When you think of office ergonomics, you usually think of your chair, how it’s positioned in relation to your desk, and whether or not your screen is at the right height. An ergonomic mouse? That’s not likely at the top of most people’s list.
However, if you spend hours long behind a screen every day, then it’s definitely worth considering investing in a mouse that will help prevent repetitive strain injury (RSI) and make for an all round more comfortable working experience.
We review some of the top ergonomic mouse options available on the market, considering the pros and cons of each, so you can find the best one for your needs.
Ergonomic Mouse Reviews
After extensively reviewing the ergonomic mice on today’s market, we’ve compiled a list of the best of 2018, so take a look if you want to minimize your chances of permanent injury.
BEST ERGONOMIC MOUSE: OUR TOP 4 PICKS
BEST OVERALL: LOGITECH MX ERGO ADVANCED
Impressive functionality, the ability to connect to three different devices, and a design that allows you to enjoy hours of comfort means this device is perfect for both office workers and the tech-obsessed.
Second Best: JELLY COMB WIRELESS VERTICAL MOUSE
The slight slant in this vertical ergonomic mouse means transitioning from a traditional model is easy. Plus, it’s compatible with most operating system and fantastic for people with smaller hand sizes, making it an excellent choice for a broad range of users.
Budget Buy: ANKER 2.46 WIRELESS VERTICAL ERGONOMIC OPTICAL MOUSE
Anker manages to squeeze in all the features and buttons of pricier models into their budget ergonomic mouse. The somewhat vertical design means your hand and wrist can achieve a stress-free position. One of its best features it’s the power saving mode, which increases battery life.
BEST ERGONOMIC MOUSE FOR WRIST PAIN - 3M WIRED ERGONOMIC OPTICAL MOUSE
This easy-to-use mouse is ideal if you’re suffering from RSI, carpal tunnel syndrome or overall pain while working on the computer, thanks to its well thought out ergonomic design.
1. LOGITECH MX ERGO ADVANCED
Our rating:
The intelligently placed buttons, sculpted design, and innovative tilt feature make the Logitech MX ERGO Advanced one of the most comfortable wireless mouses you can experience. The adjustable hinge will let you tilt the mouse up to 20 degrees so that you can find your most comfortable and natural position.
The sculptured design will allow you to fully rest your hand on the mouse while in use, therefore eliminating the unconscious finger tension and gripping that leads to repetitive strain injuries.
The device is coated with soft rubber and weighs just 5.8 ounces, with the added functionality of being able to connect it via Bluetooth, freeing those highly coveted USB ports on your computer. One of the other standout features is the trackball that you control with your thumb. It may take some time getting used to, but it makes ergonomic sense, as you don’t need to physically push the mouse across a surface to move the cursor, you just use your thumb.
PROS
- Innovative design, with an ingenious 20 degree tilt feature, minimizing wrist bending
- Sculpted shape comfortably supports your hand
- Trackball allows for cursor movement without physically moving the mouse
- Unifying receiver and Bluetooth allows you to connect it to multiple devices at once
CONS
- Trackball needs to be regularly cleaned, so more maintenance is required
- Trackball may be hard to get used to
- Not ambidextrous
VERDICT
All things considered, the Logitech MX ERGO Advanced is the best ergonomic and comfortable mouse on the market. However, the trackball, which can be regarded as one of its greatest strengths, could also be one of its most significant weaknesses for some users. It’s a magnet for dirt and grease, requiring more regular cleaning, but if you get used to the trackball and keep it clean, this mouse will last you for years to come.
Second Best
2. JELLY COMB WIRELESS VERTICAL MOUSE
Our rating:
It can be tricky to find a comfortable wireless ergonomic mouse for people with smaller hands, and unfortunately, smaller mice mean smaller everything, which includes the arch support, making them less ergonomic than larger mice.
However, Jelly Comb has managed to overcome this shortcoming, producing one of the best ergonomic mice in today’s market. The vertical design allows users to fully wrap their hands around the mouse without having to twist their wrist.
The design features a traditional vertical scroll wheel at the top, and forward and back page buttons are placed above the thumb rest area. It’s easy to click on the mouse buttons, and there is no loud clicking sound to annoy you.
