Ranking of the best trackballs for 2020

In the age of modern technology, there is little to surprise a person. In particular, this applies to technology and electronics. Every day we see more and more new gadgets, means of entering information and so on. And many of us have no idea about the functionality of certain new products. Today it will concern computers, or rather one of the devices for entering information into a PC. In this review, we will take a look at a product such as a trackball. For some, this word may seem new and completely unfamiliar, but believe me, we have all come across this device, met with it in one way or another.

So, below we will answer questions such as: "What is a trackball?" "How to use it and what are the main advantages?" We will tell you about everything in detail in the material.

What it is?

By the name, many may attribute the trackball to any kind of sport, but it does not belong to it at all. The concept we are considering is interpreted as one of the devices necessary when working at a computer, which is responsible for moving the cursor on the desktop. Or, in simple terms, it is an advanced computer mouse. But paradoxically, they are presented in stores in very limited quantities, if you can find them at all.

A bit of history

This product takes its history several decades ago. At that time, there were mice that contained metal balls in their bottom part. Their shell was made of rubber. Using their functionality, the cursor was moved.

Our sample, as an independent unit, was invented by trial. Initially, they were used in laptops or gaming joysticks. Gradually, the models were improved due to the shortcomings of the previous samples.

And what did we get today? It is now a separate, completely redesigned device. And by the way, it may well become the leader among conventional mouse designs. Hybrids of both types are very popular.

What can you choose from?

Before choosing one thing, you need to decide on the purpose. Based on this parameter, it is easier to choose a device for a specific range of tasks. And so, consider what they are:

1. Ball position. It can be located on the top, and maybe on the side. The first option is easy to use. Can be operated with both one finger and palm, in case of urgency and dirt on the fingers. The second option is common among those who do everything with their left hand.
2. Color scheme and texture. Here they differ in their ability to friction with the rollers of the ball itself.
3. Buttons. According to this parameter, devices are distinguished that can work with one computer or several at the same time.Simultaneous work with several desktops makes it possible to copy files by ordinary drag and drop.
4. Connection type. It was this point that became fundamental for our review. Back to the types, there are only two: wired and wireless.

Strengths and weaknesses of the trackball

Let's start with the positive.

1. A clear advantage will be the simultaneous work on several tables.
2. Unlike a regular mouse, the trackball is not limited in its workspace.
3. Accurate and fast cursor movement. Moreover, it does not occur at short distances, but at large ones.
4. Perfect for those who have problems with the joints and hands.
5. Also, we will attribute the absence of the need for a special surface for a trackball to a clear advantage. It works great both on glass and on plastic, where, by the way, its predecessors could not move.

The disadvantages include, perhaps, the following:

1. Those who experience some discomfort in the wrist will make their work easier, but at the same time, they will find tension in the fingers.
2. Special care. It is necessary to monitor the cleanliness of the model so that it works efficiently and without interruption.

These are the main points to pay attention to. Now, let's move on to the most important thing.

Ranking of the best trackballs for 2020

Wired samples

Logitech TrackMan Marble

Hybrid sample with built-in four buttons. Has two connection methods: USB and PS / 2.

Convenient for both right hand and left hand control. Manufacturers have provided the easiest control possible, without creating tension in the hands and fingers.

Outwardly it looks like an ordinary mouse, but still, much more perfect than it. The average price for a model is about 3 thousand rubles.

• Takes up a minimum of space on the table;
• No fatigue during long-term work;
• High accuracy.

• Frequent cleaning of the manipulator from dirt.

Kensington Orbit Scroll Ring Trackball

This option will be more expensive than the previous one, but this does not affect its functionality in any way. And so, here we are dealing with a ball and only two buttons. The type of technology used is laser. Outwardly, it also resembles the classic version of the mouse, but smaller in size. The entire body is made entirely in black, and the ball is in deep blue. Comes with a detachable wrist rest for even more comfortable use.

• Small-sized option;
• High-quality performance.

• Not detected.

Kensington Orbit Optical

This model is still the same company, but cheaper. In shape, it is still the same mouse, and even the two buttons present here are located in their classic places. The universal manipulator expands its consumer sector. Some users note a not very high-quality mount, which will begin to creak over time. But the ease of use and excellent placement in the hand overshadows this disadvantage. Such a sample will cost an average of 2220 rubles.

• Convenience;
• The transport quality of the arrow meets the technical specifications.

• Over time, a creak appears.

Kensington Orbit Optical

This specimen is originally from the USA. It is a high quality product. High accuracy of cursor movement is noted by moving your finger across the ball. Acts as an excellent assistant for those who are engaged in drawings or graphic drawings. The movement of the hand will be accurately transmitted to the monitor and thus the excellent quality of the drawing or drawing can be achieved.

Speaking of the cost, here it will be several times more expensive than previous models and will amount to 14 thousand rubles.

• The model is made according to modern technologies of American production;
• Clarity and control over every movement.

• Not detected.

