Reddit mentions: The best computer trackballs

TL;DR found on the bottom of the WALL OF TEXT

So it all started with me finding an old T-BB13 in a relative's cellar one day. I was super excited, since not only would I get to try out a trackball, but it was also old and grimy - means I could attempt my first restoration. Sadly, I forgot to take pre pics, sorry.

I got used to the trackball in about 3 hours. It felt MUCH more comfortable than my old G700, going back to which felt weird - it was so tiny and cramped. Uncomfortable. My only gripe is that I occasionally get tremors which can affect my precision on the trackball (the old marble seems to be much looser than the ones in both the new trackballs) more than a standard mouse, and the lack of extra buttons.

And so, the old Trackman Marble Wheel fuelled my hunger. Obviously Ripster has already provided the first fuel - indicated by the (impulsively bought) FC660C. So I got both the thumb and finger operated trackballs (also love how the M570 is wireless) to try different things.

Here's the exact links I bought them from - if you want to try the trackball world first-hand(I guess the £ indicates that this is for UK)

£20.80 Trackman Marble
£21.00 M570

Pros (M570)

• Ball axis are remappable in Logitech SetPoint - you can angle the mouse in any way comfortable
  
  
• Wireless
  
  
• Apparently long battery life
  
  
• Back and Forward buttons
  
  
  Cons (M570)
  
  
• No wired port like on G700 for wired usage
  
  User Preference (M570)
  
  
• Small size - should be comfortable for people that prefer smaller size
  
  
• Thumb ball - more "traditional" mouse feel
  
  
  ---
  
  Pros (Trackman)
  
  
• Extremely comfortable.
  
  
• Surprisingly accessible buttons.
  
  
• Appears to be the quietest of the three ^^^(holy ^^^shit ^^^where ^^^did ^^^I ^^^get ^^^so ^^^many) trackballs that I have - buttons on both others are quite a bit stiffer and louder. Flicking or rolling the ball also makes the least amount of sound. (Something I never thought I'd care about in a mouse)
  
  
• Shaped in a way that I didn't need to remap the ball axis at all since this is the first mouse which I can actually hold straight.
  
  Cons (Trackman)
  
  
• WHERE IS MY RIGHT+LEFT CLICK TO MIDDLE CLICK?!
  
  
• The small buttons are a bit harder to reach with the pinky than the thumb.
  
  
• Seriously, why does two-click-scrolling work on Linux but not on Windows?!
  
  
• *more ranting about no scroll on Windows*
  
  
  User Preference (Trackman)
  
  
• Large and comfortable. I really like this point since I can stretch and spread my palm. No cramps, yay!
  
  
• Finger ball - took me a few more minutes to get used to - but I actually prefer it this way. It's actually way more comfortable for me to left click with my thumb.
  
  
  Conclusion:
  
  I fucken love trackballs.
  
  I have used both for 2 hours each to play some Skyrim and I have to say - it's glorious. The only time I had such a feeling of upgrade was when I switched from a 8600GT to a 6950Crossfire and later on when I switched from a rubber dome to mechanical.
  
  If you ever wanted to try a trackball for a long time - you should try it now. If you have used a trackball for years and can share any wise knowledge - please do.
  
  I'd love some advice on how to make scrolling viable on the Trackman (Logitech's solution works like ass in browsers, and doesn't even have any effect in N++ or applications like games)
  
  Also if anyone can recommend a guide on making a sidecar for these guys (I guess it's a bit harder than when making one for a CST) I'd love to see those. I already have a cheap rubber dome that I can salvage for the controller.
  
  Thanks for reading!
  
  TL;DR: impulse bough two new trackballs for cheaper than the current mouse that I got secondhand. Trackballs are glorious. UK! UK! UK! Cheap! Cheap! Cheap! BUT SERIOUSLY LOGITECH WHY THE FUCK IS THERE NO TWOCLICK FOR MOUSEWHEEL/SCROLL FEATURE ON WINDOWS?! Playing games is actually comfortable with trackballs. You should also become a baller. TL;DR. Recursion.
  
  
  

> It had been sitting on my wishlist for a long time, and from what I'd seen of it, it reminded me a lot of oldskool tycoon/management games.

Thanks for the patronage.

> Simple things can already improve this a lot (scrollwheel for zoom, WASD to move around, middle mouse button/scroll wheel click for 3D / map free move, etc), lighter colors and some more modern fonts perhaps in the window styles, little things that make a huge difference!

Unfortunately, my input library doesn't work well with middle click and drag. My mouse also doesn't have a middle button, so I have no way to test this sort of feature without emulation. Free camera movement is unlikely due to the constraints of the 3d rooms you're in. You start clipping almost immediately once you're outside the core camera positions. Not to mention the artwork would look even worse, the closer you move to the objects.

WASD already works on the world map. Arrow keys work on world map and the RnD. WASD is unlikely to come to RnD due to all the text boxes in the GUI.

> Audio is bugged for me, at random points into the game (usually within the first 5-10 minutes) all audio stops working, both music and sound effects

Try launching the game outside of Steam via the command line. Steam might be overriding the shipped sound libs. If you need instructions, just let me know. Also note, the audio will stop playing if your mouse leaves the window. If you're using Alt-tab, you might not be hooking back in properly.

> Resolution settings are far from what is optimal for my monitor. I play it windowed at 1280x800 (1920x1200 monitor) which seems to be the best option for now. The Video Settings Editor refuses to start

Video Settings Editor is messed up on the Default Linux Build. It's fixed in Testing Build. If you're handy with a text editor, you can change the resolutions manually. http://wiki.gearcity.info/doku.php?id=troubleshooting:steam_installfolder (Click the picture for a gif). Then go to the GearCity/Settings/ folder. There you'll find LinuxVideoSettings.xml. Open it up in a text file. Find the VideoRes element, and change the numbers to your resolution, e.g. 1024 x 768 @ 32-bit colour to 1600 x 1200 @ 32-bit colour. The Video Settings Editor lets you do all this with a GUI. Anyway, you'll get that fix either with v1.25 in a couple months if you remain on Default build.

> Some things are confusing, but might just take more time to figure out. Turns out I can design a Shooting Brake in 1900, with the looks of a T-Ford for example

Due to limiting funding some vehicle classes share base body style artwork. If we ever get additional funding for an expansion, I plan on ditching the selection of vehicle classes and make the class of your vehicle based on the design characteristics of the body. But this is unlikely.

That being said, I checked both base models for shooting brake, and they seem fine. They're big vehicles, mainly used for hunting. Sort of like a tall station wagon, where you store your hunting gear in the back. As time progresses, they turn into essentially station wagons without the seats.


> Yet, despite all these issues I can not put it away.

I hope you get many hours and years of enjoyment out of it.

> I can't wait to see how it grows and improves.

Sadly, we're near the end of development. The gaming industry has drastically changed the last couple years and I am having to wrap up the project. Mostly I'm focused on cleaning up bugs and adding the missing text content. I wouldn't expect many major or moderate features to be added beyond what's currently in Testing build. Post release, I will attempt to raise funding via third parties and/or the community. That funding would go toward at the minimum new vehicle types, at best, a complete redesign of the designer system and a host of other big gameplay changes/features. But I wouldn't bet on a fully funded expansion. So don't get your hopes up.


> I wish I could promise dedicating time to helping out with testing/etc but I'm not sure if I have the capacity for that. Maybe later!

The best way to get the latest build of the game and to help out a little is to run the testing build: http://ventdev.com/forums/showthread.php?tid=2594
If you run into any issues, you just email me the log file and the save game and write a sentence or two telling me what to look for. Sometimes, I just need the sentences. But even if you don't help out with testing. I am happy enough that you get enjoyment out of the game!

Keep it in the green and Good luck!

Greetings fellow bendy person! (I have EDS).

My hands are pretty messed and I can't do much with them so I try to have a billion input devices to switch it up. Vertical mice did not help me at all! Seemed like the wrong size for my hand or something though.

Most recently got the Logitech G600 (https://www.amazon.ca/Logitech-Gaming-Mouse-Black-910-002864/dp/B0086UK7IQ) but haven't got a chance to use it yet because winter makes me not able to use anything. Heh. But it's wider with support for the pinky finger which I think will help me a lot as I often get MCP dislocations on both ends on that pinky from mice. Also LOTS OF BUTTONS!!

I also have a Kensington trackball mouse (https://www.amazon.ca/Kensington-64325-K64325US-Expert-Mouse/dp/B00009KH63/). I read you said trackballs mess up your thumb but I don't use my thumb for it, just my whole hand or my index and middle finger together or whatever feels best at the moment. I use my thumb for the left bottom button only. It comes with a wrist rest but I try to just hover above it to not mess with my wrist. Moving it in the middle of my desk right in front of me helps wrist and arm posture otherwise I end up wanting to rip off my arm from the pain.

