Logitech MX Ergo S Advanced

It ranks #3 (B tier) on our consolidated ergonomic mice board, drawn from 6 cited sources across 5 outlets.

People who want a trackball, either because their desk is cramped or because moving the arm is what hurts. It is the highest-ranked trackball on our ergonomic mice board, in B tier, and reviewers praise the thumb-operated ball for comfort and cite it widely as a solid ergonomic option. If you have never used a trackball and do not need one, the Logitech MX Master 4 in S tier is the stronger all-round pick.

The Logitech MX Ergo S Advanced. It sits in B tier while the Logitech MX Ergo S sits in D tier. Reviewers say the older model lacks the refined thumb-trackball design, has a lower-resolution sensor, gets fewer firmware updates and feels flimsy after extended use. The shape is close enough that there is no reason to pick the older one at a similar price.

Reviewers note that firmware updates keep it current, which is the main thing that separates it from the older Logitech MX Ergo S on our board. A trackball has no moving feet to wear out, so the parts that age are the ball bearings, which can be cleaned, and the button switches. Treat it as a multi-year purchase.

It takes a few days. The cursor is driven by the thumb instead of the whole arm, so fine movement feels clumsy at first and most people lower the pointer speed for the first week. After that the thumb movement becomes automatic. The advantage is that the hand and arm stay still, which is the point for anyone whose pain comes from reaching.

Pop the ball out through the hole on the underside, wipe the ball, and clean the three small bearings in the socket with a dry cotton bud. Skin oil and dust collect on the bearings and make the cursor stutter, so do this every few weeks. Do not use liquid on the sensor inside the socket.