Built-in wrist rests do more harm than good.

Probably not. Most ergonomists will tell you those gel or foam rests actually increase pressure on your carpal tunnel if you rest your wrist on them while typing.

The problem is the word “rest.” You’re not supposed to rest your wrist on anything while you use a mouse or keyboard. Your hands should hover, and your forearm should be supported by the desk or a chair armrest. A wrist rest encourages you to plant your wrist, which compresses the nerves and blood vessels. Over time, that’s worse than using nothing.

There’s one exception: if you use the rest only as a palm support during pauses, not while actively mousing. But most people just lean into it. So unless you’re disciplined enough to keep your wrist floating, skip it.

Get a flat, hard mousepad. Your wrists will thank you.