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Best Trackball Mouse in 2024

Get precision and comfort with these trackball mice
Last Updated on January 31, 2024
best trackball mouse

If you’re looking for the best trackball mouse, you’ve come to the right place.

Have you dreamed about scrolling with ease? Do you wish away the days until your mouse is comfortable and banishes wrist pain forever? Well, my friend, what you need is a trackball mouse!

The larger ball makes scrolling through pages or gaming a breeze! A trackball mouse will usually feature an ergonomic design that is both comfortable and easy to use. But, with so many trackball mice on the market, which one is the best for you? How do you decide which is the best trackball mouse? With the help of the PC Guide, of course!

We have done relentless searching and hard work for you! We are happy to bring you today the best trackball mouse in the market and even thrown in a thing to consider section, helping you purchase the best trackball mouse for you!

Products at a Glance

How we picked

Here at PC Guide, there isn’t a single PC component that we don’t take seriously. Everything should be of the highest quality, which is why if it doesn’t meet our insanely high standards, it isn’t on our site!

To ensure the trackball mouse included today was of fantastic quality, we burrowed into the depths of the internet. We looked at each mouse’s performance, speed, connectivity, and comfort to ensure it was worth mentioning. We also factored in price, size, compatibility, and, crucially, what other users thought of it. All the trackball mice included today are known for outstanding performance, longevity, and fantastic quality – all the makings of an excellent trackball mouse. So, sit back, relax, and let us introduce you to your new trackball mouse! Some even come with wireless connectivity or a detachable wrist rest to avoid repetitive strain injury.

In a hurry? Check out our top pick to grab your mouse and go!

Our Recommended

Best Trackball Mouse in 2024

1
PROS
  • Unique touch scrolling is effortless
  • Ambidextrous design
  • Excellent compatibility with a range of software
  • 2.4GHz wireless nano USB receiver for compact use and storage when not in use
CONS
  • Some customers found the touch scrolling cumbersome to use initially

Today’s winner and our top pick is Kensington’s Orbit wireless trackball mouse. At an affordable price, the trackball mouse is fantastic for ambidextrous use and smooth scrolling.

The Orbit mouse features optical tracking to deliver superior cursor control while you game or scroll through necessary work documents. Speaking of scrolling, you get unique touch scrolling with this mouse too! Simply slide your finger around the outer ring of the trackball to scroll through web pages and documents effortlessly. Gone are the days of jarring scrolling; let your finger enjoy an experience like no other!

The ambidextrous design of the mouse ensures that you can use it with the hand of your choice. Great for users who swap their mouse hands during extended use. Users can download Kensington Works free software tool which allows you to customize your buttons for a mouse that suits your needs. It is also compatible with all Windows, Chrome, and macOS devices, offering fantastic versatility!

Running on 2.4GHz, the wireless mouse features a nano USB receiver discrete when plugged into your computer. There is no need to worry about a fiddly setup either; simply plug in the receiver, and you are ready! You can store the receiver inside the trackball when not in use, too, ensuring a clean workspace, and you’ll never lose the receiver! There is also a two-year warranty when you purchase the Kensington Orbit mouse so you can rest easy knowing that if anything goes wrong, you are covered!

Customers found the mouse excellent for left-handed or ambidextrous users. They praised its performance and found the mouse overall very easy to use. But, some customers noted that the touch scrolling is a little cumbersome to use. Initially, they found it a little tricky to get to grips with and have precision scrolling. Only a small number of customers reported the problem, but it is worth noting. If you have not used a trackball mouse before, be mindful it might take some time to get used to.

If you are after an ambidextrous trackball mouse that delivers consistent performance and has outstanding compatibility, it’s the Kensington Orbit trackball mouse for you!

2
PROS
  • The sculpted design allows you to customize the trackball angle.
  • Dual connectivity with a range of devices
  • The Rechargeable battery offers 70 days of power on a single charge.
  • Precision scroll allows for a range of convenient scrolling functions.
CONS
  • On the pricier side

For those with more money to spend, Logitech’s MX Ergo trackball mouse is a fantastic option to consider! The mouse is also available in bundle options with keyboards should you be looking for a great deal too.

The mouse features an ergonomic sculpted design with an adjustable hinge and you can customize the trackball angle from 0 to 20 degrees, great for those after a customized and comfortable hand position. The customization also allows for reduced muscle strain, great for those who spend their days clicking and scrolling!

This option is also an excellent choice for both gaming and work. You can use the mouse across two computers for seamless navigation when using Logitech’s flow feature. This allows you to copy and paste images, text, and files from one screen or computer to another.

