Ranking of the best trackballs for 2022

In the age of modern technology, there is little that can surprise a person. In particular, this applies to technology and electronics. Every day we see more and more new gadgets, input tools and so on. And many of us have no idea about the functionality of individual new products. Today, the matter will concern computers, or rather one of the input devices for information in a PC. In this review, we will get acquainted with such a product as a trackball. For some, this word may seem new and completely unfamiliar, but believe me, we all came across this device, met with it 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 about everything in detail in the material.

What it is?

By name, many can attribute trackball to a 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, this is an advanced computer mouse. But paradoxically, they are presented in stores in very limited quantities, if 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. With the help of their functionality, cursor movements were made.

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

And what did we get today? Now it is a separate, completely improved device. And by the way, he may well take the lead among conventional mouse samples. Hybrids of both species are very popular.

What can you choose from?

Before you choose 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.So let's take a look at what they are:

1. Ball position. It can be located on top, or maybe on the side. The first option is convenient in its management. It can be controlled with one finger or with the palm of your hand, in case of urgency and contamination of the fingers. The second option is common among those who do everything with their left hand.
2. Color design 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 both with one computer and with several at the same time. Simultaneous work with several desktops makes it possible to copy files by simple drag and drop.
4. Connection type. This point became fundamental for our review. Let's get back to the types, there are only two of them: 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 conventional mouse, the trackball is not limited in the 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 joint and hands.
5. Also, a clear advantage is the absence of the need for a special surface for the trackball. It works great both on glass and on plastic, where, by the way, its predecessors could not move.

The downsides are probably the following:

1. Those who experience some discomfort in the cyst of the hands 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.And now, let's move on to the most important thing.

Ranking of the best trackballs for 2022

Wire samples

Logitech TrackMan Marble

Hybrid pattern with built-in four buttons. It has two connection methods: via USB and PS / 2.

It is convenient to control both the right hand and the left. Manufacturers have provided the easiest control, without creating tension in the hand 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 minimum space on the table;
• No fatigue during long-term work;
• High accuracy.

• Frequent cleaning of the manipulator from contamination.

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 a classic version of a mouse, but smaller in size. The entire body is made completely in black, and the ball is in deep blue. It comes with a detachable wrist rest for even more comfortable use.

• Small sized option;
• Quality performance.

• Not detected.

Kensington Orbit Optical

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

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

• Over time, a creak appears.

Kensington Orbit Optical

This sample is from the USA. It is a high quality product. There is a high accuracy of cursor movement by moving a finger over the ball. It 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 you can achieve excellent quality drawing or drawing.

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

• The model is made on modern technologies of the 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 already in the very center. Around it is a special ring designed to scroll the desktop. The manufacturers provided for comfortable use of this sample for both people who write with their right hand and with their left. In addition to the above functionality, the trackball has four keys that are responsible for programming. They are located on both sides of the ball in a proportional ratio. For ease of use, it comes with a wrist rest that can be easily detached. It connects in the classic way, via USB. The length of the cable is slightly less than 2 meters. The average price is 4.5 thousand rubles.

• The absence 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. In this paragraph, we will consider the top representatives.

Logitech MX Ergo

In this version, the ball is located in such a way that it will be convenient to operate it only for right-handed people. In addition, there is a wheel for scrolling, 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 about once every three to four months.

All this functionality formed a high cost of goods, namely a little more than 7500 thousand.

• Possibility to connect without wire;
• Many 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 the page up or down.Manufacturers have provided for the use of this sample by both people who write with their right hand and with their left. In addition to the above functionality, the trackball has four keys that are responsible for programming. They are located on both sides of the ball proportionally. Provided for ease of use and wrist rest, which is easy to connect.

The price is a little more than 10,000 rubles.

• quality 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. The standard distance is 10 meters. The work itself is carried out with the help of batteries, which will need to be changed no more 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 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 taken into account when buying.

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

• quality model;
• Great software.

• Not suitable for lefties.

air mouse

The design of this sample is unlike any other and resembles a dolphin in its shape.Manufacturers were aimed at an audience that mostly works on a laptop. A universal product for people with any physical features (right, left-handed). At the bottom of the trackball is a scroll wheel, and on top - 2 keys. It is connected as standard, like all the devices presented in this paragraph. Work is carried out by means of 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 1500 rubles.

• Acceptable price;
• Design for universal use.

• Additional purchase of accessories.

Which is better?

So, we figured out the device and the purpose of the trackball, we also identified several advantages, including the minimum occupied area on the working surface. The tension on the hand goes less due to the lack of the need to move the device on the table.

Approaching the choice of a particular model, one should take into account its universality 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 user preferences.

To date, the most common manufacturers in our country are Logitech and Kingston. They have proven themselves among similar products among users, but we advise you to carefully consider the following criteria so that the choice satisfies:

1. The ball itself. It should be easy to manage, without any friction. The user should feel the smoothness, which is the key to the operation of this device.If any friction is felt, then it is better to refuse 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 movement is needed.
2. Buttons. The classic version implies two, but as we have already understood from the review, there may be more. The presence of more buttons responsible for programming is welcome. This in one way or another increases the efficiency and functionality of the device.
3. Ergonomics. Here we mean a convenient design for use. Those. when using the brush and forearms should not get tired. Some manufacturers, for greater convenience, have thought of additional comfort in the form of a removable stand. This component is worth paying attention to those who work for a long time at a PC or laptop.
4. Connection. From the above, it follows that there are two types. There are two options for wireless connection and the choice is up to the user. In general, as practice shows, a wired connection is preferred by people who work stationary 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 ball manipulator. It not only saves a lot of work space, because it does not need to move around the work surface, like a work mouse. In addition, making movements on a rotating surface is much easier and more comfortable.Before purchasing a device, determine its functionality.

We hope our review was helpful.