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This seems like a really good way to make it so you have a hard time typing on anyone's computer but your own.


I use a trackball and find it makes me more productive and causes less strain

Most other people use a normal mouse

Since I also have a lot of muscle memory using normal mice, I am able to quickly adjust to working on a new PC

Others struggle when they have to take over my PC and show me something by navigating with my trackball

I am guessing this might be similar -- since OP does have years or muscle memory with normal keyboards anyway to back them up


Its fun watching mouse users try to use a trackball. I don't like pair programming but when people ask me to I say sure just so I can see them flail with a trackball and Kinesis keyboard.


I wish decent trackballs were more common. At this point, a good one would run me 100+ euros where I am.

I use a 50 euro Razer Naga X mice at the moment which is nice (with the extra buttons).


If that's something you do then obviously this isn't for you. I personally haven't typed on someone else's computer in at least 13 years. Since whenever I got my first laptop.


You've never had to help someone do something on their own computer that required typing something in?


I use Colemak keyboard layout with blank keyboard keys. If I'm helping someone else on their own computer, I hunt and peck on their keyboard with the handy letters printed on the keys.


Ha, nope! I mean, probably, but nothing meaningful. I did the other say and just told the person what to type. But like, I’m not writing code or composing emails or anything.


It's reasonable to expect everyone is able to use a lowest common denominator.

But, it's unreasonable that you stick to the lowest common denominator if you're going to be using your own setup 99% of the time.

I'd say a bigger disadvantage to non-traditional setups (trackballs, non-qwerty, small keyboards, etc.) is "others won't be able to use your stuff".


That's like saying you shouldn't use a second monitor because then you have a hard time to use anyone's computer that doesn't have a second monitor.

Also don't use any editor other than Notepad.


It's not a problem for phone keyboards. It's also not a problem for me changing between different regions' keyboard layouts.


guilty as charged. People trying to type on my computer is even worse though haha


All of us Dvorak users quietly shed a tear.




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