I used to have a RollerMouse (http://www.contourdesign.ca/product-category/mice/) which I loved for a lot of stuff but it ended up breaking... I think I ate over it too much and the crumbs messed it up and then I tried to take it apart to fix it and for the first time ever fully broke something. Oops. Heh. But seriously, having the option to easily mouse with the left hand or just differently on the right hand was really nice. I might have to get another one at some point. They have lots of models now so maybe I can find one that handles crumbs better. :P

I actually like controllers for some gaming. But if I have to do fine movements it doesn't have the same control as a mouse and ends up tweaking out my nerve pain or something. It just helps having my wrist turned rather than flat on a mouse (again the vert mouse didn't work for me though!). But it does hurt my thumb more.

Uhm... I'm probably forgetting something so will comment again if I can think of anything else. Mostly I've been waiting for laser eye tracking stuff to get better. Can't use the kind where you turn your head or anything because my neck is so messed.

Good luck and please let me know if you find anything good! Having to give up my hobbies and work and everything because of EDS has been rather annoying so anything to get me back on the computer as much as possible is a life saver.

(In too much pain to be super coherent. Hopefully this is readable!)

So believe it or not, I play on a Highlander team in team fortress 2 and I use the third model you pictured. It takes getting used too, but once you get used too it, other models just don't feel the same. When I use it for gaming, sensitivity is key. Each game has a different sensitivity so trying to find one that works is key for trackballs. I only have the one I do because I didn't have the money for a better one but I still wanted a trackball.


The reason I like the third so much is because you can use 2 fingers to control the ball instead of just your thumb. It gives me some pretty insane accuracy on games that have sniper roles. Personal preference is pretty big when picking a trackball because of all the weird designs of them. A downside to the third one is that it does not have a scroll wheel, which is pretty frustrating at times. You can use the PG UP/DWN buttons but its just easier to have it on the mouse. I do believe that the buttons above LM and RM can be configured to use as a "hold and drag" kind of scroll wheel but its still troublesome. I recommend getting one like this?

Something like this might also help, but it is a smaller size.

Maybe this?

Trackballs are kind of expensive since very few people use them. Also I'm not really sure where to look for more trackball mice because I bought mine from a store. Good luck and ask if you have any questions! :)

I have dealt with RSI as well for a few years. It's been gone for neary a decade now. Here's what I did. Maybe some of these things will help you:

• physical exercise: I started getting more fit. First by playing volleybal, later by running and doing Western Martial Arts. Just don't overdo it. Training too hard and fast can be equally bad for you.
  
  
• dump the mouse: I switched from a regular mouse to a trackball. They come in all shapes and sizes, so try them out and see what you like. I swear by the good old Logitech Trackman. The only one I liked better is the old Trackman Marble FX which is discontinued and sells for insane prices. I still have a regular mouse connected to my PC as well, but I only need to use it for graphics applications like Gimp and Inkscape where the trackball is too inaccurate.
  
  
• love the keyboard: I have heavily modified my PC experience so that I hardly need to use my trackball at all.
  
  For code editing I use Vim with a whole bunch of plugins (here's my config).
  
  For browsing and e-mail I use Firefox and Thunderbird with the Vimperator and Muttator plugins. These give me vim-like commands, modal browsing and scriptability. Meaning I can work without using the mouse at all.
  
  Finally I use the Awesome Window Manager. I'm on Linux so if you're on Windows or OSX you need to find something similar, although I doubt i exists. Awesome is not so much a window manager as it is a toolkit to write your own WM. Here is my config. This gives me a fully automated tiling window manager with vim-like keybindings. No more need for a mouse to move and organize my workspaces.
  
  Vim, Vimperator and Awesome pretty much cover 95% of my time spent on a PC. Everything is automated or just a shortcut away. No need to use the mouse or trackball at all.
  
  I hope this gives you some ideas!
  
  Edit:My first gilded comment. Thanks! :-D

Don't listen to him, this is nonsense even if his anecdote is true. Many in /r/trackballs will tell you how much the right trackball can ease RSI symptoms and this is because with a trackball you can maintain a neutral wrist position, and this is a lot harder with a mouse because as the mouse moves your wrist angle must change. I found that finger controlled trackballs with thumb click buttons work best for me.

The holy grail is the Microsoft Trackball Explorer, but it is discontinued and expensive to acquire on ebay. There is a spiritual successor that was just released called the Elecom Huge. The sensor and button switches are superior in the Elecom, but I find it to be slightly less comfortable.

I find the trackball harder to use for FPS and will use a mouse for some FPS games, but for strategy games it's perfectly fine.

Last point, I find that ergonomic split keyboards really helped with my RSI since you will type with your mousing hand as well.

They didn't make the wired version at the time. I can find it now on Amazon. Collectors are selling them for $399.99. That is not a typo.

Here's a generic one for $24.99. Also not a typo. ;)

Weird coworkers... sure, I'm almost 40, given time I could probably come up with a few other gems. I just thought of the lady with the Vietnamese snake wine because it was so odd and at the same place.

Yeah, a couple years later, I was doing a security job — jobs were kinda scarce right after 9/11, even though we weren't in a high risk area. Big companies were shipping jobs overseas, afraid of doing business in America, even in low risk areas. Anyway, I worked with this cheerful idiot of a man child (not that I wasn't one myself) and he once confided in me that he went to the interview stoned out of his gourd. To a security job. As if he didn't know security companies were staffed by retired cops. Or guys who couldn't make it as cops. So he gets there, high as a motherfucker, and they go to do a swab. He tells them his mouth is dry and asks if he could please get some water. They let him. He goes into the break room, and they have a water dispenser. He pours a cup of the hot, near boiling water, and he chugs it, burning the shit out of his throat. He gargles it. He takes the swab test and passes. If you think this is bullshit, I'm right there with you. He told me this story. I have no way of verifying it. He didn't last long, and when he left, he was fired, and the supervisors wouldn't say word one about it. I bet they caught him with weed. Security guards get dropped in on by their supervisors all the time. You're working a site, it's just you, plenty of opportunity to do drugs (or pot; I know, pot isn't a drug, the Good Lord wouldn't have made it if the Good Lord didn't expect us to smoke it, etc., etc.) but also, surprise visits are a thing.

Anyway, I'd relieve him after an 8 hour shift, and he would not leave. We'd get to talking, and I was on shift, I couldn't leave. And he'd stay for an hour. One hour turned into two, two into three. Longest he ever stayed was 5 hours, unpaid, into my shift. If anyone asked, I was training him. No one ever did, that was just the cover we agreed to. Supervisor dropped in, he forgot something and was just going (and would). Anyway, I started doing the same as we became friends, but I never stayed more than an hour, and most of the time he'd stay one or two hours, too. What was so special about this guy was, he would not shut up about a show called Babylon 5. Maybe you've heard of it. What he didn't tell me, that I think is so interesting, is that it was one of the first TV shows to air in 16:9. It would either have the letterboxing (bars on top and bottom) on the old 4:3 TVs, or they'd just cut the sides off (pan and scan). It was a challenge back then. TV stations didn't like it. Anyway, he actually told me, one day, the entire story of the show, leaving out very little details. And it sounded awesome. I meant to watch it, but didn't, for years. And then one day I got a great deal on the DVD box set at a yard sale. I thought, has to be fate. I think I paid like $20. Wife wasn't interested, so I watched it on my own. And I loved it. Wife agreed to watch it with me, so I watched it a second time with her.

Sorry, that was a long story, and that guy wasn't that weird, except for how he passed the drug test. Supposedly. But I mean, he didn't smoke around me, he wasn't trying to sell me pot, he wasn't trying to sound cool, so I kinda believe him, though what I choose to believe is, one, he probably cut the hot water with cold so it wasn't at 185 or whatever those hot taps put out, because I think that would have caused permanent damage. And two, either he didn't smoke that much that morning or, I don't know. Either the swab test was weak or faulty, or maybe it showed pot but no other substances and they passed him anyway. I don't think his story was 100% truthful, in any case.

I appreciate the offer, but I doubt I will have the time anywhere in the near future to dedicate to building one.

I love your trackball suggestion though, this one looks pretty good and seems to come with a software that looks like it could be used to disable all the clicking areas: https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-SlimBlade-Trackball-Mouse-K72327U/dp/B001MTE32Y

Only issue is what I would do for the mouse buttons. Any suggestions in that regard? Ideally I would be able to have the same left, right, back, and forward buttons I have on my current mouse, but most solutions I see online are only single or paired pedals (and priced kinda ridiculously tbh).

As I was typing this I realized another issue, what to do about a scroll wheel? I make heavy use of the scroll wheel, but I cannot see myself replication the action with my foot or toes... Maybe some kind of toggle to switch the trackball to a scroll wheel? Maybe a second track ball for the other foot? Would still be less than ideal since I make frequent use of the click action of a scroll wheel, but maybe I can rig that action to my keyboard using Auto hotkeys.

