Have you ever seen a computer mouse placed on the left side of the keyboard? Or a workspace designed for your dominant hand? Since right-handed people are more in number, most of the world adjusts according to them. However, more than 10% of the global population is left-handed. It forces them to use their non-dominant hand to navigate and type, even though this may hamper their productivity.

With the rise of ergonomics, left and right-handed mice are readily available. Not only that but there are also ambidextrous mice that users can operate with either their left or right hand. In this article, we will explore the key differences between left and right-handed mice so that you can easily choose one for your needs, ensuring the best comfort and performance. Let's have a look at why you need an ergonomic mouse with the right orientation. How it can help avoid long-term health issues and possible injuries.

1. Ergonomic vs. Ambidextrous Mouse. What is the difference?

Before we dive further into the discussion of left vs. right-handed mice, let us explore ambidextrous and ergonomic mice in the first place.

Ergonomic Mouse

While designing an ergonomic mouse, manufacturers keep your comfort and well-being in mind. From its shape to the placement of buttons, it gives you a stress-free and comfortable mousing experience. Its contour design aims to fit the curves of your hands and wrists so that you get a more natural experience. Your wrist is positioned at a natural angle, so you don’t get any RSIs or injuries. It ensures you can work long hours without tiring your hands or wrists.

Moreover, ergonomic mice like MEETION BTM010L and BTM010R keep your dominant hand in mind. The mouse's orientation and buttons' placement aim to suit your dominant hand. So whether you are a leftie or a righty, you can choose the mouse that suits your needs the most.

Ambidextrous Mouse

Left-handed and right-handed people can use an ambidextrous mouse because of their design. You can grip the mouse well and utilize its buttons with either hand since it has no specific orientation. Instead, it is very symmetrical in design, and users who like switching hand grips at work will likely find ambidextrous mice helpful. They are also lighter in weight if compared with their ergonomic counterparts. However, ergonomic mice are a better option if you feel more productive with your dominant hand at work.

2. Left Handed vs Right Handed Ergonomic Mouse

If you spend long hours at the computer, either gaming or working in the office, you must switch to ergonomic mice to avoid RSIs in the long run. The decision then comes down to choosing a right-handed or left-handed mouse.

Identifying Your Dominant Hand

Identifying your dominant hand is vital for productivity since it is related to coordination within the body. If you use the mouse in the wrong hand, you may sense it one way or another. The placement of buttons won't seem natural. The contours, the orientation, and the ergonomics feel like a fish out of water, giving you a bad experience altogether. You may get used to such arrangements with time. However, you will soon tire yourself during extended work sessions. Therefore, having a mouse that feels natural to your dominant hand is very important and is proven to boost your productivity.

Availability in the Market

Since right-handers are in the majority, the demand for left-handed mice is lower. As a result, their availability is a cause of concern. You may find a handful of left-handed mice stock available in stores. Moreover, since they are lower in stock, they are relatively more expensive than their right-handed counterparts. If you are a lefty on a budget, be prepared to pay a little extra for your choice. However, MEETION BTM010L is available in three sizes to best suit your palm length. Its top-of-the-line comfort and precision make it the perfect choice for those committed to a leftie life.

The Other Side of the Picture

The popular opinion is using the mouse that aligns with your dominant hand. However, recent research has shown that using your dominant hand for mousing can significantly increase the chances of having RSIs (Repetitive Stress Injuries) and MSDs (Musculoskeletal Disorders). Since the dominant hand is already being used more in day-to-day tasks, this hand is already at a greater risk of injury. Therefore, you may use your non-dominant hand for mousing to share the load.

 If you are right-handed with extended computer sessions at work, consider using a left-handed ergonomic mouse like BTM010L and BTM010R or vice versa. At first, it may be harder to adjust, but with time it gets easier. Moreover, doing so can significantly increase your cognitive abilities. Your dominant hand will be free for other tasks, such as writing or taking a sip of tea. It also grooms you for adapting to changes and enhances your skill set for multi-tasking.

You may start switching by giving one hour to the non-dominant hand. With time, you will adjust completely. The time required depends on your daily usage of the mouse. And who knows, you might become an expert at mousing with both hands.

3. Which One to Buy?

Should you buy an ambidextrous or ergonomic mouse with left or right-hand orientation? Well, the choice ultimately depends upon your needs and preferences. You need first to analyze your usage. Whether you are an average office worker, someone who works for extended hours on the computer, or you are a passionate gamer.

Ergonomic left or right-handed mice are a great option if you require a comfortable and precise experience. If you utilize your dominant hand too much, you may switch handedness to share the load. Conversely, if you are a casual worker who does not spend significant time on the computer or likes changing hands often, an ambidextrous mouse will work for you. All in all, the final decision comes down to your preferences and requirements.