Vertical mice might look like they have been designed to fit in the most stylish of workplaces but the main appeal is their ergonomic design that increases comfort for the user.
The old, standard style of mouse requires the hand and arm to be rotated so that your palm and forearm hover over the mouse and desk in a downward-facing position. This causes the main bones in the forearm to be crossed over. The natural resting position for our hand has the thumb pointing up and the little finger closest to the desk. A vertical mouse allows the hand to rest the way it naturally falls.
There is a vertical mouse suitable for all hand sizes, left, right or ambidextrous users. This buyers guide looks at some of our most popular vertical mice and gives you the pros and cons of each.
Contour Unimouse Vertical Mouse
Find your ideal position by changing the angle of the mouse between 35 and 70 degrees. Change your postures using the four friction-based points and articulating thumb support which is ideal if you use a mouse for lengthy periods. There are six programmable buttons and 10 pointer speeds. Choose between wired or wireless and left or right hand versions.
Strengths
- Angle adjustability
- Thumb support on adjustability
- Quality
- Programmable buttons
Weaknesses
- Must choose left or right hand option - not ambidextrous
For more information, see the Contour Unimouse Vertical Mouse page.
DXT Vertical Mouse – Ambidextrous
If you like to alternate the mouse between your left and right hands, the DXT could be for you. It’s suitable for both hands and most hand sizes. It can work with both Mac and Windows operating systems and has four different dpi settings for changing the speed of the cursor. The finger tip grip is good for precise mousing movements.
Strengths
- Ambidextrous
- Fingertip control - precise
- Good for small areas
Weaknesses
- Wired only - no cordless option
- Not held like traditional mouse - can be hard to adjust
- Can be awkward for large hands or limited finger movement
Have a look at the compact design on the DXT Vertical Mouse – Ambidextrous page.
Oyster Vertical Mouse – Ambidextrous
Find the most comfortable angle of the mouse with five options to choose from or change it regularly so your arm never rests in the same position. Suitable for using in your left or right hand.
Shortcut keys and programmable click buttons can increase your productivity on either a Mac or Windows operating system.
Strengths
- Ambidextrous
- Medium or large size available
- Corded or cordless options
- High level of angle adjustability
Weaknesses
- Hinges can break when user tries to force the mouse closed
See the angle options on the Oyster Vertical Mouse – Ambidextrous page.
Evoluent V4 Vertical Mouse
The most popular vertical mouse in Australia. Compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems, this mouse has a bottom lip for additional support so your hand doesn't slip across the desk. Choose between four pointer speeds, extra low to high, with LEDs indicating the selected speed.
Strengths
- Tried and proven
- 3 button
- Programmable buttons
- Left hand option,
- Small hand option
Weaknesses
- Fixed angle - no adjustability
- Can feel heavy and bulky to some
For more information and to check your hand size is a match, see the Evoluent V4 Vertical Mouse Left Hand and Right Hand page. For those users with a hand size that is smaller than the template, choose the Small Right Hand mouse. Also Available in a Mac compatible bluetooth version. PCMag.com rated it an impressive 4.5 stars.
Evoluent C Series Vertical Mouse
Ideal for extended use, the C Series has a new shape compared to the version 4 model. It fits the hand better and has a larger lip for the small finger, making it more relaxing to grip. The scroll wheel uses an optical sensor for a long battery life. The pointer speed can be adjusted without changing your grip on the mouse. Powerful mouse manager software allows you to configure buttons for performing actions without touching the mouse or keyboard.
Strengths
- Similar features and proven tech as the V4
- Modern look
- Larger lip for little finger
Weaknesses
- Right hand Medium only - No hand size or left hand version
Check out the design on the Evoluent C Series Vertical Mouse page.
Rockstick 2 Vertical Mouse
The soft grip handle allows you to use your hand rather than your finger to click. Suitable for using in your left or right hand, the mouse uses a laser sensor for added precision when completing tasks. No software to install, this mouse is plug and play.
Strengths
- Ambidextrous
- Click by sideways movement of top of mouse - reduces finger movement
- 2 size options
Weaknesses
- Unusual clicking action with movement of top of mouse
Check out the Rockstick 2 Vertical Mouse page for more information.
Penguin Ambidextrous Mouse
The unique tech handle grip is specifically designed to reduce RSI and Carpal Tunnel - common health issues associated with using a conventional mouse. The Penguin Ambidextrous Mouse is available in corded or cordless options and is easily switched between hands.
Strengths
- Ambidextrous
- Small, medium, large sizes
- Corded or cordless option.
- Easy to switch between hands
Weaknesses
- Sideways action of scroll can take time to adjust
Check out the Penguin Ambidextrous Mouse page for more information.
If you have any queries about the best vertical mouse for you, try before you buy at our Perth store, buy online from our range of ergonomic mice. For personal advice call one of our ergonomic experts on (08) 9240 7066 or contact us online.