I'm a design engineer, so 80%+ of my day is CAD modeling. I use an (ELECOM)[https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B016QCPNUW/ref=dp_ob_neva_mobile] wireless trackball for my main mouse hand, and I have a 3Dconnection SpacePilot Pro for my secondary hand. I absolutely love both of those. I love that particular trackball because it has three proper finger buttons, so I have a real middle mouse button instead of having to use (and wear out ) the scroll wheel button. I've been using track balls for close to 5 years of constant CAD work with no hand pains. Last year when my fourth Logitech trackball broke, I got a Logitech MX master, but it started giving me wrist pains after 2 weeks of use. That's when I found the ELECOM. If you are heavy into 3D in CAD, and tend to visualize in 3D, then the trackball is worth exploring. At $40 it should be easy to convince your boss to buy you one. My productivity increase is orders of magnitude more valuable than the cost of all the different nice I've used. I just need took find a way to justify a proper mech keyboard once my MS sculpt keyboard eventually dies.

Shhh, you're going to call the controversy carols into this room with those K3KCs haha.

Wait, they don't make a beige 45g RF? I could've swore they did, but now that I'm thinking, I don't remember a user with one. A dome swap would be pretty cool to do though, but not sure what you would do with your extra RF87U (maybe one for work and one for home?).

I wish there were more finger trackballs with quality equitable to the CST. I've recently ordered Elecom's new finger trackball from Japan and should have it sometime this week according to tracking. I'll be writing about my inital impressions of it when I receive it and probably a review a month later. I'm hoping it'll be smooth and awesome.

Note: I have smallish hands for a guy.

I have the Elecom wired version, and I love everything about it. It's a little smaller than the Logitech, but I don't have any problem with it. For $48, I suggest you take the plunge. Give it a couple weeks to get used to the size if your first impression is "wow this is small".

What I do have problems with are huge trackballs the size of pool-balls, e.g. the CST trackballs.

Note: previous trackballs were the Microsoft Trackball Explorer and then the Logitech Cordless Optical Trackman. The MS was my all-time favorite, but I wore it out in about 5 years. The Logitech was good, but I wasn't in love with it. I actually prefer the Elecom to it. The MS is still the winner, and if I found a stash of a dozen new ones at a reasonable price I'd snap them all up. :)

The Elecom DT2DRBK is currently £45 with shipping. A little over your budget, but a good trackball. I got the wired version and I love it. Trackballs are kind of a niche product and are kind of expensive. You might be able to get something cheaper, but the one I linked to has tons of customizable buttons, and a sniper switch for going between fine movements and regular usage. That may sound like stuff that's only needed for gaming but having thigns like copy/paste and undo/redo can make you much more efficient at getting work done.

They also have similar models with a thumb ball if you prefer that.

Thank you for your very thorough response, BlahmanTT! This really helped a lot and I think I will purchase the Elecom Huge on Amazon later today to give it a try. I should note I also use Linux, so the re-mapping you mention definitely caught my attention - don't suppose you have details to help me avoid headaches with this later? With that said though, I am still trying to visualize how exactly you re-mapped the EM's buttons. It sounds like you did experience some "stretching" issues to be able to use the LMB and RMB, hence re-bindings. I play games where I use the LMB and RMB a lot quickly back-to-back, so any more clarity you can offer around this topic, would really help me. Like, are you operating LMB --and-- RMB with your thumb? I should note, with the trackman marble mouse I use, I'm using thumb for LMB, ring-finger for RMB, and my index+middle fingers to move the trackball, so I'm already a two-finger ball operator (although, I frequently lift either my index finger or middle finger completely off the ball for certain movements. And, for non-gaming [or gaming with no RMB needs], I use my index-through-ring fingers to operate the ball.).

​

I included links to both products in question, to aide discussion for visualizing. I see the buttons on the Elecom Huge are actually labelled on Amazon, so perhaps you specify which you've bound to what function, to make the mouse ergonomic for you? And if, had you left the default button bindings alone, if you felt it still would have been ergonomic/enjoyable to use?

I used to love my TrackMan FX Marbles (I had two), but for the exact reasons why I hate that evil bastard you linked to. ;\^P

• Big ball over tiny ball. The small ball means less sensitivity. The large ball on the FX (with the small hole so you could use your thumb as a brake with varied pressure making it easy to vary your control) was brilliant. Small ball means very little control.
  
  
• Thumbs are not good for pointing! There a reason you point with your index finger and a reason you use your index finger on a touch pad. You may have more rotation in your thumbs versus fingers (90° vs 45°) but most people are used to pointing with their index fingers. Your finger follow the natural extension of your arm. It's perfectly line-of-site down the arm. Since the thumb rests on the side of the hand, drawing a + comes out like an X.
  
  
  Thumb trackballs are among the most uncomfortable methods of control I've ever used.
  
  
  Of course, this is all personal opinion. Obviously they're popular since they're still selling them. If I could find an FX for under $75 I might even consider going back, but I've grown so accustomed to mice that when I got a finger trackball for work (and at home) recently, I ended up returning one and giving the other away because I couldn't game or get comfortable with them.

I've tried miming your range of motion as best as I could understand. With your left hand having more mobility, have you considered the Logitech G13? It's completely programmable and FFXIV compatible. The little thumb joystick set to "Joystick" in the peripheral's software will control character movement. Alternatively you could program Up, Left, Down, & Right to WASD, respectively. The product itself is heavy enough and has rubber mats underneath for grip. Depending on where you put it, pushing the thumbstick with whole wrist or arm movements ought not budge it awkwardly out of the way.

This post by /u/rabidpug describes his setup for the device which makes the game playable with one hand. While his setup is rather complicated it could give you ideas to really make it your own.

Edit: Additional thoughts

I know you said you didn't want to purchase additional hardware (and that's basically been my entire post, sorry). I've been thinking about your right arm's mobility and am curious if you've also considered a trackball like this one by Kensington. I've been trying to mime your right arm by elbow movements only, and it seems this particular trackball might work as the ball itself is prominent at the top of the device. The two mouse clicks on either side could work if you're comfortable or able to raise your elbow and (for lack of better terminology, sorry) karate chop them.

My apologies if I'm coming across rude or inconsiderate.

Done a bit of research on Ergonomic mice and keyboards lately and I have to say that I'm very happy with what I went with.

If you're willing to go through a little bit of a learning curve, a ball mouse is a great way to go (though not for everyone and not for gaming). The one I have for now is the Kensington Orbit ($23). Though I'll probably upgrade to one of their wireless versions in the near future since I enjoy it so much.

And the keyboard (less of a learning curve) that I went with and am in love with (also not for gaming) is the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard ($59).

Heck, and while I'm at it I'll suggest a great (so far) cheap ass computer chair($80) I've been using as well.

These are fucking awesome!

I use them for gaming, both FPS and things like WoW, minecraft, etc, and you get used to it very quickly. I went from numb arm after about 4 hours of play, especially on WoW, to being able to play all day without any issues. I don't like normal trackballs, the thumb ones are just the fuckin best.

This one is specifically the one I have at home, and it cost me like $15.

I'm new to trackballs. I'm very good with a mouse(good as sniper on FPS games), but I'm always looking for mice that allow my finger dexterity to control the cursor. I just get the feeling that being able to use a trackball would be interesting and have some advantages. I also like being lazy and not needing a large desk.

I ordered an M570 but it is delayed and probably not going to be delivered. I'm worried though, that the thumb trackball might not give me the precision I'm looking for.

I like the look for the Elecom M-DT2 but I'm scared of making the wrong choice.

What kind of games do you play with the M-XT3? I like playing TF2 as a Sniper, I'm very good at it. Would your mouse allow for precision sniping? Or would a M-DT2 allow for better precision for sniping etc? https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-M-DT2URBK-Trackball-finger-function/dp/B0171QQ7IY

PS* I know I'm going to be awful for a long time but trackballs.

The Kensington Orbit with scroll ring is pretty inexpensive, sounds like a good fit for you. The scroll ring is really awesome to flick with your ring finger, and the ball was the right size for me (it's not huge or tiny). I just wish they made a wireless version the same size and gave it a third button ( if you need middle click, you have to click left and right simultaneously).

It's only $30 on Amazon and there's a 15% off coupon available (at least when I looked).

Kensington Orbit Trackball Mouse with Scroll Ring (K72337US) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002OOWB3O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_WguQAbWXNCMA7

Might I suggest getting her a trackball instead? They are very handy, work as good as a mouse, but allow for a different experience, especially for those of us who have trouble with using a mouse. Variations here and here give you an idea of the choices available in form, like specialized keyboards.

Also, they may be coming out with a flip version of a smartphone (Samsung, I believe?) in the near future. Is your mom a Star Trek:TOS fan, by chance?

