Casual computer users might not realize how important it is to use an ergonomic mouse.
More advanced users, though, are all too aware of the risks of repetitive strain injury and of the productivity benefits of using a mouse that feels comfortable and easy to use.
Whether you’re a gamer, power user or casual user, you can benefit from the advantages of an ergonomic mouse.
Repetitive strain injury and carpal tunnel syndrome cost the US economy over $100 billion in lost revenue every year. It makes the £300 million lost in the UK look insignificant in comparison.
Medical reasons to use an ergonomic mouse
Ergonomic mice have their biggest medical benefits when they’re used to prevent and treat repetitive strain injury (RSI). This is the most obvious computer-related injury, and it’s an umbrella term to describe the pain you feel in your muscles, nerves, and tendons after a period of repetitive movement.
It’s a common enough condition amongst gamers, but it’s also common amongst office workers – which is why it’s sometimes known as “work-related upper limb disorder” or “non-specific upper limb pain”.
Ultimately, your body will start to suffer due to prolonged usage, especially if you’re using an uncomfortable mouse, and it doesn’t matter whether you spend that time playing games or making spreadsheets.
RSI usually affects the upper body, hitting areas like arms and elbows, wrists and hands, or the neck and shoulders. The physical symptoms usually develop gradually, starting off mild before increasing in severity.
You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for aches and pains, stiffness, swelling, throbbing, weakness, and cramp – and to speak to your doctor before the problem gets worse.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is RSI’s little brother and is caused by excess pressure on the nerves in your wrist. It has similar symptoms to RSI – including numbness, pins, and needles, difficulty gripping and aches and pains in the fingers, hand, or arm – and tends to get worse at night.
These two medical conditions can cause huge problems for people who need to use a computer for work, which is why so many companies are buying ergonomic mice, chairs, and workstations for their employees, but the good news is that all isn’t lost. Using an ergonomic device can help to reduce the symptoms if you’re suffering and even stop the problem from occurring in the first place.
12 Best Ergonomic Mouse 2022
| Model | Type | Max DPI | Fit | Price | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12. 3M Wired Ergonomic Optical Mouse | Joystick | 800 | Right-Handed, Handshake Grip | $$$$ | Check Price |
| 11. Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Mouse | Vertical | 1600 | Right-Handed, Handshake Grip | $$ | Check Price |
| 10. Kensington Orbit Trackball Mouse | Trackball | N/A | Left and Right-Handed | $$ | Check Price |
| 9. Corsair Glaive Pro | Standard (Horizontal) | 18000 | Right-Handed Palm Grip: Small, Medium, and Large Claw Grip: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large Fingertip Grip: Medium, Large and Extra Large | $$$ | Check Price |
| 8. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse | Standard (Horizontal) | 1000 | Right-Handed Palm Grip: Small, Medium, and Large Claw Grip: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large Fingertip Grip: Medium, Large and Extra Large | $$ | Check Price |
| 7. J-Tech Digital Wired Vertical Mouse | Vertical | 1600 | Right-Handed, Handshake Grip | $ | Check Price |
| 6. Jelly Comb Wireless Vertical Mouse | Vertical | 1600 | Right-Handed, Handshake Grip | $ | Check Price |
| 5. Logitech MX Master 2S Wireless Mouse | Standard (Horizontal) | 4000 | Right-Handed Palm Grip: Medium, Large and Extra Large Claw Grip: Medium, Large and Extra Large Fingertip Grip: Extra Large | $$$ | Check Price |
| 4. Razer DeathAdder v2 Gaming Mouse | Standard (Horizontal) | 20000 | Right-Handed Palm Grip: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large Claw Grip: Medium, Large and Extra Large Fingertip Grip: Extra Large | $$$ | Check Price |
| 3. Logitech MX Vertical Wireless Mouse | Vertical | 4000 | Right-Handed, Handshake Grip | $$$$ | Check Price |
| 2. Logitech MX Ergo Wireless Trackball Mouse | Trackball | 380 | Right-Handed Palm Grip: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large Claw Grip: Medium, Large and Extra Large Fingertip Grip: N/A | $$$$ | Check Price |
| 1. Logitech MX Master 3 Advanced Wireless Mouse | Standard (Horizontal) | 4000 | $$$$ | Check Price |
Choosing The Right Mouse – A Buyer’s Guide
We’ve listed 12 mice and whilst you can rest assured that going with our number 1 pick is a great choice, it will be wise to understand more about your requirements first.
See, different types of mice are better for some users. It doesn’t just come down to maximum DPI or whether the connection is wireless or not.
For those of you who don’t want to read our more detailed product reviews below (LINK), you’ll be able to select the right mouse just by reading our guide.
The Type of Mouse Matters
When you’re in the market for an ergonomic mouse, the first thing you need to decide is what kind of mouse you’re looking for. We’ll go into the 4 types of mice we’ve considered and if they are right for you.
The Horizontal Mouse
This is the de-facto mouse design and by far the most popular type. Why? Because they are intuitively easy to use. For this reason, they are the number 1 mouse when it comes to productivity.
When it comes to ergonomics, these mice can employ a curved design that aligns with the natural curvature of your hand. Easy to use and reach buttons, as well as thumb rests come in handy to minimize unnatural movements.
