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ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more Logitech, CherryWe werent built to sit with our hands wrapped around a computer mouse in a claw-like position all day. Yet, here we are. Luckily, an ergonomic mouse can take some of the repetitive stress out of our normal daily routine. These clever input devices provide the shape and structure needed to keep the hand in a much more natural shape that can cut down on pain and even damage over time. Weve chosen the Logitech MX Master 3S as the best overall ergonomic mouse, but every body and routine is different. Here are some choices to keep you comfortable while youre using a computer.Best overall: Logitech MX Master 3SBest for gaming: Razer Viper V2 ProBest vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech Lift Vertical Wireless MouseBest horizontal: Cherry MW 8C ErgoBest trackball: Logitech ERGO M575Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming MouseBest budget wireless: Microsoft SculptHow we chose the best ergonomic miceWhen looking for the best ergonomic mouse for particular needs, we factored in the specific activities youd use it for, whether gaming, photo editing, general productivity, or a mix of uses. Existing hand and wrist issues, budget, space, and equipment sharing were also important considerations to keep in mind. For the vast majority of users, an ergonomic mouse that most resembles a traditional mouse both in form factor and usage will be the easiest to adjust to and the easiest to learn. The benefits of ergonomic mice tend to increase as the form factor shifts away from conventional designs, with some involving sideways, or vertical designs that require a click movement thats closer to pulling a trigger than pushing a button. With this in mind, we researched and tried firsthand designs that split the difference between fully vertical and traditional so you can find your perfect balance of familiarity and versatility. We sit at our desks far too much, scrolling through the internet to find the latest, greatest products, so we are deeply invested in tech that can ease wear and tear on our bodies.The best ergonomic mouse: Reviews & RecommendationsThe best ergonomic mouse overall will feature a shape that allows the hand to fall naturally over the surface of the mouse instead of requiring the palm to tilt down and back toward the user, which will take pressure off the tendons in the wrist. A design that offers a dedicated, expanded grip area for users thumbs can add greatly to ergonomic benefits as well. You should also look for traditional features, like dedicated scroll wheels that are easy to access with minimal finger movement required and wireless connectivity to allow a full range of desktop motion when needed. Pair one of the mice below with a properly ergonomic desk and chair setup, and your body will immediately thank you for investing in its health.Best overall: Logitech MX Master 3SUSB-C RechargeableProsThumb restExtra programmable buttonsUltra-responsive scroll wheelConsPriceSpecsWireless: YesWeight: 5 ouncesPrice: $99.99Were big fans of Logitech accessories in general, and the Logitech MX Master 3S is the best ergonomic mouse overall thanks to its comfortable hybrid design, flexibility, and a multitude of productivity-enhancing features. Its battery lasts up to 70 days on a single charge and offers around three hours of use from one minute of charging. A dedicated thumbwheel and controls above the thumb rest offer superior flexibility while demanding little hand movement, and its ready to use with multiple operating systems. This mouse may look intimidating, but it feels immediately natural in the hand. The MX Master 3S buttons are extremely quietso much so that we can wholeheartedly recommend this mouse for office useand the scroll wheel moves along with satisfying, incremental clicks. Initially, we didnt know what to make of the thumb wheel but found it incredibly useful when working in image editing applications, which is when horizontal scrolling was most helpful. You need this mouse if you work in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.One of the MX Master 3S most convenient features is the ability to pair it with up to three Bluetooth devices. A button on the bottom of the mouse lets you switch between connections, but it will never get pressed accidentally as youre mousing around. We could use the mouse with both our personal and work laptops and switch between them without a hitch. While testing this mouse, the biggest surprise was the usefulness of Logitechs Logi Options software, which allows us to designate a specific function to the mouses scroll wheel click and side buttons. Accessing core system features without taking our hand off the mouse was a huge time saver.Logitechs MX Master 3S is an ergonomic triumph, but its such a powerful, precise instrument that we could recommend