Another great feature is the three DPI sensitivity modes (800/1200/1600), which you can adjust with a switch, meaning you can get from point A to point B on your computer loads faster. There are no wires to trip you up and it enjoys a long battery life from just one AA battery.
PROS
- Vertical and tailor design for users with small to modest hand size
- Three adjustable DPI settings let you quickly change pointer sensitivity
- Low impact and soft clicking
CONS
- Back and forth page buttons not Mac compatible
- AA battery not included
VERDICT
For people that have smaller hands and find a traditional ergonomic mouse uncomfortable, they’ve found their match in the Jelly Comb mouse. Its vertical and compact dimensions and design support their fingers and palm in a natural position. The mouse is made of high-quality materials and is designed to last, backed by the lifetime replacement guarantee.
Budget Buy
3. ANKER 2.46 WIRELESS VERTICAL ERGONOMIC OPTICAL MOUSE
Our rating:
Anker made an impressive device with an ergonomic design backed by science, encouraging its users to maintain healthy arm and wrist positions while using the mouse, resulting in less strain being placed on those areas. As with other mice on this list, you can customize the DPI sensitivity settings, between 800, 1200 and 1600, so you can program it to best suit your needs.
Another great feature is the next/previous buttons, helping you navigate the web quickly and aiding your productivity. The device uses two AAA batteries and connects to your computer through a small USB dongle with excellent range. The only downside that we encountered is that while very compatible with Windows and Linux, the thumb buttons don’t work with Mac OS X, so Mac users beware.
PROS
- Revolutionary science-backed design
- Auto-sleep function preserves battery life
- Affordable price
CONS
- Materials feel a bit more flimsy than other mice
- Compatibility issues with Mac
- Buttons require a bit more effort to click
VERDICT
This mouse is defined by vertical orientation, and while it may feel and look somewhat sideways, you may wonder how you ever lived without it once you get used to the design. The build is cheaper than other ergonomic mice, but it’s a great way to prevent RSI while fitting any budget.
BEST ERGONOMIC MOUSE FOR WRIST PAIN
4. 3M WIRED ERGONOMIC OPTICAL MOUSE
Our rating:
If you’re suffering from wrist pain, this mouse was made for you. The 3M mouse will help if you already have an RSI, even earning an Ease-of-Use-Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation. The design, which means users just need to grip the handle while resting their hand on the base, has been specially formulated to function as a standard mouse, while also providing wrist and hand support, helping combat arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and RSI.
It may be more of a medical device, but it’s got the look and feel of a joystick. Whether that’s a good thing or bad – we’ll leave that up to you. Thanks to the optical sensor, its long cable, and its compatibility, it’s a practical choice for many users. You can properly rest your hand and right or left click just using your thumb.
This device comes in two different sizes, and the one that will suit you best depends on your palm size, with the smaller design working best for 2.5 – 3.5-inch palms, and the larger one working best for people with a palm size of over 3.5 inches. The price point is higher compared to other models on the market, but this device does come with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus it’s easy to install, gives you daily ergonomic tips, and works great with both Windows and Mac computers.
PROS
- Great choice for injury sufferers
- Ease-of-use commendation by the Arthritis Association
- Comfortable to use for extended periods of time
CONS
- Very heavy and somewhat clunky for some users
- Not ambidextrous
- Does not have a scroll wheel
VERDICT
While not the most modern design, this mouse is perfect for people with carpal tunnel, RSI or arthritis. It not only prevents pain from happening in the first place, but it also reduces the amount of pain the user experiences. It is more expensive than other models, but if you have a medical reason to use it, it’s definitely worth purchasing.
5. LOGITECH TRACKMAN MARBLE
Our rating:
This is one of the best ambidextrous mice available, catering to both right and left-hand users. The symmetrical design of the Logitech Trackman Marble means it can support your hand’s contour, regardless of which hand you’re using.
One of the defining characteristics is the massive centrally located trackball, which you spin using your index finger as a way to control the cursor on the screen. Since the base doesn’t move, your wrist stays stationary, drastically reducing any pain or discomfort.