Great For: Gamers and productivity-oriented users such as office workers and other professionals. Also useful for people with mild RSI or no existing issues. An ergonomically designed horizontal mouse will help prevent such problems.
Not So Great For: Users who already have moderate to severe RSI issues may find little alleviation from this type of mouse since the design can only do so much (it won’t really limit arm or wrist movements for example).
The Vertical Mouse
As the name suggests, a vertical mouse rises vertically instead of horizontally. This essentially allows the user to perform a ‘handshake’ position whilst using it. The buttons are appropriately located on the sides with usually a center button on top.
If you try resting your arm and hand on your desk, you’ll find adopting the ‘handshake’ position feels more comfortable.
There is no pressure on the underside of your wrist, and your shoulders are naturally rotated externally. Your forearm is also resting in a neutral position. You can operate such a mouse by either using your wrist or forearm.
The biggest advantage of a vertical mouse is that it can prevent pronation (a downward movement) which tightens and twists the muscles of your hand wrists and forearms, which can cause strains and even carpal tunnel syndrome.
Good For: People with existing conditions such as tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other RSI’s will benefit from such a mouse. They can even opt to only use their forearm to move the mouse if their wrist suffers from existing conditions.
Not So Great For: Whilst a vertical mouse can be used for all tasks that you would use for a standard mouse, it can take some getting used to. We’d recommend a vertical mouse if you already suffer from pre-existing conditions.
The Trackball Mouse
See that mouse with a massive ball? That’s what we call a trackball mouse. Such a mouse allows you to control the movement of your cursor with just the trackball. That’s right, you don’t need to move the mouse at all.
This ability can remove your need for moving your arm or wrist and thereby significantly reduce RSI injuries.
Great For: Sufferers of RSI related injuries since you can leave your arm and wrist stationery. Some types of jobs also benefit from the precision of a trackball, such as graphics design.
Not So Great For: The slower movement of the cursor will likely make gamers and power users wanting more out of their mouse.
The Joystick Mouse
The least popular mouse type, the joystick mouse is similar to the vertical mouse in that it allows users to assume the ‘handshake’ position for use. As such, it helps remove wrist pronation as well as arm movements across the desk.
Great For: Anyone suffering RSI conditions and find that the joystick mouse alleviates their pain.
Not So Great For: People who require greater movement precision of their cursor. Sure, a joystick looks cool but you’d be hardpressed to use such a device seriously in a work environment or for playing fast-paced games.
The Standard ‘Horizontal’ Mouse Reigns Supreme
Whilst each of these mouse types has a place on our list, no doubt the standard horizontal mouse is the most popular and can still offer great ergonomic benefits whilst providing unparalleled productivity.
We’d recommend considering the other mouse types if you already suffer from RSI, carpal tunnel syndrome, or other musculoskeletal issues and therefore need to minimize the movement of your wrist and arms.
Getting The Right Fit
So you’ve decided on the type of mouse you want, but getting the right fit is just as important. If a mouse is too big or too small, it defeats the purpose of it being ergonomic in the first place. You’ll struggle to reach all the buttons and cause unnecessary strains on your hands and wrist.
Firstly, you need to consider if you will be using your mouse with the left or right hand. Many mice are not ambidextrous and made only for right-handed folks.
Secondly, to ensure a good fit, you can measure the length of your hand that will be using the mouse (for most people, this will be the right hand)
To measure the length of your hand, use a tape measure and measure from the tip of the middle finger to the wrist line (the part that creases when you bend your hand downwards). Keep your hand straight when doing this to get the most accurate measurement.
- Small: 5.5″ to 6.9″
- Medium: 6.7″ to 7.7″
- Large: 7.5″ to 8.1″
- Extra Large: 7.9″ to 9.5″
As you can see, there is a bit of overlap with these measurements. This isn’t an exact science and different guides will show slight variations in these numbers. However; they will work for most people.
For the most part, the majority of ergonomic mice are suitable for most hand sizes. It’s only when you have very large or very small hands where you will encounter sizing problems.
Grip style matters as well and will affect the size of the mouse that is best suited for you. There are three main types of grip styles and they only apply if you are using a standard or horizontal mouse type.
There are three grip types:
- Palm Grip: This is the most popular style and involves your entire palm sitting on the back of the mouse. It’s the most comfortable style and you’ll likely end up moving your arm more than your wrist. It’s good for moving the cursor smoothly but not so great for fast and accurate movements like those found in online gaming. Mice with longer bodies that rise at the back are suitable for this type of grip.
- Claw Grip: A bit similar to the palm grip but with two fingers curled up resulting in less of your palm in contact with the mouse. This style offers greater precision and faster cursor movements, requiring more wrist action. A suitable claw grip mouse is similar in design to a palm grip one, but the mouse may have a lowered back.
- Fingertip Grip: With this type of grip, your fingertips are doing most of the work. Similar to the claw grip, this is useful for fast movements but lacks the smooth movements provided by a palm grip and is less comfortable. Mice that cater to this grip are usually shorter and flatter.
Note: These grip styles apply to the standard or horizontal mouse type.
So which grip is right for you?
Look at how you use your existing mouse and that will tell you the answer!
The majority of ergonomic mice can cater to all grip styles. What you do need to be aware of is your hand size.
