The best trackballs under $100 can make long work sessions more comfortable, add precise cursor control, or provide the centerpiece for a custom arcade cabinet. This roundup covers thumb-operated mice, ambidextrous designs, scroll-ring models, and full-size arcade trackballs.
Use the buying guide below to compare connection types, ball sizes, ergonomics, compatibility, and lighting before choosing the right model for your desk or gaming project.
Best 10 Trackballs Under 100 Picks for 2026
Best Wireless Thumb-Control Pick
- Bluetooth and USB receiver support up to three devices
- Four DPI levels and rechargeable battery
- Ergonomic right-handed thumb control
Best For: Wireless everyday computing in compact workspaces
Best Arcade Cabinet Upgrade
ThunderStick LED Arcade Trackball
- Drop-in replacement for compatible Arcade1Up cabinets
- USB interface board supports PC, Mac, and Raspberry Pi
- LED-equipped industrial-style arcade trackball
Best For: Arcade cabinet upgrades and DIY arcade projects
Best Wired Ergonomic Option
- USB-powered wired connection
- Five programmable buttons with tilt scroll
- Right-handed ergonomic thumb control
Best For: Fixed-desk work and customizable Windows or Mac workflows
Best Large LED Arcade Ball
3-Inch Color-Changing Trackball
- Large 3-inch arcade installation format
- Color-changing LED illumination
- USB and PS2 interfaces included
Best For: Indoor arcade cabinet and control-panel projects
Best Overall
Kensington Orbit with Scroll Ring
- Precise optical tracking
- Dedicated scroll ring
- Ambidextrous with wrist rest
Best For: Office work and easy document navigation
Best Arcade-Style Pick
- Large 3-inch arcade ball
- USB, PS/2, and JAMMA/MAME support
- Durable plastic construction
Best For: Retro arcade projects and MAME setups
Best Compact Value
- Precise 40mm ball tracking
- Compact ambidextrous design
- Wired and battery-free
Best For: Simple office use in a space-conscious setup
Arcade Builder Pick
- Combines spinner and trackball controls
- Customizable LED effects
- Designed for 28mm arcade mounting
Best For: DIY arcade cabinets and Raspberry Pi projects
Office Comfort Pick
Wired Ergonomic Thumb Trackball
- 34mm thumb-controlled trackball
- Five DPI settings up to 1200 DPI
- RGB lighting and six-button layout
Best For: Right-handed office and productivity setups
Large-Hand Precision Pick
- Large 55mm finger-operated ball
- One-touch left/right hand switching
- Includes wrist rest and dual scroll wheels
Best For: Large hands, shared desks, and detailed creative work
Best Wireless Thumb-Control Pick – Nulea M501
If you want trackballs under 100 for flexible, low-movement control, the Nulea M501 combines thumb operation with wireless connectivity. Its ergonomic shape, adjustable DPI, and rechargeable battery make it a practical option for everyday computing, especially where desk space is limited.
Best For: Right-handed users who want a rechargeable wireless trackball for workspaces, couches, beds, or other compact surfaces.
Pros:
- Connects to up to three devices through Bluetooth or the USB receiver.
- Four DPI levels provide adjustable cursor control.
- Rechargeable battery eliminates routine battery replacement.
- Six buttons include forward and back controls.
Cons:
- Buttons are not programmable.
- Charging requires the included cable and a standard USB or 5V source rather than a fast charger.
- Designed for right-handed use.
The M501 is a strong all-around choice among trackballs under 100 if wireless convenience and ergonomic thumb control matter most. Its lack of programmable buttons is the main limitation for customization-focused users.
Best Arcade Cabinet Upgrade – ThunderStick LED Arcade Trackball
For shoppers seeking trackballs under 100 for arcade projects, the ThunderStick LED Arcade Trackball is built as a replacement component rather than a conventional desktop mouse. It connects through a USB interface board and is designed for select Arcade1Up cabinets as well as PC, Mac, and Raspberry Pi setups.
Best For: Arcade builders upgrading compatible Arcade1Up cabinets or adding a USB trackball to a computer-based arcade project.
Pros:
- Designed as a drop-in replacement for an Arcade1Up stock trackball.
- Compatible with specified Arcade1Up Atari 12-in-1 and Centipede units.
- Works with PC, Mac, and Raspberry Pi through a USB interface board.
- Includes LED lighting.
Cons:
- Not compatible with the Arcade1Up Centipede Legacy unit.
- Requires an appropriate USB interface board and arcade installation.
- Its arcade-focused design is not intended as a standard ergonomic computer mouse.
The ThunderStick makes sense when your goal is arcade restoration or customization. Verify your cabinet model before buying, particularly if you own the Centipede Legacy unit, which the supplied notes identify as incompatible.
Best Wired Ergonomic Option – ELECOM EX-G
The ELECOM EX-G is a sensible pick for trackballs under 100 if you prefer a wired connection and customizable controls. Its right-handed thumb trackball, optical tracking, tilt scroll, and USB power are aimed at extended office, creative, gaming, and browsing sessions.
