If your wrist or forearm aches after a day at the computer, the way you hold your mouse may be part of the problem. A standard mouse keeps your palm flat, which twists the two forearm bones across each other. Vertical mice rotate your hand into a “handshake” position that many people find more relaxed. This guide explains how they work, who they help and which models are worth trying.
A note on health: equipment can reduce strain, but it isn’t a treatment. If you have persistent pain, numbness or tingling, see a healthcare professional. This article is general information.
Quick picks
| Best for | Mouse | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small to medium hands, left-handers | Logitech Lift | 57° angle, quiet clicks, left-handed version available |
| Large hands | Logitech MX Vertical | Bigger 57° shape with advanced tracking and multi-device support |
| Budget | Anker vertical ergonomic mouse | Low-cost way to try a vertical grip |
| Very upright grip | Evoluent VerticalMouse | Near-vertical design with a lip to support the little finger |
| No arm movement | Logitech MX Ergo trackball | Thumb trackball with adjustable tilt — the mouse doesn’t move |
How vertical mice help
- Neutral forearm: the handshake position reduces forearm rotation (pronation).
- Less wrist extension: your wrist rests on its side instead of lifting.
- Arm movement: many people move the mouse with the whole forearm instead of flicking the wrist.
Expect an adjustment period of a few days to two weeks. Precision work may feel awkward at first.
Choosing the right size and angle
- Measure your hand from wrist crease to fingertip; manufacturers publish size guides.
- Angle: around 57° is a comfortable middle ground; fully vertical (90°) designs suit some people but feel extreme to others.
- Handedness: right-handed designs don’t work in the left hand — check for left-handed versions.
- Buttons: back/forward buttons and a smooth scroll wheel matter for productivity.
The picks
Logitech Lift — best for most people
Designed for small to medium hands, the Lift uses a 57° angle, a soft thumb rest, quiet clicks and a SmartWheel for fast scrolling. It connects via Bluetooth or a Logi Bolt receiver, switches between three devices and comes in a left-handed version — rare among ergonomic mice.
Logitech MX Vertical — best for large hands
Larger than the Lift, with the same 57° angle, a textured grip, a high-precision sensor and multi-device switching. It charges via USB-C and integrates with Logi Options+ for custom buttons. Right-handed only.
Anker vertical mouse — best budget trial
An inexpensive way to find out whether a vertical grip helps before investing more. Build quality and scroll wheel feel are simpler than Logitech’s, but many people start here.
Logitech MX Ergo — the trackball alternative
If moving a mouse at all is uncomfortable, a thumb trackball keeps your hand still while your thumb moves the cursor. The MX Ergo’s adjustable hinge tilts the mouse up to reduce forearm rotation. It takes practice for precise work.
Setup matters as much as the mouse
- Keep the mouse close to the keyboard so your elbow stays near your body; compact keyboards help.
- Set armrests and desk so your elbow is at about 90° with relaxed shoulders.
- Increase pointer speed slightly to reduce large movements.
- Take micro-breaks and alternate tasks.
More ideas in our top ergonomic upgrades and ergonomic keyboard options.