Two big buttons on the side work as the right and left click buttons, with other programmable back and forth buttons. The one downside that we found was the lack of a scroll wheel, as you scroll by clicking on a side button prior to moving the trackball, so the mouse knows you are in scrolling mode. This can be somewhat cumbersome and difficult to get used to for some users, though it should be said that the trackball is very accurate in maneuvering the cursor.
PROS
- Ambidextrous design, meaning both left and right-hand users can benefit from it
- Solid base and large trackball minimize wrist movement
- Trackball is extremely accurate
CONS
- Scrolling can be cumbersome without a dedicated scroll wheel
- Forward and back buttons are positioned too high to reach easily
- Wired connection can create extra clutter around your computer
VERDICT
The Logitech Trackman Marble mouse isn’t for all users, but if you are suffering from some sort of RSI, arthritis, or carpal tunnel, and are looking for a mouse to operate without constant pain, this could be your solution. Due to its ambidextrous design, you can operate the large trackball with either hand using multiple fingers, so you’re not limited to one wrist and hand posture while working.
6. J-TECH DIGITAL V628 ERGONOMIC MOUSE
Our rating:
When it comes to ergonomic mice, the two main competing designs are vertical versus horizontal. Despite all our research, there is no definitive consensus on which one performs better or is more ergonomic, and it all comes down to a matter of personal preference.
The J-Tech Digital V628 is one of the best vertical mice out there, as its super easy to grip and rest your hands on, due to its heftier profile. Also, the removable rubber palm rest keeps your wrist straight while using the mouse, as well as cushioning your wrist, making it really comfortable to use for long periods of time.
The scroll wheel is located at the center of two big buttons for right and left clicking, and you’ll find a back and forth button on the left side, so navigating between documents or web pages is a breeze. The design was created in order to mimic a handshake, so your wrist is not twisted, eliminating any pressure. This device gives you the chance to switch between three sensitivity levels: 600, 1000, and 1600 DPI resolution to fit your personal preferences.
PROS
- Handshake design prevents users twisting their wrists while using the mouse
- Adjustable sensitivity at the click of a button
- Excellent button placement for ease of use
CONS
- Mouse is quite heavy, weighing in at around one pound
- Scroll wheel can be clicked accidentally due to placement
VERDICT
If you suffer from pain, RSI or carpal tunnel syndrome and are looking for something completely different than a traditional mouse; this J-Tech mouse is highly recommended. Some users mentioned that they feel the mouse is very heavy, but this can be changed by removing two inside weights, which will make it lighter, and for some, easier and more comfortable to use.
7. RAZER DEATHADDER CHROMA
Our rating:
Razer is renowned for making PC gaming hardware, and the Deathadder Chroma is no exception, being considered tthe op gaming mice around. However, even if you’re not in the market for a gaming mouse, this could be the device you’re looking for.
The design is fantastic, and it’s made out of textured hard plastic that feels comfortable and natural, and the rubber on the sides gives it an excellent grip. The front is formed into a natural and concave shape that supports your palm without any fatigue to your wrist.
Apart from the standard left and right click buttons, there are two other programmable buttons, as well as a scroll wheel on the left side of the mouse. The programmable buttons are easy to click and can be programmed to your profile if you share the mouse with other users. There are plenty of options for you to change the polling rate, pointer acceleration, and sensor sensitivity.
PROS
- Broad market appeal
- Extremely comfortable
- Easy to customize, light colors can be easily changed
CONS
- No left-handed version
- Buttons may feel a bit flimsy
VERDICT
This mouse is fantastic for users that are looking for a multi-purpose mouse suitable for both working and computer games, as it has the ergonomics, accuracy, comfort, and quality of a gaming mouse without all the extra bells and whistles. The software is user-friendly, and the ability to customize it means it’s easy to coordinate it to the decoration on your workspace.
8. EVOLUENT VERTICAL MOUSE
Our rating:
At 3 inches tall, the Evoluent Vertical mouse is not your standard-looking mouse. Nonetheless, its height will allow you to use it in the handshake position, therefore eliminating any strain on your wrist. The build quality is top-notch, as Evoluent has pieced it together from various materials, including matte black rubber on the main body, silver components on the well for your left side and thumb, and plastic front and side buttons.