it to anyone looking for a wireless mouse for creative work. Best for gaming: Razer Viper V2 ProBuilt for SpeedRazers Viper V2 Pro is the best ergonomic mouse for gamers.ProsAmbidextrous30k optical sensorLightweightConsPriceSpecsWireless: YesWeight: 1.87 ouncesPrice: $128.20An ergonomic mouse is a must-have accessory for gamers because playing online matches requires constant movement and clicking, which can cause RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) if done with the wrong tool. Razers Viper V2 Pro is small, light, and designed to use with either hand. If youre a left-handed person using a mouse designed for right-handed people, you may feel discomfort regardless of what you use your computer for. We like the ergonomic benefits of the Viper V2 Pro, but its also a beast on the performance front. The mouses optical sensor is incredibly precise and allows the mouse to be used on any surface. Many gamers shun wireless peripherals because of latency (lag) between their actions (movement, button clicks) and whats represented on screen. Still, Razer says its mouse can communicate with your computer 25% faster than the competition. If youre still worried about latency, plug the Viper V2 Pro into your computer with the included USB cable. Additionally, the mouse can run for over 80 hours per charge, which is helpful if you often game and forget to plug it in.Razer has a solid track record of making incredibly compelling accessories for gamers, and its made sure that the Viper V2 Pro mouse is efficient and comfortable to use for everybody. If youre partial to wireless accessories but think you cant use them for gaming, this mouse is an even better choice.The Viper 3 is already on the market, but you can get fantastic deals on the V2 sill, so you might as well save $100 while you save your hands.Best vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech Lift Vertical Wireless MousePrecise Sensor for Minimal MovementProsThumb restBluetooth and receiver wireless optionsProgrammable side buttonsConsShape may not be for everyoneSpecsWireless: YesWeight: 4.4 ouncesPrice: $64.44While members of the PopSci staff have previously lauded the Logitech Lift, Id never tried a vertical mouse until testing this one and was initially apprehensive about trying a pointing device so differently shaped than the one Ive been used to for over 20 years. It turns out my fears were unfounded, as the Logitech Lift was immediately intuitiveand more importantly comfortableto use. Logitech allows you to pair the Lift to your PC or Mac over Bluetooth or a USB-A adapter stored in the mouses battery compartment so you dont lose it. I opted for Bluetooth, and the mouse was immediately recognized by my MacBook Pro. What struck me about the Lift was how natural it felt under my hand. Its thumb rest cradles my thumb, while my pointer and index fingers fall immediately onto the right and left click buttons. My thumb could easily reach the Lifts two side buttons without much movement, while reaching the scroll wheel with either my pointer or index finger was just as simple. There was no learning curve to using this mouse; if anything, going back to a normal one felt foreign.The Lifts scroll wheel isnt as smooth as the one on Logitiechs MX Master 3S featured above, but it was ultra responsive. I never scrolled too far while using this mouse. Similarly, all four of its buttons worked 100% of the time, with nary a misclick in sight. Its important to note that the mouses side buttonslocated by the thumb restmake louder clicking sounds than the comparatively soft top buttons. Neither set sounds annoying, but its something to consider. Clicking in the mouses scroll wheel button actually produces a sound thats somewhere in between sound-wise.A big part of the Logitech Lifts appeal is customizing its buttons using the companys LogiOptions+ software, available on both macOS and Windows. The app allows you to customize the Lifts side and scroll wheel click buttons. I immediately customized the mouses side buttons to shift between virtual desktops and used the mouse click button to engage Mission Control, which shows all the active windows on my current virtual desktop. These customizations save me precious seconds dozens of (if not over 100) times daily and are essential for maintaining my productivity. If youve wanted to give vertical mice a chance, Logitechs Lift will ease you into using this type of pointing device. Its comfort, customizability, and overall performance make it an excellent choice for any desktop. Better still, a left-handed version is available so everybody can use it.Cherry MW 8C ErgoProsThumb restBluetooth and receiver wireless optionsProgrammable side buttonsConsSoftware incompatible with MacOSClicky buttons may be too loud for someSpecsWireless: YesWeight: 4 ouncesPrice: $49.99Theres a lot to like about Cherrys MW 8C Ergo, and it has feature parity with many of the