For example, if you have small hands, a mouse might easily cater to a palm or claw grip, but you’ll need a bigger hand for a fingertip grip.
We’ve included this information in our comparison table above.
Other Factors To Consider
Whilst the type of mouse you choose is the single biggest factor, there are several other factors to consider as well:
Size and Weight: Size and weight are of course interlinked but that doesn’t necessarily mean a large mouse will be heavy as it also depends on the materials it is made of.
As we mentioned before, size is important when it comes to getting the right fit for your hand. If it’s too large, you’ll struggle to reach all the buttons and your hand won’t feel comfortable. If a mouse is too small, you’ll end up contracting your hand and fingers, leading to uncomfortable use.
Follow our hand sizing guide above to avoid this problem.
When it comes to weight, a heavier mouse will offer more stability but will require more effort to move. A lighter mouse will be easier to control and can put less strain on your hands and arms. A couple of ounces heavier or lighter does make a difference when you are spending all day using your mouse.
Some mice remove this issue altogether by offering you the ability to add weight to them as you see fit.
DPI: Dot per inch, refers to the sensitivity of the mouse, i.e. a higher DPI means a smaller mouse movement will translate to a larger cursor movement on the screen. Many mice come with DPI switches (or supported software) that allow you to change DPI on the fly, depending on the application you are using. A higher DPI can be handy for fast-paced games whilst a lower one is useful for office use. There’s no rule for the right DPI to minimize RSI problems, so we’d recommend adjusting the setting until you find the one that works for you.
Wired or Wireless: Both styles come with their own benefits and drawbacks.
A wired mouse means you don’t need to use a battery and can take full advantage of the stable connection. It also means you need a cable that might be heavy and reduce portability. You’ll also suffer from ‘cable drag’ if your cable isn’t positioned right.
A wireless mouse is more portable and easier to take with you wherever you go. However; you’ll need to use batteries and also ensure that it is charged enough for you to use. It might come with an extra component like a receiver, so you’ll have to make sure you don’t lose that.
Additional Buttons: Apart from the left and right-click buttons and scroll wheel, most mice come with additional buttons for added functionality. This can include a forward and backward button and a second scroll wheel. Look for mice with programmable buttons that will help maximize your productivity by allowing you to control more functionality without having to use your keyboard. This is the more ergonomic option since less hand movement is required.
Thumb Rests: Thumb rests are handy to give your thumb more support and allow for easy use of buttons that are nearby. These rests don’t appear on all designs and they’re usually not used at all in both vertical and ambidextrous mice due to the different ways that people use them.
Top 12 Ergonomic Mice Reviewed
For those of you wanting to read more about our top 12 ergonomic mice picks, we’ve included our reviews below.
We’ve done our best to remain as objective as possible and to list the good, but more importantly, the bad elements of each mouse. That way, you can be sure to know what you are getting before you decide to make a purchase!
12. 3M Wired Ergonomic Optical Mouse – Best Ergonomic Mouse For Injury Sufferers
The 3M Wired mouse might be more of a medical device, but it still looks (and sometimes feels) like a joystick. It can add a whole new dimension to multiplayer gaming.
If you’re suffering from pain when using a computer then this is the mouse for you. The rest of them will prevent pain from ever happening, but this one will help if it’s already too late.
The good news is that it’s a practical choice for a versatile set of use cases thanks to its optical sensor, its plug and play compatibility and its 2 metre cable. It’s the kind of mouse that’s overkill in many cases but that will work wonders if you’re dealing with constant pain and discomfort. You can left and right click with just your thumb and rest your hand properly instead of pressing the wrist against the desk, but be warned that it’s only designed for right-handed use.
The manufacturers have created the device in two different sizes, and they recommend measuring your palm from the base of your pointer finger to the base of your little finger to determine which size works best for you. The smaller design works best for 2.75 – 3.5-inch palms while the large one covers 3.5 – 4-inch palms.
Whilst the price tag might seem quite high, it does come bundled in with a bunch of useful goodies including daily ergonomic tips, easy installation, and a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try before you buy if you’re not sure whether you’re going to like it.
On the downside, it’s a relatively old design, although it still stands up well against the test of time despite being first released back in 2004.
The 3M mouse is specifically designed to push people to use larger muscles to move it, which puts less strain on them when they’re sitting in front of the computer. It also means that if other ergonomic mice aren’t working out for you, this one might do the trick. It even works with both Windows and Macintosh computers, as long as they have a USB port, and it comes with a PS/2 adapter so you can use it with older machines.
Ultimately, this device is very good for people with arthritis, RSI or carpal tunnel.
As such, it’s a better choice for reducing pain rather than preventing it in the first place, and it’s hard to make a case for it unless you have money to spend and a genuine medical reason for using it. Otherwise, there are other, better choices on the market.
- A popular choice amongst injury sufferers
- Has an ease-of-use commendation from the Arthritis Foundation
- 30-day money-back guarantee and 2-year warranty
- Super heavy (as heavy as eleven TeckNet Pro mice)
- Super expensive
- Only suitable for right-handers
- Older model
11. Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Optical Mouse – Great Budget Ergonomic Vertical Mouse
Anker describes this design as “the intersection of class, comfort and functionality” and calls the device “a mouse for the 21st century”.
Of course, they would say that – but they’re not far wrong.
