Best Vertical Mice to Prevent Wrist Strain and Joint Pain

Having a mouse with improved performance and smoother controls might help reduce physical tension, but it doesn’t lessen the stress. Recent years have seen the arrival of several ergonomic models that are quite good in performance. Their design aims to relieve shoulder, wrist, finger, and even neck pain.

An ergonomic mouse isn’t sufficient for persons suffering from severe wrist pain or carpal tunnel syndrome. So it’s time to go vertical and leave the traditional mouse behind.

Since the vertical gaming mice are now proving to be the best ergonomic and the most comfortable, they are worth the money for office workers, Professional photo editors, graphics designers, gamers, and programmers.

Why Use a Vertical Mouse?

Since the vertical mice conform to the shape of your hand, they are built considering the handshake grip. Based on the handshake grip concept, they incorporate relevant ergonomic features. A vertical mouse is the next mouse for gamers and office workers who have already used ergonomic mice but still experiencing physical pain in their hands and wrists.

So, consider a vertical mouse if you have trouble alleviating pain in your fingers, wrists, forearms, and elbows. Although it may take some time to adapt to such models, the health benefits are comparatively higher than traditional models.

Best Vertical Mice

There aren’t that many gaming brands producing ergonomic mice. It is rather difficult to distinguish between affordable options that are excellently designed and nothing more than cheap plastic. After research of 48 hours, we have found the seven best vertical mice that are ergonomic in shape and deliver impressive performance at an affordable price. 

  1. Logitech MX Vertical Mouse
  2. Evoluent VerticalMouse 4
  3. TRELC Ergonomic Vertical Mouse
  4. MOJO Silent Vertical Mouse
  5. Logitech MX Master Mouse
  6. J-Tech Digital Optical Mouse
  7. Jelly Comb MV09F Vertical Mouse

1. Logitech MX Vertical Mouse

The best vertical mouse overall

Logitech MX Vertical Wireless Mouse
Specifications
ManufacturerLogitech
DPI4,000
ConnectivityWireless
Buttons4
Hand OrientationAmbidextrous
Hardware PlatformLaptop, PC
Weight4.8 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • Wired and wireless play
  • Ability to switch between three PCs
  • Offers an incredible four months of playtime on a single charge
Reasons to Avoid
  • Limited programmable buttons
  • Prone to dust and debris
  • Doesn’t fit all hand sizes

You might be already familiar with Logitech MX Vertical if you have already seen our article about the best ergonomic mice. Don’t think this is just a vertical mouse; rather, it is a beautifully shaped ergonomic mouse that you would love because of its unmatched performance and the highest comfort level, thanks to its natural grip that will lessen carpal tunnel issues.

Apart from that, the natural grip and perfect posture ultimately reduce wrist stress while gaming to ensure healthy gaming. Due to its unique design of 57 degrees of grip, the device offers many physical benefits. 

By promoting a natural handshake position, the 57 degrees angle prevents muscle strain, forearm bending. Once you have added the textured rubber grip, you will feel that the mouse is built for you with a completely natural grip. And that’s the reason you won’t let the MX Vertical go in any case. 

We wouldn’t have added the MX Vertical just for the added comfort; rather, the features like the exact customizable 4,000 DPI settings and amazing accuracy makes this vertical mouse best for gaming. With this range of DPI tracking, you can make precise movements even under a high load of graphics.

As the MX Vertical is a wireless model, the mouse is rechargeable, and with one charge, the mouse can deliver gameplay for three hours.

Overall, the Logitech MX Vertical is the best ergonomic mouse you can use for gaming and the office. 


2. Evoluent VerticalMouse 4

Best wireless vertical mouse with great ergonomics

Evoluent VM4R VerticalMouse 4
Specifications
ManufacturerEvoluent
DPI2,600
ConnectivityWired/Wireless
Buttons6
Hand OrientationRight/Left (Separate model)
Hardware PlatformLaptop, PC
Weight7 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • Excellent ergonomic design
  • Allows on the fly DPI settings
  • Plug-and-play capability
  • Best for Mac users
Reasons to Avoid
  • Not for long-term use
  • Prone to smudging
  • Bulky and Heavy

Over the course of a few years, Evoluent has steadily improved its signature models, becoming the market leader. VerticalMouse, VM4R, now in its fourth generation, has a look, feel, and price of a premium mouse.

Its superb ergonomic design and superb build quality have already earned this wired vertical mouse a legendary status among enthusiasts. 

The best part is that Evoluent’s software bundle, Evoluent Mouse Manager, lets you customize the mouse buttons and DPI settings as per your needs. The most important point to consider about this vertical mouse is its ergonomic vertical design makes an easy and comfortable web browsing for the whole day. From a health point of view, the handshake posture offers you a natural grip to relieve hand and wrist pains and lessens stress on sensitive nerves.