other ergonomic mice were recommendingif youre running Windows. Physically, the horizontal mouse has a gentle curve, with a shape that will be instantly recognizable to most people. The big differences here are the mouses thumb rest and arched top, which make it comfortable to use for extended periods. Setting up the MW 8C Ergo was a simple affair. The company allows you to pair the mouse to your computer with either a USB adapter stashed in a hole on its underside or via Bluetooth. I always opt for Bluetooth, and my MacBook Pro saw the mouse within a few seconds. With a single click, the two devices were connected. Once paired, I used the MW 8C Ergo to help complete my daily work of scrolling through websites and opening and switching between different applicationsfrom word processors to image-editing software. The mouse felt comfortable to hold, with the thumb rest providing ample space for my thumb and my pointer and middle fingers draped over the right and left click buttons. The thumb rest also provided easy access to the MW 8C Ergos side buttonsmore on that in a little bit. In general, I found this mouses scroll wheel to feel and perform well; I never scrolled too far because it clicked at regular enough intervals that I could stop at the exact point I wanted to. All of this mouses buttons make a pronounced clicking sound, which could be a pro or con, depending on your preferences. Overall, I found the MW 8C Ergos build quality and performance to be on-par with other ergonomic mice I tested, which is great considering its lower price. Unfortunately, my issues with this mouse have to do with its software, which is Windows only. I run macOS on my personal and work computer, so I could not install Cherrys Keys utility, which is required to customize the mouses side buttons. This meant I couldnt make the MW 8C Ergo a seamless part of my workflow. This wont be an issue if you run a Windows machine, but macOS users should be aware. With that caveat aside, Cherrys MW 8C Ergo is a performant, inexpensive wireless ergonomic mouse.Logitech ERGO M575Connects via either Bluetooth or USB receiver.ProsTrackballCustomizable buttonsMade from sustainable materials.ConsMay take some time to adapt toSpecsWireless: YesWeight: 5.11 ouncesPrice: $49.99A trackball mouse allows you to move your computers cursor by rotating a ball on its thumb rest instead of physically moving the mouse. This allows you to use the M575 ERGO on small desks, airplane tray tables, or anywhere theres little space. This style of mouse isnt for everyoneespecially if youd like to actually rest your thumb on a flat surfacebut worth considering if youre experiencing strain on your middle and pointer fingers. The mouse itself is shaped in such a way that your pointer and middle fingers will fall naturally on top of the mouses right and left click buttons. The ERGO M575s auxiliary buttons are located on the left side of the left click button, where they can be easily accessed by your middle finger.The ERGO M575 shares a lot of features with the other Logitech ergonomic mice were recommending, including support for Logi Options+, which allows you to customize the actions of its auxiliary buttons. It can be connected to your computer wirelessly using the included USB receiver or over Bluetooth, and runs on a single AA battery. Additionally, the ERGO M575 mouse is made in part from recycled plastics, which is great if youre trying to make your work setup more sustainable. Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming Mousehttps://www.amazon.com/Lizsword-Breathing-High-Precision-Adjustable-Programmable/dp/B09NBV52FSLizswords Wired Gaming Mouse is the best wired ergonomic mouse of 2023.ProsProgrammable LEDsCustomizable buttonsPriceConsLess convenient to use than wireless miceSpecsWireless: NoWeight: 6.4 ouncesPrice: $16.99This wired gaming mouse from Lizsword is the best wired ergonomic mouse we could find, especially given its sub-$20 price tag. Advanced features like the ability to change the mouses sensitivity using a physical button instead of software, built-in LEDs, and additional customizable buttons make it a great overall pick if you dont mind a mouse that needs to be plugged in at all times. That one annoyance comes with the benefit of never needing to charge the mouse or worrying about its battery level if you take it traveling. If youre only going to use your ergonomic mouse at a desk, theres no real downside to choosing a wired one instead of going wireless besides convenience. Ridges on the sides of the mouse make it easier and more comfortable to grip, while protruding side buttons are easy to find and hit without looking down. Lizsword says its mouses right and left click buttons can be pressed over five million times without showing signs of degradation. The company also provides software that allows you to change the function of each of this mouses buttons to make it easier to