Best For: Right-handed Windows and Mac users who want a lag-free wired trackball with programmable buttons.
Pros:
- USB wired connectivity avoids battery charging and replacement.
- Five programmable buttons support workflow customization.
- Optical tracking and thumb control provide precise cursor movement.
- Tilt scroll adds another navigation option.
Cons:
- Wired operation limits placement flexibility.
- Designed for right-handed users.
- Compatibility details specifically list Windows versions and Mac/PC platforms rather than every operating system.
Choose the EX-G when dependable USB operation and button customization are more important than wireless freedom. It is particularly well suited to a fixed desk setup where its corded design is not an inconvenience.
Best Large LED Arcade Ball – 3-Inch Color-Changing Trackball
This 3-inch color-changing trackball is aimed at arcade installations rather than desktop pointing. Among trackballs under 100, it stands out for its large size, multicolor LED effect, and included USB and PS2 interfaces, making it a candidate for indoor arcade or control-panel projects.
Best For: Adult hobbyists building or repairing indoor arcade cabinets that need a large illuminated trackball.
Pros:
- Large 3-inch trackball suits arcade-style installations.
- Color-changing LED lighting adds visual appeal.
- Includes USB and PS2 interfaces.
- Covered by a 90-day manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- Designed for arcade projects, not typical desktop mouse use.
- Its supplied dimensions and 2-pound weight may require careful mounting planning.
- The manufacturer warranty lasts 90 days.
This model is best evaluated as an arcade component with lighting, not as a plug-and-play ergonomic mouse. Confirm that your cabinet or control panel can accommodate its 3-inch format and connection requirements before ordering.
Best Overall – Kensington Orbit with Scroll Ring
For shoppers comparing trackballs under 100, the Kensington Orbit with Scroll Ring is a practical wired option with precise optical tracking, an ambidextrous layout, and a dedicated scroll ring for navigating documents and web pages.
Best For: Everyday office work and users who want easy scrolling with either hand.
Pros:
- Optical tracking supports precise cursor movement with less hand movement.
- Unique scroll ring makes vertical navigation convenient.
- Ambidextrous design suits right- and left-handed users.
- Detachable wrist rest adds cushioning during extended use.
Cons:
- Wired USB connectivity limits placement flexibility.
- Only two buttons are available for programming.
The Orbit stands out as a balanced choice for productivity-focused buyers. Kensington Works software adds cursor, scrolling, and button customization, while the included wrist rest supports a more comfortable workstation setup.
Best Arcade-Style Pick – 3-Inch USB Arcade Trackball
Among trackballs under 100, this 3-inch arcade-style model is designed for PC, Mac, PS/2, USB, and JAMMA plus MAME systems. Its larger ball and durable plastic construction make it suited to retro gaming projects and arcade-style setups.
Best For: Retro arcade builds, MAME systems, and hobbyists needing a large USB-compatible trackball.
Pros:
- Large 3-inch arcade-style ball provides a distinctive control format.
- Supports PC and Mac use with USB and PS/2 connections.
- Compatible with JAMMA plus MAME systems.
- Ambidextrous design supports natural hand movement.
Cons:
- Its 2-pound, 8-by-6-by-4-inch enclosure is less compact than a desktop mouse.
- Only a 90-day manufacturer warranty is listed.
- The supplied notes do not list modern ergonomic features or programmable buttons.
This is a specialized choice rather than a general office mouse. Choose it when the arcade form factor and system compatibility matter more than a compact footprint or extensive desktop customization.
Best Compact Value – Kensington Orbit Trackball
For buyers seeking trackballs under 100 with a straightforward desktop design, the Kensington Orbit uses a medium 40mm ball, wired USB connectivity, and an ambidextrous shape that takes less desk space than a conventional mouse.
Best For: Basic office computing and users who prefer a compact, battery-free wired trackball.
Pros:
- Internal red optics are designed for precise ball tracking.
- Compact design helps conserve workstation space.
- Ambidextrous shape works for either hand.
- Wired USB setup does not require batteries for operation.
Cons:
- It does not include a scroll ring.
- Wired connectivity offers less placement flexibility.
- Only two buttons are available.
The older Orbit is a sensible minimalist option for cursor control and everyday clicking. Kensington Konnect software allows button and cursor adjustments, but shoppers who frequently scroll should consider the newer Orbit model with its dedicated ring.
Arcade Builder Pick – LED Trackball Spinner Combo
For DIY arcade projects, this tsticks unit combines a trackball and spinner in one compact setup. Its optical movement detection, USB connectivity, customizable LED effects, and universal mounting for 28mm holes make it a specialized option among trackballs under 100.
Best For: Arcade cabinets, Raspberry Pi builds, and makers who want trackball and spinner functionality together.
Pros:
- Combines a spinner and trackball, reducing the need for separate components.
- Optical technology supports precise trackball performance.
- Customizable LED effects add visual appeal to arcade projects.
