Logitech Ergo M575S: A Budget-Friendly Trackball with a Twist
When it comes to desktop input devices, Logitech has carved out a reputation for excellence. However, their top-tier models often come with a hefty price tag, sometimes exceeding $100. For those on a budget, the Logitech Ergo M575S emerges as a compelling alternative to the acclaimed MX Ergo S, which has earned accolades like the Editors' Choice award. Priced at approximately half of what you'd pay for the MX Ergo S, this more accessible trackball model covers the essential features effectively, yet it does leave out some of the advanced functionalities found in its pricier sibling, particularly concerning its software capabilities. This absence is unfortunate since incorporating these features wouldn't have significantly impacted production costs. While we still consider the MX Ergo S our top recommendation for trackballs, the Ergo M575S stands to serve those looking for a more economical option quite well.
Design: Classic Look with Limited Features
Visually, the M575S bears a strong resemblance to the higher-end MX Ergo S. Measuring 1.9 inches in height, 3.9 inches in width, and 5.2 inches in depth, its design is tailored to accommodate right-handed users (apologies to left-handed individuals) and features a slight 5-degree incline, which aims to alleviate wrist strain during use. However, unlike the MX Ergo S, the M575S lacks the textured grip and additional tilt options that enhance comfort.
The button layout mirrors that of the MX Ergo S, featuring two extra buttons conveniently placed to the left of the index finger, alongside a textured scroll wheel positioned between the primary buttons. However, the M575S falls short in functionality compared to its upscale counterpart, as it does not possess the tilt-scrolling capability for the wheel nor the extra thumb button located above the trackball on the MX Ergo S.
Interestingly, the M575S offers a slight edge in terms of customization through color options. Unlike the standard matte gray finish of the MX Ergo S, the M575S is available in five distinct shell-and-trackball combinations, including blue, white, black, and gray. This variety made me wish that the MX Ergo S had similar choices to cater to individual preferences.
As for powering the device, the M575S operates on a single AA battery and does not include wired connectivity or USB-C charging. Users can connect via Bluetooth or utilize the Logi Bolt unifying USB-C receiver, which allows for 2.4GHz radio-frequency (RF) communication with compatible Logitech peripherals.
While I tend to be critical of products that require disposable batteries and ergonomic devices lacking adjustable features, there is a silver lining: the M575S is significantly lighter than the MX Ergo S, weighing about half as much. This makes it portable enough for travel, assuming you don’t mind the space that a trackball occupies in your bag.
Testing the Ergo M575S: A Well-Balanced Experience
My experience testing the Ergo M575S mirrored my time with the MX Ergo S quite closely. The primary buttons employ the same switches as the MX Ergo S, delivering a pleasing tactile feedback while maintaining a nearly silent operation—an appealing feature for those working in shared environments.
Although I missed the extra body tilt feature offered by the MX Ergo S, the M575S still ranks among the most comfortable input devices I've experienced in recent years. If you’re new to using trackballs, there might be a brief adjustment period. However, I would strongly recommend the M575S over traditional vertical mice if you're seeking relief from repetitive stress injuries or discomfort caused by improper wrist positioning. A trackball like this minimizes the wrist movement typically associated with mouse use. That said, those suffering from wrist pain may find that the MX Ergo S's ability to pivot the trackball's body provides a more natural 'handshake' grip, elevating the hand closer to a perpendicular position relative to the desk.
Regular cleaning is crucial for trackballs to maintain peak performance. Thankfully, maintaining the Ergo M575S is straightforward; simply remove the ball and use a cotton swab to clear away any debris from the rollers or sensor. Although the tracking resolution is sufficient for quickly navigating across multiple monitors, the M575S, like many trackballs, may struggle with precision tasks in applications such as Adobe Photoshop or DaVinci Resolve, especially without some practice.
I often grumble about peripherals that rely on disposable batteries, but it’s worth noting that the Ergo M575S is impressively power-efficient. Even after several weeks of use, the AA battery remained at a full 100% level according to the Logi Options Plus software.
Software: Missing Out on Key Features
Speaking of the Logi Options Plus software, it provides a comprehensive suite for customizing Logitech peripherals. Users can record macros, adjust sensitivity settings, and remap inputs to fit their preferences. However, a notable feature called the Actions Ring, present on the MX Ergo S, is regrettably absent on the Ergo M575S. When activated, the Actions Ring displays a circular menu around your cursor, offering up to eight customizable selections, including options for nested functions, which greatly expands the number of shortcuts and macros at your disposal.
This omission is disappointing, considering it would have been easy to reassign one of the existing inputs on the Ergo M575S to access this feature. It feels like a missed opportunity that could potentially be resolved with a future software or firmware update. Currently, however, it appears to be a strategic move by Logitech to encourage more serious users to invest in the higher-priced MX Ergo S.
What are your thoughts on the design and functionality of budget versus premium trackballs? Do you think it’s worth investing in higher-end models for additional features? Share your perspectives in the comments below!