Like the TeckNet Pro and the Redragon M601, this mouse enables the user to customize certain features such as the sensitivity settings, although it is worth noting that the range of the Anker device is much lower than the previous mouses we’ve already looked at.
Still, with a choice of 800, 1200 and 1600 DPI settings, it’s more than enough to set the mouse up how you like it so you can take advantage of precise tracking on whatever surface you happen to be using.
Like the TeckNet Pro, the Anker mouse is a wireless device that comes without batteries, so you’ll need two AAA batteries to get it up and running once it’s out of the box. The good news is that if anything goes wrong, it’ll be covered by the manufacturer’s 18-month warranty, which makes it an attractive choice for companies who are looking to buy in bulk.
It’s also good for the environment thanks to its automatic power-saving mode which kicks in after eight minutes of inactivity. It wakes up quickly as soon as you’re ready to use it again, and it saves your batteries (and the planet) in the meantime.
Sure, the futuristic design isn’t for everyone and only time will tell whether it starts to become more standard, but if you want to make a strong statement while protecting yourself from RSI and carpal tunnel then this mouse is the way to go.
- Revolutionary design based on scientific data
- Excellent productivity features
- A decent all-purpose mouse
- Can take some time to get used to
- Compatibility issues
10. Kensington Orbit Trackball Mouse – Best Budget Ergonomic Trackball Mouse
At first glance, this mouse looks a bit like those old school UFO’s – a ball like capsule surrounded by an aerodynamic smooth body. While it looks a bit odd, it’s purpose and application are anything but.
The Kensington Orbit Trackball Mouse has been designed from the ground up to provide superior accuracy and more accurate cursor tracking, making it great for precise tasks and even gaming.
True, it takes some getting used to if you’re more familiar with traditional mouse devices, but it’s an easy little learning curve and before long, you’ll wonder how you ever coped without it.
It also has free downloadable software called KensingtonWorks which allows you to program your device and specify exactly what the buttons do.
Another thing you’ll notice is that the trackball is the only way to move the mouse as the base is stationary. This means the surface your mouse is on or how small that space is doesn’t really matter.
There is a nice scroll ring around the trackball that allows for quick and painless – you guessed it – scrolling. And the large buttons on either side are intuitive to use and well-positioned.
Still, the keys should soften up after some usage, and as for the extender, make sure you get a quality one otherwise it can distort the signal and hamper the device’s performance.
Like most of the mice on this list, it’s been designed with plug and play performance in mind, and it’s 100% compatible with Windows, Mac OS and Chrome OS (as long as you’re using v44 or later).
Possibly even better than that, at least if you’re the kind of person who can never find any batteries, it uses a wired connection and so you’re never going to run out of juice.
So who is this mouse for?
If you suffer carpal tunnel syndrome, RSI, or other hand muscle tissues, the Kensington Orbit is our best choice in the trackball category. It certainly isn’t the most precise ergonomic mouse, so if you’re a big gamer or regularly use super precise programs like Photoshop we’d recommend passing on this. Otherwise for everyday regular usage, the Orbit will get the job done without further stress to your hands.
- Suitable for people with pre-existing hand conditions
- Ambidextrous design
- Stationery design allows easy use in different environments
- Programmable buttons
- Learning curve required to get used to it
- Sometimes initial stiff buttons
- Not as accurate as other mice
- No wireless connectivity
9. Corsair Glaive Pro – Best Premium Ergonomic Gaming Mice
One of the most repetitive and strenuous tasks you can do on a computer is gaming. And if you are someone who likes to sit down and play their favorite game for a couple of hours (or more!) than the Corsair Glaive Pro may be the mouse to get.
This ergonomic gaming mouse has been designed specifically to fit perfectly into your hand and to keep you gaming better and for longer.
It even comes with a choice of three different thumb grips, which you can swap in and out as needed, so be sure to figure out which one works best for you to ensure maximum comfort.
And that’s not all.
It’s also designed with durability in mind, supporting a total life of 50 million clicks. Couple that with advanced customization including its dynamic RGB lighting control and its dedicated macros and you can start to see why it’s such a popular device amongst pro and semi-pro gamers.
So what’s not to like?
It’s also wired as well. Good for infinite usage but bad annoying if you prefer wireless models. As far as gaming goes, we believe wired is the best choice anyway. After all, you don’t want a random disconnection mid-way through a match.
Whilst this mouse isn’t the best gaming mouse per se, it is easily one of the best ergonomic gaming mice.
The slanted design coupled with the swappable grip options makes long gaming sessions a comfortable experience. Simply put, most gamers shouldn’t have a problem with choosing this mouse over the similarly priced competition.
- Interchangeable grips
- Rapid reaction time
- Long shelf life
- Good gaming features
- A bit bulky
8. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse – Good For Newer Windows Machines
Microsoft’s one and only entry into this list comes in the form of its intriguing Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse.
Because it’s Microsoft, it’s not a surprise that it’s designed to closely integrate with Windows, even including a dedicated button to open the start menu. Still, it’s billed as a device for Windows 7 and up and so you might experience some problems if you try to use it on an older OS. It should also work on Android 3.2 and 4.2 and more recent versions of Mac OS X.
