireless is its sleek, portable design. It comes with a handy carry case, which is perfect for artists on the go. The build quality is impressive—just as sturdy as the Pro version, and I might be wrong here but it does feel heavier (maybe because of the metalic base). The device itself is straightforward to use, featuring a dial, a charging USB-C port, and ON/OFF button and two programmable buttons on each side.
As I mentioned, the navigation is the key of this devices and it makes it an essential tool for manipulating objects in the 3D space, especially for tasks like sculpting in ZBrush for example, where precision and ease of movement are crucial... specially if you are zoomed all the way into something that covers the entire canvas. If you're like me and spend a lot of time tweaking models, the SpaceMouse can really enhance your workflow.
One of the coolest aspects of the SpaceMouse is its versatility. You can map the buttons to different functions depending on the software you're using. This means you can customize your SpaceMouse to fit your specific needs, whether you're texturing in Substance Painter or rendering in Blender. I personally like to set up one of my switches to be the 'isolator', which lets you hide eveything but the object you are working on for more focused manipulation. This is incredibly handy for detailed work, allowing you to hone in on specific parts of your model without distraction.
In my case I can set the shortcut for 'solo mode' in ZBrush, the 'focus mode' in Painter, and the 'hide all but selected' in blender to the same button and because the SpaceMouse is also awared of the application you have active, it switches automatically so the workflow is even smoother.
Let’s dive into detail about the customization options available with the SpaceMouse Wireless. After installing the necessary drivers, you can select the device and have it automatically recognize the software you're using. For example, if you're working in ZBrush, the SpaceMouse will adapt to provide the most relevant controls and of course any custom shortcut you create.
From the 3DConnexion app, select the SpaceMouse Wireless and then click on the 'buttons' botton. From there you can simply click on the LEFT or the RIGHT imputs and type the shortcut you want (notice at the top left ot the window that pops up that the software window you have active is recognised (in my case ZBrush).
If you want even more shortcuts, you can click on the little arrows next to the LEFT or RIGHT imputs, and choose the Radial Menus section and then on 'New Radial Menu'. This will allows you create a new custom set of 4 or 8 aditional shortcuts.
So, what’s the verdict? The SpaceMouse Wireless Bluetooth edition is a powerful, versatile navigation tool that's perfect for 3D artists and designers. Its compact design, intuitive controls, and seamless integration across multiple applications make it a must-have for anyone that's into 3D and digital art. Whether you're sculpting in ZBrush, painting in Substance Painter, or rendering in Blender, the SpaceMouse can significantly enhance your workflow and make navigating 3D space a breeze. (Check out the website for all the applications that supports).
I hope this detailed look has given you a better understanding of what the SpaceMouse Wireless
Bluetooth has to offer. If you're considering adding one to your toolkit, it’s definitely worth the investment. Happy creating!
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