Question 1

What is a vertical mouse?

Accepted Answer

Simply put, a vertical mouse has been redesigned for a more natural fit, contouring better to the palm — rather like a handshake. This scientific, ergonomic-shaped design might look unusual at first, but it has been proven to decrease wrist pain and hand fatigue significantly.

Question 2

What are the benefits of using a vertical mouse?

Accepted Answer

You may not have previously known this fact, but the natural resting position of the wrist and forearm is in what is best described as a thumbs-up position. This is totally opposite to the position that the traditional computer mouse puts your arm into.

The ergonomics of a vertical mouse can actively prevent pronation. Pronation of the wrist/hand can lead to tightening of the joints, which increases pressure on the entire lower arm. All that tightening and pressure can result in painful carpal tunnel syndrome. Using a vertical mouse is particularly beneficial to workers using computers who carry out lengthy sessions operating a mouse and keyboard.

Question 3

Are vertical mice good for carpal tunnel?

Accepted Answer

Short answer: Sure they are! Long answer: Owing to a vertical mouse’s ergonomic build, users of vertical mice are less likely to develop carpal tunnel. In cases of preexisting carpal tunnel, they're less likely to experience agitation of the condition. That said, established overuse of desktop-geared mice (and keyboards), regardless of how “ergonomically friendly” they are, can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. As previously stated, the ergonomics of a vertical mouse can actively prevent pronation. Pronation of the wrist/hand can lead to tightening of the joints, which increases pressure on the entire lower arm and can result in painful carpal tunnel syndrome. For a more in-depth and medically qualified explanation of carpal tunnel symptoms, causes, and mitigatory methods, you can fall into the syndrome’s WebMD rabbit hole here.

Question 4

How do you use a vertical mouse?

Accepted Answer

Don’t be thrown off by nomenclature — most vertical mice work just like traditional mice. The difference between the two is the shape, not the function. However, mice that feature a thumb-controlled trackball work a little differently from what most of us are accustomed to. There are several popular trackball-style models of vertical mice out there (Logitech makes several category-leading trackball mice, for instance). Rather than gliding the entire mouse assembly over an area to move the cursor, trackball mice are stationary, and users control the on-screen cursor by manipulating the mouse’s rollerball with their thumb. If you’re looking to make the switch to a trackball model, this write-up by Techwalla provides a great primer.

Question 5

Should you use a wrist rest with a vertical mouse?

Accepted Answer

Ergonomic + ergonomic = more ergonomic, right? Sure, probably. Obviously, this depends on the angle and quality of the rest.

As mentioned earlier, preventing unnatural positioning of the wrist/hand is a good idea, especially if you’re an avid mouse user.

Question 6

Is vertical mouse better for gaming?

Accepted Answer

Probably! As noted above in “What are the benefits” and “Are vertical mice good for the carpal tunnel”, intensive use of any peripheral computer equipment can strain the hands, wrists, and forearms. If you’re putting in some serious mouse time, it best to err on the side of ergonomics.