Keyboards, Mice and RSI and CTS, etc...

[aman74]

I just ordered a Logitech zero tilt keyboard and an MX500 mouse, but then i started to think about what would be best for my hands and wrists. I'm a musician so I'm careful about that stuff. Someone mentioned that the Logitech design causes RSI, but everyone else seems to say it's comfortable. And I hear trackballs are better for your body too, but I've never used one, can anyone comment on the usability of a trackball? And recommend one, I wouldn't know where to start. Can you game with them? Anyone use those Microsoft/Logitech style keyboards? Do they help? Can you game with them? I think the Logitech one you can only get in a combo.

Thanks

 

[QTPie]

I've been using both LogiTech and Microsoft trackball for about 3yrs. It's good for your hand in terms of RSI. I use a wrist rest too. It's a must, IMO.
However, I don't feel comfortable when playing game, because I can't move the mouse as fast as I would with a regular one. Also, you need time to get use to it when you have to make a precision move.

 

[joshg]

I only use regular mice on all of my systems, but from playing with a few trackballs at work (sometimes I support other users so I have to use their computers sometimes..) ...

The trackballs with thumb control (I.E. you move the ball with your thumb instead of your finger) are the only ones that I can handle well. They aren't that bad, actually. The ones where you have to use your finger for control, I cannot use them well AT ALL.

I think it may have to do with something relating to the natural motion of moving a mouse is very similar to the motion of just rotating your thumb (well, at least for me). This is why I don't have problems with the thumb versions but DO have problem with the finger versions, I guess.

Just my 2 cents. Possibly useful if you are considering the trackball route