Wrist rests are cushioned supports for keyboards and mice, made for people who type, work with spreadsheets or play for hours. Our range has over 80 models, from keyboard and mouse rests to matching sets, with brands such as Fellowes, Sandberg, Contour and Kensington.
How to choose a wrist rest
Keyboard or mouse. A keyboard rest is a long, narrow cushion that sits in front of the keys, while a mouse rest is a small pad that supports the wrist during pointer work. If you use both all day, a matching set keeps the heights consistent.
Length. Match the rest to the width of your keyboard, so measure it first. Full-size keyboards with a number pad need a longer rest than tenkeyless or smaller ones, and a rest that is too short leaves part of the wrist unsupported.
Height and filling. The rest should sit roughly level with the front edge of the keyboard, so the wrist stays straight instead of bending upwards. Memory foam yields slowly, gel feels cooler and smoother, and a firmer pad suits people who press down harder.
Surface and colour. Fabric covers feel warm, smooth coverings wipe clean quickly, and bamboo gives a harder, wooden finish. Black is the most common colour in our range, with grey, light blue, sand and sage for lighter desks. A non-slip base matters more than looks, because a rest that slides is no help.
Wrist rest brands we carry
- Fellowes: the largest group in our range, an office ergonomics specialist that also makes footrests and monitor arms.
- Kensington: known for ergonomic computer accessories and laptop security locks.
- Contour: makes ergonomic input devices, including the RollerMouse.
- Razer and Genesis: gaming peripheral brands, a sensible place to look for a rest to go with a gaming keyboard or mouse.
- Bakker Elkhuizen: a Dutch maker of ergonomic office accessories.
Also in our range: Sandberg, Gembird, StarTech.com, Accura, ESHARK and ASUS.
Frequently asked questions about wrist rests
Do wrist rests actually help?
They can make long typing sessions more comfortable by keeping the wrist in a neutral position and easing pressure on its underside. They are not a medical treatment. Move your hands from the elbows while typing and rest the wrist on the pad during pauses. If you feel pain, see a doctor.
What height should a keyboard wrist rest be?
Roughly the same as the front edge of the keyboard, so the wrist bends neither up nor down. Slim, low-profile keyboards need a thinner rest. Before buying, measure the keyboard height at the space bar.
Is gel or memory foam better?
Neither is better in every case. Gel usually feels cooler and smoother, while memory foam slowly moulds to the shape of your wrist. Choose by what feels comfortable and look at the cover too, as it decides how easy the rest is to clean.
How do I clean a wrist rest?
Check the manufacturer's instructions first. Most rests with a smooth cover can be wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap, while fabric ones are better brushed or dabbed lightly. Do not soak them, as the filling can be damaged.
