The trackball lives! Logitech launches wireless MX ERGO
While some people view the trackball as a product from yesteryear, they would sort of be incorrect. Sure, the number of users still leveraging this type of a pointing device is quite small comparatively, but the ones that do can be very passionate. Believe it or not, there are some people that hoard them because they can sometimes be hard to find. Not to mention, some folks with handicaps depend on them too -- since you move the pointer with your thumb, it can be great for someone with limited wrist mobility. Heck, they are great for HTPC use too.
Today, Logitech intends to delight these passionate trackball fans with an all-new new model. Called "MX ERGO," it brings the trackball to modern times with extreme comfort and functionality. Not only does the product feature Bluetooth connectivity, but it can also pair with Logitech's unifying USB dongle. The scroll wheel features horizontal tilt scroll which is great for working in large Excel spreadsheets. When you need to be as accurate as possible, there is even a special "precision mode" that you can enable for the ball.
"This stylish new trackball features an adjustable metal hinge with angle options at either 0 and 20 degrees, letting you adjust to your desired comfort. The carefully sculpted shape gives your hand full palm and finger support, while the soft rubber on the top ensures a good, enjoyable grip for long hours of work. MX ERGO reduces muscular strain by 20-percent compared to using a standard mouse," says Logitech.
The company also says, "We have you covered in this multi-device world with the trackball. Logitech Easy-SwitchTM allows you to connect and work on two devices in parallel for dual connectivity with either our Logitech 2.4Ghz unifying dongle or Bluetooth, and use Logitech Flow to pair with up to two computers at the same time, and easily transfer images and text between them with our Logitech Options Software."
Being a wireless affair, it obviously has to use a battery. I am happy to say that it is a rechargeable variant -- there is no need to buy pricey AA or AAA batteries here. You won't have to charge it very often anyway, as it lasts an insane four months per full charge! A mere 60 seconds of charging should give you 24 hours of use.
If you want to buy the Logitech MX ERGO, it can be yours for $99.99. There are plans to bring a special version -- likely just an exclusive color -- to Best Buy too.
Are you a trackball fan? Tell me in the comments below.