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3M
3M Ergonomic Mouse, Optical, USB/PS2 Compatible, Small Size, Black (EM500GPS) - 3M
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3M Wireless Ergonomic Mouse, Small (EM550GPS) - 3M

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3M http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51J2HZ0Sj3L._SL160_.jpg
3M Ergonomic Mouse, Optical, USB/PS2 Compatible, Small Size, Black (EM500GPS) - 3M
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3M http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41tACV3M7YL._SL160_.jpg
3M Wireless Ergonomic Mouse, Small (EM550GPS) - 3M
Rating info
eComparisons Score
eComparisons ScoreThe "Comparison Score" Is calculated based on the average number of times this item was compared with other items in this category by our users
7.8
7.2
User Rating (Amazon)
User Rating (Amazon)

Five Star Reviews:

51%
Have used these mice for about 10 years
May 4, 2017
I have used these mice for about 10 years. This is the only way I can use a mouse for more than an hour without a lot of pain.The only negative is reliability. I have a very old grey buttoned version that is still going (except right click is flaky). The newer versions I have bought (black button) have not lasted as long. Even considering the reliability issues, these mice are excellent in my opinion.To clarify what some people have asked in the comments - the grey buttoned versions are older and have a lower DPI (but seem really reliable). The newer version has a black button and higher DPI (but may not be as reliable). Amazon's pictures show both the old (grey) and new (black) versions. If you are wondering if Amazon will ship you a old or a new the answer is new (black button). The change came about 5 years ago so the old grey ones would not exist in new form from any supplier at this point.
great painless mouse
April 7, 2017
I started using this mouse several years ago because I was having carpal tunnel type pain in my arm and wrist. The pain went away after a few weeks, and has not returned. Getting used to this mouse was easy; in fact, I don't even think about it anymore, and wonder why the IT guys stop before working at my computer. There are some products which just work. This is one of them.
Great for alleviating hand pain, especially at this price.
September 22, 2016
I was having hand pains from using a mouse, and had previously been using a different erg mouse that was shaped like a regular mouse except rotated so that your thumb was facing up. Anyway, my friend was using a joystick mouse and raved about it so I thought I'd try it out.I was shocked to see that a lot of joystick mouses were $100+! But also glad to find this 3M one that was significantly lower priced. I purchased it and was glad I did. It initially takes a little time to get use to using and you may get a few inquiries from your co-workers, but the grip is significantly easier on your hand and since I've been using this mouse I do not get any hand pains.I have had this mouse for about 6 months now and have not had any issues with it. (which I cannot say the same about the prior erg mouse I bought, which I had to replace after a few months).If you're worried that the shape is a little strange, once you get use to it it feels a lot more natural than a standard mouse. Yes, it costs a little more than a standard mouse, but it is totally worth it. The only downside is that the scoll feature is a little finicky. Whereas in a standard mouse you can roll the wheel at the speed you want and stop it at precisely where you want, for this mouse you squeeze the "trigger" button and drag up and down. You can scroll faster or slower this way, but it's not as precise as a wheel.
A great device if others cause discomfort
December 22, 2015
I purchased this device - the large version - after flight-testing the small version. The latter had been given to me by my company ergo-expert to alleviate discomfort in my hand from mousing. I like the joystick design.The small version was just that: too small for my hand. The large version is ideal for me and the discomfort I was experiencing went away.One downside tot he device is that it does not have a scroll wheel. For me, this was not an issue, I simply use the page up/down keys on my keyboard. It works for me and allows me to move and grip differently. At the same time, I can see how some might find the absence of the scroll wheel annoying.
Purchased July 2012, still ticking
May 8, 2015
I bought one of these suckers back in 2012. It still works. I haven't had any abnormal double-click issues (unlike some other mice I've bought). To be fair, I use this mouse on and off over the course of a day, and some days don't touch it.The 3M ergo mouse doesn't take too long to get used to it and get to be adequately accurate. I've found, however, that even after all this time I'm still a little bit less precise with this compared to a "normal" mouse, and considering the speed at which I work this can annoy me. If I'm working with mouse-heavy applications that require precision (in my case, UE4's node-based scripting, or working on GUIs, or playing games for completely professional reasons), I switch to my 'normal' mouse. I also continue to use a 'normal' mouse at home. Still, this is great for most of my work. If I'm just clicking around an IDE or checking emails or whatnot it's perfectly adequate and comfortable.Previous to this I owned an Evoluent VerticalMouse. This is much more comfortable for extended periods of time that that mouse. I think it might be that it's less severely vertical, or perhaps that you can curl your fingers around it, but I experience no fatigue at all with this, while the VerticalMouse was only a minor improvement over a normal horizontal mouse.
Saved my wrist and can use all day long pain free
February 16, 2015
Back in the 90's when I first got a computer I quickly developed carpal tunnel syndrome, after trying wrist supports I looked for a different type of mouse. I came upon the Anir ergonomic mouse, this was the original design before 3M acquired them. It had the rollerball and needed periodic cleaning. Touch time to adapt to movement of the cursor, not as precise as regular mouse, because its all arm and shoulder controlled. But the wrist pain was eliminated so I could spend long hours now on the computer. When i do on occasion use a regular mouse it doesn't take long before the old misery returns. I WILL NEVER GO BACK. When 3M came out with the EM500GPL optical version I got it and love it- no more cleaning out the gunk. I've had this one for +10 years of carefree use. When I switched to an iMac recently I hoped that it would work with it. It does but without the scroll feature. Too bad but having no pain is really the priority. The reason I am writing a review now is because I looked at the wireless model and was considering it but the reviews on it showed issues-mainly buttons stop working. Also it isn't bluetooth or laser so it must be old and not updated with the newer technologies- so I pass and will stick with what works. If 3M decides to come out a wireless bluetooth model I'd be interested then.
44%
Best Mouse for any wrist issues.
September 9, 2017
If you have any issues with your wrist or arm,this is the mouse for you! I started using it when with my stand up desk, but now I use it all the time, sitting or standing. Its great. Takes a bit to get used to, but I wouldn't do without it!
... to get used to but after that it's the best feel on your hand
May 20, 2015
It takes about 1-2 weeks to get used to but after that it's the best feel on your hand. It uses the shoulder and some wrist extension and flexion (rather than side-to-side) movement to operate. I would recommend this to people who have a problem using the index and middle fingers on a standard mouse since most of the action on this mouse comes from the thumb, shoulder and wrist.
There's a reason why both sizes are typically ordered together...
March 23, 2015
Without a definitive guide to selecting the correct size the FIRST time, you're likely going to have to take the Goldilocks approach to discovering which device fits best - unless you know you have small or very large hands.
I made the mistake of allowing one reviewer's opinion guide me to the wrong size: "...unless you have gorilla-sized hands, you should choose the small model."
Learn from my mistake...
The width across my fingers, where I grip the joystick, is around 3.75" - which happens to be 1/4 finger-width too large for the small model, and about 1/4 finger-width to small for the large model. In other words, 3.75 is about a tween size for these two models.
At 3.75" - I'm much better off with the large model:
I stack my pinkie, ring and index fingers on the base - allow a slight bit of space between my index and fore fingers - and support my thumb on the top of the joystick stem.
Can't imagine a better mouse for relieving hand pain
September 14, 2014
I built a house on my own and used a good 'ole hammer to drive every nail (not recommended). When I got done, I could not feel my fingers, especially at the tips other than occasional stinging and a constant tingling and ache. My job required me to use a mouse all day long and the pain just got worse. Not liking surgery or the fact that the pain often returns after surgery, I got the taller corded version of this mouse. Not long after I trained myself to hold it properly, I have been symptom free for over a decade of continuous use. To show that it was the mouse that eliminated the symptoms, even now, if I have to use someone's traditional mouse, my hand will start to ache in minutes. I can now pound some nails occasionally without a problem.

