The 8 Best Ergonomic Mice to Save Your Hand From Cramping
We tried the top-rated ergonomic mice so you can work or game on your computer all day without killing your wrist.
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Whether you are a hardcore PC gamer or just browsing all day at work, hand cramps happen. Outside of stretching and (hypothetically) using your computer less, the best way to prevent hand a wrist pain is by upgrading your computer equipment to be more ergonomic. Alongside your keyboard, the next most important equipment upgrade is an ergonomic mouse.
Ergonomic mice feature unique designs tailored to the natural movement and posture of your wrist and hand. As a result, an ergonomic mouse can reduce stress and pressure on your hand throughout the day for easier, more comfortable usage. So, even during long work hours or intense gaming sessions, it protects you from the worst strain.
No matter how you work or game, check out these ergonomic mice to keep your wrists and hands in tip top condition all day long.
The Best Ergonomic Mice
What to Consider
Prior to buying an ergonomic mouse, keep in mind a number of factors such as the feel and design of the mouse, the sensor type, and the connection type.
Feel and Design
For an ergonomic mouse, the physical feel and design is the highest priority. Many ergonomic mice have more traditional designs with adjustments in the body so it contours more closely to your hand. Other options have vertical designs, which align with the natural resting state of your wrist. Several mice also come with trackballs, which reduce movement in your wrist, instead of underbody sensors, but these take some getting used to.
Sensor
Outside of a trackball, the two major types of sensors are optical and laser. Laser sensors are typically found in higher-end models and have the most accurate tracking capabilities on smooth surfaces like desks or tables. Optical sensors are generally cheaper, but still offer high-quality tracking and movement when in use.
Wired or Wireless
While a wireless or wired connection does not affect the feel of the mouse in your hand, a wired mouse may cause a slight drag feeling. This is especially the case if the wire snags on part of your desk or tangles with other wires. Despite those potential drawbacks, a direct wired connection reduces latency and gives you nearly real-time movement, which makes a difference for high level gaming.
Wireless mice rely on Bluetooth connections with high-speed USB dongles. The connection speed in most modern wireless models and wired options is virtually identical, so even if low latency is a priority for you, this doesn’t rule out wireless options for most users.
How We Selected
We selected the best ergonomic mice by testing three of our top picks throughout a day of work each. I also used them for some intense, but losing, efforts in a few PC games I play regularly. We pared down our picks based on research across multiple sites including PC Mag, Rtings, and Best Products. Additionally, we scoured through hundreds of review from verified buyers.
Tom Price is an Associate Editor of Reviews for Popular Mechanics, and also contributes to Runner's World, and Bicycling. He has previously covered product reviews, startup news, and even professional wrestling. In his free time, he enjoys watching pretentious TV, low-brow movies, and exercising for beauty, not health. If you are interested in exploring more of his work, check out his website.
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