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Almost everyone these days either has a computer for work or for entertainment purposes. When people talk about this device, the usual conception is that it comes with a standard mouse. This is the one that you navigate on a mousepad on your workspace to get the cursor on your screen to move around.
When you talk about a trackball mouse, however, not many people know exactly what it is and how it works. There are those who have shifted to using this particular type of computer products and swear that it is much better than the conventional ones. What exactly is a trackball and why is the Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball Mouse highly recommended?
To help you understand why some individuals prefer a trackball device over a standard mouse, let us first compare how these two work and stack up against another. Here are a few key differences in each and why the trackball mouse is considered as a better alternative.
Is a Trackball Better Than a Conventional Mouse?
Before we enumerate the advantages of using a trackball mouse versus your standard mouse, let us first compare them with each other. What are the key differences between the two?
Trackball mouse – Stays put as your fingers/thumb move the cursor around the screen with the use of a trackball.
Conventional mouse – You move the cursor around by moving the mouse around on a mousepad or other flat surface.
Now that you know what the main difference of each type is, let us then tackle the reason why the former is infinitely better and more preferred by trackball enthusiasts than the latter. Here are some of the main benefits of using a trackball as opposed to using a conventional mouse:
Eliminates RSI – The main argument why a trackball should be your choice when it comes to the kind of tool you use is centered on ergonomics and RSI. Repetitive Strain Injury has been blamed on a lot of things and conventional mouse usage is one of them. If you shift to a trackball, you don’t have to move your arm around in awkward positions since the device stays put. This helps prevent or reduce the possibility of strain on your arm and wrist.
Uses less desk space – One of the things that you need when you are using a conventional mouse is ample deskspace. If you don’t have enough space on your desk to effectively manipulate your mouse, you will find yourself constantly lifting the device and putting it back down to use it properly. With a trackball, you can do your work without the need for more space for movement since it generally stays put. It is your thumb that does the mouse cursor movement for you and not the whole device itself.
Are Trackball Mice Good?
Trackball mice are good, not only for the hand but for a lot of things as well. Trackballs don’t take up a lot of workspace, therefore making them ideal for those with limited working surfaces. They also offer increased precision when it comes to cursor control, which results in a user to make accurate movements in productive work or gaming. Their functionality is unbeatable as well; you can place them on just about any surface and you’ll be able to use them well. Furthermore, their ergonomic shape is good for the hand as it can bring comfort and less strain to a user.
Is a Trackball Mouse Better for Carpal Tunnel?
No tool out there exists to completely prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from happening. However, ergonomic devices do exist to reduce its risk. A standard mouse requires you to move your hand and arm to make repetitive motions. With a trackball device, you’re only required to move the ball and not the mouse itself. This allows users to work with comfort as it is less fatiguing to use.
About the Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball Mouse
| Manufacturer | Logitech |
| Model | M570 Wireless Trackball Mouse |
| Colors | Black |
| Dimensions | 5.71 inches x 1.77 inches x 3.74 inches |
| Weight | 5 ounces |
A mouse is a vital accessory to the computer as it is the most common way of moving about to control the device. It’s very easy to use but sometimes, it can also be a pain, literally and figuratively. If you’ve found yourself in situations where your hands and arms are aching, or maybe you’re lacking the necessary workspace to move your mouse around, then maybe a trackball device is for you. The M570 roller ball mouse Logitech earliest trackballs and praised with glowing reviews, is an ergonomic accessory that offers comfort in use and more. Check out its features!
Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball Mouse Features
The Logitech M570 has a wealth of aspects that make it a better choice over others in the market that function in a similar way. Here are those features:
Wireless
This eliminates the bothersome wires that come with regular versions of this mouse. With the wireless design, you can place the Logitech M570 anywhere without having to worry about the wire getting caught in random places.
Ergonomic Design
The Logitech M570 has a design similar to a traditional mouse, with its two expert mouse buttons and a rubbery precision scroll wheel in the middle. There are also back and forward buttons for quick browser navigation. Next to the mouse button is the trackball that can be controlled by the thumb.
More than that, the M570 is designed to reduce strain on a person’s wrist. Aside from the fact that it already reduces the possibility of Repetitive Strain Injury and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome because it is stationary, the shape of the M570 itself also helps.