The key to this mouse is that your hand is in a very natural position when using it. People scowl when they look at it until you ask them to stick their hand out in the most comfortable position (kind of like gripping a hammer in front of you). The left and right pick buttons require a small and slight roll of the thumb and the switch is at the first knuckle, not the tip of the thumb. The middle mouse button is on the front side of the stalk and requires a slight squeeze with a couple fingers again at the first knuckle. The buttons are not overly sensitive yet do not require nearly as much pressure and it is not applied at your finger tips.

Recently, I bought this small wireless version and am even more pleased. I can't imagine anyone having hands large enough to really fit the taller one.
VERTICAL DESIGN IS THE KEY
December 13, 2013
Finally after numerous tries of other ergonomic mice - found a type, vertical, that doesn't make my arthritic right hand and fingers painful and more sore.

Not absolutely sure it is this product or the design in general that helped. If cost wasn't a factor, I'd like to try several different manufactures vertical type mice for comparison but I can't afford to do tests on all if I have to buy them to try. This one will do for the time.

I would recommend this for anyone with arthritis. You don't have to twist (supinate) your wrist to make it work. That reduces the repetitive motion stress that conventional mice cause to the tendons and ligaments of your fingers and wrists. Its not perfect, but its good. My index and 2nd finger, the ones with the worst arthritis, aren't actually painful when I'm using it. They still will get stiff after prolonged use though. Just need to do a fit of flex/extension to them and I can continue moussing around longer.
.
It might take a bit of time to get use to using your thumb as the clicking finger but I found that some of the arcade type games I sometimes play are easier to do with this mouse. Not as good as one designed for gaming, but better than either a standard one or a tracker ball type which remains stationary and you use your thumb for directional movement.

Four Star Reviews:

