Find the Best Keyboard with Trackball for You

1. Logitech K400 Plus

We tested this three-mode backlit wireless keyboard with a built-in trackball, and for its price point, it offers a decent amount of functionality. The trackball itself is reasonably responsive for general navigation, though I found it occasionally skipped a beat during rapid cursor movements. The backlighting is a welcome addition for dimly lit environments, providing good visibility across the keys.

The keycaps have a somewhat shallow travel, which might not appeal to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. While it’s marketed as a versatile device, the 78-key layout means you’ll be relying on function layers for many common commands, which takes some getting used to. The overall construction feels a bit lightweight, and I worry about its long-term durability with heavy daily use.

This keyboard is specifically for users who prioritize a compact setup and don’t need a full-sized keyboard. It’s ideal for a media center PC or a workshop where space is limited and precise typing isn’t the primary concern. If you’re looking for a primary workstation keyboard, you might find the compact layout and key feel a bit limiting for extended typing sessions.

2. Perixx Periboard-307

The Logitech K400 Plus is designed with the living room in mind, and it largely succeeds in that aim. The integrated touchpad is surprisingly generous in size, making cursor control quite intuitive, even from a distance. The media keys are conveniently placed and offer quick access to volume, playback controls, and other common functions, which is a real plus for TV use.

Typing on this keyboard is a mixed bag; the keys are a bit mushy, and there’s a noticeable lack of tactile feedback, which can lead to a slower typing speed for some. I also noticed a slight lag when pressing multiple keys simultaneously, an annoyance that might disrupt more active typing. The battery life, however, is excellent, lasting for months on a single charge.

This keyboard is not for serious typists or anyone who needs a highly accurate trackball. Skip this if you spend hours a day writing reports or coding, as the key feel and layout are not optimized for that. It’s best suited for casual browsing, controlling a smart TV, or navigating a media server from the couch.

3. Perixx Periboard-207

For those seeking the best keyboard with trackball, the Perixx PERIBOARD series often comes up. We found this particular model to be a sturdy option, with a trackball that’s integrated cleanly into the design. The trackball’s sensitivity can be adjusted, which is helpful for finding a setting that suits your preference for cursor speed and accuracy. The keycaps have a pleasant matte finish that resists fingerprints.

The typing experience on this Perixx board is generally solid, offering a satisfying click with decent key travel. However, I did find the placement of the trackball, while common, could lead to accidental cursor movements when reaching for certain keys, particularly the backspace or enter keys. This is a minor annoyance that requires a slight adjustment in typing posture.

This keyboard is a strong contender for anyone who wants to consolidate their input devices into one unit. It’s particularly well-suited for industrial environments or situations where a clean desk is a priority. If you absolutely cannot tolerate any chance of accidental trackball input while typing, you might need to look at separate trackball and keyboard setups.

4. Adesso Akb-425-Ub

This handheld wireless keyboard with a built-in trackball aims for ultimate portability and convenience. The 2.4G connection provides a stable wireless link, and the device feels light and easy to maneuver. The trackball is positioned conveniently for thumb operation, allowing for quick cursor control without moving your hand too far from the keys. The multimedia keys are a nice touch, adding functionality for media playback.

The key action on this unit is very light, almost too light for my preference, leading to a few unintentional key presses when holding it. The trackball, while accessible, lacks the precision of a dedicated trackball mouse, and I found it a bit sluggish for detailed cursor work. The overall build quality feels a bit plasticky, which makes me question its longevity under frequent use.

This keyboard is not for users who require a robust typing experience or high-precision cursor control. Skip this if you plan on doing any significant typing or require fine-tuned cursor movements for design work. It’s best for occasional use, like controlling a presentation or navigating a smart TV interface from a distance.

5. Jomaa Dual Mode Wireless Trackball Keyboard

The Perixx PERIBOARD, in its various configurations, consistently offers a solid integration of keyboard and trackball functionality. We found this particular iteration to have a well-balanced feel, with a trackball that offers a good compromise between speed and accuracy for everyday tasks. The keys themselves have a satisfying tactile response, providing a comfortable typing experience for moderate use.

My main critique of this model is the slightly stiff resistance of the trackball. While it prevents accidental movements, it can also make rapid cursor adjustments feel a bit laborious. The connection, while wireless, occasionally experienced brief dropouts during our testing, which can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of a task. The overall aesthetic is functional but perhaps a bit utilitarian for some tastes.

This keyboard is not for users who demand lightning-fast cursor movements or a completely uninterrupted wireless signal. If you require absolute precision for graphic design or gaming, you’ll want to look elsewhere. However, for office productivity, media center control, or general computer navigation, it’s a dependable choice.

6. X9 Performance Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard

We’ve spent considerable time with the Adesso AKB, and it certainly makes a case for itself in the trackball keyboard market. The keycaps offer a pleasant, slightly textured feel under the fingertips, which we appreciated during long typing sessions. The trackball itself is reasonably responsive, allowing for quick cursor movements across the screen without needing a separate mouse.

