Not that trackball

[redbird]

I plugged in my old trackball Sunday, and by midday yesterday remembered why I'd stopped using it. It wasn't the shoulder--or not mostly the shoulder. Something about it, and how I was using it, were putting a lot of stress on the ball of my thumb. Ouch!

So I'm back to left-handed mousing, and thinking about what I'd want in a trackball.

Comments

[mneme]

What trackball is it?

I still very much like mine (the
wireless mouseman).

[calimac.livejournal.com]

Either it's a matter of individual usage patterns, or local ergonomics, or something, because switching from mouse to trackball really improved my life. I've been using a Logitech "Marble Mouse" for years now.

[sraun]

I have observed that trackballs come in many variations, and how your hand uses them varies depending on the ball size and exact geometry. I had a similar problem - the first trackballs I ever had a chance to use I tried to drive with my thumb, and they were awful. Now, I use a Logitech TrackMan Marble FX (OK picture here), which has (apparently) been discontinued (ouch! glad I have a spare!). However, check out this page at Logitech - the first item (the Cordless Optical TrackMan) looks like it would have a usage similar to mine (move the ball with index & middle fingers, tap buttons with thumb and ring/little fingers). The second two (the TrackMan Wheels) would be awful for me - they're the 'use your thumb' kind. The last one (the Marble Mouse) might work for me - I'd have to try it.

This is one of the things that BigBox computer and electronics stores are good for - they usually have a lot of different trackballs out so that you can (kind of) try them. If you know what doesn't work for you, you can at least verify that the one you're thinking of buying is different!

Oh, yeah - I was just reminded. The size of the ball makes a big difference in usability and comfort, but whether you like smaller or larger balls is very idiosyncratic. Personally, I prefer larger balls, and I have friends that prefer smaller ones.