Also, you might try buying her a cheap tablet, and loading a few games into it, to get her used to using the form factor. (Hey, that's why Microsoft invented Minesweeper and Solitaire, so it's not as dumb an idea as it sounds... and not mine - obviously. "Good minds invent, GREAT minds steal. " heh )

Yeah, at first you could find trackballs, keyboards, little d-pads like on game controllers, and trackpads on phones. The recent BlackBerry KEYone had a hidden setting that allowed you to rub your fingers over the keyboard and move the mouse cursor on the screen like a trackpad on a laptop. Android has full support for mouse cursors, and last I checked there are a few apps that allow rooted phones to have a little trackpad on their screen.

For some operations, it sucks. But for a lot of navigation, it takes a lot less effort to keep your finger in the same place. The Nexus One I linked to in the original post would let you scroll down a webpage with it, and as you scrolled, it would also highlight links on the screen. Then you push in the ball, it makes a little click, and it takes you to the webpage. I liked that. ♥

Logitech and Kensington still make computer trackballs, and even release new designs now and then! The current popular one for hardcore users seems to be this one, though: https://www.amazon.com/CST2545-5W-Ambidextrous-Performance-Ergonomic-Trackball/dp/B00YI07MC2/ There's a review on one of the product pages from someone who swears by it for playing Planetside 2, lol. 99% of people say those who play FPS games with trackballs are nuts, but the other 1% say it's so much better. 😁

You can actually replace the switches wholesale (I think, my mouse is the trackman wheel, but I would imagine they'd use similar switch hardware), which sounds way safer and less fiddly than trying to mess with the tiny spring by hand. You just need a soldering iron, desoldering braid and a bit of solder to reattach the switches, all of which are very useful for other things as well.

Looks like the switch manufacturer sells two-packs of the G500 switches, presumably for exactly this purpose.

I really like my Kensington Expert - it feels very well made, aside from the scroll wheel/ring (it is as crummy as they say. It's usable, but feels very inconsistent).

I believe the consensus generally favors the CST Laser that was recently on MD, though I have heard some say that they liked the Kensington better. I just saw a new one today for the first time, and am interested in how it does over time (sounds like the software is a weakness, and I use Linux, so we'll have to see):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0735584RM/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I1D0AHRBU67CPA&colid=1HLUKKQ9HQI6Q

What I'm using now. I went from an M570 to this. I've had it about half a year now, no qualms. I loved the M570 but it simply didn't last for me. The only problem with the Elecom is that it doesn't track the stock trackball well. It's best to swap it with the blue Logitech ball. Overall, the Elecom feels better built and the switches are very responsive.

[this one](http://Kensington SlimBlade Trackball Mouse (K72327U) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001MTE32Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZZz3DbZHP9SBY) is my current, I love the shit out if it but I need a new mouse for my new cad machine and I think this is the winner, thanks op

Ah! What's up man! I was looking at the this one
My reasoning was that this mouse, unlike the Logitech m570 doesn't have a staggered right and left click so it'd feel more natural to me. They come in both left and right hand and wired vs wireless. I was probably gonna do wired right hand.

I have heard great things about the m570, my point is based only in opinion.

I considered that and the slimblade. The wrist rests are nice, and I really like the one on the Elecom Huge.

Although I realize they have scroll wheels as well, I also wanted scroll wheel tilt. Wish I could get just like 2 scroll wheels, actually I basically want this


But I guess I will try the M-XT3DRBK and see how that goes. After that I guess I am out of options and will just go back to using an MX Master mouse.

I know that you can take the ball out easily for cleaning, but you make a great point lol. For what it's worth, if you could find a replacement ball for this mouse, it may work. http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Trackman-Wheel-Optical-Silver/dp/B00005NIMJ

Seems I am late to the party, but maybe you're still looking for some insight. Up until I switched over to an Expert Mouse a couple years back I'd go through about three mice a year. Either the buttons would stop being responsive or the optical sensor became jittery over time. Which isn't very good when you're coding or designing something. Even though it's been just about two years now I've had no issue with the trackball.

Do you have any charity/thrift shops around? Especially if you're in a metro-area there's a good shot you'll be able to pick one up to play with for a few bucks. Just map out a few places to check out, and who knows you may even find some other peripheral that might be useful. It might take a couple rounds, but it's still cheaper and leaving the house once and awhile is good.

This is the model we have, but it doesn't have any sort of optical sensor on the bottom, so moving it around like a normal mouse wouldn't do anything. They work great for the people who like them. :P

Oddly some of the most comfortable designs are also out of production now, like the two ianisthewalrus suggests - if you can find them at a sane price then awesome, but they can also be pretty extortionate these days.

That being the case I'd suggest trying out something like the Logitech m570 (which is a thumb ball - ie the ball's operated by your thumb), or the Kensington Orbit Trackball Scroll (which is a finger ball); both are under $30 and either would be a decent device to trial.

This is my favorite - Huge and around $60 for the wired version is a great price. The CST I have in the picture is a solid trackball, but I feel it's over priced and not as comfortable as the Huge. But you can't put a billiard ball in the huge, so if customization is what you want then the CST is a good option.

Right now I prefer (fun wise) dual joysticks and headtracker (use an air mouse, trackIR, wiimote etc.). With that setup you can aim your class 1 and 2 effectively and look around using tab. PM me for a xml Stoic made that correctly decouples mouse/joystick, if you're interested.


For joystick + mouse, was thinking of using this trackball: http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Mouse-Optical-Trackball/dp/B00009KH63/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411624606&sr=8-1&keywords=expert+trackball

or the wiimote. There's a 3rd option I need to setup soon which is gamepad based (good for FPS as well), but with the ability to effectively aim/look, not using the thumbstick. All of them should work well. For bigger ships I bought an eclipse flight yoke:

http://store01.prostores.com/x-planestore/catalog/eclipseyoke_store.jpg

It can do yaw, pitch, and roll (most yokes can't without peddles) and has dozens of buttons. I'll probably get a HOTAS too at some point, but dual sticks works about the same. I also have some other more exotic setups that are WIP.

It's very personal, which doesn't give you an easy answer unfortunately.

I supply my own mice at work too, I use one of these - elecom huge finger trackball which I had to import from Japan, but that's because I find trackballs far more comfortable than normal mice and no-one seems to sell ergonomic trackballs in the UK.

I have problems with strain in my hands, I have tried dozens of mice and spent a few hundred quid over the years on different mice. I have friends in similar positions who've done the same and ended up with completely different mice though so it's very personal (though worth noting all of us who have problems with strain/RSI/pain in our hands have settled on either vertical mice or trackballs. We're also super fun at parties).

Something else I do is map the key in the top left of the keyboard (above tab) to be a left click (using autohotkey), then for tasks that involve lots of clicking I can use my left hand to click instead which reduces the strain on my right. I would type the characters instead of describing the key but I can't because some idiot turned it into a left click instead. I'm not sure I've ever needed those characters before this moment.

If you're getting ache in your hands it's worth addressing, mice can make a big difference while ignoring the problem can lead to that hand ache getting worse and starting to affect your quality of life.

Do not spend too much until you find a style you really like.

I think the biggest decision to make first is thumb ball or no thumb ball. Some love it, some hate it. I personally am not a thumb ball fan.

I found the cheapest way for me to find a style I liked was to find the various styles at thrift stores. I ended up get a older thumb ball logitech for $3, and another older logitech smaller ball style. I used both for a few days each.

After finding I did not like the thumb ball, but liked the other trackball quite a bit. I ended up order a new Kesington Orbit with scroll ring.
http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-K72337US-Orbit-Trackball-Scroll/dp/B002OOWB3O/ref=pd_sim_sbs_e_2

Really like it a lot, all my wrist pain went away. Ended up getting a second one to keep at work too.

I eventually want to try the larger Kensington Pro trackballs, but the cost stops me. Always looking for a used one though.

As a side note, I did use one of those scroll bar mice before, on an old Outbound laptop. They are very interesting, but I did not get to use it enough to get a good feel for it.

Well, I honestly couldn't tell you. I kinda suspect it's because the Logitech Trackman Marble FX that we had used your fingers in... somewhat unusual ways.

It's this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-TrackMan-Marble-FX-Trackball/dp/B00000JBUI

If you're used to a regular mouse, you use your hand to move it, your index finger for the left button, middle finger for the right button.

On the Trackman, you'd use the side of your thumb to hit the left mouse button, you'd use the pad of your thumb, plus index and middle finger to move the ball and you'd use your ring finger for the right mouse button. If you grew up using one like I did, you'd love it.

My older coworkers weren't great at using the PC anyway, so adding the unusual trackball to it was just too much for them. They couldn't work out how to move the pointer accurately.

I've used a trackball for about eight years now, both personally and at work. Occasionally I go shopping for a new and improved version but I always eventually settle on the same one:

Logitech Trackman Wheel Optical. It's very similar to the one you recommend, and although I own three (for various work stations) only one is newer than a year old. My oldest is four years old and still works perfectly.

For anyone new to trackballs: they need to be cleaned regularly. The best method is to use rubbing alcohol on the ball and contact points (inside the recess where the ball normally sits), but I've found that simply removing the ball and picking out the lint that builds up every few weeks is enough to keep 'em accurate and smooth.