22%
Eliminated most of my chronic pain.
January 7, 2017
I suffer from chronic wrist pain and tennis elbow and by using this ergonomic mouse I have reduced the amount of pain I feel. I do a lot of photo editing and online work but due to my chronic pain, I am unable to use the mousepad. My physical therapist recommended this mouse. While it has eliminated most of my pain, I have noticed that other areas are starting to hurt a bit when I spend many hours working. No fault of the mouse, it is just overuse of my fingers and arm. All in all I would recommend this mouse if you have any chronic issues.
Good but ECU tendonitis / de Quervian's beware
September 21, 2016
Works great, relieved strain in one part of my forearm from index-clicking. Ended up causing strain in my thumb tendons and extensor carpi ulnaris tendon though.
Clunky? Yes but I don't care. It stops the PAIN!!!
February 18, 2016
I ordered this Feb 16th and received it on Feb 17th- with my prime 2 day free shipping (magic!). Here's my review right out of the box:1. I got the small size. My hand width is between 3.0 in and 3.5 in, and the small feels fine to me.2. I understand that some reviewers might think it's clunky and doesn't track that nicely. No, it does not function as smoothly and you can't operate it as effortlessly as a regular old mouse clicker. However, I did not buy this ergonomic mouse to act just like a regular mouse. I bought it so that I could avoid the excruciating, shooting, unbearable pain in my index finger. And guess what? This ergonomic mouse is perfect for that! One day I'm trying to pull my finger off to make it stop hurting so bad, the next day the pain is gone and I'm using my ergonomic mouse. Yay!I'll update my review if this ergonomic mouse goes kaput or something like that.
Great mouse, but DO NOT GET THIS IF YOU'RE A LARGE PERSON
August 7, 2014
*Edit: This mouse is awful if you're a computer programmer. - SO I use two mice.. One for general usage; emails, meetings, browsing, researching, and another mouse for programming..*Great mouse, but the mouse is sadly way too small. Their "large" would fit like a US Medium sized t shirt. I guess they thought that people will actually 'large' hands will not be using this mouse. I'm 6'0, 175 pounds, medium build, but I can only put four fingers on the dang mouse. My pink is flailing around at the bottom to allow my four other fingers to fit comfortably.Either way, the pressure alleviated from my wrist is quite worth it.I highly recommend this mouse given that your a fairly small person with smaller hands.A Large would seem to fit a person .. maybe 120-160 pounds, andA small would seem appropriate for a person that is under 120 pounds
Seems to relieve finger stress
June 4, 2013
I purchased this erg-mouse to relieve finger pain and stiffness from 30 years of mouse clicking. After a day of (standard) mouse clicking, the joints at the middle two fingers on my right hand would freeze up during the night. It required using my left hand to work them lose every morning. Now that I have been using this ergo-mouse for about a week, the morning stiffness has noticeably decreased.Holding and gripping a joystick takes some getting used to after so many years of simply pushing a mouse around on the desktop, particularly when 'fine tuning' the pointer position during CAD (computer aided design) work.The only downside so far: because the joystick design keeps your hand in an upright position, the height of the work surface comes into play. Just be sure you can position this mouse at a comfortable height. Otherwise you might find yourself holding your hand in an awkward position to use this product.
Better, but not a cure.
November 7, 2011
I'm a designer + a gamer so I'm on the computer anywhere from 8 to 16 hours a day. I'm also only 28 - but started getting pretty bad pain in my right arm from using the mouse. It wasn't as bad as some of the reviewers here, but it became harder and harder for me to focus and get work done with the constant aching in my forearm. I was doing carpal tunnel exercises [...] to help with the pain, but it dawned on me that I probably couldn't keep this up for another 30 years using the same methods. So, I purchased this mouse.A few things after a few months of use:Pros:I've been using a computer since I was 9, but this product came naturally for me. It felt good.Pain is reduced. It's not gone, and hurts in a different way, but it doesn't stick around with you after you leave the computer. Often feels like a sore muscle. It's way less painful than using a mouse.*Cons:For gaming, you have to set the middle button to do what you want - most games don't really recognize it, but it's a mild inconvenience.Scrolling is different and takes some time getting used to.It's not as precise, but i think playing with the sensitivity and speed will help you out.*I feel like my setup isn't quite right. I'm not entirely sure where/how to rest my elbow and it can sometimes get a little awkward. I am going to try pushing keyboard mouse away from me so my elbow is forced to rest on the desk and now the elbow of my chair for more flexibility.
21%
BUY LARGE if you are a guy!
January 12, 2017
I was debating whether to buy small or large (I am sure you are too if you are reading this)
Lots of reviews mentioned that reviewers' hands are large, and smaller version works fine.

Stupid me.
Let's face it: how many men do you know who would say/admit that they have small hands?
(I think someone even mentioned gorilla hands for large one)

It felt great when I first wrapped my hands, but when I moved the mouse around, I had to stack my fingers tightly.
(Because of this, it's more comfortable when I don't use my pinkie to wrap around)
I am in military, and I have been issued tons of gears from head to toe: medium fits me most of time including gloves.

I have one thing to say for those who mentioned that smaller version fits just fine when their hands are supposed to be large:
"Hey, homie. Face it. You have baby hands."
Took away all my pain but lacks precision
July 21, 2016
I bought this because I have had major wrist pain for 18 years. I've had carpal tunnel surgery in both wrists, with a follow up surgery on my right wrist, and still had pain using a conventional mouse. Let me say that this mouse took the pain away almost immediately! It caused a little bit of pain in other parts of my hand because you are using different muscles to use it, but it wasn't bad and went away in a few days. I can use this mouse every day and have ZERO pain now in my wrist. Based on that alone, I would give it 5 stars. However, it loses points for functionality and precision. I work for a law firm and do a lot of precision work including filling in forms in Word documents that require a lot of selecting, copying, and pasting. I used to be extremely FAST, but I feel like this mouse has slowed me down by about 25% (maybe more). Based on functionality, I would probably give it 2.5 stars. It does not have a scroll wheel, which drives me crazy (although there is a way to "scroll" - just not what I'm used to). But I guess it's a trade off for having absolutely no pain. And based on that, I am giving it 4 stars. If you have had CTS wrist problems like me, where nothing else has worked including surgeries, I would recommend this mouse. If you have no problem using a regular mouse and do a lot of precision work, then by all means go with a regular mouse. I am still on the hunt for an ergonomic mouse that is both precise AND pain-free, and have tried several, but I can't seem to find the perfect one. So far this has been the best pain reliever for me.
Great function, though no scroll wheel
June 17, 2014
Quickly eliminated wrist fatigue. Quality look and feel. The shape of it requires a little self-retraining, but everything functions well and as intended.

The only thing I hadn't considered was the lack of a scroll wheel. A 3rd button has been added on the shaft of the joystick itself that can invoke an auto-scroll mode (like clicking down the scroll wheel on most mice). This generally works well, but may often activate different results in different applications. The only tricky thing I've had to work around is CRTL+Mouse Wheel zooming in/out, but that wasn't a big deal.