use. You also have the option to change its sensitivity this way. If you prefer to use wired accessories or want to save a few bucks, this is the ergonomic mouse to get. Best budget wireless: Microsoft SculptCompact and Super SimpleProprietary tech enhances this mouses tracking on virtually any surface.ProsCurved designThumb restPriceConsSizeSpecsWireless: YesWeight: 5.47 ouncesPrice: $37.28Microsoft has been at the forefront of the ergonomic computer accessory revolution for years, and its Sculpt mouse continues that tradition. The wireless mouse has a thumb scoop on the side and a moderately sloped surface, making it the best ergonomic horizontal mouse on the market. A dedicated button offers Windows users quick access to the Start menu, and it connects to users systems via an included USB transceiver. USB receivers are more cumbersome than using a mouse that connects via Bluetooth, but its still easier than using a mouse with a cable. The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse runs off of two AA batteries (might we recommend rechargeable ones) and offers a battery life of up to 12 months before needing replacement. Importantly, the mouse works with both Macs and Windows computers despite it being made by Microsoft. Our only minor qualm with Microsofts ergonomic mouse is its small size, which may make it a little difficult to use if youve got bigger hands. If that isnt a concern, or youd like a mouse thats ultra-affordable, this is a solid choice.What to consider when shopping for the best ergonomic mouseThere are dozens of factors to consider when judging ergonomic tech accessories because everybodys definition of comfort is slightly different. We cant account for the size of your hand or wrist sensitivity but we have considered how most people use mice for work and play. Gaming performanceEven outside the realm of ergonomic computer accessories, gaming mice are set apart from traditional computer mice by using designs that favor comfort, precision, and speed, especially over longer periods of use.When choosing an ergonomic gaming mouse, its not uncommon to find designs with a wealth of easy-to-access onboard programmable buttons that allow users to bind specific functions or actions to their specialized mouse. This extended functionality is miles ahead of that offered by traditional mice and has beneficial applications in gaming as well as graphic design, media editing, and more. High-speed, low-latency responsiveness, and wireless connectivity are key features to look for in the best ergonomic gaming mice to ensure that every small movement made translates accurately and precisely to the screen. For users looking to customize their PC gaming rigs visual design fully, its also important to seek out an ergonomic gaming mouse that includes customizable chroma lighting to ensure a proper match to the rest of their computer accessories.Vertical orientationArthritis is an ailment as unsavory as it is common. It usually begins due toor is exacerbated byrepetitive movements that can include typing on a keyboard or scrolling with a mouse. The best ergonomic mouse for arthritis will allow users to keep their fingers, hand, and wrist in a position that minimizes joint stress, thereby decreasing the likelihood of contributing to joint swelling and worsening symptoms. Left untreated or unaddressed, arthritis-related swelling in the wrist can lead to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, which can contribute to numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers.When looking for an ergonomic mouse for arthritis, choose a vertical mouse model that allows the hand and wrist to sit in a natural position, angled with the pinky finger closer to the desk surface. Doing so will decrease twisting in the joints and ligaments and reduce pressure in the forearm and wrist area, as well as limit the overall muscle use required for mouse movement. Look for a model that includes a thumb rest, too, as it will encourage and contribute to maintaining a more neutral resting position overall.Horizontal orientationIn the world of computer accessories, the term horizontal mouse refers to the orientation of the users palm, which is why most traditional computer mice are classified as horizontal mice. The best ergonomic horizontal mouse will take some of the benefits of vertical mice and split the difference with traditional designs, allowing users to enjoy some, but not all, of the perks of an ergonomic model. Remember that a horizontal orientation will always put some measure of stress on the wrist and forearm, so a horizontal mouse isnt a good choice for users with existing wrist, hand, and arm issues.The vast benefits of choosing an ergonomic horizontal mouse are apparent when productivity and flexibility are the primary goals. Because of the design parallels to traditional computer mice, an ergonomic horizontal mouse will feel familiar in users