Choose a vertical mouse if you want the easiest switch from a standard mouse and less forearm twisting. Choose a trackball if you want to keep your arm still or have limited desk space. Choose a centred roller mouse if you have shoulder discomfort, want to use both hands or want the mouse directly in front of your keyboard. Whichever type you choose, match it to your hand size.
Switching to an ergonomic mouse is one of the simplest changes you can make at your workstation. But vertical, trackball and roller mice work in different ways, and the right one depends on your symptoms, your work and your hand size. Here’s how they compare.
At a glance
| Type | How it works | Best for | Learning curve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertical mouse | Holds your hand upright in a handshake position | Forearm or wrist discomfort; most first-time ergonomic mouse users | Short – usually a few days |
| Trackball mouse | The mouse stays still; you move the cursor with a ball under your thumb or fingers | Reducing arm and wrist movement; small desks | Moderate – often 1–2 weeks |
| Centred roller mouse | Sits in front of the keyboard; you roll a bar to move the cursor | Shoulder or upper-arm discomfort; using either hand | Moderate – often 1–2 weeks |
Vertical mice
A standard mouse makes you turn your palm flat to the desk, which twists the forearm bones (pronation). A vertical mouse tilts your hand into a more neutral handshake position, which can reduce tension through the forearm, wrist and shoulder. Vertical mice look and move like a normal mouse, so they are the easiest to adjust to. They come in different sizes and in left- and right-handed versions.
Trackball mice
With a trackball the mouse body stays still and you control the cursor by rolling a ball with your thumb or fingers. This removes the repeated arm and wrist movement of pushing a mouse around the desk, and it needs very little space. Some trackballs combine a vertical grip with a thumb ball.
Centred roller mice
A roller mouse sits directly in front of your keyboard. You move the cursor by rolling and sliding a bar with your fingers, so you don’t need to reach out to the side. Keeping your arms close to your body can reduce shoulder and upper-arm strain, and you can use either hand, which helps share the load.
How to choose
- Measure your hand. Use our hand size guide and check the size guidance on each product.
- Check handedness. Many vertical mice come in left- and right-handed versions; roller mice suit either hand.
- Think about your symptoms. Forearm twisting suggests a vertical mouse; repetitive arm movement suggests a trackball; shoulder reach suggests a roller mouse.
- Consider your setup. A compact keyboard brings any mouse closer to your body.
- Give it time. Use the new mouse for part of the day at first.
Browse our full range of ergonomic mice, or contact us for free expert advice on 1300 898 965.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of ergonomic mouse is best?
There is no single best type. A vertical mouse suits most people moving from a standard mouse, a trackball suits people who want to keep the arm still or have limited desk space, and a centred roller mouse suits people with shoulder discomfort or those who want to use either hand.
Is a vertical mouse or a trackball better for wrist pain?
A vertical mouse reduces forearm twisting by holding the hand in a handshake position. A trackball reduces arm and wrist movement because the device stays still. Which suits you depends on whether twisting or repetitive movement aggravates your symptoms.
How long does it take to get used to an ergonomic mouse?
Most people adjust to a vertical mouse within a few days. Trackballs and roller mice can take one to two weeks. Start by using it for part of the day.
Does mouse size matter?
Yes. A mouse that is too large or too small can create new strain. Measure your hand and check the size guidance on each product page.
This article provides general ergonomic information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If symptoms persist, speak with your GP or a health professional.
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