As a left-handed person, should I use my mouse with my left or right hand?
Asked by
VelvetKite42
I recently got an Apple Magic Mouse for college and realized I can place it wherever I want. I'm left-handed, but I grew up always keeping the mouse on the right side of the keyboard, so using it with my left hand feels strangely wrong. Is there a standard way left-handed people are expected to use a mouse, or should I just choose whichever side feels most comfortable?
Answers
A lot of people train themselves to use the opposite hand. I’m right-handed but have used a mouse with my left hand for decades, especially when I need my right hand on the numeric keypad. An ambidextrous mouse and reversed buttons can help, but you’ll probably adapt after a week or two.
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Most mice are symmetrical, though some are shaped specifically for right-handed use. In your computer’s mouse settings, you can usually swap the primary and secondary buttons so the controls feel natural in your left hand.
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I’m right-handed and switch between hands to reduce fatigue. It only takes a little practice to adjust, so try the mouse on both sides for a few days and keep whichever arrangement is most comfortable.
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You can also leave the buttons unchanged and simply click with your left index finger, depending on what feels natural. Other options include a trackpad, trackball, or a different mouse designed for left-handed use.
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There’s no correct side. Put the mouse wherever it feels most comfortable—there’s no rule saying you have to use your right hand.
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