I used to use a trackball mouse by logitech... and loved it. Now I use a trackball from Kensignton and love that too--took a while to get used to it. The ergonomics were a bit better for the logitech mouse. Specifically this mouse

So if I might piggy back on your question and maybe turn it into a suggestion, on the use of a trackball, could you buy I think what they call a 3D Mouse, the ones with the big trackballs on the outside, and somehow rig that to work with the machine for the games that require the trackballs? I'm not entirely sure if the details in how that would work, as I'm new to the arcade cabinet scene, but I figured it couldn't hurt to recommend it and see what you would think for that. I used one through a PC of course but with MAME.

Edit: To specify be able to use the mouse efficiently and comfortably.
Edit Again: Something like this https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Wireless-Trackball-K72359WW/dp/B01936N73I/ref=zg_bs_172499_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=96BHRSX594XDWHF5NM8H

Unfortunately logitech doesn't make anything good anymore, so I recommend going back to when they did make something good. The corded version of the M570 isn't made anymore, but you can get it on amazon for about $65 used (ignore the $300 for a NIB one) and they often go on ebay or second hand store for less. I've been using the same one for at least 8 years and it's still going strong.

Definitely check out r/trackballs.
I have a logitech trackman marble that I like and it's the index/pointer style as opposed to the thumb ball style. Only complaint was no scroll wheel.

The elecom huge is a really popular and praised trackball. Comes in wireless as well. It's one of the only thumb style with a larger marble.

https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-M-HT1URBK-Trackball-Ergonomic-Precision/dp/B07353DBP9/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=elecom+huge&qid=1571436512&sprefix=elecom+&sr=8-2


Edit: trying to left click quickly with my thumb was just not working for me, so I swapped back to a normal mouse.

They tend to be kind of tough to find. I use an Elecom thumb trackball that I imported from Japan. It has a couple extra buttons that can be reprogrammed, and a physical switch you can use to adjust the dpi in addition to software.

The much more common Logitech one has programmable buttons, but no DPI adjustment. It
is probably the easiest one to find though, and most people that use an Elecom actually replace its stock black ball with the blue Logitech one anyway, since it has better tracking with it.

If you're interested in a trackball that is operated with your other fingers rather than your thumb, something like these from the trackball subreddit, then you'd have to ask someone over at /r/trackballs because I know very little about them.

Might check out the wired M-XT3URBK.

Hit the same wall with my M570 over the past two months; all three switches were becoming unusably noisy, even with a good deal of pampering.


I have very long hands and it still feels reasonably comfortable. The ball it ships with tracks extremely well is and very smooth; have heard the exact opposite, but maybe the issues with the previous models have been fixed. Overall seems like a better build than the M570. I've only had it for a couple days, so I can't give any long-term feedback.

Just FYI, that price tag is msrp. Amazon is currently selling it for ¥6853 which is roughly $60

here's the link to Amazon Japan

I didn't look for the wireless version but it should be no more than $10 more.

Now the question is: to get a wired or wireless trackball.. mostly used for gaming, but the freedom of wireless is nice. Oh the decisions!

Edit: link not working due to Japanese characters. Just google it, and you'll see the price tag. Also, it comes out on 7/22/17

In my ghetto cockpit (nowadays used solely with the oculus) I have found that a Trackball on the left hand (throttle) is the best solution.

I bought a very cheap ambidextrous trackball with scroll wheel, the added bonus is that the scroll wheel is horizontal son turning knobs is kind of more natural:

https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Orbit-Trackball-Scroll-K72337US/dp/B002OOWB3O/ref=pd_lpo_147_lp_img_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=7FV7JPS7DN5SA09EH7PD

It takes a couple of hours to get used to it if you are right handed like me, but after that is pretty natural and fast (at least with the oculus where part of the pointing is done with your head (don’t know if trackIr work the same).

Anyway, an idea to consider.


I may open a thread somewhere with pictures of my multipurpose cockpit (race/flight) so people can grab ideas from it as most solutions are hacked together and are already 'combat proven' ;D.

As someone who has used trackballs for the better part of seven years, I would highly recommend them for gaming, however, the one OP has I would highly advise against. There's two practical types of trackballs I know of - thumb operated and finger operated. The thumb operated ones like this and this are second to none for FPS games if you can handle the relatively small learning curve and few buttons. The finger operated ones like OP's are truly bizarre to use and take quite some time to become proficent enough to perform the most trivial tasks

I like the kensington trackball expert mouse. Its like the size of a pool ball and really easy on the fingers and wrist. And it has a scroll ring that is easy to get used to.

There are some pretty great third party replacement balls available: https://www.amazon.com/Perixx-18021-PERIPRO-303GR-Trackball-Compatible/dp/B071NX7Y2J/

Not wireless, but you can get a Kensignton Slimblade under $50 if you purchase it at the Amazon warehouse.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B001MTE32Y/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used

I bought mine there for $40 not long ago. It was supposedly scratched (very good condition), but from what I could tell the box was just slightly scuffed up. Works as good as new.

Here's an example of the Elecom Deft and Deft Pro. Another example: Elecom M-X and M-X Pro.

Some of the changes include:

1. Optimizing the button layout and ergonomics.
   
2. Replacing the black ball with a red ball
   
3. Three selectable connection types: wired, wireless USB, and Blutooth.
   
   In the case of the Huge Pro, it's main gain would probably be point 3.

Elecom MXT. High and low sensitivity switch is great and the programmable buttons are nice. Alt Tab on one button, volume on the other two, it's a pretty solid option.

https://www.amazon.ca/ELECOM-M-XT3DRBK-Wireless-Trackball-function/dp/B016QCPNUW/ref=asc_df_B016QCPNUW/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292925723919&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10153383408756664260&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001598&hvtargid=pla-349694605842&psc=1

Yep, I love trackballs. There are a lot of different options for doing everything.

The one I currently have in my office is the Kensington Expert
http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Optical-Trackball-64325/dp/B00009KH63

Using their software, you can remap the buttons, and even the button combos (e.g. hitting the top two buttons copies, bottom two pastes) and you can make this application-specific.

It has a scrollwheel, and once I got used to its design, it made me a ton more productive.

As a more entry-level option, maybe go with:
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-910-000806-Trackman-Marble-Mouse/dp/B001F42MKG/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1324495928&sr=1-2

You can use software add-ons to make the trackball act as a 2d scroll wheel when you hold down a button or a key, and it also has four buttons.

Both of these mice are ambidextrous, which a lot of thumb-operated trackballs aren't. I like having the ability to switch up my mousing hand occasionally since it lets me load distribute, and keeps my hand/writs problems from flaring up.

Wow thanks for the detailed reply. Is this the Elecom Deft Pro you're talking about?

https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-M-XPT1MRXBK-Trackball-Bluetooth-High-Performance/dp/B07DMF2DNW/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Do you think it would be worth replacing my M570 with this if so?

Just found this Elcom Optical

Switchable DPI and a snipe button (third click, but still!)? This looks like a gaming trackball... I will have to get a hold of this and test it out... Thanks zyxxiforr for the tip!!

Check out the Elecom trackball mice on Amazon. Button placement is a little different than the MS Explorer was, but ball position is the same. On the wired version, the size is very close to the Explorer, and the wireless is larger, with a cushioned palm rest. I have the wireless, and it's so close to the Explorer in functionality. I love it. Prices aren't bad either, at $50 -$60 for one.

ELECOM M-HT1URBK Wired Trackball Mouse Larger, Ergonomic Design, 8-Button Function with Smooth Tracking, Precision Optical Gaming Sensor for Home, Work, Office https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07353DBP9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_C4u2Db1NB8YS8

I actually have a friend that swears by these for gaming.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005NIMJ/

He feels that gives him much more control and also less fatigue and risk of RSI

Here is a reddit thread with some experience regarding trackball mouse for gaming.

https://www.reddit.com/r/truegaming/comments/12xhx6/gaming_trackball/

I am just pointing out that it's not necessarily true that you have better precision with your whole hand than your thumb. Although years of using a mouse with PC FPS may give you an advantage over console controllers, that's more of a player muscle training and less of a peripheral advantage.

Two recommendations:

1. Full desk mouse mat, very helpful especially with 2 mice. Makes it look clean too (which you've don't a great job with so far!)
   
   
2. You should check out a Nice trackball or a track pad for whichever computer you don't game on, it'll save space, and it'll look a bit cleaner since there aren't 2 mice on the desk.

This one was/is my favorite

Edit: Agree - Finger control far superior.

If his left hand is at or near 100%, I'd definitely recommend a trackball. It doesn't have to be that toy-like one, you can get relatively large trackballs that look professional: https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Wireless-Trackball-K72359WW/dp/B01936N73I/ref=lp_172499_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1542739066&sr=1-3

I've found trackballs are relatively easy to use with your off-hand, so hopefully he won't have too much trouble adapting to it.

This is pretty fun to play with.

