# ergonomic mouse

> computer mouse shaped to reduce physical strain/discomfort

**Wikidata**: [Q135903622](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q135903622)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ergonomic-mouse

## Summary
An ergonomic mouse is a type of computer mouse specifically shaped to reduce physical strain and discomfort for the user. It functions as a hand-held device for moving a pointer on a computer display but is designed using ergonomic principles to improve posture and comfort during use.

## Key Facts
*   **Classification:** It is a subclass of the standard computer mouse.
*   **Primary Function:** Designed to minimize physical strain and discomfort associated with computer use.
*   **Design Principle:** The device utilizes the science of ergonomics.
*   **Aliases:** Also referred to as a "vertical mouse" or "ergo mouse."
*   **Vertical Variation:** A specific class known as the "vertical mouse" exists, characterized by holding the hand in a vertical orientation.
*   **Parent Technology:** The general computer mouse (the parent class) was invented in 1963.
*   **Example Hardware:** The Logitech G703 Lightspeed Wireless (2017) is cited as an optical gaming mouse within related categories.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the main purpose of an ergonomic mouse?
A: The primary purpose is to reduce the physical strain and discomfort often caused by using a standard computer mouse for extended periods. It achieves this through a shape that better accommodates the natural posture of the hand and arm.

### Q: What is a vertical mouse?
A: A vertical mouse is a specific type or class of ergonomic mouse designed to be used with the hand in a vertical orientation, often described as a "handshake" position. It is a common alias and variation for the ergonomic mouse.

### Q: How is an ergonomic mouse classified?
A: It is classified as a subclass of the computer mouse. While the standard computer mouse was inceptioned in 1963 as a hand-held pointer device, the ergonomic variant focuses specifically on user comfort and strain reduction.

## Why It Matters
The ergonomic mouse matters because it addresses the physical limitations and health risks associated with prolonged human-computer interaction. While the standard computer mouse—originating in 1963—revolutionized how humans interact with digital displays, prolonged use of traditional designs can lead to discomfort and repetitive strain injuries. The ergonomic mouse serves as a corrective evolution in hardware design, prioritizing the physiological needs of the user.

By utilizing the principles of ergonomics, these devices transform the computing experience from a potentially physically stressful activity into a more sustainable one. The existence of specific variations, such as the vertical mouse, highlights the industry's recognition that "one size does not fit all" when it comes to biomechanics. This entity plays a critical role in occupational health, gaming endurance, and general workplace productivity by reducing the physical toll of daily computer operation.

## Notable For
*   **Strain Reduction:** Specifically engineered to mitigate physical discomfort and strain.
*   **Orientation Innovation:** Introducing vertical hand orientations (vertical mouse) to computer interaction.
*   **Design Evolution:** Representing a specialized subclass of the traditional 1963 computer mouse concept.
*   **Terminology:** Establishing distinct market categories such as "ergo mouse" and "vertical mouse."

## Body
### Definition and Classification
The ergonomic mouse is defined as a computer mouse shaped to reduce physical strain or discomfort. Structurally, it is a distinct type of object and a direct subclass of the "computer mouse"—the hand-held device used to move a pointer on a computer display. While the broader category of the computer mouse has existed since 1963, the ergonomic variant focuses specifically on the physical interface between the human hand and the machine.

### Design and Variations
The core attribute of the ergonomic mouse is its reliance on **ergonomics** as a fundamental design principle. This manifests in various hardware forms:
*   **Vertical Mouse:** A prominent class of ergonomic mouse where the device is rotated such that the hand is held in a vertical orientation. This is distinct from the flat orientation required by traditional mice.
*   **Gaming Integration:** Ergonomic principles are also applied in gaming hardware, such as the **Logitech G703 Lightspeed Wireless**, an optical gaming mouse released in 2017.

### Visual Representation
Common visual identifiers for this entity include the vertical mouse design, characterized by a tall profile that supports the hand in a side-on position, distinct from the flatter profile of legacy mouse designs.