The five buttons are all easy to click and programmable so that you can set them to your desired preferences. For example, if you copy/paste a lot, you can program the middle button for right clicking. This makes using the device easier on your hands and a lifesaver for users with hand or finger difficulties, as you can program it to use with your most active fingers for easy access. The pointer speed, as well as other functions, can be adjusted with the included software, and the buttons can be programmed to act differently in different programs.
PROS
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- DPI customization
- Easy setup, just plug it in and start using it
CONS
- Materials seem to attract a lot of dust
- Customizable user interface could be more user-friendly
VERDICT
Don’t let the shape of the Evoluent Vertical mouse deter you from purchasing it. The customizable buttons, plug-and-play capability, and ergonomic design give you a comfortable device that can be used for hours.
Health Benefits of Using an Ergonomic Mouse
Failing to invest in an ergonomic mouse that meets your needs can have devastating effects, even if these are not felt immediately. One of the most significant medical benefits that come with ergonomic mice is their use in preventing and treating repetitive strain injury (RSI), which is the most common computer-related injury, and refers to muscle, nerve, and tendon pain after periods of repetitive movement. This condition is widespread amongst people that work in an office environment, and therefore its commonly referred to as “non-specific upper limb pain” or “work-related upper limb disorder.”
Unfortunately, your body will begin to suffer the effects of RSI after using an uncomfortable mouse and hand position, whether you spend your days doing spreadsheets, drafting letters, setting up presentations, or a combination of everything. RSI mainly affects your upper body, so you tend to experience pain in your shoulders, neck, hands, wrists, elbows, and arms. Physical symptoms develop gradually, starting off as a mild annoyance before they increase in severity.
To avoid severe problems, keep your eyes out for cramps, weakness, throbbing, swelling, stiffness, and general aches and pains, as it could be the beginning of RSI, or carpal tunnel syndrome, which is RSI’s little brother. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by excessive pressure on your wrist nerves, and the symptoms are similar to RSI. They include aches and pains in your arm, wrist, hand, or fingers, pins and needles, or numbness.
Bear in mind that you can minimize the risk of these issues when you purchase an ergonomic mouse that mimics the natural posture of your hands and wrists. A recent study found that using an ergonomic mouse can improve your wrist posture without negatively affecting your performance.
How to Choose the Best Ergonomic Mouse for You
There are a wide variety of ergonomic mice on today’s market, and we aimed to cover a broad spectrum of preferences and users on our list so that you can find the best ergonomic mouse for you. Read each review carefully and see which one covers your needs the best, as in the world of ergonomic design, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and at the end of the day, the best ergonomic mouse is the one that boosts your productivity along with perfectly conforming to your body.
Things to Take Into Consideration When Choosing an Ergonomic Mouse
Size:
In this case, size does matter. A mouse that’s too small or too large for your hand size will cause your tendons to cramp or stretch unnaturally. Therefore, the first thing you need to think about is making sure your mouse fits your hand properly. Mouse size can sometimes be pushed into the background by its more advanced features, but how comfortably the mouse fits your hand size is vital. The mouse should not feel massive or so small that you feel it gets lost.
Weight:
The weight of the mouse is a matter of personal preference, as some people want something very light, while others prefer a more substantial mouse that anchors the hand. However, bear in mind that heavier mice require more effort to move, and while it may not initially seem like the difference is that great, it can mount over time.
Some things to take into consideration are battery weight and adjustable weight. Some manufacturers don’t take into account the added weight of the batteries, while some mice are weight adjustable, so they can be made lighter or heavier.
Height:
Your hand isn’t flat when it’s as rest, as it has an arch or contour. Therefore, aside from vertical mice, an ergonomic mouse should reproduce that arch. Avoid flat mice if you want to keep carpal tunnel syndrome at bay.
Ease of Movement:
You will introduce more tension to your hand, wrist, and arm the more pressure or strength you need to apply to move your mouse around. Therefore, your mouse should present little movement resistance, no matter the weight.
Button Placement:
The buttons on your mouse need to be placed in such a way that they don’t strain your nerves and tendons. Ideally, all the buttons should be within easy reach of your fingers, so they don’t require any uncomfortable stretching or bending.