It probably will. However, I don't recommend thumb trackballs. Too much repetition on a single digit, especially if you have smaller hands.

Regarding wrist pain: hold out your hand as if giving someone a handshake. Now untwist it so that you are putting the least pressure on your wrist as possible. Your palm isn't directly facing down as it does using a generic flat and symmetrical mouse. This angle is the neutral and least harmful angle of your wrist while using a computer.

Try a mouse with some angle on it (a vertical mouse is the extreme attempt at a solution at this), or a finger trackball mounted at an angle to match your wrist.

Likewise, a keyboard that is not flat and does not scrunch your wrists in or out while typing is also very important to reduce wrist strain.

Things I like using for desk ergonomics:

http://www.amazon.com/Goldtouch-GTU-0088-Adjustable-Comfort-Keyboard/dp/B005ZLTNN4/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1450366157&sr=1-1&keywords=goldtouch+keyboard

http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Orbit-Trackball-Mouse-Scroll/dp/B002OOWB3O/ref=sr_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1450366070&sr=1-3&keywords=kensington+trackball

>the ball is a little sticky

It gets better over time, but not significantly. This replacement ball fits perfectly and is a lot smoother.

Or, if you don't have a joystick, try a cheap trackball. My Kensington Orbit has been amazing on this game. Trackball for nudging the mouse control around, scroll ring for throttle, works great.

what mouse? Try this one here.

I use two of them, one each hand and i'm awesome.

I was a big fan of the MS Trackball explorer https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-D68-00007-Trackball-Explorer/dp/B00005853Z

I recently bought both the Kensington Expert and the Elecom fingerball variant.

The elecom is indeed quite small. Nonetheless it is perfectly usable.

I still like to use the Kensington Expert for its larger trackball (I am so curious about the SlimBlade but I can't spend the money when I have two functional trackballs already). But the Elecom feels very smooth and more responsive for gaming.

Perixx glossy red 34mm from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071NX7Y2J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XpZVCb1S7WAY2

I've used both glossy and matte red and they both feel great. I swap between them pretty often, depending on what I'm doing, but I definitely prefer the glossy finish. I would say the finish on the stock MX Ergo ball is somewhere in between the two.

The closest to an actual replacement are the ELECOM trackballs. The ball is slightly bigger which still allows the two finger operation. It has a scroll wheel as well as finger buttons (more ergonomically placed than the MS Trackball Explorer IMO.) Adjustable DPI, rubberized palm rest. As well as two function keys, Fn1, Fn2.

Wireless version: https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-M-HT1DRBK-Wireless-Trackball-Mouse/dp/B0735584RM

Wired version: https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-M-HT1DRBK-Wireless-Trackball-Mouse/dp/B07353DBP9

Whether it has the durability of the MS Trackball Explorer - unknown. My two MS Trackball Explorers are still working from early 2001 (bearing replacement.) This is the best option available beyond 3d printing your own replacement parts...

Fat hands checking in. I use a trackball with a huge ball:

https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Trackball-Mouse-K64325/dp/B00009KH63

I was having a lot of wrist pain using mice, but using the trackball my wrist stays relaxed so I can game longer without discomfort. Might be worth a try!

What about all of the games that use mouse only? There are great trackballs that work well for people with disabilities.

• BIGtrack Trackball (can be expanded with large buttons for feet or palms)
  
• Kensington Expert
  
• Kensington Slingblade

That would probably work, I always found the thumb ones awkward though. Microsoft explorer this one was my favorite just had all the ergonomics. Had to clean it fairly often though haha

TL;DR - Get the Deft Pro if it gets cheaper in the UK for larger hands. You can try and buy it from the Amazon US store. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C9T4TTW . I have bought things from Amazon UK, so I expect things work in the other direction as well. You will see a money unit conversion on the order.

​

I have large hands too. Length wise, my right hand is 8 inches with a 4.5 inch palm. I just got both the Deft Pro and Huge for comparison purposes. Here, (https://www.reddit.com/r/Trackballs/comments/bc5g0a/elecom_deft_pro_vs_huge/) I'm comparing the two. While the Huge is definitely bigger in size technically, there's more "mouse" for your palm on the Deft Pro. I do like the size of the trackball so far today on the Huge, but I am starting to see that the wrist rest ultimately makes the mouse dangerous to use for large hands... maybe even medium hands. I can tell a "twinge" of sorts start on the right side of my wrist. I would stop using it if you're feeling anything like I am... and I just got it today too.

Hello! Fellow trackball user here. At first I overcame this with a macro keyboard (Logitech G910 that lets you macro scrollwheel to keys) and then I later upgraded my trackball from the Logitech Ambidex (I use a left hand for my trackball!) to a Kensington. https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Trackball-Mouse-K64325/dp/B00009KH63/ This one has a scroll wheel, its design just takes a little time to get used to. If she uses right hand trackballs there are quite a bit more options.

> Trackballs are bigger and bulkier than smaller, more portable laser mice.

The ones on the market right now are for sure. It is possible to make smaller trackballs though. Some Blackberries have a trackball on the front.

This comes down to how they are designed. Right now, there are no portable trackballs being made by big companies. There were plenty of portable trackball devices being built back in the late 90's.

Portability is possible but not really purchasable off the shelf right now.

> Trackballs are more expensive than a basic laser mouse.

They can be similar priced the price is higher because of less competition in the trackball market than the mouse market. There are under 10 consumer trackball models available for purchase right now.

Price is not a functional disadvantage.

> Trackballs get clogged with jizz much easier

Haha, no. Modern trackballs are about the same as a laser mouse.

If you game the button will go out first. Most mice I've had (trackball or not) don't last more than a couple years before they start double clicking.

My elecom EX-G (this is the US version I have the original JP version) has started to double click/miss clicks after a couple years.

PS If you want to get that mouse get the logitech m570 ball. The default ball tracks like garbage at high speeds.

Is there a model of mouse that has dual sensors like a track ball and a traditional bottom sensor like a normal mouse? I imagine it would look like this ELECOM M-XT3DRBK mouse but from the videos on it I saw it is just the trackball that registers movement. I am interested in getting a "different" sort of mouse, but not unnecessarily complicated with a ton of buttons for gaming but I'm not sure where to start.

Elecom trackball. I got the huge wired version and it's the best mouse/trackball I've ever used.

Closest I have found is the Logitech G502, but that's wired, doesn't have as many buttons, and costs twice as much. Trackballs are a little easier. A direct (and awesome) trackball equivalent for this mouse would easily be the Elecom Huge.

I use this guy and now can't live without it. I had to get one for home use on top of having one at work. The grey ring is the scroll ring. I let a coworker use it for an hour or two and got him pretty well hooked on it too.

If you want something built like a tank, you might want to try one of the CST trackballs - they're available in several variants, including a beige one to match old keyboards.

If you want something more ergonomic, there's the new Elecom HUGE, but as it just came out a few days ago, we don't know how long it'll last.

And finally, if you want retro, nothing beats the good old Microsoft Trackball Explorer, but it's out of production for well over a decade and might be expensive. (but can be bought cheaply if you're willing to spend some time, use google translate and look for it on eastern/central european auction sites or taobao) - but, like most old trackballs, its DPI is really meh and you'll probably have to replce the bearings or it'll feel scratchy.

I would recommend a trackball as well. Here is the one I use at work daily: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002OOWB3O/ref=psdcmw_11036491_t1_B00009KH63.

This relieved a lot of the symptoms I was having in my right hand/wrist.

I’ll save you time and link to the Deft Pro listing on Amazon US. :-)

>https://www.kensington.com/us/us/4493/k64325/expert-mouse-wired-trackball

>Other than that, the trackball is glorious to play on.

Heresy!

Nothing is superior to the Logitech Trackball. We will now have a moment of silence for the venerable Trackman that has passed beyond the rim.

I have a kensington trackball mouse. It is like becoming a god among men when you use a trackball. Its not one of those sissy thumb trackballs either.

It looks like this.

The reviews on this are pretty good, and I may pick one up with my next paycheck.

That said, I still prefer my Razr Death Adder vs my M570 for FPS gaming. It gives you just that much of an edge, which you need if you're a huge try-hard like myself.

You can use the middle finger for the ball no problems. Mice are for dumbasses that don't know any better.

Right click with ring finger. Move ball with middle finger. Left click with thumb. You don't have to use the top 3 buttons. All buttons are reprogramable. Mouse wheel is also a click and Mouse wheel up click and Mouse wheel down click. You don't ever have to use an index finger.

Rollercoaster tycoon. Awesome. This definitely works nice with rollercoaster tycoon.

https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-Wireless-trackball-function-M-DT2DRBK/dp/B0171QQ7FM

Have you looked at the Elecom M-XT3? A lot of m570 users here have tried it and liked it. I personally wasn't satisfied with the build quality of the m570 when I tried it (the middle click in particular was awful). I haven't used Elecom's XT3, but the switches on their DT2 (their fingerball model) are pretty decent. I can't speak to the longevity of Elecom's trackballs though.

