3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Bar None, The Ultimate Pointing Device
Date of Review: Sep 15, 2009
The Bottom Line: All around, the trackman beats a mouse for comfort, ease of use and space requirements.
I just purchased this newer version of the Logitech trackman. Prior to this one, I had an older version for 7 years! Using a computer on a daily basis is a testament to the longevity of that device.
This newer version basically is the same except that is is a little more compact.
I really don't understand why people still use a mouse and not this device? Basically, this device beats a regular mouse for several reasons.
1) A typical mouse requires a lot of desk space, the Trackman does not since it is stationary.
2) A mouse can sometimes require a rough surface and often skips, the Trackman does not require this and when rolling the ball the mouse pointer moves perfectly across the screen every time.
3) The trackman won't mark up your desk since it is stationary.
4) The trackman only requires you to move your finger and thumb.
If you are using a laptop, again the trackman wins. When using my new laptop a few months ago, I had to resort to using the touchpad since I did not have the right port for my old trackman. I started to develop some carpal tunnel symptoms and they immediately went away when my new Trackman arrived.
This device also has a perfect feel when gripping it. I have medium sized hands so I'm sure whether you have small or large hands it would feel equally nice. The buttons are tactile and the ball is set firmly in its housing.
From a pricing perspective, this device is a bargain at only $25 (especially if it lasts me another 7 years). The ONLY downside is that there is no easy way to remove the ball to clean inside. The ball will inevitably get dirty and the only way I see to clean inside is by removing the 4 screws at the bottom. I used to clean my other one on a monthly basis as the dirt build up would affect performance. Access to the old trackball for cleaning required the user to simply pop off the top housing ring with a pen, this new one will require a little more time for maintenance.
Overall though, this is still the best pointing device ever built!