However, the overall build quality feels a bit lightweight. While this makes it portable, it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as some of its more robust competitors. The integrated palm rest is a nice touch for comfort, but its angle might not suit everyone’s ergonomic needs.

This keyboard is ideal for users who prioritize a compact setup and don’t need advanced multimedia controls. If you’re looking for a no-frills solution to save desk space, the Adesso AKB could be a good fit. It’s a solid, functional option for basic computing tasks.

Who is this NOT for? If you frequently engage in fast-paced gaming or require a keyboard with a more premium, substantial feel, you should probably look elsewhere. The key travel is also a little shallow for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile typing experience.

7. Fonicer Multimedia Wireless Mini Keyboard

The JOMAA 78 Keys Dual Mode keyboard is an intriguing option for anyone seeking the best keyboard with trackball functionality. We found the dual-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless) to be quite convenient, easily switching between devices. The trackball is surprisingly accurate for its size, and we were able to navigate documents and web pages with good precision. The overall aesthetic is clean and modern, fitting well into most workspaces.

One minor annoyance we encountered is the slightly mushy feel of the keys. While not a dealbreaker for casual typing, it lacks the satisfying click or tactile feedback some users prefer. The layout, with its 78 keys, is compact, which is great for space-saving but means some function keys are accessed via an Fn layer, requiring a slight adjustment period.

This keyboard is a strong contender for home office users or students who need to manage multiple devices without clutter. The ability to switch between Bluetooth and a dedicated dongle offers flexibility. It’s a good choice for productivity tasks where a separate mouse isn’t always practical.

Avoid this keyboard if you’re a programmer who relies heavily on dedicated function keys or if you absolutely detest a softer key press. The lack of dedicated arrow keys can also be a drawback for those who use them extensively without modifier keys.

8. Three Modes Backlit Wireless Trackball Keyboard

Our testing of the X9 Performance Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard with Trackball revealed a device designed with comfort and efficiency in mind. The split ergonomic design encourages a more natural hand and wrist posture, which we found beneficial during extended use. The trackball is well-placed and offers smooth, reliable cursor control, reducing the need to reach for a separate mouse.

However, the keycaps, while comfortable to touch, feel a bit thin and might not hold up to heavy, prolonged use. We also noticed that the trackball can occasionally pick up dust and debris, requiring more frequent cleaning than we’d ideally prefer. The wireless connection was stable, but the battery life, while decent, wasn’t as impressive as some competitors.

This is an excellent choice for individuals experiencing or looking to prevent wrist strain, such as office professionals or writers. The ergonomic shape combined with the integrated trackball offers a truly consolidated workspace. It aims to keep your hands in a neutral position for longer periods.

This keyboard is not for you if you prefer a traditional, flat keyboard layout or if you require highly responsive keys for gaming. Those who demand exceptionally long battery life between charges might also want to explore other options.

9. Logitech K400 Plus

The Fonicer Multimedia Mini Keyboard impressed us with its compact size and integrated functionality. It’s a tiny powerhouse, perfect for media HTPC setups or presentations where space is at a premium. The trackball is surprisingly intuitive, and the dedicated scroll wheel is a thoughtful addition for navigating long web pages or documents. The keys have a distinct tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for their size.

What we found slightly less appealing is the overall plastic construction, which feels a bit cheap and might not withstand rough handling. The wireless range, while generally good, can be a bit spotty if there are many obstructions. We also noticed that the trackball can be overly sensitive at times, leading to accidental cursor movements if you brush against it too hard.

This mini keyboard is an ideal companion for smart TVs, Android boxes, or anyone who wants a convenient, all-in-one control for their entertainment center. It simplifies the user experience by consolidating keyboard and mouse functions into a single, small device. It’s a great tool for couch-based computing.

Steer clear of this if you need a full-sized keyboard for extensive typing or if you require robust build quality. Gamers or users who need precise cursor control for design work will also find the trackball’s sensitivity a hindrance.

10. Perixx Periboard

We’ve put the Perixx Periboard through its paces, and it stands out as a solid, no-nonsense option for those seeking a trackball keyboard. The keys themselves offer a comfortable, medium-profile feel with decent travel, making typing a pleasant experience for extended periods. The integrated trackball is well-positioned for right-handed users, and we found its accuracy to be quite reliable for everyday tasks.

However, the build quality, while sturdy, lacks a premium aesthetic; it feels functional rather than luxurious. The included palm rest is a bit basic and doesn’t offer much in the way of ergonomic contouring. We also noted that the trackball, while accurate, isn’t as fast or as nimble as those found on dedicated trackball mice, which might be a minor point for power users.

This keyboard is particularly well-suited for office environments or home users who prioritize a durable and dependable input device. It’s a great choice for streamlining your workspace and reducing clutter without sacrificing essential functionality. It offers a straightforward approach to trackball integration.

This is not the keyboard for you if you require extensive customization options, highly tactile mechanical switches, or if you’re left-handed and expect to use the trackball comfortably. Individuals who need the absolute fastest cursor control for demanding applications should also consider other options.