Try air keyboard, maybe you can make a custom layout that would suit her.

This is what I use to control my pc L-Trac Glow Backlit Trackball

Good luck

• MTE = Microsoft Trackball Explorer
  
• LCOT = Logitech Cordless Optical TrackMan
  
• LCTFX = Logitech Cordless TrackMan FX
  
  These are older/discontinued models. The Elecoms are new/still being made. I have both the Huge (which is aptly named) and the Deft (considerably smaller) and I really like both. I have the wired versions, so I can't speak to the quality of the wireless/bluetooth. I've not tried the Deft Pro; it seems to be something of a middle ground between the Deft and Huge.
  
  E: added details and links

Yep, true that! . . . This design might even make me switch over to a fingerball from my Elecom M-XT3DRBK thumbball. Which is fuck'n stellar!

I had a wireless version of that elecom trackball that I got from amazon japan about a month after it was released back in 2014-15? It broke down about a year later, it also seemed to have trouble with the receiver.

I switched to the finger version of the trackball, and went with a wired this time. It's my favourite trackball right now, but it does take some getting used to if you have large hands because it's rather small compared to other trackballs. One thing to note is that I think they've updated the elecom trackball the one linked shows the model M-XT1URBK, but a search on amazon japan shows M-XT3URBK. One more thing is I believe the m570 balls will fit in either of the elecoms, I believe there were a few complaints about the stock balls not rolling nicely.

I too have given up on logitech a long time ago and went with kensington, and got a slimblade and an orbit. They both work well, but the slimblade is pricey, and the orbit lacking in buttons.

Now I've switched to buying japanese trackballs, like sanwa and elecom from amazon japan, I currently use these trackballs.
Elecom M-DT2URBK: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0171QQ7IY
Sanwa MA-TB39BK: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0042UINC6

Take it one step further and get a high quality trackball. Not only will you take strain off your wrist and arm, most people find them to be much more efficient and accurate to use.

I haven't used a mouse (at my own desk anyway) for over fifteen years.




EDIT: These are the two i have and recommend:




Microsoft Trackball explorer. Been on my desk for over a decade.

Logitech TrackMan Marble FX

Ignor the high prices in those links, they can be found much much cheaper.

Would something like a trackball be helpful?

Interesting concept.

First thing that comes to mind is that at that angle, not much is holding in the actual ball.

Assuming you're gonna thumbball it with something already existing, my first guess would be to work around the mx570

If you want a straight drop in like in your render, turns out you can order this trackball part from China. You'd have to wire and program for it yourself though.

The Logitech Trackman Marble FX. Best input device ever made, as far as I'm concerned.

>the best modern trackball.

The Kensington Expert Mouse?

Kensington Slimblade Trackball USB 2.0 for PC and Mac, K72327US by Kensington

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001MTE32Y/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_5q9htb181B7EQ

Hands down the best $90 I've ever spent.

Kensington still makes the Orbit trackball: https://www.amazon.ca/Kensington-K72337US-Orbit-Trackball-Scroll/dp/B002OOWB3O

I have used this mouse daily at work for the last 2 years and love it.

Nope I used to use a M570 then switched over to this after having 2 M570s have issues with their microswitches.

Swap out the black marble it comes with with the 570 one and it's glorious for a gaming thumb trackball.

Most of this user's problem is the utter lack of decent non-thumb trackballs available. Logitech stopped making arguably the best one on the American market (they sell for like $400 now). Your end user may be interested in this product.

Elecom M-DT2URBK

My Elecom Huge has been rather quiet. I haven't had it long, less than a week so far. Others can probably comment better, but it seems to fit what you are looking for.

Trackballs = Profit.

I sold two old Microsoft Trackballs for around $150 each on Amazon. They are now going for $169-$498 dollars!!

The Trackman is okay but it doesn't have any kind of scrolling mechanism. I really like my Kensington Orbit. 2 buttons and a scroll wheel. It's very convenient.

It's for work? On a laptop? Have you considered trackballs?

The only reason I use the popular expensive mice in this sub is for gaming. If it weren't for gaming, I'd probably be only using a trackball.

Have you felt the feels of a large smooth trackball!? If not, you owe it to your hands to try. (Avoid thumb trackballs.)

Here's a wireless ELECOM M-HT1DRBK . Looks to have some fancy doo-dads in there too. Check it.

Looks like an old Microsoft trackball i used years ago. Still have it somewhere i think.

Edit: link was obviously not this expensive back in the day. Was like $50 then.

https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-D68-00007-Trackball-Explorer/dp/B00005853Z

You might want to look into a large trackball. onus in that they don't require much space and are also good at alleviating carpal tunnel pain.

The kensington trackball is a great one

http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Trackball-Mouse-K64325/dp/B00009KH63

Personally, I found that I tend to consume media - read, watch, listen, click through links, etc - whenever I was away from a desk/table/counter/whatever with my last laptop.

I find that when I need to work or play I'm usually at some sort of sensible horizontal surface.

So, for me, the SP4 made perfect sense. I hate laptop keyboards with an intensity that makes other people uncomfortable and hate touchpads even more - so I use my SP4 with a Bluetooth mechanical keyboard and a Bluetooth trackball and I couldn't be happier. <3

Well, actually, my next KB will be a 60% BT, but whatever. The point is, I never seem to miss my keyboard when I'm away from it and my usage habits seem pretty typical to me from conversations with other people.

Exactly, but I don't really have the time, materials or desire to make something that complex. I've been looking at this.

Also that wooden solution would be so much nicer if the buttons weren't so tacky and bad. I wish they'd put in the extra effort to recess the buttons and then make them flush and wooden topped.

Looks like the Kensington Expert Mouse with a wrist rest of some kind attached to it. Retails for $99, but you can find it through Amazon for $63.96.

EDIT: Actually, the wrist rest seems to be included. It's in the pictures on Amazon.

But what if I don't have a touchpad? What if I have a real mouse with only two buttons? What if I have a 3-button mouse with an unergonomic 3rd button (pretty much every one I've used)?

What I want is middle button emulation on all pointing devices all the time, except when I run a program that itself uses left+right click for some special function, in which case I want to be able to toggle middle button emulation off without restarting X.

I don't think I'm using libinput. I found nothing about it in /var/log/Xorg.0.log, and my machine was originally installed with Fedora 21 and has been upgraded through 22 and 23.

I actually use a trackball mouse + gel mousepad, so my wrist doesn't move at all: it takes a while to get used to it, but after 3 months or so I could game in FPS's just like I could with a normal mouse.

This is the trackball mouse I used to use , however the right button stopped working after 5 years and they are out of production, and the only new trackball mice Logitech makes are wireless (which I am not a fan of) or this Marble mouse , which I found just terrible awkward for gaming. So now I have the Sanwa Trackball . I had to tweak the windows mouse settings to lower the cursor speed to about 60%, it's really, really fast by default.

edit: also, I really hope to one day became a great sc2 player only for the lols that when twitch fans will ask me 'what keyboard and mouse do you use' I can reply with 'Microsoft Ergonomic 4000 and Japanese Trackball'.

Thats the same price as amazon :)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Logitech-Trackball-Cordless-Non-UK-Model/dp/B0043A1F4S

I recently got an Elecom EX-G pro and I'm quite enjoying it.

I actually used that one for a while and had to stop using it because it was putting a lot of stress on my thumb and causing me new pain. I like ones like the Kensignton Expert but it does take some time to get used to. It did take a while to heal up with that through. And although I can't speak to your particular case of RSI my biggest helpers in relieving my pain was through chiropractic care and trigger-point massage.

This is the one I use. I'm not a full-time CAD user, but at my old job I used it a decent amount, and I do a good amount of structural modeling. I like it because it has the scroll wheel as well as the trackball, so you still get the full benefit of the scroll wheel (for zooming and reddit!) without the carpal tunnel.

Plus, no one will steal it because no one knows how to drive it.

By the way, I'm not sure about the price on the one I linked. I don't remember exactly, but it seems much higher than what I paid for it.

You know how sometimes you try something, and it just feels "right"? You come into contact with it, and something twangs deep inside your gut, and you know you'll never find better than that. My first and only trackball mouse is the only computer component that fits in that category for me.

Logitech's brilliant-but-cancelled Trackman Marble FX(ridiculously overpriced link) is the standard that all other trackball mice should strive to achieve. Amazingly comfortable, no sense-memory learning curve, ridiculously precise -- best they ever made. Used mine for the better part of a decade (though it was terrible for many games). When it finally gave up the ghost, I discovered to my great lamentation that Logitech had discontinued it. I am pathologically unable to use any of their trackball thumb mice, so now I'm back to a traditional mouse. It saddens me to know that I'll likely never have another one, but at least I can tell my future grandkids that there was a mouse like that.

I've only used finger controlled ones myself, because i don't like the idea of just using my thumb, and I'm not a gamer. I started out with the kensington orbit optical, and I recently upgraded to the kensington slimblade. I've been extremely happy with both.