Place and Use Anywhere
You can work anywhere with this mouse. There is no need for a flat surface like what you would need with a conventional mouse. You can place the trackball M570 on your leg while working on the sofa or in bed with the M570 sitting beside you — although these positions are not considered ergonomic, so be careful!
With Quick Access Controls
The wireless trackball M570 has some of the basic features of a regular mouse but it also has special buttons that make access easier. Aside from the trackball for your thumb, it also has a scroll wheel plus left-click and right-click buttons. It has four programmable buttons for your macros and quick commands.
If you’re on Mac OS X however, you’re required to install the Logitech Control Center to be able to configure and use the special back and forward buttons.
Plug and Play
There is no need for complicated installation procedures with the M570. Simply plug in the unifying receiver dongle into the USB port of your laptop computer and you’re good to go. The unifying receiver is rather small but don’t worry about losing it for Logitech has provided storage built into the battery compartment for the receiver. Moreover, this receiver also works with all of Logitech’s wireless products.
Long Range Transmission
The wireless trackball M570 from Logitech has a 30 feet maximum limit for efficient use. This means that you can use this with other mouse-operated devices like your home theater computer. You don’t have to get up every time you want to change from a movie to another. Stay put and control your entertainment devices from your sofa or bed comfortably and easily.
Long Battery Life
The M570 is equipped with a single AA battery which, according to Logitech, can last for up to 18 months. There’s also a battery indicator light which will signal you when your power is running out and needs to be replaced.
Pros and Cons of the Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ AA battery life of up to 18 months ✔ Ergonomic design ✔ Plug and play ✔ On/off switch to converse AA battery life ✔ Built-in storage for the USB wireless receiver ✔ Specialized back and forward buttons ✔ Connects to up to 6 devices | ✘ For right-handed individuals only ✘ Expensive ✘ Mac OS X requires Logitech Control Center to use special buttons ✘ Large size may be a problem for users with small hands |
What People Are Saying About It
Overall, the Logitech M570 is a versatile trackball that can meet various needs of users, whether in gaming or productivity. Its ergonomic mouse design allows for comfort and reduces fatigue that can be experienced with more traditional mice. The placement of two mouse buttons with a scroll wheel in the middle are reminiscent of a more conventional mouse, making it forgiving for beginners.
The specialized back and forward buttons are also pretty convenient to use when browsing web pages. However, Mac OS X users would need additional software before they could get around to using it. The software is free though, so it’s only an additional step compared to the plug-and-play freedom Windows users have.
Speaking of plug and play, it’s one of the key features of this trackball. The only thing you’ll need to do once removing it out of the box is to plug in the USB receiver and you’re good to go. You can also connect it with up to 6 devices using the Logitech Unifying software. Additionally, it comes with a hardware warranty of 3 years, making it great to use for a long time.
“The Logitech Wireless Trackball M570 mouse provides a solid and reliable performance, coupled with a set of optional features to enhance the experience, all for a good price. I was impressed by the advanced navigating experience the M570 offered.”
Reviewer
PC Mag
Where to Buy the Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball Mouse
If you want to purchase the Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball, you can find this on Amazon. It is considered one of the best among all track ball products in late 2019 by the New York Times.
Considering other ergonomic accessories such as keyboards, stands, and wrist rests? Check out our guide to the best ergonomic accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Disadvantages of a Trackball?
One of its biggest disadvantages is its large size as it is much larger when compared to a conventional mouse. It is also a lot pricier due to the ball itself and its special functions. There are also a number of trackball mice out there that are for right-handed use, posing a problem then for left-handed individuals. Some also don’t offer a scroll wheel or buttons. Additionally, there is also a learning curve when it comes to using a trackball that individuals need to get used to in order to make the most out of it.
Is the MX Ergo Better?
The MX Ergo is the successor to the M570. As it is newer, it comes with a host of features that can’t be found on the M570, such as a precision mode, a scroll wheel that can scroll up/down/tilt left/tilt right, an adjustable hinge, rechargeable battery, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. While it does have excellent aspects to it, the MX Ergo also comes with a higher price tag compared to the M570. They have their differences and similarities but ultimately, both are great investments. If you’re on a budget but still want an ergonomic accessory, go for the M570. If you’re willing to shell out money for a trackball, go with the MX Ergo.