All in all I'm very happy. I use this at work designing graphical items and find the precision to be right on point. The auto-scrolling is actually quite nice when scrolling around a large image or document. I'll often find myself activating autoscroll with it, then moving the mouse down just slightly to create a constant smooth scroll -- very nice for reading lengthy pages/documents (or something as simple as quickly scrolling a social media feed).
If your hand/wrist needs a comfortable break from other mice configurations, use THIS for a change.
May 2, 2014
I bought this mouse in Like New "used" condition from Amazon Warehouse for about half price. I actually like it better than I thought I would, at least as an intermittent break from using mice of other configurations (including even such ostensibly fully "ergo" designs as Microsoft's "Sculpt" and the LuguLake "vertical" mouse). Thus, if you can find a fine specimen at a reasonable price, this mouse makes sense for anybody seeking ergonomic wrist/hand/finger relief. I like how the pinky finger rests comfortably upon the mouse's base (instead of dragging across the tabletop as with the LuguLake "vertical" mouse).

Also note: I'm a six-foot-one male whose hand perfectly fits the typical "Large" glove, but this 3M mouse's "Small" version fits my hand perfectly, and so I'm glad I didn't order the "Large" version, which would've felt uncomfortably unwieldy to me. (That said, if my hand were any larger--or my thumb any lengthier--it'd be too large for this "Small" 3M mouse.)

Though this mouse's tracking and (especially) unconventional scrolling approach do take a bit of getting used to (and may never seem 100% as good as most other mice), its uniquely ergonomic shape provides my hand and wrist significant relief, and so I'd rate it a solid "four out of five stars."

Finally, don't fret excessively about the somewhat notorious "wireless-connectivity" nature of this mouse and its USB dongle. If you have the mouse already switched on while starting your PC, the mouse and dongle conveniently AUTOMATICALLY communicate. However, it's true that if you switch off the mouse or remove the dongle while using your PC, you'll either need to (somewhat tediously) press their respective "linking" buttons OR simply restart your PC to restore their functionality. Even so, it's well worth putting up with such minor, occasional inconvenience in order to enjoy the unique ergonomic benefits of this 3M mouse. [BTW, to avoid overusing/stressing your THUMB, I suggest that (every day) you sensibly ALTERNATE using this mouse with using some other type of (preferably "ergo") mouse that lets you left/right-click with one of your other fingers.]
Put in a little work and this is a great mouse, great value
September 13, 2012
I've been putting off this review for months because frankly, I'm lazy but there are so many products I buy on here based on helpful reviews I thought I'd give something back.

This is a great little mouse that will help you get past your RSI injuries and cramps. Personally, I never got carpel tunnel but my hands (I alternate between right and left) would get very very hot and cramped when using a regular mouse at work. They would get SO hot and cramped up that I'd have to hold ice in my hands towards the end of the work day as well as keep stretching out my hands, wrists and fingers. This mouse is not a heavenly solution because my hands sometimes get warm but I'm no longer suffering. In fact, most days are just fine even when I use the computer at home (different mouse) for hours after work.

Here's what work you need to put in:

--change the sensitivity or more like clicking speed for your right click on your PC. This is done under devices or control panel. I'm referring to the double click speed you need to open folders and programs--LOWER THIS. Why? See below.

--you will need to remap the mouse keys. It is set up to have the right click and left click done by your thumb. This tires out your thumb quickly, a few hours or a few days and you'll know what I mean. To remap, you download a very small, trustworthy program called autohotkeys. This program simply re-assigns the right click button to the biggest button on the mouse, the one meant for scrolling. This eliminates the thumb fatigue completely. Why wasn't the mouse already designed like this? Dont know!

Download the program here: [...] Choose "window's installer"

In case you are at work and don't want to install this on the crappy work computer, you can run the program off a flash drive. Yes, small and portable.

Now, when you first run the program, you'll get a little message saying "Here's a sample script" or something like so. Click ok and select ALL on that page (it will be on Notepad). Select All and paste this on there:

MButton::LButton ; Map center-click to left-click
LButton::MButton ; Map left-click to center-click

Save this and exit notepad! This code tells the program to re-map the keys like I mentioned. The right clicking will be done with your ring and middle finger or both if you'd like. You will scroll with the button designed to right click. Just try it and you'll see what I mean and how it makes this mouse so much better.

--Lastly, adjust the cursor speed if you'd like. The mouse responds a little quickly.

Now use it and use it. Your hand will get used to it. I actually use it with both hands. I'm good with both hands including sports, it helps a lot. Try it. It beats RSI. NOTE: YOU'LL NEED TO RUN AUTOHOTKEYS every time you use the mouse. If not the buttons act are at default and your thumb will start hurting. Its easy to run the program, just double click the autohotkey icon on your desktop or search for it.

You are welcome. I hope this works for you as good as it did for me :] Oh and the mouse feels nice and sturdy, solid build.