Kensington Expert Black USB

The option is already cheaper, and the design is different from the previous one. Here we can see the same ball - the manipulator, but in the very center. Around it, there is a special ring designed to scroll the desktop.The manufacturers provided for the comfortable use of this sample for both people who write with the right hand and with the left. In addition to the above functionality, four keys are built into the trackball, which are responsible for programming. They are located on both sides of the ball in a proportional ratio. For ease of use, a wrist rest is included that is easy to detach. It is connected in the classic way, via USB. The cable length is slightly less than 2 meters. The average price is 4.5 thousand rubles.

• Lack of sudden movements, everything is quite smooth;
• Versatility of use;
• The length of the cord allows you to connect the model under any conditions, even if the power supply is located remotely.

• Not detected.

Wireless models

This type of product is the most popular because it is more convenient to use. At this point, we will look at the very top representatives.

Logitech MX Ergo

In this version, the ball is located so that it will be convenient to operate it only for right-handers. In addition, there is a scroll wheel, for example, a news feed and eight buttons.

A certain feature in this case is the ability of the ball to change its position, or rather the angle. Logitech MX Ergo implements the transfer of files (text documents, video files, images, etc.) from one computer to another.

As for the connection, it is carried out using a USB connector or Bluetooth. With all this, the signal is picked up at a distance of up to 10 meters, enough to work remotely without any technical interference. Requires periodic recharging approximately every three to four months.

All this functionality formed the high cost of the product, namely a little more than 7,500 thousand.

• Ability to connect without wire;
• Multi functional model;
• The battery charge lasts for a long time;
• Attractive design.

• High price.

Kensington Expert K72359WW

The option is somewhat more expensive, and in appearance it is also different from the previous one. Here we can see a different location of the manipulator, namely, in the very center. Framed with a special ring that allows you to scroll up or down the page. Manufacturers have provided for the use of this sample both for people who write with the right hand and with the left. In addition to the above functionality, four keys are built into the trackball, which are responsible for programming. They are positioned proportionally on both sides of the ball. Provided for ease of use and a wrist rest that is easy to connect.

The price is just over 10,000 rubles.

• Qualitative model;
• Suitable for right-handers and left-handers.

• Not detected.

Logitech M570 Black USB

In this case, the same USB is used for connection, but not a cable, but a receiver. In this case, the operating distance is standard - 10 meters. The work itself is carried out using batteries, which will need to be changed no more often than once every one and a half years.

This is not to say that this trackball is suitable for everyone physically. Its design allows it to be used only by right-handers.

5 keys expand the functionality of the model. Speaking of the software, we note that here it is from the manufacturer Logitech. Perfect for operating systems such as Windows, OC and macOS. When connecting to some devices, you need to install drivers. This moment is important for the full functioning of all available keys. This should be considered when purchasing.

A few more words about design. Such a "mouse" creates comfort for its user; you do not need to make unnecessary, unnecessary movements with it. The price is very affordable and amounts to about a thousand rubles.

• Qualitative model;
• Great software.

• Lefties are not suitable.

Air mouse

The design of this sample is unlike any other and resembles in its shape a dolphin. Manufacturers targeted an audience that mostly works on a laptop.A universal product for people with any physical disabilities (right, left-handed). At the bottom of the trackball is the scroll wheel, and at the top there are 2 keys. It is connected as standard, like all devices presented in this paragraph. The work is carried out using batteries, which, by the way, are not included in the kit.

Suitable for all operating systems and does not require additional installation

The cost of the device is about 1,500 rubles.

• Acceptable price;
• Design for universal use.

• Additional purchase of components.

Which is better?

So, we figured out the design and purpose of the trackball, and also highlighted several advantages, including the minimum occupied area on the working surface. The stress on the hand is less due to the absence of the need to move the device on the table.

Approaching the choice of this or that model, one should take into account its versatility or specialization to any one category, the ball is either on the right side or on the left.

It is logical that there is no single best option, and everything comes from the user's preferences.

Today, Logitech and Kingston are considered the most common manufacturers in our country. They have proven themselves excellently among similar products among users, but we advise you to carefully consider the following criteria in order to satisfy the choice:

1. The ball itself. It should be comfortable to operate without causing any friction. The user should feel the smoothness that is key to the operation of this device. If you feel any friction, then it's best to skip the purchase. There is a chance that the purchase will quickly fail. Those who have already become the proud owner of a trackball note one feature - the larger the circle, the less you need to make movements.
2. Buttons. The classic version implies two, but as we already understood from the review, there may be more of them. More buttons for programming are encouraged. This in one way or another increases the efficiency and functionality of the device.
3. Ergonomics. Here we mean a user-friendly design. Those. when using the hand and forearms should not get tired. Some manufacturers have thought of additional comfort in the form of a removable stand for greater convenience. This component is worth paying attention to those who work for a long time on a PC or laptop.
4. Connection. From the above, it follows that there are two types. Wireless connection can be of two options and the choice remains only with the user. In general, as practice shows, wired connection is preferred by people stationary working at a computer. For those who periodically change their workplace, the wireless type is certainly suitable.
5. Battery. Here we are talking about battery life. Some can last up to 18 months or more, and some will last for a couple of months.

Conclusion

Summing up our review, we note the convenience and ergonomics of the trackball. It not only significantly saves work space, because it does not need to move around the work surface like a working mouse. In addition, it is much easier and more comfortable to make movements on a rotating surface. Before purchasing a device, decide on its functionality.

We hope our review was helpful.