Which is better, Trackball vs Ergonomic/Vertical Mouse?

Short Answer: It depends on your application and personal preference.  If you require precision in your use of the mouse (such as gamers and graphic designers), then opt for a vertical/ergonomic mouse.  If you already suffer from carpal tunnel and only use the mouse for non-precision tasks, consider a trackball.

That being said, some people hate or love either one.  Best to go to your neighborhood computer shop and try them out a little bit before making a decision.

To find the best mouse for you, check out SafeComputingTips’ 2017 List of the Best Ergonomic Mouse.

Now, for the rest of the story…

For the Long Answer – Read on…

Many of us spend inordinate amounts of time in front of the computer. Whether it’s for work or play we use a mouse and keyboard daily for hours on end. While necessary and fun at times, this can lead to repetitive motion syndrome or RMS (more on this below).

This problem has become so pervasive in the years since the invention of the computer that many computer mice and keyboards now feature more ergonomic designs that are meant to reduce the probability of developing carpal tunnel syndrome or, if a person is already living with it to reduce the pain experienced. These designs are often effective, though caution still has to be used. No matter how ergonomically designed a mouse may be, overuse across years can still cause carpal tunnel syndrome to develop in individuals.

Handfit vs. Reduced Motion

For computer mice, many of these designs introduce grooves and curves that makes it fit easier in your hand. There are even vertical mice that you grab and use much like a drink at a party. One of the most popular designs however, features a small glass-like ball on the mouse. Rather than move the mouse itself to move a computer cursor, you only have to spin the ball to get the cursor where you want it to go. Manufacturers claim that trackball mice are better for preventing and relieving the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. So if you were in the market to purchase a computer mouse and you wanted an ergonomic option, which one would you choose?

A Little Disclaimer

It should be noted that when it comes to preventing carpal tunnel disease that there is very little research to show how much these redesigned mice actually reduce your risk. All that can be said is that there is some truth to this claim. Trackballs and mice have their own set of advantages that should be considered before deciding on which one to purchase.

Conclusions/Verdicts

For example, because trackballs don’t need to be moved they are a great option for those that experience pain when they move their forearm. Trackballs are also handy when desk space is at a premium. It’s also easier to use and requires less overall effort. As well, the pointer is less prone to accidental movement since it won’t move without input from the trackball.

An ergonomic computer mouse on the other hand is able to produce much more precise linear movement. Because of this, it’s easier to drag and drop files across a desktop, and it’s a better option if you play a lot of computer games.

When all is said and done, you should get a trackball if you are already suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and experience pain when moving your forearm. Otherwise, you should more strongly consider a mouse if you play a lot of video games and want higher precision.

Article brought to you by Safe Computing Tips.  We hope you enjoyed it!