Using a computer mouse extensively can put strain on your hands and wrists, leading to painful repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome over time. This is why ergonomic mice are becoming increasingly popular – they are specially contoured to provide a more natural grip that reduces muscle tension.
Choosing the right ergonomic mouse tailored to your needs can significantly improve comfort and prevent issues like wrist pain, cramping, numbness etc. In this detailed guide, we review the 12 best ergonomic mice to buy in 2023 for all uses.
Benefits of an Ergonomic Mouse
Before looking at specific products, let‘s go over why you should choose an ergonomic mouse:
Prevents Injuries: The vertical/angled grip of ergonomic mice keeps your hand in a natural handshake position. This avoids awkward twisting of the wrists which causes repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Reduces Strain: Gripping a regular mouse for hours leads to strain on tendons and muscles in the hands, wrists, arms etc. Ergonomic mice allow for greater comfort over extended periods.
Increases Support: Many ergonomic mice come with thumb/palm rests for enhanced support while working. The contoured shape also provides better grip with minimal effort.
Improves Posture: The angle and design of ergonomic mice allow you to sit with proper shoulder, arm and wrist alignment when working. This improves overall posture.
Now let‘s look at the 12 best ergonomic mice you can buy for all types of professional and gaming needs.
1. Logitech MX Master 3
The Logitech MX Master 3 is one of the most popular high-performance ergonomic mice praised for its comfortable shape, customizable buttons and smooth tracking.
Key Features:
- Contoured shape with thumb rest
- MagSpeed electromagnetic scroll wheel
- App-specific customizations
- 4000 DPI sensor for precise tracking
- Supports up to 3 devices via Bluetooth Easy-Switch
The Master 3‘s sculpted shape is suited for both palm and claw grip styles. Its thumb scroll wheel and unique sideways scroll wheel give you quick access for workflows like editing spreadsheets or timelines.
You can even customize buttons and tracking speed for individual apps. Overall an excellent option if you need advanced features and all-day comfort.
2. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse
The uniquely shaped Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic mouse is designed to promote a neutral wrist and forearm position.
Key Features:
- Pronounced arch encourages hand to open wider
- Padded thumb rest area
- Bluetrack technology works on more surfaces
- Windows-tailored with customizable buttons
The 57-degree angled shape forces your hand up into a handshake position. This reduces forearm rotation that contributes to carpal tunnel. The plush thumb cradle also keeps the mouse stable.
While pricier than a regular mouse, the Sculpt is worth considering if you‘re experiencing wrist fatigue or soreness. It has received consistently excellent reviews from users.
3. Logitech MX Vertical Mouse
If you want an aggressively vertical mouse, the top choice is Logitech‘s MX Vertical which positions the hand at a steep 57° angle.
Key Features:
- 57° vertical angle
- Textured rubber grip
- 4000 DPI high precision sensor
- Cross-computer control
- Lasts 4 months on a full charge
Unlike cheaper vertical mice, the MX Vertical uses premium components for flawless tracking and smooth scrolling. This makes it well-suited for tasks like 3D modeling or programming.
The steep angle does take some adjustment if coming from a regular mouse. But it‘s one of the best vertical ergonomic options for preventing wrist strain over many hours of use.
4. Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Mouse
The Anker 2.4G vertical mouse is a budget-friendly option with an ergonomic right-angled arched design suited for both left and right-handed users.
Key Features:
- 2.4G wireless connects via USB nano receiver
- Easy-access thumb buttons
- Textured side grip areas
- Adjustable 800/1200/1600 DPI sensitivity
At under $30, the Anker vertical mouse provides excellent value without breaking the bank. It lacks horizontal scrolling but includes back/forward side buttons.
The optical tracking works well for general office work. Overall a solid vertical ergonomic pick if you don‘t need advanced features.
5. Logitech MX Ergo Wireless Trackball Mouse
Trackball mice like the MX Ergo minimize forearm twisting making them a top ergonomic choice for many. They are also space-efficient since you don‘t need large swaths of area to move a physical mouse.