The connectivity is fantastic on the mouse too. You can use it with up to 3 Windows or Mac computers with a unified receiver but it is worth noting that you will need to purchase a unifying receiver yourself and factor that cost into your budget.

The mouse features a rechargeable battery that has an insane life! Expect up to 70 days of battery life on just one single charge which is great for those who will take the mouse to work, school, or travel with it, and running out of battery will be the last thing on your mind! It takes AA batteries too, which are widely available and affordable to replace.

Logitech’s mouse features a precision scroll-wheel too which you can tilt and middle click for precise scrolling. What’s more, there is a whole range of convenient controls that enhance this mouse such as horizontal scrolling, which is a firm favorite amongst users!

Customers have praised its comfortable use and the ability to switch between two devices. Customers enough the stable feel and the control of the tilt setting, citing that it is unlikely you will accidentally tilt the control of the trackball.

Although the mouse is pricey, Logitech has created an ergonomic and comfortable mouse that is great for extended use and scrolling across multiple devices and screens. What are you waiting for? Purchase it today!

3
PROS
  • Ergonomic design for small hands
  • Smooth and precise trackball control
  • 2 year battery life
  • Eco-friendly materials and packaging
CONS
  • No scroll wheel or tilt function

If you’re looking for a trackball mouse for small hands, this might be the one for you. Similar to the others, the Logitech ERGO M575 is a wireless trackball mouse – you can control your cursor with your thumb, while the mouse stays in place.

Not only do you not have to move your arm while navigating the screen, but you can also reduce fatigue and discomfort. Its trackball is smooth and responsive, thanks to a transparent finish coating and a high-performance optical sensor.

The M575 uses Bluetooth Low Energy technology to connect to your Windows or Mac computer. A USB receiver is also included which will provide you with a reliable signal, meaning you can use the mouse up to 10 m away. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 2 years with the USB receiver and up to 20 months with Bluetooth Low Energy.

4
PROS
  • The large 55mm ball is excellent for precise cursor control.
  • The patented scroll ring allows for easy page scrolling.
  • Customize 4-button design allows for a unique experience
  • Wireless or USB connected use
CONS
  • Expensive

For those with a larger budget, Kensington’s Expert trackball mouse is an excellent option to consider! As we saw earlier, Kensington creates perfect trackball mice, and this is no exception.

Setting itself apart from other mice included today, the Expert mouse features a large 55mm trackball design and Diamond Eye optical tracking that delivers precise cursor control. The optical tracking allows you to move the cursor on the screen with less hand movement, giving you the power to work quickly and efficiently! The ambidextrous design ensures that both left and right-handed users can scroll with ease. There is also a patented scroll ring that allows you to scan up and down places with ease. No cumbersome and laggy scrolling for you! With a detachable ergonomic wrist rest, your hand and wrist will be supported and feel comfort like never before. You can use the mouse all day without any discomfort.

What’s great about this mouse is that you can customize the 4-button design, scroll speed, and cursor speed to your needs. Simply download the free KensigntonWorks software to tailor your mouse to your every need. Compatibility is also no issue for the Kensignton Expert as it is suitable for Windows 7 and later, macOS 10.8 and later, and Chrome OS 44 and later. Whatever operating system you use, you are sure to have compatibility success!

You have the choice between a wired and wireless mouse with the Kensignton Expert. You can connect your mouse with Bluetooth to save a USB port or use the nano receiver for fantastic connectivity.

Customers praised the comfort of the mouse and how easy it is to use. They enjoyed the customizable options on the buttons and found it great for video editors, graphic designers, or programmers!

Although it is an expensive option if you put in long hours on your computer, why not invest in the Kensington Expert mouse for enhanced comfort?

5
PROS
  • Great for gamers
  • A high-performance optic system and lens deliver fast DPI for gaming.
  • Easy maintenance
  • Accurate on-screen tracking
CONS
  • Only compatible with selected Windows and Mac operating systems

For those seeking a reasonably priced trackball mouse that is fantastic for gaming, ELECOM has the mouse for you! The mouse uses optical tracking technology to deliver precise cursor movement. The insane accuracy is fantastic for moving on the screen quickly with fewer hand movements, allowing you to be productive and efficient with minimal effort. Eight functional buttons allow you to move the mouse in any direction and there are also two extra buttons for the scroll wheel tilting, enabling you to match your gaming experience better. Whether you are shooting or crouching, you will be able to game accurately and quickly!

