Elecom Unveils Ist Plus Trackball Mice with Revolutionary 5-Ball Roller Design

Elecom has introduced the Ist Plus trackball mice series in Japan, featuring two distinct models with different roller technologies designed to enhance user experience through reduced friction and improved tracking precision. The M-IT10MRS models utilize newly-developed 5-ball rollers, while the M-IT11MRSBK models employ regular linear rollers, giving users a choice between innovative design and traditional functionality.

What's New: The 5-Ball Roller Innovation

The standout feature of the M-IT10MRS models is the innovative 5-ball roller system, which represents a significant advancement in trackball technology. This design reduces friction between the ball and rollers, resulting in smoother movement and more precise cursor control. The 36mm trackball itself remains user-replaceable, allowing for customization as wear occurs.

Both models include user-replaceable rollers, with the option to swap between the 5-ball rollers (model M-TU03SS) and linear rollers (model M-BS10). This modularity extends the lifespan of the mice and allows users to experiment with different tactile experiences based on their preferences or specific use cases.

Comprehensive Feature Set

The Ist Plus series delivers a robust feature set that caters to both productivity and gaming needs:

• 5-button programmable layout with customizable functions
• Silent switches for quiet operation, ideal for office environments
• Adjustable tracking resolution from 100 to 4,000 DPI, suitable for various tasks
• 36mm trackball providing comfortable thumb operation
• User-replaceable trackball and rollers for extended product lifespan
• Multi-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS via USB-A
• Extended Bluetooth connectivity supporting Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, ChromeOS, and Android
• Dual-mode operation with both Bluetooth and optional 2.4GHz wireless
• Multi-device pairing capability with up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth

The Elecom 5-ball roller (L) and the Elecom linear roller (R).

Connectivity and Security Options

The Ist Plus mice offer flexible connectivity options to suit different environments. While both models connect via USB-A for basic functionality, they also support Bluetooth for wireless operation across multiple platforms. For users requiring the most stable connection, Elecom offers the optional Bridge E USB receiver (M-ER10GY) that enables 2.4GHz wireless connectivity.

The Bridge E receiver is particularly noteworthy for corporate environments, featuring Bluetooth LE Security Level 4 with data encryption to prevent data theft. This security-focused design addresses growing concerns about wireless input device vulnerabilities in professional settings.

Model Comparison: 5-Ball vs Linear Rollers

The two models in the Ist Plus series offer distinct experiences:

• M-IT10MRS: Features the innovative 5-ball roller system with reduced friction, priced at 8,380 yen (~$55)
• M-IT11MRSBK: Utilizes traditional linear rollers, priced at 10,980 yen (~$70)

The price difference reflects the advanced engineering of the 5-ball roller system in the M-IT10MRS model. While the linear roller option may appeal to users who prefer the traditional trackball experience, the 5-ball system represents Elecom's commitment to innovation in pointing device technology.

Who These Mice Are For

The Ist Plus trackball mice target several user groups:

1. Office professionals who require precise cursor control without moving their hands away from the keyboard
2. CAD designers and graphic artists who benefit from the precision of trackball input
3. Gamers looking for alternative input methods that reduce wrist strain
4. Multi-device users who need seamless switching between computers and tablets
5. Corporate IT departments requiring secure wireless input devices
6. Users with mobility issues who find trackballs more comfortable than traditional mice

The combination of silent operation, programmable buttons, and multi-device support makes these mice particularly suitable for modern hybrid work environments where users frequently switch between devices throughout their workday.

Pricing and Availability

The Elecom Ist Plus trackball mice are available for pre-order in both black and white color options. Pricing is as follows:

• M-IT10MRS (5-ball roller): 8,380 yen (~$55)
• M-IT11MRSBK (linear roller): 10,980 yen (~$70)

Pre-orders open on May 26, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. JST and close on June 14 at 11:59 p.m. JST. Shipments are scheduled to begin in late June. Interested customers can find more information on Elecom's official product pages for the M-IT10MRS and M-IT11MRSBK models.

The optional Bridge E USB receiver (M-ER10GY) is available separately for users requiring the enhanced security features and 2.4GHz connectivity option.