ELECOM M-RT1BRXBK Relacon handheld trackball mouse, 10 buttons

People who want to control a computer while relaxing on the sofa or bed need a mouse that works away from a desk. The ELECOM Relacon puts cursor control in your hand, using a thumb-operated trackball so you can move the pointer without moving your arm.

Its sculpted, ambidextrous design suits left- and right-handed use. Ten buttons include media controls for playback, volume and track operation, making it practical for browsing and watching videos.

Choose from three pointer speeds and customise button functions with the free Mouse Assistant software. The black body and red trackball give this model a distinctive look for everyday computer use.

At a glance

The M-RT1BRXBK is a wireless handheld trackball mouse for controlling a computer without needing to move it across a desk. Its optical sensor tracks the smooth ball, while the compact handheld format lets you use it from a sofa, bed or other seated position. For video viewing, the dedicated media buttons put playback and volume controls within reach, for general navigation, the thumb-operated ball handles cursor movement.

The ten-button layout can be tailored through Mouse Assistant, so frequently used functions can be assigned to suit your routine. Pointer speed switches between 500, 1,000 and 1,500 counts, giving you three settings to choose from for different tasks. Buyers often praise the ergonomic feel, while feedback is mixed on tracking smoothness, connectivity and button usability.

Size & fit

Measuring 11.2 cm long, 4.1 cm wide and 5.7 cm high, the Relacon is shaped to sit in the hand rather than on a desktop. Its symmetrical form supports use with either hand, and the 2.7-ounce weight makes it a compact option to keep nearby for relaxed browsing or media control. This handheld approach differs from a conventional desk mouse: instead of moving the whole device over a surface, you roll the trackball with your thumb while holding the mouse in place.

Usage tips

For everyday browsing, use the trackball to move between pages and the media buttons to manage playback without reaching for separate controls. When switching between tasks, choose one of the three pointer-speed settings that feels suitable for the amount of cursor movement you need. Mouse Assistant lets you assign preferred functions to the buttons, helping make the layout more personal for regular use.

The mouse requires two AAA batteries, which are included. Its stated average battery life is six months. A power switch and battery-level indicator support straightforward day-to-day use, and the compact wireless receiver can be stored inside the mouse for carrying. Supported systems include Windows 11 and macOS, with additional Windows versions listed for the product.

Practical questions

Can left- and right-handed users use it? Yes. The symmetrical design is intended for either hand, with the trackball operated by the thumb.

Can the buttons be customised? Yes. Mouse Assistant software, available as a free download, lets you assign functions to the buttons.

What pointer speeds can I select? Choose between 500, 1,000 and 1,500 counts using the mouse’s pointer-speed settings.

When it makes sense

The Relacon is suited to people who want handheld cursor control for browsing, computer use or video viewing away from a desk. Its thumb-operated trackball keeps the mouse in hand, while the media controls, customisable buttons and three pointer speeds support a more tailored setup. Choose it for relaxed, seated use when a standard mouse that needs a desktop surface is not the control style you want.