- Ambidextrous design works with Mac, PC, Linux, and Raspberry Pi setups.
Cons:
- Designed for DIY and arcade mounting rather than conventional desktop use.
- Requires a compatible 28mm mounting hole setup.
- Uses a corded USB connection.
This is a focused arcade-control component rather than a general office mouse. Choose it when combined spinner-and-trackball control and LED customization matter more than plug-and-play desktop ergonomics.
Office Comfort Pick – Wired Ergonomic Thumb Trackball
This PORLEI wired trackball mouse uses a sculpted right-handed shape and a 34mm thumb-controlled ball to reduce hand movement. With five DPI levels, six buttons, RGB lighting, and USB-A connectivity, it is a practical candidate for shoppers comparing trackballs under 100 for everyday work.
Best For: Right-handed office users who want a compact wired mouse for tight desks and extended computer sessions.
Pros:
- Ergonomic angled design supports a more natural palm position.
- Five adjustable DPI settings range from 100 to 1200 DPI.
- 34mm thumb trackball works on desks, laps, sofas, beds, and carpets.
- Includes back and forward buttons, a scroll wheel, and RGB lighting.
Cons:
- Right-handed design is not ambidextrous.
- Buttons are non-programmable.
- Back and forward buttons are not compatible with macOS.
The TM551 balances ergonomic comfort and useful control options without requiring drivers. Its wired connection suits stable desk setups, while the removable ball simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Large-Hand Precision Pick – 55mm Ambidextrous Trackball
The PORLEI TM553 is built around a large 55mm finger-operated trackball and includes an ergonomic wrist rest. Its four DPI settings, dual scroll wheels, and one-touch hand switching make it a feature-rich choice among trackballs under 100 for detailed work.
Best For: Large-handed users, shared workspaces, and design or editing tasks requiring fingertip cursor control.
Pros:
- Oversized 55mm ball supports smooth, precise finger control.
- Ambidextrous layout includes one-touch left/right hand switching.
- Four DPI levels range from 400 to 1600 DPI.
- Includes an ergonomic wrist rest and dual scroll wheels.
Cons:
- Buttons have fixed functions and are not programmable.
- The large design may be less suitable for users who prefer compact mice.
- Requires a wired USB-A or USB-C connection.
With its unusually large ball and reversible controls, the TM553 is aimed at users who prioritize finger precision and hand flexibility. It is especially compelling for shared desks or workflows involving design, CAD, and video editing.
How We Picked the Best Trackballs Under 100
We organized these 10 selections around the main ways shoppers use trackballs: everyday productivity, ergonomic pointer control, arcade gaming, and DIY cabinet builds. We considered the control layout, ball diameter, wired or wireless connection, compatibility, adjustment options, and practical installation requirements.
Because a compact thumb trackball and a three-inch arcade ball serve very different purposes, the list is not ranked by one universal standard. Instead, each product is most useful for a particular type of buyer and setup.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Features to Prioritize | Likely Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Office and general computing | Comfortable shape, reliable buttons, adjustable sensitivity | Wireless or ergonomic thumb-control mouse |
| Ambidextrous use | Centered ball, symmetrical controls | Orbit-style trackball |
| Scrolling through documents | Integrated scroll ring | Scroll-ring trackball |
| Arcade cabinets | Large ball, mounting hardware, USB/PS2/JAMMA support | Three-inch arcade trackball |
| Lighting-focused builds | LED illumination, controller compatibility | LED arcade trackball |
Key Buying Factors for Trackballs Under 100
Ball Size and Control Style
Thumb-operated mice are compact and familiar, but they may feel less natural if you prefer fingertip control. Larger center-mounted balls can offer steadier movement and work well for shared or ambidextrous use. Arcade balls are substantially larger and need a suitable panel opening and mounting arrangement.
Ergonomics and Hand Fit
Check whether the design supports your preferred hand and whether your fingers can reach the buttons without strain. A large-hand model may be more comfortable for broad palms, while a compact shell can be easier to position on a crowded desk.
Connection and Compatibility
USB is the simplest option for modern computers. PS/2 and JAMMA support can be valuable for legacy systems and arcade projects, but adapters or additional wiring may still be needed. Confirm operating-system and controller compatibility before buying.
Sensitivity, Scrolling, and Lighting
Multiple DPI settings help match cursor speed to different tasks. A scroll ring is useful for documents and web pages, while RGB or LED lighting is primarily an aesthetic feature unless the trackball is part of a visible arcade build.
Who Should Buy Which Trackballs Under 100?
Choose a wireless thumb-control model if you want a tidy desktop and conventional mouse-style navigation. Pick a wired ergonomic thumb trackball when consistent connectivity and a lower-maintenance setup matter more than cable-free placement.
An Orbit-style model is a sensible choice for users who want centered control or ambidextrous operation, while a scroll-ring version is better suited to frequent scrolling. For arcade cabinets, select a three-inch unit only after checking panel dimensions, mounting space, connector type, and the requirements of your emulator or control board.