Key Features:
- 20° adjustable hinge for 175° to 195° tilt
- Thumb-powered trackball with smooth precision scrolling
- 8 programmable buttons
- Cross-computer control for up to 3 devices
The adjustable metal hinge lets you tilt the MX Ergo for optimum personal comfort over long hours of design or coding work. It provides excellent palm support in a compact footprint.
If you have limited space or want the excellent tracking of a trackball mouse, the MX Ergo is a superb ergonomic solution.
6. Razer Pro Click Humanscale
The Razer Pro Click Humanscale is an ergonomic mouse developed with experts in workplace health and safety. It adopts many unique design elements to reduce strain.
Key Features:
- Height customizable palm support
- Angled mouse buttons
- Textured rubber side grip
- 8 programmable buttons
- 20,000 DPI sensor
The highlight is the adjustable magnetic palm support that adapts to provide optimum comfort for your hand size. This removable support has cushioning to reduce pressure.
The right-tilted buttons are also positioned to promote a straighter wrist posture. If you want an ergonomic mouse crafted by ergonomic specialists, check out the advanced Razer Pro Click.
7. Logitech ERGO M575 Wireless Trackball Mouse
If you liked the MX Ergo earlier but want a more affordable wireless trackball pick, take a look at Logitech‘s ERGO M575 model.
Key Features:
- Angled thumb-operated trackball with precision mode
- Textured rubber grip and tactical thumb rest
- Customizable controls and shortcuts
- 2.4Ghz wireless connectivity
Unlike a regular mouse, scrolling is handled by the ball which significantly reduces wrist twisting. The contoured shape allows your hand rest comfortably with less grip force needed.
It may not offer the advanced customizability of pricier trackball mice but packs great ergonomics into an affordable package.
8. Goldtouch Go!2 Mobile Mouse
If you work extensively on the go using laptops and mobile devices, check out the collapsible Goldtouch Go!2 mouse designed for portability:
Key Features:
- Folds down into a small 3” x 1.75” rectangle
- Lightweight at just 2.5 oz
- Rubberized scroll wheel with 8000 DPI optical tracking
- Ergonomic right-hand vertical lift shape
- Available for left-hand use
Despite its tiny size when collapsed, the Go!2 provides excellent tracking and clicks to reduce laptop fatigue. Just unfold for a 18° vertically angled right-handed or 15° left-handed shape on-the-go. There‘s also an open slot to store the USB wireless receiver.
For mobile professionals and frequent travelers, the Go!2 delivers desktop-quality mousing with superior ergonomics.
9. Jelly Comb 2.4G Silent Vertical Mouse
The Jelly Comb 2.4G vertical mouse delivers smooth precise tracking and scrolling at a budget price point.
Key Features:
- Extra quiet clicks with < 30 dB noise
- 6 adjustable DPI levels up to 2400 DPI
- Ergonomic curved right-handed design
- Additional side buttons
- 2.4G wireless via nano USB receiver
For under $15, the Jelly Comb vertical wireless mouse gets all the ergonomic basics right at an ultra-affordable cost. It connects easily via the tiny USB dongle for lag-free usage.
While not loaded with features, it provides excellent value for general office work where you want a comfortable wireless vertical mouse on a tight budget.
10. Logitech M575 Wireless Trackball Mouse
The Logitech M575 is one of the best-selling wireless ergonomic trackball mice praised for its comfortable curved shape and responsive tracking.
Key Features:
- Contoured right-handed shape
- Robust 5-button controls
- Smooth scrolling with adjustable speed
- Works on any surface including glass
- 2-year battery life
The textured grip and sloped button shape allow your hand to work for hours without tiring out. It stays securely in position for precise cursor control.
With its affordable price, relaxed grip and fluid tracking, the M575 is a great entry-level ergonomic trackball mouse for work or home use.
