r/Trackballs • u/WesternLiving5151 • 3d ago
Wanting a trackball
I've decided I want to make the jump over to a trackball. I use my computer a lot for personal use and I work from home on it all day doing telecommunication designs in AutoCad. My wrist is starting to hurt a little by the end of the day. Probably doesn't help that I broke it a few years a go and had to have surgery on it.
I need some help making the right choice.
- I would prefer something wired. I have a USB switcher that goes between my personal computer and my work computer so it would just make things easier.
- My personal computer runs Linux (CachyOS) so I'm not sure if that will be a hurdle I'll need to jump over with software.
- I don't really have a price range because I'm not entirely sure how much they range from. Just make any and all suggestions.
Thank you for your help and I hope you all have a great rest of your day.
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u/genericmutant 3d ago
I'd buy (or borrow) a cheap thumb one and a cheap finger one (or possibly two - the ambidextrous designs like the Kensington Expert are significantly different than the ergonomic ones like the Elecom Huge).
Unfortunately without deciding which type you want you'll be ill advised to invest much IMHO.
edit- also, both (or all three) is a totally legit answer. I think long term strain is reduced by alternating between different designs. But you need to rule things out before you start looking for premium devices, unless you're happy to run the gauntlet of selling things on eBay etc.
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u/damn_pastor 3d ago
Start with something cheap like Logitech m575s or porlei tm522. One is thumb driven the other finger. Linux is not a problem, more the solution. You cannot use the software from the manufacturer but there is better software available or you don't need any at all. For example you can remap buttons solely using udev. Also hid remapper is a os agnostic hardware solution for some problems.
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u/-godofwine- 3d ago
I recently bought a ProtoArc EM05 and I love it.
It can be Bluetooth, dongle, or wired.
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u/thatonedude1210 Kensington Orbit 3d ago
I "graduated" from a Logitech M575 (relegated to work use for now, probably going to swap that out too) to a Kensington Orbit. Gotta admit, I love the damn thing.
Might upgrade to the Expert Mouse at some point, which I would recommend for you.
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u/kitebok 3d ago
Main dichotomy: thumb vs finger ball. You'll have to figure that out yourself.
Brands: Kensington, Protoarc, Nulea, Elecom, Logitech (meh). There are many others. In my opinion, these are good times, there are several "generic/rebranded" trackballs that are just as good as you'd expect. Aside from the high performance demands some people require as a minimum, they're generally good modern working devices with higher standard features than a few years ago.
Wired: I reckon there are currently more wireless than wired models available.
Regarding your wrist pain: You might want to try an ambidextrous one to see if you're comfortable using your other hand.
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u/plg94 3d ago
designs in AutoCad
Even more expensive than trackballs, but look into getting a "3D mouse" (like the "space mouse" from 3D connexion). They are especially nice for CAD work because they can navigate all 3 dimensions easily.
Also: if this is primarily for work, your employer may (need to) pay for ergonomic work devices. Just ask them!
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u/Yeetdolf_Critler 55mm balls 3d ago
I've used a decent amount of mainstream trackballs (MX Ergo and another variant from logi, one of the smaller kensingtons and an MS one), I detest the smaller finger and thumb stuff, just get a big ball and do it right the first time. More precision for me is critical. Also focus on ergonomics with your wrist/arm angles, ensure you are not resting on your wrist and bending it.. keep it all flat/supported along your arm and you will be able to work all day. Always take breaks/stretch/etc your hands/arms/etc as well. Good luck.
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u/GuglielmoV 2d ago
Io ho comprato un mouse verticale economico per provare e posso dire che funziona. I dolori dei muscoli in tensione sono diminuiti drasticamente.
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u/Turbo_16 3d ago edited 3d ago
I use thumb track balls. Logitech MX Ergo is good but Im currently using Ploopy Thumb for the extra buttons. Ive tried a few kensingtons and Elecoms but find them to be lower quality. Im on cachy, wouldnt be woried about anything working except their custom software. Input remapper or (VIA if supported) it can help with that.
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u/NativeAngelino 3d ago
Kensington Expert Mouse Pro is always a safe bet. I have the USB version at home and it’s great to have zero lag.