Three Star Reviews:

11%
No Scroll Wheel
August 1, 2017
There is no scroll wheel, which I hate. Otherwise it's a fun way to change things up.
Great for RSI but sometimes fails and cursor jumps to corners
July 9, 2015
I've used this mouse for several years, and it has allowed me to continue using a computer fully despite repetitive strain injuries (RSI).However, there is a problem where around once an hour the mouse it will misread the movement and instantly jump a huge distance right and up, landing in the top right corner. Since I have multiple displays, OS X, and hot corners this problem does get in the way.It is also important to realize that this mouse will not be as quick or accurate as your typical high quality desktop mouse because you move it with your whole arm rather than your fingertips, and there is no mouse wheel. I simply got used to using the scroll bar, arrow keys, page up, and page down instead.Despite the issues, this mouse continues to provide the strain relief I need to work that no other mouse has matched. My particular issues are with making the same fingertip motions over For those dealing with RSI pain I recommend you try it. Not every mouse can solve everyone's problems but this one may help you. If they ever update the sensors and eliminate this problem I'd give this mouse the full 5 stars.
A Review: 3M Ergonomic Mouse
January 5, 2015
The good part is that my right shoulder is relaxed when using the product.Just my pet peeve but there is no way to scroll down or up any window aside from panning on some applications; that's about it.I used this for almost everything-from creating documents, Web browsing, to first-person shooter (FPS) gaming. For document and Web browsing it is okay. For gaming, there are other better, in terms of response time of the clickers, and cheaper, in terms of pricing, vertical mouse out there.Documents and Spreadsheets - 2 of 5Image Editing - 1 of 5Web Browsing - 2 of 5FPS Gaming - 1 of 5Reason of 3-Star Rating: Even though the rating on individual tasks are on 1's and 2's; the comfort that it provides on my shoulder made it 3-Star instead of 1- or 2-Star.
ok
December 6, 2013
This thing is growing on me. The right click/left click part is very easy; scrolling and selecting text more difficult It takes a little getting used to, but not too bad. I still have my other mouse plugged in, and on occasion, I've resorted to using it when i got frustrated with a cut and paste operation, but for the most part, it works pretty good.Two criticisms:1) The one I got is a right handed mouse. I had thought it would be ambidextrous. I prefer to use my left hand for mousing, but I can adapt. That said, I think they should tell you that it is right handed.2) The scrolling mechanism takes a bit more force to use than is optimal, IMO.Update...downgrading it from four to a three. I'm not so sure it is much better than a traditional mouse.
Keep it because it helps your wrist, but hard to find other reasons
February 22, 2013
I have read some of the other reviews about scroll wheel issues, but that is not the big problem with this mouse for most users. I don't think most people use the scroll wheel anyway.But there is a big problem with this mouse.I just bought this a week ago and my first overwhelming impression is of how strange a design it is to have the main mouse button be thumb-operated as this mouse does. It's still bothering me a week later.So that would be bad, but what is worse is that with this mouse thumb-operation is the ONLY option. You cannot fix this or try different button arrangements using mouse settings!But the first reaction is I find it amazing that 3M wants me to now use my thumb to click when I've been using my forefinger my entire life. And when I'm not using this mouse, I will still have to use my forefinger. But they want me to get this thumb habit for some reason. But if there were a benefit to the thumb click, it could be understood, but there seems no benefit. The forefinger is the proper finger for clicking it seems to me; my forefinger just seems vastly better at clicking than my thumb, and inherently so. And the thumb to me seems to bring a variety of issues, not just that one is not accustomed to it, but that it doesn't make any sense to try and get accustomed.So the thumb issue is the problem, but what is worse is that you can't get around it as you might think you ought to be able by simply swapping mouse buttons. The right-click on the 3M mouse is also done with the thumb, and while Windows will let you swap right-click and left-click, it will not let you swap left-click with the scroll wheel button, which is all that large button (visible in the picture) that is on your non-thumb fingers does. So before buying I thought I'd have some flexibility about assigning buttons, but actually I have none. You can make left-clicking be the the thumb, and you can make right-clicking be also the thumb on the upper side of the thumb button, or vice-versa (the thumb button is a rocker). But you cannot get left or right-clicking off the thumb using the typical Windows control panel settings. Of course it would make no sense to make the up-side of the rocker be regular clicking, since that is a much harder click, so this means you have no flexibility at all in assigning buttons with this mouse.So this seems the big downfall to me of this design. If they had made the non-thumb button right-clicking, then you could swap these, which MIGHT help, but since they designed both clicks to be thumb operated, you can't even try that.Now you might reply, "Well, my mouse control panel is super fancy and I can switch the middle-click with left click no problem!" But you STILL will have a problem with this mouse. The geniuses at 3M did not put the side button where your forefinger can easily get to it! They put it where only your second and third fingers are positioned. As a result, if you want to click with your forefinger, you're just out of luck, because you have just dead plastic under that finger.What I don't understand is why they didn't simply add a button to this thing, one where your forefinger goes, which interestingly they have a well-defined spot for. Then they could keep that long button that they already have, for second and third fingers to use. Seems it could have been so simple. Just click with forefinger and right-click with one of the other fingers, just as you do with other mice.Yet I'm not returning this (yet), though it cost over fifty dollars, because it does ease the wrist issue, my main purpose in buying this. But for an expensive mouse, you would think you'd get some button re-assignment options. And this thumb thing may yet drive me absolutely over the edge and at some point in the future this mouse may end up in pieces, smashed on the floor from aggravation. We'll see. I'll try to check in after more time has passed...
an ok product but not right for me
May 2, 2012
The flat of my hand measures 3.5" which according to the instructions on their website is the small size. It was to small for my hand and curling my fingers around the "stick" was painful. Not a relaxed position for me at all. Pushing the base around a mouse pad felt like it was giving more resistance then a normal mouse, probably due to the added weight of your hand. Also, the product felt very "plasticy". For the price tag I would expect something that was perhaps padded or at the very least feeling solid. It also needs more buttons and the buttons need to be customizable. The scroll is fair to ok on this but not great. My arthritis is extensive in all my joints, being in IT my wrists are pretty bad as well. There is a bit to much shoulder motion for me with this and I have a lot of shoulder pain. This might be right for some but not for me, I had to return the product. I gave it three stars because I think this product may very well be a great fit for persons with arthritis that affect them in different ways then myself.Side note: I probably would have tried out the larger size if this product was not so "plasticy" feeling.
10%
Definitely helps with sore joints in index finger
July 30, 2015
This mouse definitely helped the arthritis in my index finger from overusing my traditional mouse; however, because control of the mouse is done with your entire hand, it doesn't navigate smoothly on the screen and is slow to react. It's ok for now, but I'll continue doing research for something better.
Pretty good but has no scroll function
May 17, 2015
Pros: It's comfortable, fits my hand and keeps it in the right position, it moves smoothly, it's lasted for close to a year
Cons: This is huge; it has no scroll function other than mousing over to the side of a page and pulling the tiny scroll bar down. I have to use two different mice (mouses?) to accomplish anything quickly.
Maybe use in conjuction with another mouse
September 14, 2014
It is a little small for my hand, and I surely don't have large hands. The size is only slightly off, but it is noticeable when I first hold it. It is quite comfortable to hold, though, and the thumb click is a really nice change. In general, I would say it is better as a point and click mouse, on larger areas of the screen. It is a little harder to move to very specific points on the screen than a standard mouse and the scroll function is not ideal (equivalent to clicking the mouse wheel).

