I'm thinking of getting a trackball. How well are these supported in Linux? I like the idea of the Kensington SlimBlade where both the cursor position AND scrolling are controlled from the single ball (move cursor by rolling forward/back/left/right or twist to scroll). Is that going to be available under Linux? Are all the buttons going to be configurable to work?

If not, what is a well supported trackball that I should consider? USB wired or wireless, or PS/2. No bluetooth available on my computer.

I've used a trackball mouse that you operate the ball with your thumb, with absolutely no problems.

Although I'm right handed, I have used a trackball for decades with my left hand. I've never had an issue using it like a standard mouse. Used to use a serial and then moved to ps/2 and now about the only thing you can get is a usb. I've only used logitech at home but at work they get whatever is on sale.
The trackman I think may have a way to adapt to a ps/2. Every once in a while that whole deal has some issues. Very rare I'd think. Some issue with ps/2 uart I'd think in board.

I suppose there are some features that windows users may have but I only use them like a mouse.

haertig,

I have used Kensington models on Linux computers belonging to other people. All worked perfectly.

This one appears to fit the bill according to the feedback (not mine) below:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/...k_ql_qh_dp_hza


Wireless version:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/...qh_dp_hza?th=1

I bought myself one of the Logitech M570 "track mice". I guess that's what you call them. I always considered trackballs to have a large ball on the top. This one I decided to try is more like a regular mouse in appearance, but it has a ball over on the side that you manipulate with your thumb.

My thumb is driving the cursor like a drunken sailor right now, but I assume I'll get used to it after a few days. I think I'm going to like this thing, but I really won't know until I give myself a few days to get used to it. Large sweeping cursor movements seem easy, but the very fine stuff where I'm trying to hit a small target, well, I need more practice with that. You definitely need a rest to support your wrist with this type of pointing device. At least I do. Luckily I had one in my spare parts box in the basement.

Seems to work fine under Linux. I decided on the "track mouse" style simply because of the price. Something like $22 on Amazon. Figured I couldn't go too wrong testing one out at this price.

Thanks for the update.

Personally I like the spin way to move across the screen.