The front side includes the traditional buttons: left/right, middle buttons, and a scroll wheel, while on its rear side are the forward/backward buttons near the thumb position. Plus, there is a mouse sensitivity button on its thumb side.

It’s one of the few Mac-compatible vertical mice available with a driver. The mouse driver lets you reprogram and customize the buttons according to your needs, skipping the incompatibility issues common to the most.

Furthermore, the Evoluent Vertical Wireless mouse relies on Bluetooth instead of using a USB dongle. This is the perfect addition for laptops in days when the USB-A is disappearing from the scene.

We really like this Evoluent because the company has added almost all the choices according to the usage. The same goes right for VM4, which has a right-handed as well as a left-handed model. Besides, the mouse comes with a VM4R Wireless model for Windows users and the Evoluent VM4R Bluetooth model for Mac users. The price may vary depending on the model.

Though the Evoluent VM4R is not an all-in-one vertical mouse, it can assimilate with almost all PCs and laptops. It is the best vertical mouse for the persons requiring the highest ergonomic and a good level of productivity at a premium price.


3. TRELC Ergonomic Vertical Mouse

Best Vertical Mouse with 5D Rocker

TRELC Ergonomic Vertical Mouse for gaming
Specifications
ManufacturerTRELC 
DPI10,000
ConnectivityWired
Buttons11
Hand OrientationRight
Hardware PlatformPC
Weight5.8 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • 11 programmable buttons
  • The mouse wheel is nicely built for weapon swapping
  • 100 IPS move speed
  • 20 G acceleration
Reasons to Avoid
  • Bugs in software
  • Not for lefties
  • DPI settings cannot be modified
  • Not recommended for turn-based strategy games

With its strong wired design, the TRELC vertical gaming mouse stands out from the rest. Certainly, it is worth buying based on the features and performance it delivers. Among the unique features include its thumb-controlled, 5D Rocker joystick, which offers gamers unlimited controls to move in five different directions: front, back, left, right, and down. This is the basic reason the mouse is best for MOBA, FPS, MMO, and other different games. 

Secondly, the mouse includes 11 programmable buttons for all advanced gestures, which means you can remap the whole of the mouse based on your preferences.

Besides, TRELC’s mouse features a range of DPI speed settings from a moderate 1500 DPI to a dazzling 10,000 DPI. Based on the speed customization feature, you can use this mouse for office work and gaming purposes. 

The best part is that the mouse boasts a photoelectric game chip and 128 KB built-in memory to save game presets and 20-G acceleration for the highest level of precision.

On its downside, the mouse is not recommended for turn-based strategy games like Civilization VI and Gear Tactics. Secondly, the DPI settings are just the pre-installed ones, which you cannot modify according to your choice. That is the reason this mouse is usually recommended for mid-level gaming. Lastly, the software has a major bug and asks for admin access on every restart, making it quite difficult to use.


4. MOJO Silent Vertical Mouse

Quiet in operation, simple in design

MOJO Silent Bluetooth Vertical Mouse
Specifications
ManufacturerMOJO
DPI1,600
ConnectivityWireless (Bluetooth only)
Buttons6
Hand OrientationRight
Hardware PlatformPC (Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux)
Android, iPhone, and iPad
Weight4 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • Matte textured grip
  • Bluetooth connectivity for Mac users
  • Silent buttons and mouse movement
Reasons to Avoid
  • Requires AA batteries
  • Not for large hands
  • Not much ergonomic

Most today’s mice release an audible click when clicked, so finding a truly silent mouse can be challenging. Unlike most gaming mice, the MoJO Silent vertical is an exceptionally silent mouse that can live up to your expectations.

There are several explanations for the mouse’s silence. Still, most probably, its ergonomic vertical shape, the lightweight casing, and the unique “silent buttons” are the ones making it the dead-silent ergonomic mouse for office jobs and graphics designing. In combination with a smooth mousepad, you can glide the mouse across the pad, click furiously, and make intensive scrolls silently.

Although its silent gimmick is what makes this mouse special, it falls somewhat short of the praise it deserves. A large part of its perfection can be attributed to the typical mouse size and the position of buttons.

The handshaking grip may be designed to benefit, but the middling sizing and high-positioned thumb controls keep the mouse awkward to operate. However, this positioning of buttons puts persons with small hands at a greater advantage, and they can better use this mouse precisely and comfortably. On the other hand, the awkward button positioning may seriously impede the performance of persons with large hands though the six buttons offer a higher level of flexibility and customization. 