hands, making it a good choice for office environments where there will be equipment sharing. No practice is required to use an ergonomic horizontal mouse, so users can simply sit down and begin enjoying a relatively more comfortable experience with no delay.Trackball supportTrackball mouse designs have long been popular alternatives to traditional computer mice thanks to the intrinsic ergonomic benefits of the design. The best trackball mouse, such as the Logitech ERGO M575, requires no wrist movement whatsoever, opting instead to allow users to control the cursor with minute movements of the fingers or thumbs by freely rolling the trackball in its place. By eliminating the need for wrist and arm movement on the desktop, the likelihood of developing or exacerbating wrist and arm problems through use of a trackball mouse is very low.When looking for the best ergonomic mouse with a trackball, find a design that combines a vertical tilt or pitch for the users hand to lay comfortably while clicking and a model with a removable and cleanable trackball for added longevity and flexibility. The limited movement requirements of a trackball mouse have benefits beyond the users wrists and hands, allowing these models to be used in especially cramped desk environments and making them a flexible option for productive work in almost any location.PriceYou dont have to spend an unreasonable amount to enjoy the benefits of an ergonomic mouse, but there are a few sacrifices in design and flexibility that youll have to keep in mind if youre looking to save money on these office accessories. More advanced features like trackball functionality and wireless connectivity drive up the price of ergonomic mice considerably, so youll most likely have to opt for a design that keeps you tethered to your computer via cabling and that requires some measure of wrist and arm movement. The best cheap ergonomic mouse will typically provide users with a horizontal design that allows the fingers and hand to fall naturally over the top of the mouse with limited arching or angling of the wrist. If youre already suffering from symptoms of arthritis or carpal tunnel, it only makes sense to spend a little extra on a trackball or vertical design. Still, if youre looking for a low-impact and easy-to-use ergonomic mouse on a budget, there are plenty of options for users like you.FAQsQ: How do I choose an ergonomic mouse? If you have existing wrist and hand issues, going straight to a vertical mouse design is an easy way to ensure relief. Users with arthritis may want to steer clear of trackballs, however, due to the demands they place on finger movement. If youll be gaming or youre looking for a more familiar feel, a horizontal ergonomic mouse may be the best option. Q: What is the most comfortable mouse? All of the best ergonomic mice on the market are designed to cut down on the aches, strains, and discomfort that come from the repetitive use of traditional office equipment. A vertical mouse is one of the most comfortable pieces of computer equipment available, as it allows the hand to rest in a natural, neutral position during use. Q: Can using a mouse hurt my wrist? Yes. Continuing to use a mouse that forces you to hold onto it uncomfortably can cause RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) over time. Q: What is the best mouse to use for carpal tunnel? The best ergonomic mouse overall for carpal tunnel sufferers is the Logitech MX Vertical Wireless Mouse, thanks to its natural shape that takes the pressure off of the wrist and forearm area, allowing for the release of tension in the area. Any comparable vertical mouse that promotes a healthy hand position will offer users some relief from the compression that traditional computer accessories may demand. Q: How much does an ergonomic mouse cost? This depends on the ergonomic mouses featuresespecially the number of additional buttonsbut you shouldnt need to spend more than $100 on a premium ergonomic mouse. Some of our other recommendations cost well under $50. Final thoughts on choosing the best ergonomic mouse for youBest overall: Logitech MX Master 3SBest for gaming: Razer Viper V2 ProBest vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech Lift Vertical Wireless MouseBest horizontal: Cherry MW 8C ErgoBest trackball: Logitech ERGO M575Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming MouseBest budget wireless: Microsoft SculptFinding the best ergonomic mouse for your desk will make a significant positive impact on the long-term health of your body by limiting tension in the joints and ligaments of your hand, wrist, and forearm. If you have existing carpal tunnel or arthritis, go with a vertical mouse that doesnt have a trackball. A horizontal mouse is the best choice for gaming and overall flexibility. In contrast, a trackball mouse is a perfect choice for a desk with limited space or users with limited arm mobility.
