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Review: The Logitech MX Ergo Will Make Trackballs Cool Again

This article is more than 6 years old.

Ryan Whitwam

Years ago, there was disagreement about whether computers should use trackballs or mice for cursor control. Mice have won out for the most part with all the big peripheral makers focusing their efforts on these devices. However, the trackball isn't dead, and Logitech is finally giving it some much-needed love with the new MX Ergo. If you're still holding onto your old trackball, this is the upgrade you've been waiting for.

Instead of moving the MX Ergo around like a mouse, it remains stationary and you roll the ball around with your thumb. Logitech says this results in 20% less muscle strain than a conventional mouse. The device is sculpted like the company's MX-series mice, and it's also wireless. If you've already got a Logitech Unifying Recieve plugged in, you're all set (it also supports Bluetooth). Settings and info are handled by the Logitech Options app, which works alright. It's a bit buggy for me.

Switching to a trackball takes some adjustment, and it's not quite as precise as a high DPI mouse. However, the MX Ergo is much more comfortable. Possibly my favorite thing about the MX Ergo is the included tile stand. The magnetic plate on the bottom of the device had two positions: 0-degrees and 20-degrees. The 20-degree tilt positions it more naturally under your hand. It's hard to go back to a regular mouse.

Ryan Whitwam

The ball seems a bit noisy at first, but after breaking it in the movement is smooth and almost silent. I also like the precision button next to the trackball. Press that, and the DPI shifts to a lower level for more accurate control. One thing I do miss is the super-fast scrolling wheel from the MX Mice. That's not included here—it's just a regular click wheel. The device also charges via microUSB, but we're solidly in the Type-C era now. It's time to stop giving peripheral makers a pass on this.

The MX Ergo retails for $100, the same as the MX Master 2S. You just have to decide which features are more important to you. The Ergo is absolutely more comfortable to use, but the MX Master has faster scrolling and more accuracy. A mouse will also serve you better while gaming.