That’s perhaps a little less than the other wireless devices on the list, but realistically it’s better to change the batteries more often anyway so that they don’t start to break down and possibly damage the battery compartment or weaken the signal.
Microsoft also used the device to show off BlueTrack technology, which combines optical and laser technology to provide better tracking. You should be able to use the mouse on virtually any surface, although realistically speaking it’s best to stick to using a desk so that you reap the ergonomic rewards. It’s designed to promote a more natural posture amongst users to maximize comfort while making it easier than ever to navigate.
Luckily, they also offer the Comfort Mouse, another addition to their Sculpt range which is designed to be ambidextrous.
The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse is also one of the heaviest mice that we’ve come across, weighing in at nearly 1lb. Some users find that reassuring, but others are put off by the weight and the bulkiness and prefer to go for something a little simpler. One useful side effect of that weight is that while it feels almost weightless if you’re using it correctly, you’ll definitely notice the weight if your posture is off.
All in all, the Microsoft mouse is good but not great, and it’s disappointing to see that the mighty Microsoft wasn’t able to rank any higher. The truth is that the best ergonomic mice are often manufactured by smaller companies that specialize in ergonomic design and technology – and these challenger brands are often cheaper to buy from, too.
- Super comfortable to use if your posture is right
- Built-in Windows button makes navigation more efficient
- Great tracking
- Heavier than most competitor products
- Verges on the expensive side
- The unusual design isn’t for everyone
- Primarily designed for Windows
- Only suitable for right-handers
7. J-Tech Digital V628 Vertical Mouse – Best Budget Ergonomic Vertical Mouse
If the Logitech MX vertical mouse (link) is a little too pricey for you, the J-Tech Digital vertical mouse is right up your alley.
At less than half the price, this mouse proves to be the number one pick when it comes to the best bang for your buck choice in the vertical mouse niche.
Don’t believe us? It’s an Amazon’s Choice product with over 1500 reviews averaging a 4.2/5 rating. There is nothing but praise for J-Tech’s vertical wonder.
From “Best ergo mouse I’ve ever owned” to repetitive strain users exclaiming they can finally use a mouse again, this vertical mouse is perhaps the only answer you need for your RSI woes.
The point of a vertical mouse is to mimic a handshake rather than having your hands face down as with a traditional mouse. This alleviates pressure on your median nerve (connecting the forearm to hand), thereby eliminating one of the core causes of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Once you get used to it, this mouse is a breeze to use. Two large buttons with a scroll wheel in between are located on the right side. It makes for easy and painless navigation. A forward and back button is on the left side.
For example, a lower DPI will require more movement from your arm. A higher DPI will put extra strain on just moving your wrist. The best thing is to figure out what works for you.
With so much praise, we’d imagine you’d think there is nothing wrong with this mouse. Well, that depends on the user.
If you are left-handed you are out of luck. This mouse is not ambidextrous and meant for right-handed users only. It’s also on the bigger side meaning small hands might have some difficulty easily gripping and using all the buttons.
As far as compatibility goes, you can use the J-Tech mouse on most Windows and Linux devices, and you can also sleep a little more soundly knowing that it comes with a one-year warranty and lifetime technical support from a team of US-based native English speakers. In fact, they arguably provide the best aftercare of any of the companies and products on this list.
If you have super small hands or you’re left-handed, you might be out of luck with this one, but it has a lot going for the user looking to alleviate their carpal tunnel and wrist issues, especially for the price point. That’s why it ranks so high on this list and awarded our number 1 budget pick for ergonomic vertical mouses.
- Great bang for the buck
- Adjustable DPI
- Customizable buttons
- Great customer support
- Not ambidextrous – suitable only for right-handed people
- Smaller hands may struggle with using it
- Thumb button placement may lead to accidental clicking for some users
6. Jelly Comb Wireless Vertical Mouse – Best Ergonomic Mouse For People With Small Hands
Cute name aside, the Jelly Comb Wireless Vertical Mouse solves the problem of many small mice – a small arch that may miss the palm of your hand. It’s why Jelly Comb has opted for a vertical mouse that offers the support you need in all the right places.
It takes a little getting used to, but once you wrap your head (hands?!) around it, you’ll never want to go back.
The Jelly Comb is a popular choice and most reviewers agree that it’s a decent device that offers a lot of value for money. Its unique design encourages users to adopt a neutral position, reducing strain and helping to fight RSI and other related ailments and illnesses.
One thing that’s worth noting is that this mouse can take a little getting used to because it’s deliberately designed to make little noise when you click its buttons. Some users have also complained about the smaller side buttons, which can be tricky to use and which are of a disappointingly flimsy design.
The good news is that this mouse is compatible with pretty much every device and operating system going, with support for Windows 7/8/10/XP/Vista as well as Linux and some (but not full) compatibility with Apple devices. It also has a pretty nifty little design feature by which you can store the receiver inside the bottom of the mouse for easy transportation.
It even allows you to switch between DPI levels to adjust the sensitivity and responsiveness for different tasks, and if you’re keen to do your part for the environment, you’ll be pleased to know that it comes in recycled packaging and is designed to be eco-friendly, too. What’s not to like?
Well, one thing…
Unfortunately, it’s specifically designed vertical orientation means that it’s only suitable for right-handers, with no sign of a left-handed version on the horizon. And while it’s a good pick for people with small hands, some people have still had issues with it being a little too big for the very smallest hands.
