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Tuesday, April 04, 2006 1:53 AM PT Posted by Steve Bass

Lefties Get Their Own Mouse

Here's something I don't think about often: How do left-handed folks use a mouse? And I probably wouldn't have thought about it today had Logitech not announced its new MX610 Left-Hand Laser Cordless Mouse. It retails for $60, but I've seen the right-handed MX610 selling in the $40 to $50 range on PC World's Product Finder.

Logitech Mouse for Southpaws

Comments

How do left-handed folks use a mouse? Most mice are not hand-specific, so it's no big deal to switch the buttons. Of course, since lefties are inherently ambidextrous, many of us are quite comfortable using a mouse with our right hand. I used to switch every couple of months to avoid shoulder strain. Now I use a trackball.

Jon
April 04, 2006
5:11 AM PT

I use a right hand Microsoft Explorer Trackball with my left hand by simply rotating it 180? and placing it on the left side of the keyboard. An extra long silicone keyboard pad supports my left hand and the Trackball is Velcro'd to the desk.

Leo Feret
April 04, 2006
6:57 AM PT

Is this an April Fool's joke?
Mice can be designated for left or right hand..no need for a specific-handed mouse. Being left-handed, I have no problem (other than carpal tunnel) with any mouse.

mizdoc
April 04, 2006
11:34 AM PT

True that most mice can be switched, but think about special mice that have side action buttons meant to be pushed with your right thumb. How would you use those setting up the same mouse for left hand? With your pinkie?

Anonymous
April 05, 2006
7:55 AM PT

Actually, being a leftie, I agree that a lot of high end mice with extra buttons and wheels cannot be used by us. Also, most 'ergonomic' mice have curves that weren't designed for southpaws. So I give it a big thumbs up. Way to go Logitech!

Bruce
April 07, 2006
11:23 AM PT

I'd like to know how the guy who rotates his trackball 180 degrees uses the buttons - which would now be at the bottom?? Does he hit them with the heel of his hand? How does he drop and drag? NO way, give us a left handed track ball!!

Kelsey
April 07, 2006
12:13 PM PT
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