Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball review: Ergonomic mouse alternative

If you typically use an Apple Magic Mouse, Apple Magic Trackpad, a third-party mouse, or your MacBook's trackpad, the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball will be a whole new world. If you're already using a trackball and are looking for an upgrade, you'll want to take a closer look at this feature-rich, customizable option.

According to Kensington, the design of this trackball is "ergonomist-approved." The 60-degree angle form factor encourages you to put your wrist, arm, and shoulder in proper alignment to keep you working comfortably and reducing strain. It does have a mouse-like design, so while it's definitely an adjustment, it's not hard to learn how to use it if you've never tried a trackball before. A trackball stays stationary rather than moving around your desk as you work. You use your fingers on the buttons and scroll wheel and your thumb on the ball to move the cursor around. When that ball needs cleaning, you can pop it out easily with the press of a button.

You can wirelessly connect the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball to up to three computers. Cursor control is smooth and accurate, and you can easily adjust the DPI settings for cursor speed control. You can use the default settings right out of the box or download KensingtonWorks software to set pointer and scrolling options. The software also allows you to customize nine buttons to do common tasks with a touch. The two AA batteries you'll need are included and should last about 18 months.

Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball: Price and availability

You can purchase the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball on Amazon or B&H. It runs between $80 and $90. It only comes in the white color you see in my photos and one orientation: right-handed.

Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball: What you'll like

I'd never used a trackball before the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball. There's most definitely a learning curve, but it wasn't hard to figure out. I like that you can adjust the speed of the trackball itself; initially, it was too fast, and I kept "over-shooting." The DPI button on the bottom lets you change that, which helped a lot.

The size and shape are comfortable to use, even though my hands are on the small side. I like that you can use a trackball anywhere — you don't need a mousepad or a certain kind of surface like you would for a mouse. Right now, I'm working outside, using it on my metal mesh patio table. You can even balance your laptop and this trackball on your lap if you choose (I don't.) I do like not having to move it all over.

I like that there are so many customizations you can make, changing the functions of nine buttons. You'll need to download the KensingtonWorks software if you want to set up the trackball precisely how you want. It can enhance productivity by customizing your workflow options for specific applications for tons of different function combinations.

Even better, for someone like me whose mousing needs are pretty simple, it's just plug-and-play. Without downloading the software, I'm able to do all of the basic tasks I need to do. Though I only have one computer, I like that I could connect the trackball with up to three at once.

I haven't had to clean out the trackball yet, but I did practice popping the ball out for when I do. It's easy and even kind of fun. You press the button underneath, and it pops right out. I like not having to worry about the battery; the two AA batteries it came with should last for 18 months.

Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball: What you won't like

This really is made for righties; I don't particularly appreciate that there's no left-handed option. Technically you can adjust the buttons for left-handed use, but I can't imagine it's as comfortable for lefties.

If your muscle memory is ingrained for trackpad or mouse usage, you may not like the feel of using a trackball. I found there was a bit of a learning curve. For me, the hardest part is the trackball itself; the buttons and scroll wheel feel more or less like a regular mouse.

It's certainly not cheap. You can find cheaper trackball and mouse options if you don't need all the bells and whistles this one provides.

Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball: Competition

Apple's Magic Trackpad and Magic Mouse are the obvious competitors for Mac users. But the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball is a completely different experience.

If you're looking for an ergonomic trackball that's a bit cheaper than this one, without all the bells and whistles, consider the Logitech ERGO M575 Wireless Trackball Mouse. Really, you can't go wrong with any of Logitech's many mouse options.

Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball: Should you buy it?

• You want something more ergonomically correct than what you're currently using
• You want a fully customizable option
• You want a stable connection with up to three computers

• You're left-handed
• You prefer a trackpad or a mouse
• It's out of your budget

If you're ready to go to the next level, in terms of ergonomics or terms of functionality, this is a purchase to consider. It is a right-handed device, though lefties can adjust the buttons to accommodate left-handed use. If you have no interest in a trackball design or if this is out of your budget, don't bother.

The Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless Trackball is different from a mouse. You can use it anywhere, on any surface, because you don't need to move it around like you would a mouse. The ergonomic design is easier on your wrists. Take a deep dive into KensingtonWorks software and customize this trackball for your specific workflow and apps you use. Or, just take it out of the box and use it as is. You can make simple adjustments like DPI (for cursor speed control) and switch between computers (you can connect up to three) with the touch of a button. Cleaning is easy; the trackball itself pops out with the touch of a button. Battery life is long, and the two AA batteries you need are included.

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