Left-Handed Mouse

Written by Eric Wyatt (last updated July 29, 2019)

Computers, most often by default, are designed so that when you plug in or pair a new mouse it will be set up for right-handed users. If you are left-handed (like 10% of the world's population) this default setting means that your primary mouse button would be in a "backwards" location that might be uncomfortable. For right-handed users, the primary button is the left button on their mouse; this position works well as it typically sits under the right index finger. If you simply move the mouse to the left side of the keyboard, as a left-handed user this would place the primary button under your middle finger or cause your index finger discomfort as you try to click.

Switching things up and configuring your mouse for left-handed use is simple and easily done by following these quick steps:

  1. Press the Windows button and type (without quotes) "Mouse Settings," then press Enter. Windows displays the Mouse settings of the Devices section of the Settings dialog box. (See Figure 1.)
  2. Figure 1. The Mouse Settings section of the Settings dialog box.

  3. Click on the drop-down menu under "Select Your Primary Button" and choose Right. (It sounds odd to choose "Right" for left-handers, but that is what you need to do.)
  4. Close the Settings window; your choice is applied immediately.

Now you can use your mouse in a way that may be more comfortable for you. If you ever need to change your mouse settings back, just follow the steps above and switch the setting from "Right" back to "Left" in step 2.

 This tip (13655) applies to Windows 10.

Author Bio

Eric Wyatt

Eric Wyatt is a swell guy (or so his friends tell him). He is a formally trained designer and branding expert, bringing a wide range of skills to his Tips.Net articles. ...

MORE FROM ERIC

File Explorer's Overlooked Selection Tools

File Explorer in Windows 10 is the main way to navigate files on your computer. Discover the overlooked selection tools ...

Discover More

Adjusting Your Monitor's Refresh Rate

Does your screen's motion appear choppy or less than smooth? You can improve the smoothness of motion on your screen by ...

Discover More

Disabling Windows Shake

Windows Aero Shake minimizes open windows with a simple gesture. You can disable this feature using the Registry Editor.

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Changing File Explorer's Default Startup Location

The File Explorer can start in either of two locations. This tip tells you how to set its default startup location to one ...

Discover More

Reverse the Wheel

With multiple devices used today, the way we scroll can change depending on the device. If you're used to reverse ...

Discover More

Adding Items to the "New" Context Menu

You can add your own items to the "New" context menu, but it does take a bit of effort. This tip explains how to do it.

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is two minus 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)


Newest Tips