Overall, the MoJO Silent Vertical is a good mouse to buy for persons with small or medium-sized hands. The mouse delivers silent clicks and a higher level of productivity at an affordable price range. This mouse is worth trying for the short-handed entry-level gamers looking for the best tradeoff in terms of performance, ergonomics, and affordability.


5. Logitech MX Master Mouse

The best hybrid vertical mouse

Logitech MX Master Wireless Mouse
Specifications
ManufacturerLogitech
DPI4,000
ConnectivityWireless
Buttons5
Hand OrientationRight
Hardware PlatformPC, Laptop
Weight5.12 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • Quick charging for instant use
  • Well-positioned buttons and scroll wheels
  • Ergonomic design and thumb rest
Reasons to Avoid
  • Rechargeable battery isn’t user-replaceable
  • Not a fully vertical design
  • Expensive

Even though this is not a vertical mouse, the MX Master is a good option to consider if you want something ergonomic for gaming purposes. With its MX Vertical, Logitech was the first to enter the vertical mouse arena. In the beginning, they focused on making vertical/ergonomic hybrids with fascinating features like higher customization and better battery life. However, the MX Master is like the older brother of the MX Vertical with a little more features and less specialization.

In terms of feel, it’s one of the best hybrid mice on the market and much like its predecessor Logitech G Pro X Superlight. Its ergonomic shape ensures that you can grip the device ergonomically without any difficulty. The polygonal thumb rest may give an impression of a Vertical design, making it a hybrid casing with both styles.

When it comes to button placement, Logitech paid special attention to following the trend of comfort and performance. They’re close enough to the lip so they can easily be reached while remaining far enough to prevent accidental misclicks. The smooth yet comfortable primary keys tactilely assist every click. This nice design, perfect clicks, and efficient grip would ultimately improve your gaming performance substantially.

Besides, the mouse features two speed-oriented scroll wheels: one is a primary wheel and the other a thumb scroll wheel. Both wheels nicely respond to the pressure applied while scrolling and put the gamer at leverage by letting him switch between a free-spinning mode and an accurate click-to-click mode.

Since the mouse comes with excellent battery life, you can use it for the whole day after a charge of about 4 minutes, though its single charge can hold battery life up to 40 days while not in use. Bear in mind that these metrics are based on intensive use of the mouse and may vary depending on the use.

As every Vertical Mouse comes with certain unavoidable drawbacks, the Logitech MX Master is no exception. The hybrid design, though stylish and innovative, takes some time to get used to it.

Finally, it may be easy to find the Vertical option, but the Logitech MX Master is still a good option if you prefer a bulky ergonomic mouse for bigger hands.


6. J-Tech Digital Optical Mouse

The cheapest vertical mouse you can have

J-Tech Ergonomic Vertical USB Mouse
Specifications
ManufacturerJ-Tech
DPI1,600
ConnectivityWired
Buttons4
Hand OrientationRight
Hardware PlatformPC, Laptop
Weight9.6 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • Durable model
  • Removable ergonomic palm rest
  • Availability of Multiple size options
Reasons to Avoid
  • Slippery case material
  • Scroll wheel isn’t durable
  • No customization options

Generally, vertical gaming mice aren’t that common. Many of these mice are either heavily geared towards comfort or built to pass off as plastic gimmicks. Even though the J-Tech Vertical mouse’s lower price point might make you think it represents the latter, it is a good vertical mouse you should have.

You are fairly at a great advantage with its plug-and-play features. Simple, clear, and ergonomic design that combines traditional gaming flair with a touch of class. Moreover, the mouse boasts a removable palm rest to alleviate the wrist pain if your hand hangs off the mouse every time.

For gaming, the mouse lets you choose the DPI tracking presets in three different ranges of 800, 1,200, and 1,600. Despite not offering the most personalized customization options, the mouse delivers an incredible response rate of 125 Hz and well-positioned thumb buttons. Furthermore, there are two sizes of the mouse, one designed for smaller hands specifically.

Despite the limitations, the J-Tech is an affordable, ergonomic gaming mouse and a perfect alternative to the traditional best gaming mice that let you customize and remap the whole device. It’s well built, easy to use, and lasts for years as long as the ergonomic feature works for you. 

The drawbacks we experienced with this vertical mouse include the cheap scroll wheel and a non-grippy exterior that may create inconvenience in a comfortable gaming environment.


7. Jelly Comb MV09F Vertical Mouse

The best choice for small hands

Jelly Comb MV09F Vertical Mouse
Specifications
ManufacturerJelly Comb
DPI1,600
ConnectivityWireless
Buttons5
Hand OrientationRight Handed
Hardware PlatformPC
Weight2.39 oz
Reasons to Buy
  • Matte textured grip
  • Inexpensive model
  • Best for small-handed persons
Reasons to Avoid
  • Sticking mouse movement
  • Limited sensitivity customization options
  • Wireless play requires batteries

Again another mouse for persons with smaller hands. With its perfect fit and adaptable design, the Jelly Comb Wireless can easily be part of your gaming rig. 