Still, if your hands verge on the small side, then the Jelly Comb represents our best value pick for small hands.
- Adjustable DPI system
- Designed with comfort in mind
- Suitable for smaller hands
- No left-handed model available
- Side buttons aren’t easy to use
- No full Apple Mac support
5. Logitech MX Master 2S Wireless Mouse – Great For Office Power Users
Going back to the basics, the Logitech MX Master 2S provides a familiar feel whilst still offering excellent ergonomic performance at a great price point.
The ingenious design features two mouse wheels – one on top for vertical scrolling and one above the thumb rest for horizontal scrolling. The horizontal wheel is a great addition for those dealing with spreadsheets and other windows that are too big to see at once on your screen.
However; what elevates this mouse into an ‘ergonomic powerhouse’ territory is the software.
You also get the choice of either a wireless or a wired connection. Don’t be too worried about having to recharge, though – you can give it a full day’s worth of charge in just three minutes. So if it runs out overnight, you can just go and make yourself a cup of coffee and you’ll be good for the day!
Unfortunately, the MX Master S is on the heavy and big side, so small hands might struggle with using all the buttons. The MX Anywhere 2S provides a great alternative for small hands and is more portable, whilst supported by the same Logitech multitasking software.
On the whole, this mouse is an ideal choice for office users who utilize more than one screen for their day to day work. Even if you use just one screen, the MX Master S is still a superb choice but you won’t be able to take full advantage of it.
- Bluetooth and unifying receiver connections
- Excellent construction quality
- Perfect for office power users with Logitech Flow
- 6 programmable buttons
- Works on almost any surface, including glass
- Long battery life with fast recharge time
- Small hands might struggle with using all the buttons
- Only for right hand users
4. Razer DeathAdder v2 Gaming Mouse – The Best Ergonomic Gaming Mouse
Razer is the bestselling gaming peripherals manufacturer in the US, and they’re at the top of the market for a reason.
With the Razer DeathAdder v2, they offer a whopping 20k DPI optical sensor, which ensures a rapid response time for super-accurate performance making it great for casual and competitive gaming.
What’s not to love? You get an extremely low click latency (one of the lowest in the industry) and a high DPI range. The scroll wheel is also perfectly calibrated and is super smooth to use whilst also allowing you to feel every 24 steps of its wheel. All this combines together for an unparalleled responsive and tactile gaming experience. Truly a gamer’s delight.
The Razer DeathAdder v2 improves on its predecessor in a few key ways. It’s the same size but about 15% lighter. The cable is also more flexible and the movement sensor tracks better. Did we mention it packs an additional 4000 DPI?
Not only that, but its size is great for palm, claw and fingertip grip styles for hands both very large and small.
If you’re looking for a wireless mouse then this isn’t the device for you, although we should note that it performs almost like a wireless device thanks to the drag-free design of its cable.
Also, although we said the size was great for pretty much all users, smaller hands may struggle slightly because of the bigger than average size.
One could also say that for an entry-level wired gaming mouse, the price might be a little too much. Our justification for this is the Razor branding and the fact that it is simply better than similar priced and cheaper mouses. In other words, your money will be well invested if you do decide to part with your cash.
It’s easy to see why the Razer Deathadder mouses continue to be one of the most popular and awarded mouses in the world. It’s a brilliant mix of gaming and ergonomic functionality. We’d be surprised to hear after a long gaming session if you had any wrist or hand pain at all.
- Highly responsive mouse with 20K DPI for performance gaming
- Optical switches have ultra-fast performance
- Multiple lighting choices
- Flexible and light cable offers minimal resistance
- 8 programmable buttons with 5 saving configurations
- Only for right-handed users
- May be too large for smaller hand users
3. Logitech MX Vertical – The Best Vertical Ergonomic Mouse
The Logitech MX Vertical marks one of the first attempts of Logitech into the vertical mouse market. And boy does it impress.
This ergonomically designed mouse is specially designed to reduce muscle strain and to make it easier than ever before to use your mouse for a prolonged period of time.
Like other vertical mice, it might not have the kind of efficiency you’d need for competitive gaming or precision-based tasks, but it’s great for office use or as a general-purpose device.
Of course, it can take a little getting used to if you’ve never used a vertical mouse before, but the good news is that it will help you to maintain a neutral handshake position and make it much, much easier for you to use your machine for a prolonged period of time. In fact, the manufacturers claim that it reduces muscle strain by a factor of 10%.
Being part of the Logitech family, the MX Vertical comes with Logitech flow. This software package allows you to use seamlessly copy text, images, and files from one machine to another (up to 3 to be exact). If you’re a power user, this software should come as the helping hand you’ve always needed.
Apart from that, the MX Verticle uses rechargeable batteries and comes with a USB Type C cable so that you don’t have to worry about running out of charge or spending a fortune on disposable batteries. It works pretty well no matter how big or small your hands are, too.
- Bluetooth and unifying receiver connection options
- High construction quality
- Great for office use
- Long battery life
- Fantastic tilt feature
- Easy to use and responsive trackball
- 6 programmable buttons
- Very comfortable
- A trackball isn’t for everyone
- Only for right-handed users
- Fast and precise movements (like those found in gaming) can be difficult to master
2. Logitech MX Ergo Wireless Trackball Mouse – The Best Ergonomic Trackball Mouse
Before we updated this list, the Logitech M570 was our top choice for trackball users. Then we came across the Logitech MX Ergo, and it blows that one out of the water.
