Why use trackball mice

Watch this short clip to see how versatile a fingers trackball can be in terms of operation:. If your primary pointing device is the trackpad on your laptop, you might be curious to learn just how a trackball compares to it. In terms of ergonomics, both the trackball and trackpad let you manipulate the cursor using a combination of fingers.

This greatly reduces the chances of developing RSI from overuse of a particular extremity. And while the thumb operated trackball does rely on your thumb specifically thus potentially leading to thumb pain , it is still better than using your forefinger for repetitive motions, according to Roberta Carson.

Furthermore, all trackballs provide a contoured area for your hand to rest on, unlike a trackpad where your hand is totally unsupported, with your wrist bearing the majority of the burden. So in short, at least based on my assessment, a trackball is more ergonomic than a trackpad.

In terms of productivity, a study comparing the amount of time required to a complete a cursor related task using a trackpad and a trackball came out favorably for the trackball.

In short, while the jury will always be out on what the most ergonomic form factor for a pointing device is, in my opinion, there are some clear circumstances that favor at least giving a trackball a try:. Precision and speed will be a factor for many people using a trackball. As such, for the rest of us, an ergonomically designed horizontal or vertical mouse is probably still a better choice. George is an ergonomist and chief editor of Ergonomic Trends.

He brings with him over 15 years advising companies on best office practices, and has been quoted on many publications such as US News. Great Article. My wife and I have been using trackballs for years. As a programmer I can say that I have become very proficient with a trackball, and it is very accurate for me.

I use the logitech Marble with the ball in the middle. My hand rests on it and I can easily go back and forth from the keyboard. Because I can operate a track ball, I can operate anything. But it is worth it. Great comparison! I have been using a vertical mouse at work and it has actually been more of a relief than I thought it would. I am looking to replace my basic mouse at home as well. Even though a trackball mouse is not always accurate, and can be frustrating in the beginning, I still prefer it over the standard mouse.

My work involves using the mouse more than the keyboard. Before changing, my thumb used to get stiff because it was just lying on the mouse. The following steps will help:. Try trackballs in different styles and ball positions at the store. Smaller balls that rest under one finger are best for day-to-day use. Larger balls that use more than one finger or the palm of your hand are better for more precision and for larger or dual-monitor setups.

Once you have a trackball and it's connected to your computer, find the pointer on the screen and fix your eyes on it. Slowly roll the ball back and forth gently until you get a rough feel for it.

Change the settings using the included drivers and software. A trackball can be more sensitive than a typical mouse. Dial back the sensitivity until you're comfortable with it. If you have trouble with precision work, slightly increase the magnification on the monitor or inside the app. Experiment with the buttons to find what feels natural for your purposes. Decide which you prefer for left-click, right-click, and other mouse functions.

Different trackballs have different input options. Some let you click by pressing on the ball in a certain direction, for example. Gradually use the trackball for different tasks. For example, use it for gaming at first, so you can practice and get a sense of how it feels. As you get more comfortable, use it for other tasks and phase out your traditional computer mouse. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data.

Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile. Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Daniel Anglin Seitz. Bigger balls may require more than one finger to operate for the best control, typically using both your index and middle fingers to spin the ball.

Trackballs like the Elecom Deft and Huge trackballs try to arrange the buttons in a thoughtful manner, maximizing efficiency and allowing for up to 8 buttons, as your fingers are expected to both switch and click spin the ball and click the buttons. Because of this, you may need to take your fingers off the ball before clicking, otherwise accidental movement could cause a micro-drag rather than a click. A trackball mouse is ideal not only for professionals who use a workstation for extended hours, and casual users who need a more comfortable option, but also those who may have mobility or dexterity issues holding and controlling a mouse.

Since a trackball is a stationary peripheral, it can help by allowing you to use any method you see fit to rotate the ball and click buttons. All you need is to find a shape and size that will fit your needs.

The trackball is a solid, classic choice, but it is also a misunderstood and underappreciated one. With a wide spectrum of designs and benefits ranging from ergonomics and RSI prevention to efficiency and accessibility, the trackball is a sophisticated option for professionals and everyday users. Hopefully, this article helped you learn a little more about them, and perhaps it will even lead you to try one for the first time.

Randall is a longtime tech enthusiast and relative newcomer to the mechanical keyboard hobby. He has a background in philosophy, art, and design, and has a passion for research, education, and communication. He wants to share his knowledge and experience to help guide others down the deep rabbit hole. If you're looking to build a mechanical keyboard anytime soon, the GMMK Pro might be the option you're looking for.

As a new competitor to the gaming keyboard market, let's see if this keyboard has what it takes to succeed Skip to content The trackball and the mouse are fundamentally opposites in both design and functionality. While their general purpose as pointing devices remains the same, their uses differ completely. A trackball mouse relies on your fingers to move a ball over a stationary sensor. The size and placement of the ball will be what determines comfort with trackballs. As the trackball never moves, you can find your ideal position for long-term use.

The size of the ball will be what determines how much the cursor moves with each rotation. Is a Trackball Ergonomically Better? Rather, you can rest your hand in a natural position. Carpal Tunnel Carpal Tunnel is a common, modern injury caused by repetitive gestures and motions, like typing or mouse movement.

Wrist Dorsiflexion Dorsiflexion of the wrist is caused when you bend your wrist up and back, which in this case could be caused by using a mouse or tall keyboard without a wrist rest, and at a wrist angle more than zero degrees. The Different Types of Trackball Mice The two main types of trackball mice are thumb-operated and finger operated varieties. Thumb-operated Trackballs Thumb-operated trackballs are typically more of an ergonomic shape, preferring to place your hand and wrist at an angle, or even vertically, rather than fully pronated.

A few options like the Logitech MX Ergo mouse gives you adjustable angles built-in.