I would suggest to use this mouse in conjunction with another mouse. It will give you the chance to rest your wrist and forearm, but I doubt it will be suitable to fully replace another mouse.
Not good for RSI
December 29, 2013
Initially I thought this mouse was the solution to resolving my RSI symptoms. It worked well in the beginning and I didn't have to wear wrist splints. However, after one month, my symptoms worsened and similar to a previous review, I developed a severe sharp pain to my right wrist joint radiating to the entire R forearm muscle that did not go away. I eventually had to take one month off of work to rest and still I have not returned to my baseline. I ended up purchasing a split keyboard, and two types of ergo mice that can be used with both the left and right hands. The downside to this mouse is the inability to use with left hand and it requires you to use your right forearm muscle continuously. If you are suffering from RSI, better to use mouse that can be used with both hands, take frequent breaks, use proper ergo, split keyboard and choose two different mice that you can switch from week to week.
Interesting but didn't work for me
November 11, 2012
The position was interesting and it did seem to reduce wrist strain, but the stress was transferred elsewhere for me, plus it was difficult to control. I don't know if it's because my keyboard tray wasn't quite right, but it felt a bit unnatural to use. Plus the lack of a scroll wheel really is a downside. I guess I've gotten way too used to a scroll wheel to stop using it. Add that to the fact that it's kind of tough to control, and moving the mouse cursor to the up and down arrow buttons and scroll bar to scroll was just too much for me. Plus clicking with the thumb was not something I was used to and that did create some strain for me, but everyone is different. I ended up returning the mouse.

Two Star Reviews:

10%
While this can serve you as your alternative mouse this ...
February 3, 2017
While this can serve you as your alternative mouse this product doesn't provide the accuracy needed for modern gaming or fast enough to support quick rotation. Buy it only if you are planning to use it for office and low intensity works. Yet even that's your purpose, you still are paying way too much for just a 10 bucks quality mouse that's just shaped differently
I purchased this mouse because of carpal tunnel syndrome and ...
December 8, 2016
I purchased this mouse because of carpal tunnel syndrome and has been using it for 6 months...Pro: it did alleviate my carpal tunnel pain and i was able to work normallyCon: after only approx 6-7 months of use, it no longer works properly. My mouse is not being detected by my computer despite the red signal light on the usb and the laser light on the mouse being lit.
Buttons need a rethink.
July 30, 2016
conceptually, its not bad, but it has one fatal flaw, there is only one physical button under your thumb, which can be rockered left (for left click) or right (for right click). There is no way to hold the right button while activating the left, as many software programs assume this ability.So, for straight vanilla usage, it works, and it may help save your wrist, but I can't use it with about 1/3 of my normal programs.
Not really well thought out.
October 14, 2015
This is for elderly people who doesn't move their wrist very well. If you try to use it to scroll or point any web link it will frustrate you. It is very inaccurate and because it forces you to use your arm it's very cumbersome. Afterawhile it hurts the shoulder more than the arm so it's not really well thought out. Too slow, inaccurate, and tracking is a bit jerky because it needs your arm to precisely navigate.
Pro's and Con's:
June 6, 2013
update: I ended up tossing mine in the junk drawer. It was just too difficult for me to use comfortably. |I've been using this mouse for about a week now. I use a mouse all day long. I've used lots of different kinds of mice to alleviate finger pains. I didn't buy this one to alleviate any carpal tunnel pains rather I bought it because my index finger was really sore at the last knuckle from left clicking all day long. Here's what I really like: the single button at the top of the stick that does both left and right mouse clicks with the thumb is pretty slick (no more sore knuckle). What else do I like? Not much, by comparison to a regular mouse. Not having a roller wheel is practically a deal breaker. Instead of the wheel, there is a pistol grip style button that is hard to reach and awkward to squeeze. Reaching for the joystick style pointer takes a little re-training, too, because it's taller. Finally, using this as a pointer takes a lot more movement. I wouldn't be able to use this with a mouse pad because it takes a lot of space to maneuver the pointer. Occasionally this sticks to the desktop. If you don't do a LOT of computer usage and are experiencing a lot of pain because of a mouse, this is probably a tool worth trying. It is definitely a pain relieving tool for me. There is a lot of downside to making this a workable replacement over a standard mouse. I am trying still to decide if I can live with what I don't like.
No Scroll Wheel!
April 16, 2013
This design was great for wrist, elbow, arm pain. I used it constantly for a week. I expected it would take some getting used to as most people aren't used to the subtle motions involved with this grip compared to a normal mouse. That aside, I would not recommend this product for anyone who does complex things like surf the internet or work a spreadsheet. The button configuration is clunky and not intuitive. For some reason they decided that the large finger button on the side would be both the "hold for scroll" function, which then requires you to move the entire mouse to scroll, AND if you hit it quickly, it goes to any hyperlink you might have the cursor resting near. I'm sure there are software patches and settings I can mess with. I don't have the time or inclination to waste my time "discovering" how to set the mouse up. Bottom Line: It didn't have a scroll wheel and that alone made it not worth it. I returned it.
11%
Isn't an easy plug and play
July 25, 2017
The scrolling capability is missing.