The Logitech MX Ergo has two standout features which make it the ideal ergonomic trackball mouse:
- The trackball allows you to move the cursor without actually moving the mouse itself.
- You can tilt the mouse on its side by up to 20 degrees!
And so how does this help with your hand and wrist strains?
As for the trackball ‘ball’, it’s very comfortable to use without having to continually readjust your thumb. On top of this, you can completely remove the ball which allows you to easily give it a good clean.
Similar to other Logitech Mice, the MX Ergo comes with Logitech Flow, allowing users to seamlessly copy text, images, and files from one machine to another. You can hop from device to device through its unifying receiver, which allows you to connect up to three Windows or Mac computers at the same time. The Bluetooth connection is also welcomed and offers another way for you to connect your mouse with up to 70 days of battery life.
To make things easier, there is a small button next to the trackball which enables ‘precision mode’. This reduces the speed of the cursor for more precise movements – perfect for anyone doing multimedia editing. The scroll wheel can also be pushed left and right for horizontal scrolling.
All in all, if you’re comfortable using a trackball mouse and you’re not big on gaming (but rather, office use) you can’t beat this offering from Logitech.
- Bluetooth and unifying receiver connection options
- High construction quality
- Great for office use
- Long battery life
- Fantastic tilt feature
- Easy to use and responsive trackball
- 6 programmable buttons
- Very comfortable
- A trackball isn’t for everyone
- Only for right-handed users
- Fast and precise movements (like those found in gaming) can be difficult to master
1. Logitech MX Master 3 Advanced Wireless Mouse – The Best Ergonomic Mouse
As you can see, this list is dominated by Logitech mice. Simply put, they make the best ergonomic mice on the market. And the MX Master 3 represents the very pinnacle of that truth.
The understated design makes for a perfect companion in an office or professional environment. The latex covering is super comfortable to use with a palm or claw grip, and the ample thumb rest supports your thumb whilst allowing you to easily use the side buttons and scroll.
Furthermore; charging is now done using USB-C instead of the micro USB. It’s easier to use (the cable is reversible), and transfers more power resulting in quicker charging times.
The result? 70 days worth of usage from a 3-hour charge. If you’re in a hurry, a 1-minute charge can provide 3 hours of usage.
Common to other Logitech mice, the scroll wheels can be switched to a ‘free’ scroll mode which makes scrolling to the bottom of a document a painless task. No longer do you need to stress out your middle finger!
On top of this, we also get Bluetooth or Logitech’s Unifying USB receiver options. Of course, Logitech Flow is also available which makes working on up to 3 computers a breeze. You can easily copy and paste files or any data between both PC or Mac computers as if they were the same machine.
There are a couple of things to be wary of, though.
Another thing is the relatively large build. Small hands might struggle to use all the buttons comfortably – especially the thumb rest. If you do have small hands, we’d recommend trying this mouse in person before purchasing it.
Increase your productivity whilst also reducing or eliminating hand, wrist, and arm strain? What’s not to love?
It’s not a surprise this mouse is an Amazon’s choice, with over 5000 ratings, averaging 4.7/5.
- Bluetooth and unifying receiver connections
- Supberb construction quality and very comfortable
- Logitech flow is a goodsend for office and multimedia users
- 6 programmable buttons with customized profiles
- Works on most surfaces, including glass
- Fast charging times with long battery life
- Excellent vertical and horizontal scroolwheels
- Not the best choice for users with extra small hands
- Only for right hand users
- Setting the DPI isn’t precise
Ergonomic Mouse Buyer’s Guide (change this to FAQ – buyer’s guide in near the top)
It’s never easy to pull the trigger on a purchasing decision, especially when it comes to mice. After all, a mouse is something you are likely to use for hours every day.
If possible, it’s a good idea to try before you buy, but that’s not always easy when you’re internet shopping and so the second best thing is to find a retailer with a clear returns policy. That way, if you purchase a device but it feels uncomfortable or isn’t quite what you expected, you can return it.
We’ve already gone over our best picks in a number of categories, and we should emphasize here that while we ranked the TeckNet Professional Ergonomic Optical Mouse at number one, that doesn’t mean that it’s the best mouse for everyone.
Hence; we’ve provided a buyer’s guide to help you decide which mouse is truly the best for you.
What to look for
The chances are that any mouse you find that’s described as ergonomic is going to be a better pick than one that isn’t, but if you want to get the best out of your new mouse then you’ll want to take a few moments to decide what sort of functionality you’re looking for.
Start by making a list of the different uses you’re going to put it to. Then start to consider the practicalities, such as:
- Whether it needs to be wireless and how many buttons you’re likely to use.
- If you’re left-handed, consider looking into left-handed devices. It might sound silly, but the truth is that if a mouse has been specially designed to be as comfortable as possible, it makes a big difference if you’re dominant with a different hand. Lefties already know how difficult right-handed tools can be. Why should a mouse be any different?
- Price is a key factor of course, but the good news is that a decent mouse doesn’t have to cost the earth. Plus, when you start to consider how often you’ll be using it, it’s worth spending a little extra.