11. Evoluent VerticalMouse Right Wireless Mouse
Evoluent makes some of the top vertical mice designed by ergonomics experts to promote neutral wrist postures. The VerticalMouse Right features a steep 55°angle for natural "handshake" alignment:
Key Features:
- 55° right-angled design for natural wrist posture
- Wide lip supports outside of palm
- Extra smooth cursor control at selectable DPIs
- 6 customizable buttons
All buttons are ergonomically positioned to avoid excessive thumb stretches. The high-grade optical tracking and thumb rest make it suitable for all-day intensive work without fatigue.
If you want a premium quality vertical mouse crafted solely focused on ergonomics, Evoluent is a top choice.
12. Logitech Lift Vertical Mouse
The Logitech Lift Vertical Mouse allows you to work with your hand in a relaxed neutral "handshake" position to avoid awkward wrist bending.
Key Features:
- 57° angle for natural alignment
- Cushioned rubber grip
- Quiet clicks
- Customizable buttons
- 2.4Ghz wireless
Its compact tilted design keeps forearms straighter to significantly reduce strain over many hours. It fits small and large hands equally well.
The Lift vertical mouse offers premium quality at an affordable price point for those seeking enhanced wrist comfort.
Ergonomic Mouse Comparison Chart
Here is a quick overview comparison of some key specifications for the mice we‘ve covered:
| Mouse | Type | Connection | Angle/Shape | Buttons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logitech MX Master 3 | Horizontal | Wireless | Contoured right-handed | 7 customizable | $$$ |
| Microsoft Sculpt Ergo | Horizontal | Wireless | 57° angle | 5 cust. for Windows | $$ |
| Logitech MX Vertical | Vertical | Wireless | 57° right-handed | 4 | $$$ |
| Anker 2.4G Vertical | Vertical | 2.4G Wireless | Right-handed | 6 | $ |
| Logitech MX Ergo | Trackball | Wireless | 20° adjustable base | 8 cust. | $$$ |
| Razer Pro Click | Horizontal | Wireless | Right-handed w/ padded palm | 8 cust. | $$$ |
| Logitech Ergo M575 | Trackball | 2.4G Wireless | Horizontal curvy | 5 | $ |
| Goldtouch Go!2 | Vertical | Bluetooth | 18° angle, folds | 4 | $$ |
| Jelly Comb 2.4G | Vertical | 2.4G Wireless | Right-handed | 6 | $ |
| Logitech M575 | Trackball | Wireless | Contoured right-handed | 5 | $ |
| Evoluent VM4RW | Vertical | Wireless | 55° angle | 6 cust. | $$ |
| Logitech Lift | Vertical | Wireless | 57° angle | 4 cust. | $$ |
Choosing the Right Ergonomic Mouse
With so many options, how do you pick the right ergonomic mouse for your needs? Consider these key pointers while buying:
1. Mouse types: Are you looking for a vertical, angled, trackball or specialty ergonomic mouse design? This depends on your needs and hand structure.
2. Hand size and grip: Measure your hand from base to middle fingertip so the mouse fits comfortably. Check if palm, claw or fingertip grip styles are supported.
3. Wireless connectivity: Look for USB RF dongle/Bluetooth/2.4G connectivity that pairs easily without lag or interruptions. Low battery indicators are also useful.
4. Tracking accuracy: Ensure the optical/laser tracking sensor has adequate DPI for precise control without jitteriness.
5. Programmable controls: Customizable buttons and settings allow you tailor mouse functions for different tasks to save time.
6. Extra ergonomic features: Elements like customizable weights, detachable wrist rests, adjustable angles etc. further minimize strain so check for these.
7. Operating system: While most work with Windows/macOS, some may have limited OS or platform support so verify before buying.
8. Budget: Ergonomic mice are available from $20 basic options to $150+ high-end models based on features and customizability needed.
Wrap Up
Adjusting from your regular mouse to an ergonomic model has a slight learning curve. But within a few weeks of daily use, an ergonomic mouse can make a tremendous difference by allowing fluid cursor control without any strain or awkward hand postures.
If you currently suffer from wrist soreness or routinely use mice for 8+ hours daily, investing in a quality ergonomic mouse aligned with your work style is strongly recommended. In the long run, it could greatly boost comfort as well as productivity.