Isn't an easy plug and play. You have to sometimes press the "connect" button under the mouse. Sometimes it works. It's not the easiest to work.

Ergonomic wise, it still does a great job. I own one over 10 yrs ago, and love it. You would think they would improve it to enable an easier scrolling ability.
Windows 10 fail.
July 4, 2017
This does not work on Windows 10. Ordered small and it is too large.
Outdated and feature-starved design. Overpriced at over $60+.
October 1, 2016
Comfortable, but they need to get with the times and offer a smaller stay-in dongle. There's hardly any point in making it wireless if it's not really good for use with laptops.

They also need better browsing features like a scroll wheel and back/forward buttons...navigating without these features requires extra movement and clicking, which contributes to fatigue. Would be nice for gaming too.

I end up only using this when I'm in pain instead of all the time.
Get the wired version
September 20, 2016
Get the wired version. Wireless is very frustrating. It sometimes doesn't register actions. So sometimes you find yourself clicking on things several times in order for the click event to happen. Or sometime it gets stuck on a down-click, so you end up dragging windows or other items around. It's very frustrating. This never happened on the wired version. Maybe they used some cheap components during the conversion.
I purchased the mouse to see if it would alleviate ...
June 16, 2016
I purchased the mouse to see if it would alleviate some of my carpal tunnel symptoms. Using the mouse required me to rest the side of my arm against the keyboard tray which put pressure in a different, more sensitive location. The scrolling mechanism is unnatural and I couldn't get used to it even after two weeks of use. The movement of the mouse required more manual movement than a normal mouse and the USB device was larger than normal so it may be difficult to use on computers where the ports are spaced closely together.

One Star Reviews:

6%
One Star
March 6, 2017
Limited scrolling functionality in some programs...proved to be the downfall of tangos product :( Had to return.
No scrolling
September 11, 2016
The third button that is supposed to be for scrolling, doesn't do anything. There is no scrolling function on this mouse.
No scrolling function in Chrome or Internet Explorer.
December 5, 2015
This is why I should read more reviews before buying.I wanted to try a bunch of different mouse devices to alleviate a little wrist strain. I bought this, a trackball, and a few ergonomic 'vertical' mice.This one is just a no-go. No scrolling function in Chrome or Internet Explorer. Which is 95% of what I do.
Use of this mouse gave me De Quervain's Syndrome. ...
October 2, 2014
Use of this mouse gave me De Quervain's Syndrome. This mouse is VERY far from being ergonomic. I haven't used the mouse for many months now and I am still in pain from my short time using this mouse.
For people with Arthritis?
December 21, 2013
I purchased this for my mom because she has arthritis. This mouse isn't for people with serious arthritis like my mom. This mouse requires intricate thumb function to use the left and right buttons and people like my mother will have a very difficult time using the thumb buttons.I had to return it because she was unable to use the thumb buttons at all. If the buttons where elsewhere on the device I think it would work better.
Very disappointing!!! Impractical to Use!!!
May 24, 2011
First, this product is very difficult and impractical to use. Whatever speed you can work with on a regular mouse, this is 4-5 times slower (for example, if a task takes 1 second on a regular mouse, it will take 4-5 seconds on this mouse). It is so slow and impractical that you will abandon it after a few minutes of use.Second, I purchased this product thinking the joy stick has a joint and you keep the mouse in one, idle positions and push the stick in different direction and move it (like those helicopter commands). There is no moving joint. It is FIXED so you have to move the entire actual thing around. It is not a light mouse to move.Third, moving around is not so much the problem. The real problem is HOW MUCH YOU HAVE TO MOVE IT just to move the mouse pointer across the screener. You will have to get an Extra-Large mouse pad because will not fit on a regular mouse pad; it has to be moved at least 8 inches just to move the pointer across the screen.Fourth, it feels really awkward and unnatural to use.Fifth, 3M does not even offer a specific driver for this mouse. It does not come with a CD and all sorts of Google searches did not yield a legitimate driver software so 3M has not released one.CONCLUSION: In short, you will be moving this mouse over large distance just for simple tasks. It takes 4-5 longer to use than a regular mouse to use, both because of the distances and because it is awkward and unnatural.It's also over-priced relative to what you get. I really don't recommend it at all.
14%
Poor Quality
May 15, 2016
The quality is very poor. The buttons are so clunky, they actually rattle when you shake the mouse. This is a poorest constructed mouse I've seen... especially considering the high cost. Not only are the buttons clunky, you have to push them in far to make them click. So when your hand is hurting, which is why you buy this, you don't want to be pushing hard on a button. Also, the click is very loud, CLICK CLANK CLICK CLANK CLICK CLANK. I think co-workers could hear my mouse from 10 cubes away.
The mouse that stutters...
August 8, 2014
Have used the wired version of this mouse for at least 10 years, going back to the old rollerball style. My wife uses one, too, and we have probably gone through five or six of them. Only mouse that works for us and we had no complaints. So I ordered the wireless version. Didn't work out of the box. The cursor 'hung,' requiring gross movements of the mouse to get it going again. Didn't matter whether it was used on a Mouserug or bare wood. I really wanted this thing to work and it did not. Also wasn't happy with the USB wireless receiver--does it really have to be that big? I was prepared to live with that, but not the stutter... Returned.
Piece of Junk
January 22, 2014
Purchased first one July, 2013. After a few months the computer started freezing and slowing down. Initially thought the computer had a virus. Computer finally quit working altogether. Did a complete format and new installation of software. Computer worked fine until this mouse was installed. Tried the mouse on another complete...same problem.