ELECOM’s mouse uses a DPI cursor to ensure high-performance gaming can be delivered to you. The DPI button allows you to change between 500, 1000, and 15000 DPI adjusting the speed of your movements when you need it most! Great for those who play a wide range of games.

The mouse is straightforward to maintain too. The trackball rolls on three ruby ball bearings that are smooth and large enough to prevent dust and dirt from clogging between them. These balls require less cleaning and allow for easy removal when they do require cleaning.

While the mouse is fantastic for gaming, it has limited compatibility. You will need Windows 7, 8.1, RT8.1, and ten or later. It is worth noting that the horizontal scrolling function will not work with Windows RT8.1.In terms of Mac, OS 10.13 or later will be required for the mouse to work. While this is not as much compatibility as other mice on the list, there is still a good range that most gamers will be using.

You can use ELECOM’s mouse weird or wirelessly. It takes 1 AA battery and has a great battery life, saving you from continually charging it and for those using it with a USB connection, there is a space within the mouse to safely store the receiver when not in use.

Customers loved the number of programmable buttons the mouse offered, allowing them to swap the functions to suit their needs. They found the mouse comfortable to use and that the scroll wheel moved exceptionally well compared to others on the market. Although the compatibility range is not as extensive as other mice on the market, it is a fantastic choice for gamers seeking a comfortable scrolling experience!

How to choose the best trackball mouse

There are a number of factors you should consider when picking the best trackball mouse for you. Let’s take a closer look…

What is the best trackball mouse size?

Ensuring that the trackball mouse is the right size for you is essential. Be sure not only to check the dimensions of the mouse as a whole but the trackball itself too.

Consider how the ball will feel and if it will be too big or small for your hand. Measure your desk to ensure that you have enough space for the mouse of your dreams.

Wireless vs wired trackball mouse

Another factor to consider is the connection of your mouse. These days, most mice on the market will have a wireless option. Using a USB port or Bluetooth connection, you won’t need to worry about wires getting tangled or clogging up your desk.

However, wireless mice require batteries to run, and you will need to factor in the cost of replacement batteries into your budget. Keep an eye out for trackball mice that feature battery level indicators. These will avoid your mouse running out of charge mid-use!

Wired trackball mice do have advantages, though. They save the cost of batteries and will never run out of charge, saving you any embarrassment! However, they will take up a USB port, which can be an issue for limited space or small laptops.

Customisable buttons

Although the trackball is the main feature of your mouse, it’s worth considering the buttons on the mouse too. For gamers, developers, or graphic designers, these programmable buttons will be a great addition.

Buttons that can be customized will allow you to tailor the mouse to your needs and provide quick clicking and access! Great for those playing high-speed games or working on intricate programs.

Ball placement

The placement of the trackball is also a vital factor to consider. There are generally two choices here: off-set trackballs or a finger-operated trackball.

An offset trackball will be on the side of your mouse and can be controlled by your thumb or index finger. These are usually comfortable and ergonomic to use. An offset trackball mouse will be easier to use, too, as the buttons are located under your fingers in an accessible location for clicking.

However, they tend to be suited for right-handed users. Left-handed ones are available, but they can be harder to find!

A finger-operated trackball will feature the trackball in the center of the mouse. These are often large balls operated by your finger and are ambidextrous, so you won’t need to worry about a right or left-handed mouse!

Finger-operated trackball mice tend to have precision and offer programmable buttons. Bit the large balls can be a downside. They are hard to avoid hitting with your palms and take up more desk space. These larger trackball mice are often harder to use too.

Consider which would be better suited to you and your needs when choosing the type of trackball mouse.

 

Is a trackball better than a mouse?

If you want to reduce unnecessary mouse movement, they can be very effective, however, some may find them a little unusual when they start using them. For those who require more precision, we’d say going for a more traditional mouse is probably the best way forward.

What are the disadvantages of trackball?

Are trackballs better for carpal tunnel?

Typically speaking, many of the more ergonomic products on the market work to relieve pain from repetitive motion, and in this way, trackball mice are seemingly quite effective. That being said, there are other products on the market which can help alleviate carpal tunnel, such as wrist wrists and some of the best ergonomic mice.

What are the disadvantages of a trackball mouse?

Honestly, they’re a little weird when you start using them, but as with all things you just need to take a little time to adapt, and then reap the benefits!

Our Verdict

Here we are, the end of the line! As you can see, some fantastic trackball mice on the market are easy to use and provide outstanding levels of customization.

Whether you are after an ergonomic mouse or a large trackball that provides speedy and easy scrolling, we are confident that we have found the mouse for you today! There is sure to be a mouse that will fit your budget and allow you to game or work pain-free!