Ewww I hate 'hand on top of trackballs' ever since needing them for SPARCstations. This is my fav, though has same button issues: http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-TrackMan-Marble-FX-Trackball/dp/B00000JBUI

ugh, why the thumb trackball? From my experience, they're less precise and a bit more fatiguing on my hand than something like a regular trackball mouse.

Add some programmable buttons like the Kensington Pro and make it a finger-operated trackball; I'd gobble that up.

Not a programmer, but gamer and PC tech. I've used trackballs most of my computing life. I recommend the Kensington Expert Mouse (link below) for general use unless you're looking at the engineering specific ones.

Kensington Expert Trackball Mouse (K64325) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009KH63/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_COgECbHH1BNE6

Trackballs! The good ones are all discontinued.

Logitech

Microsoft

I here these are the best to game with, out of all of the trackball mice. I use this mouse for productivity. I have a logitech g502 that I use for gaming. I am REALLY considering this right now though. There is a drop for them on Massdrop.

They don't click like the steam controller but I like both. This is the mouse I have:

https://www.amazon.com/Elecom-optical-trackball-button-M-XT1URBK/dp/B00O1HYX9C

This one

Ive owned a lot of trackballs and this one is by far my favorite modern offering.

You could look into getting a trackball style mouse if that works better for you
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00009KH63/

Looks good, I use this one from time to time.

I have a fairly cheap Elecom mouse with a good amount of buttons I use to switch between edit tools and set markers on the fly.

ELECOM M-DT2DRBK Wireless index finger Trackball mouse , EX-G series L size 2.4GHz 8 buttons Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0171QQ7FM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wQ6TAbTAC0CBV

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0171QQ7IY/ref=psdc_11036491_t2_B00O1HYX9C

I find that my trackball works adequately, it feels better than a traditional mouse while retaining portability

i had that mouse for a while, it really fatigued my thumb haha. I was thinking of getting something like: https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Orbit-Trackball-Scroll-K72337US/dp/B002OOWB3O/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1496855473&sr=8-5&keywords=trackball

I'm married to a Canadian, not sure why that your your nationality matters.

I highly recommend the Elecom Deft Pro. It is the modern version of the style of trackball linked in your ebay listing. They have the Huge as well, but I feel like that's a bit too large for me.

I can work with thumb balls, but that slim blad thing looks uncomfortable to me.

https://www.amazon.ca/ELECOM-Trackball-M-DPT1MRXBK-High-Performance-Responsiveness/dp/B07C9T4TTW

I had actually 2. First I tried this http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0043A1F4S/ref=s9_top_hd_bw_g147_i7?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&pf_rd_r=0EEWJ1D8EZ7Q60SC9R5H&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=9eec2820-3415-4c0f-adb5-c15eb12cd203&pf_rd_i=172499. But I didn't really like it, the ball placement was kind of weird.

After that I got http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005T406/ref=s9_top_hd_bw_g147_i6?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&pf_rd_r=0EEWJ1D8EZ7Q60SC9R5H&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=9eec2820-3415-4c0f-adb5-c15eb12cd203&pf_rd_i=172499 and I still have this one. The 'mouse' buttons are kind of weird at first, but it was more comfortable than the first one.

i've been playing games with a trackball mouse for the past 3 or 4 years now and I love it. I have amazing control with it and my twitch reflexes are a lot faster now imo, especially since I play a lot of tf2. This is the model I have: trackman


it takes a while to get used to, but now I can't go back to a regular mouse. I dont need all the fancy buttons and insane sensitivity settings, so this was perfect for me.

No gaming mouse but something like this ? :D
https://www.amazon.de/Logitech-M570-Trackball-Mouse-schwarz/dp/B0043A1F4S

You can get a Logitech M570 pretty much anywhere they sell mice, including stores like Target or Staples. Amazon has refurbished ones for about $20. That's a "thumb-style" which means you'll be using your thumb to drive the ball. There are also finger-styles like the Logitech Trackman or the Kensington Orbit. I'm currently using and liking a Kensington Slimblade but at $85 it might be a bit steep for someone who might not even like this particular input method.

Stop by /r/Trackballs for more detailed suggestions and discussion. There are dozens of us!

the trackball looks to me like a Kensington Expert Mouse http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Expert-Trackball-Mouse-K64325/dp/B00009KH63

Not yet. I'm thinking about getting something like the Kensington Slimblade

Looks like this one

Kensington Orbit Trackball Mouse with Scroll Ring (K72337US) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002OOWB3O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ghQszb8HXSNFN

The Elecom HUGE is what I use. If you have especially small hands, the Elecom Deft that /u/Aperture_Kubi linked to could be good as well, but it's quite small relative to other fingerballs.

Looks like an Elecom M-HT1DRBK.

No, that’s the Elecom EX-G Pro! I’m selling the HUGE (model number HT1DRBK) and it’s a finger operated ball, not a thumb ball.

https://www.amazon.de/ELECOM-M-HT1DRBK-Wireless-Trackball-Mouse/dp/B0735584RM/

Believe me, I tried everything I could to reduce the symptoms before getting a fucking cortisone shot pounded into my wrist. That was the end result though: It turns out the short, repetitive movements necessitated by a trackpad are exactly the same type that breed tendonitis. So feel free to rock the trackpad, but be wary of any mysterious twinges of pain in your hand or wrist.

Since that experience I've switched to a trackball mouse which is just ridiculously better.

Has anyone here used this one? I've considered picking it up.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01936N73I/ref=twister_B019DMH6DO?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

edit: the scroll wheel interests me...

It would definitely be challenging to go from using a "normal" mouse to a trackball. I just love my mouse though (Logitech M570). It fits my hand perfectly and is just very comfortable to use. Some people prefer the Elecom trackball. I have used both, but I do not care for the Elecom at all. I am not keen on the placement of the trackball, and the overall design for me is just meh.

http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-910-001799-M570-Wireless-Trackball/dp/B0043T7FXE/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1458870572&sr=1-1&keywords=logitech+m570

^ This is an absolute steal at $27 USD. Not sure how much it would be in Canada (you're Canadian right hockey?)

http://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-Wireless-button-function-M-XT3DRBK/dp/B016QCPNUW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1458870500&sr=8-4&keywords=elecom

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009KH63

I think this is the goto ball mouse that all the cool kids use

>Elecom Huge

https://www.amazon.com/ELECOM-M-HT1DRBK-Wireless-Trackball-Mouse/dp/B0735584RM

You insinuating that trackballs are bad? I genuinely love (and have used for the past 3 years) my Logitech M570 and plan on getting the Elecom M-XTv2 so I can switch my M570 to my laptop.

Don’t laugh those fuckers are like 80 bucks.

https://www.amazon.com/Kensington-SlimBlade-Trackball-Mouse-K72327U/dp/B001MTE32Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_17?keywords=trackball+mouse&qid=1565059705&s=gateway&sprefix=trackball&sr=8-17

I got this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016QCPNUW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Recommended to me by someone here actually!

It's a Microsoft Trackball Explorer. You can have one for the low, low price of $650!

I really hope mine doesn't crap out =\

This trackball would probably work good too, but not as many buttons:

http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-K64325-Expert-Trackball-Mouse/dp/B00009KH63/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1425690244&sr=1-5&keywords=trackball

For what it's worth: cheaper alternative to the Logitech thumb ball, the company makes several variants:
Elecom M-XT3URBK

Nice caps. I have seen plenty of beige-colored trackballs when I was browsing for one but they are all vintage things on ebay with no scroll option. I'm not sure if you could mod them..

The silver orbit is not discontinued on Amazon, but beware that it doesn't have a scroll ring, although I'm sure there's a ball-scroll mod in guides somewhere.

And you can always opt for the silver Expert.

I've given up on Logitech.

I now have three of these Elecom trackballs.

There's a wireless version as well, but... Meh.

I really like it (I have the v.goofily named Elecom HUGE) but I should probably mention the most intense mouse/kb game I play on the regular is Cities: Skylines. Most of what I actually do on here is general office stuff and a lot of photo editing. I can vouch for its accuracy at low speeds (there's so much heft to the ball you can move it with pinpoint accuracy) but it might not be the greatest at twitchier stuff because you don't get that giant range of motion you can get out of a mouse and a big mousepad.

I've used a trackball for everything, including FPS gaming, for about 8 years now. (most recently, this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016QCPO0G/ref=twister_B06XFTP381?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)

For entering automation, I sometimes use a USB MIDI device, but I don't have any problems using the trackball usually

At my last job, people would just take someone else´s mouse if their own one was gone (vicious circle). I had one of these bad boys at home, so I brought it to work and soon I was working faster with the trackball than with a mouse. And it sat on my desk for a year and never got stolen, because I was the only one in the office who could use it properly. I also had a laugh whenever the boss tried to use it to show me something, he was pushing the base around on the desk and couldn´t figure out why it wouldn´t work.