This category contains wrist rests for keyboards and mice, designed to support the wrists of people who type or use a mouse for long stretches. Our range here is small, with two products, both from FELLOWES, a maker of ergonomic office accessories. They suit office workers, students and home users who want a more comfortable desk setup.
How to choose a wrist rest
Keyboard or mouse. Keyboard wrist rests are long, narrow cushions that sit in front of the keys, while mouse wrist rests are short and sit beside the keyboard. If you type more than you click, start with a keyboard rest. Check the product name and description to confirm which type you are buying.
Length. A keyboard rest should roughly match the width of your keyboard. A full-size keyboard with a number pad needs a longer rest than a tenkeyless or compact model. Measure the keyboard before you order, because a rest that is too short leaves part of the wrist unsupported.
Height. The top of the rest should sit about level with the front edge of the keyboard, so your wrists stay straight rather than bent up or down. Low-profile keyboards generally need a thinner rest than keyboards with tall keys. Chair and desk height matter too, so adjust them alongside the rest.
Filling and cover. Gel feels cool and firm, memory foam moulds slowly to the shape of your wrist, and standard foam is the lightest and most springy. Fabric covers feel soft and warm, while smooth covers are quicker to wipe clean. Pick the one you will still find comfortable after a full working day.
Grip and upkeep. A non-slip base stops the rest creeping across the desk as you type. If the desk is shared or you eat at it, a wipeable surface will stay presentable for longer.
Wrist rest brands we carry
- FELLOWES: an American company known for ergonomic office accessories, including wrist rests, footrests and monitor arms, as well as paper shredders.
Both wrist rests in this category are from FELLOWES, so there is currently no other brand to compare within it. If you want a different style of desk surface, the wider mouse pads category is the place to look.
Wrist rest FAQ
Do wrist rests help with wrist pain?
A wrist rest can make typing and mouse work more comfortable by helping you keep your wrists in a neutral position. It is not a medical treatment, and it will not fix a poor desk setup on its own. If you have pain that continues or gets worse, speak to a doctor or physiotherapist.
Should I rest my wrists on the pad while typing?
No, the rest is mainly for pauses between bursts of typing. While you type, your hands should move freely over the keys, with the movement coming from your arms rather than your wrists. Resting the heel of your palm on the pad during pauses takes the pressure off the wrist.
Is gel or memory foam better for a wrist rest?
Neither is better in every case, because it comes down to feel. Gel is firmer and tends to feel cooler, while memory foam is softer and adapts to your wrist over time. If you like a firm surface, try gel first, and if you prefer a cushioned feel, choose memory foam.
What size wrist rest do I need?
Choose a keyboard wrist rest that is about as long as your keyboard is wide. Full-size keyboards with a number pad need the longest rests, and compact keyboards need shorter ones. For a mouse, a small rest that fits beside the keyboard is enough, as long as it is the right height for your mouse.