Jelly Comb blends design and functionality naturally, unlike many smaller mice that sacrifice design for durability. While it may not be a mouse with many features, it still has enough to be useful.

Despite its unconventional design, the Jelly Comb reaches the handshake position naturally with a rounded shell at an open angle instead of using a vertical extension. The natural position is the most promising feature compared to the rest of the features offered by this mouse. 

Probably for the price point, the company has added limited features and customization options. However, you can customize mouse sensitivity with built-in DPI presets. 

Even though the mouse features a compact design, it requires bulky AA batteries, making it a bit heavy choice. No doubt, this is the best mouse for smaller-handed gamers; the harsh reality is that the mice in this category don’t fit in the category of high-end mice for gaming. This is the reason the Jelly Comb can’t offer gaming performance beyond the middle level. 

Overall, the price and comfort are worth considering features making it a worthwhile ergonomically designed mouse. However, before going for this option, keep in mind that this is not the best mouse for gaming, and you may face serious limitations due to the limited features offered by this model.  


Buyer’s Guide for Vertical Mice

Best Vertical Mouse - Buying Guide

It can be challenging to wade through various vertical mice similar to the broader ergonomic mouse category. The majority of them have similar price tags, feature similar designs, and tout their design as natural handshake solutions. After considering the following points, you’ll be able to narrow down your scope in finding the right vertical mouse for your needs.

1. Size and Comfort

A mouse that doesn’t fit in your hand isn’t ergonomically designed. Even though you can customize the contours of the vertical mouse by using its removable finger rests or have a tactile ridged grip, you’re going to struggle if the mouse doesn’t fit in your hands due to its size. It’s for that reason that you should begin here.

Learn about the options you have. Be sure to consider how the mouse’s size and weight may hamper your ability to use the mouse comfortably. Be mindful of where the buttons are placed to make sure they’re accessible easily. To avoid any such injuries in the future, you may follow these guidelines by Moir Ortho.

2. Wired vs. Wireless

Wired as well as wireless mice are equally present in the vertical mice category. The downside is that most vertical mice are not gaming-oriented; rather, they are often wireless. Now it is your preference for what purpose you are buying this mouse. 

3. Performance

The next point to consider is the performance of the vertical in the real world. Let me remind you again that the vertical mice are not built for high-level precision. Instead, they are built with a combination of average sensitivity presets, mediocre performance, and limited customizable buttons.

This is the reason, think carefully before going for any option, as a mouse with limited gaming features may seriously hamper your gaming performance. 

4. Connectivity

Similar to a standard mouse, a vertical mouse can be connected to your PC by wire, Bluetooth, or a USB dongle.

There is an advantage and a disadvantage to each type. Typically, wired mice are more responsive, faster, and don’t require batteries, but the cable can be a limitation.

Compared to wired mice, wireless mice are more flexible so that you can move them around freely. Their responsiveness and sensitivity are generally lower than wired models, and if powered with disposable batteries, the batteries may need to be replaced every few months.

5. Power and charging.

When purchasing a mouse that uses rechargeable batteries, you should consider whether it can be used while charging, the time to full charge, and the approximate time of its usage.

Some mice with disposable batteries also come with power-saving modes to prolong the life of the batteries by shutting down electricity when inactive.

6. Sensitivity

You might prefer a mouse that lets you adjust the pointer’s speed if you do tasks that require speed or precision, like gaming.

To measure mouse sensitivity, DPI (dots per inch) is used. High DPI settings allow the mouse cursor to be more responsive, enabling it to respond to movements as small as a mouse click. You can adjust the sensitivity of most vertical mice with a DPI switch.

7. Buttons

The majority of vertical mice come with four buttons: right, left, a scroll wheel, and forward/back. On the other hand, some of the best vertical mice feature four to six extra buttons and software for customization. They make it easy to use common shortcuts, including copying and pasting, which usually take a few clicks.

Conclusion

Wrist strain, carpal tunnel, and physical pain are the major problems most PC users experience while using a poorly built mouse. For this reason, you need a health-friendly, vertical mouse that makes sure that you are having a good time while using the PC.

If you want to prevent wrist strain and make healthy yet mediocre gaming, the vertical mice are the best choice you can make at a reasonable price.

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Mathew Bradford

Hey! Mathew Bradford Here, A proud member of GamingExpert Team. I love playing games with new gaming gadgets. Our team is here to help you find the best gaming products, reviews of videos games and to help you decide which one is best for your. You can contact me if you need further assistance.