If you’ve ever been tempted by a trackball mouse, the Logitech MX Ergo Plus is the one to try for iPad owners. Users can switch between devices instantly with this programmable wireless mouse. Since trackball mice don’t need to move around, it can work just as well on a couch cushion as it can on a mouse pad. I tested the features of this mouse with my computer and iPad for 30 hours.
Design: Built for hands of any size
The MX Ergo is made of durable plastic sculpted into an arch shape. The mouse rests on a magnetic base with a nonslip material on the bottom, preventing the mouse from moving around and eliminating the need for a mousepad. The magnetic base is also an adjustable hinge, which flips the mouse from the neutral position to a 20-degree angle. There are six programmable buttons including the scroll wheel. The mouse requires no batteries and includes a recharging cable. There is no left-handed option for the MX Ergo, however. Trackballs tend to accumulate a little grime that can make them track unevenly. This trackball is fitted into a recessed space, but it can be removed by pushing from the underside. Any mouse inevitably requires cleaning, so I’m glad the ball is easy to remove.
Performance: A mouse that can multitask
Connecting the MX Ergo to my iPad Air was straightforward, requiring nothing more than the press of a button. Logitech Options is required to use this mouse with a computer, so I downloaded that as well. Once the MX Ergo Plus was connected to both, I could switch between the two by pressing the button on top of the mouse. Switching devices was quick, and the mouse maintained a great connection with both. The buttons are quiet but not silent, and each set provides slightly different haptic feedback. I thought the buttons were pretty easy to reach. The trackball rolls smoothly under the slightest pressure from my thumb. The button for precision mode is beside the trackball, so it’s easy to turn on as needed. Some people swear by trackballs for everything. I didn’t test the MX Ergo while gaming, but only because years of experience with trackballs taught me all I need to know about that. I would quit gaming before I used a trackball. For everything else, the MX Ergo Plus can compete with any mouse.
Comfort: Adjustable for all-day comfort
It took a few minutes of experimentation to choose the best angle for the MX Ergo Plus. I personally preferred the neutral angle rather than the 20-degree one. My husband has a larger hand and different posture, and he preferred to use the mouse at an angle. Becoming comfortable with the MX Ergo was mostly a matter of adapting to it. The arch shape provides nice palm support, so I held it just like any other mouse at first. My wrist was aching before long. I was used to holding a mouse and moving it around, so I had a death grip on the MX Ergo. This mouse isn’t going anywhere, so there was no need to hold it. Once I realized I could just relax, the MX Ergo was very comfortable. I use a fingertip grip or a palm grip, depending on whether or not I’m reaching for the mouse between typing or resting my hand on the mouse while I browse the internet. Regardless of how I hold the mouse, all of the buttons are easy to reach. Using a lighter grip required some adjustment, but it’s also what makes the MX Ergo so comfortable.
Software: Logitech Options isn’t optional
To use the MX Ergo Plus on my computer, I needed to download Logitech Options. Logitech accessories like keyboards and mice can be reprogrammed with this software. Using it to program the MX Ergo Plus was simple. Logitech Options also enables Logitech Flow. With Logitech Flow, users can transfer data from one device to another without having to send it as an email attachment or use cloud services. For mice, that involves copying and pasting, or clicking and dragging. I couldn’t test it since Logitech Options isn’t available on iOS, but it’s a nice feature for accessories that can switch between devices.
Price: Worth a splurge
The MX Ergo Plus is pricey for a computer accessory, but it is good enough to justify the $100 price tag. It is perfect for multi-device setups where a traditional mouse would cause problems, for example, while sitting on a couch. Using a mouse on a couch is uncomfortable at best, but the MX Ergo Plus doesn’t need to move anywhere. It switches between devices instantaneously, and it’s extremely comfortable to use. If a trackball is the mouse of choice, then this one is worth every penny.
MX Ergo Trackball Plus vs. Magic Trackpad 2
The MX Ergo Plus pairs well with iPads made within the past ten years. It’s comfortable to use for hours, and the battery goes over a month between charging. This mouse can be paired with two devices, and it switches instantly between them. Since it doesn’t need to move much, it’s great for simplifying your workspace. Trackballs aren’t for everyone, though. Apple’s Magic Trackpad 2 is a great alternative. The trackpad is large, and its entire surface can be used to click or make gestures. Trackpads are comfortable for hours because they engage the entire hand in natural positions. The Magic Trackpad 2 has gestures specifically for iOS and macOS programs like Final Cut Pro. If you own multiple Apple devices, the Magic Trackpad 2 is a better choice.
Similar Products We’ve Reviewed:
FD V8 Ultrathin Silent Travel Mouse Logitech Ultrathin Touch Mouse T630 Apple Magic Mouse 2
The Logitech MX Ergo Plus is ideal for users who need to navigate two devices without managing multiple mice. This wireless, programmable mouse is comfortable enough for all-day use in any workspace.