Order a new mouse Jan 2014. Defective out of the box. Right click button activated the scroll menu and could not be changed.

3M support site for this product is USELESS.
Stick with the wired version
December 8, 2013
I've used the wired version for years & love it. When it died a few weeks ago I figured it was time to try the wireless version. It worked great for a little while, but then it started freezing. Not sure if the mouse loses contact with the USB connection or what--I've tried pushing the "connect" buttons but nothing changes. At first I could remedy the situation by restarting my computer, which is a pain but at least it bought me some work time. Now even that doesn't work. I'm returning this one & going back to the wired version.
Exchanged wrist pain for thumb pain
November 17, 2012
I tried this mouse because I was having wrist pain and thought it might help. After several months using the 3M wireless ergonomic mouse, my wrist pain has eased considerably, but now I have developed pain in the thumb area. My doctor says it is de Quervain tenosynovitis, which is often associated with repeated thumb motion. I have pain and swelling at the base of my thumb. Sometimes when I move my hand at an angle to pick up something or move something, I have intense pain and cannot move my thumb. Then I have to use my other hand to shift the position of my thumb with a "popping" feel to relieve the pain. My doctor calls this a "trigger" effect that is common with this syndrome. So far I have a mild case and hope it will improve, since I am no longer using this mouse. It is quite painful and really troublesome, and is worse than the wrist pain I had before. So, I would avoid this mouse because there is a risk to develop a thumb problem, as it relies on the thumb for mouse clicks.
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Pricing info
Old Price
Old Price
Price
Price
$69.99updated: Mar 17, 2020
$59.22updated: Mar 19, 2020
Features
Article Number
Article Number
0021200418341
5052461759534
Binding
Binding
Personal Computers
Personal Computers
Brand
Brand
3M
3M
Color
Color
Black
Black
Currency
Currency
USD
USD
Department
Department
-
Computer Hardware, Supplies & Data Storage
Format
Format
-
CD-ROM
Formatted Price
Formatted Price
$99.99
$96.43
Hardware Platform
Hardware Platform
PC
PC
Height
Height
212.6 in
236.2 in
Language
Language
Array, Array, Array
Array, Array
Legal Disclaimer
Legal Disclaimer
Manufacturers warranty 1 year
-
Length
Length
204.7 in
285.4 in
Manufacturer
Manufacturer
3M
3M
Model
Model
EM500GPS
EM550GPS
MPN
MPN
EM500GPS
EM550GPS
Number of Items
Number of Items
1
1
Number of Parts
Number of Parts
EM500GPS
EM550GPS
Number of parts of item
Number of parts of item
EM500GPS
-
Operating System
Operating System
-
Windows
platform
platform
Windows
Windows
Product Group
Product Group
Personal Computer
Personal Computer
Product Type
Product Type
COMPUTER_INPUT_DEVICE
COMPUTER_INPUT_DEVICE
PublicationDate
PublicationDate
2010-04-06
2010-04-06
Publisher
Publisher
3M
3M
Quantity
Quantity
1
1
Reviews
Reviews
Size
Size
Small
Large
Studio
Studio
3M
3M
Warranty
Warranty
2 year warranty
2 year warranty
Weight
Weight
0.0 oz
1.9 oz
Width
Width
212.6 in
236.2 in
Feature
Feature

The 3M Ergonomic Mouse has earned an Ease-of-Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation® for its patented, vertical grip design that keeps your hand and wrist at a neutral angle, while the mouse works as a regular optical mouse

Grip the handle and rest your hand on the base

Use your thumb to left and right click

Optical sensor, USB/PS2 plug and play compatibility and a 6.5 feet

2 year warranty

Grip the handle and rest your hand on the base

Use your thumb to left and right click

Optical sensor, USB/PS2 plug and play compatibility and a 6.5 feet

2 year warranty

The 3M Ergonomic Mouse has earned an Ease-of-Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation for its patented

Grip the handle and rest your hand on the base

Optical sensor, USB/PS2 plug and play compatibility and a 6.5 feet

The 3M Ergonomic Mouse has earned an Ease-of-Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation® for its patented, vertical grip design that keeps your hand and wrist at a neutral angle, while the mouse works as a regular optical mouse

Grip the handle and rest your hand on the base

Use your thumb to left and right click

Optical sensor, USB/PS2 plug and play compatibility and a 6

2 year warranty

The 3M Ergonomic Mouse has earned an Ease-of-Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation for its patented, vertical grip design

Grip the handle and rest your hand on the base

Use your thumb to left and right click

Optical sensor, USB/PS2 plug and play compatibility and a 6

2 year warranty

The 3M Ergonomic Mouse has earned an Ease-of-Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation® for its patented,

Vertical grip design that keeps your hand and wrist at a neutral angle, while the mouse works as a regular optical mouse

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