- Finally, if you’re looking to purchase a wireless mouse, you’ll want to take a look at battery life and the type of batteries which are used. Some can store an internal charge while others use external batteries. Either way, make sure that you know what you’re getting yourself into – and order spares if necessary.
Aesthetics
- Size: Ergonomic mice come in all different shapes and sizes, and there’s nothing worse than splashing the cash on a new device only to find that it’s too big or too small to fit comfortably into your hand. Many shoppers put functionality first and forget that the actual size and physical dimensions of the mouse are what will ultimately make the biggest difference.
- Weight: Some users prefer a heavy mouse with substantial weight behind it while others prefer something lightweight that feels like a cloud in the palm of their hand. Some devices, like the Redragon M601, come with weights bundled in so that you can add weight to the mouse until it’s just right for you. Bear in mind that other features come into play too – such as the drag factor of a corded moues or the batteries you need to add to a wireless device.
- Height: Take a look at the difference between the flat Microsoft Sculpt and the upright 3M Wired Ergonomic Optical Mouse. One of them is flat and one of them is tall, and that leads to drastically different user experiences. You might find that a mouse is either too flat or too tall for you to grip it comfortably, either of which is a big no-no if you’re shopping for mice to stop straining your hand.
- Contouring: This refers to the actual design of the mouse. Take a look at where it bends and curves and how that will support your hand when you’re using it. See whether it will support your fingers when you’re clicking the buttons. If you’re trying the device out in person, rest your hand on it and see whether you can get comfortable, click buttons and move the mouse without stretching or straining.
- Ease of Use: Some mice are more difficult to move around than others. If it takes a lot of pressure on your end to get the mouse to respond, you’re putting strain on your muscles and tendons when you use it. The perfect mouse is super responsive and easy to move but not so lightweight that the cursor flies uncontrollably across the screen.
- Predominant Hand: The hand that you use to ‘drive’ your mouse will make a huge difference. Many mice are designed to be ambidextrous but many are right-handed only. If you’re left-handed and you use a right-handed device, you may find that many of the design aspects are no longer in the right place for you to take advantage of them. Left-handed devices are rare but not unheard of, so make sure you’re picking a mouse that works well with your dominant hand if you want to reap the benefits of using an ergonomic device.
Features
- Thumb Rests: These are usually small areas that are designed for you to rest your thumb in when you’re either navigating through your computer or hopping between side buttons. These rests don’t appear on all designs and they’re usually not used at all in both vertical and ambidextrous mice due to the different way that people use them.
- Scroll Wheels: Not all devices come with scroll wheels, and not all people even use them. They can be useful when navigating up and down through web pages though, so if you do decide to use a device with a scroll wheel then make sure that it responds to a light touch so that you’re not putting excess pressure on your middle finger.
- Grips: Some ergonomic mice come with built-in grip areas that are designed to make it easier for you to hold the device without needing to apply extra pressure. This is all well and good if they’re in the right place, but different people hold mice in slightly different ways and so you’ll want to make sure that the grip – if your mouse comes with one – is still both comfortable and useful.
- Button Placement: Don’t be duped by trendy designs that put buttons in places that look cool but which are impractical to use. You should be able to use every button on the mouse without stretching your fingers or straining your muscles when you press them. The actual action of the buttons on themselves – and the way that they feel when you press them – can make a huge amount of difference, too.
- DPI Customization: Many of the mice on this list – including the TeckNet Pro 2.4G Ergonomic Wireless Mouse, the Redragon M601, the Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse, the J-Tech Endurance Mouse, the Razer DeathAdder and the TeckNet Professional Mouse – include this useful feature. It makes it easy to change how responsive the mouse is and how quickly the pointer moves.
Care and Maintenance
Pretty much everything you own deserves a bit of love every now and then, and your mouse is no different. Studies show that your computer mouse can carry up to 3 times more germs than a toilet seat!
So when your using your mouse and it’s looking a bit grimy, it’s probably a good time to get cleaning.
Cleaning is a pretty straightforward process. Here are some tips:
- Use a cue tip to remove dirt and grime from any nooks and crannies.
- Slightly damp a microfiber cloth to clean the surface of the mouse. Be sure not to wet the cloth too much as you don’t want any water to get into any of the cracks. Alternatively, you may decide to use disinfectant wipes to give your mouse a more complete clean.
- Simply using your finger or slightly shaking the mouse to dislodge any particles is also a good way for a quick clean.
Once completed, ensure to use a dry cloth to remove any extra moisture.
Over to you
We hope you enjoyed our best ergonomic mouse countdown and buyer’s guide as much as we enjoyed writing it!
Shopping for a high-quality ergonomic mouse doesn’t have to be stressful. As long as you have a budget in mind and a good idea of what you’re looking for, you won’t be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of choice that’s out there on the market.
Still, there are literally thousands of other ergonomic mice out there, which means that no list in the world will ever be complete. That’s why we want to hear from you.
Which ergonomic mouse do you swear by? Is there one that we’re missing that you think should be on our list? And which of our ten picks would you buy if you were on the market for a new mouse? We’d love to know what you think, so be sure to let us know with a comment.
HAND SIZE RECOMMENDATION IN COMPARISON TABLE?
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