Review: Adesso iMouseT1 Desktop Optical Trackball

The trackball may not be as popular as it once use to be but a few companies out there are still offering up these rather unique input devices. Adesso is one such company that is still churning out new models. The latest of these is the Adesso iMouse T1 Desktop Optical Trackball, an optical trackball featuring an 800 DPI sensor tacking a 1.8-inch ball ergonomically jammed front and center for easy manipulation.

Adesso iMouseT1 Specification:

• Tracking Technology: Optical trackball sensor technology
• Buttons: 2 left and right click buttons
• Scrolling Wheel: 1 scroll wheel to navigate easily
• Resolution: 800 DPI
• Switch life cycles: 1,000,000 times
• Connection: USB
• Cable length: 5ft
• Dimensions: 6" x 3.4" x 2"
• Weight: 0.4 lbs
• Operating System Supported: Windows 7 / Vista / XP / 2000 and Mac OSx or OS 9

The iMouse T1 features dimensions of 6" x 3.4" x 2" making this a rather large device with a large oddly shaped body. Flanking the trackball are three standard buttons left and right and a side mounted scroll wheel, all three of which are quit large. The overall size and shape will make for easy use for some but will provide a rather uncomfortable feel for others.

Those with large hands or that have accessibility concerns such as carpal tunnel, arthritis or any other hand related issues should find the size ideal. Users with smaller hands will likely find the iMouse T1 a bit hard to use as hand positioning feels stretched and out of place.

Tracking is very smooth and with some adjustment to mouse settings very precise. Both the top buttons provide a nice tactile feel and show good responsiveness. The one issue we found was that they scroll wheel on our iMouse feels stiff making for jagged scrolling and the location makes using the third (usually middle click) button near impossible.

Conclusion:

Overall we had no major complaints about our iMouse T1. There were a few issues with the scroll wheel and I'm a bit disappointed in the overall size as well as the lack of a wireless option. I've become rather spoiled by using a wireless mouse and keyboard combo and would have preferred not being tethered to my desk. Being a geek with smaller hands the bulk and shape of the iMouse made for an uncomfortable feel until I made a few adjustments to my hand position. I actually found it easier to use left handed than I did right. This was likely due to being use to the feel a mouse has in my right hand. Size and shape aside we'd definitely give the iMouse a recommendation rating.

Pricing:

Buy.com - Adesso iMouse T1 Trackball - Optical Wired USB - 2 x Button 

Newegg.com - ADESSO iMouse T1 Wired TrackBall Mouse 

Amazon.com - Adesso iMouseT1 Trackball Mouse