Quick answer: Centre the keyboard on your body, keep the mouse close at the same height, and set both so your elbows stay near your sides.
Where the keyboard and mouse sit decides comfort and aim. For enthusiasts, small positional changes fix most wrist and shoulder ache.
- Centre the Keyboard
- Keep the Mouse Close
- Match Height to Elbows
Centre the Keyboard
Most people angle the keyboard to the monitor and reach for the mouse. Centreing the board on your body — the B key roughly in line with your nose — keeps both shoulders level.
Keep the Mouse Close
The mouse should sit at the same height as the keyboard and within a short reach, so your elbow stays near your side. Reaching forward and out is what causes shoulder strain.
Match Height to Elbows
For enthusiasts, set the surface so your forearms are roughly level and wrists straight. A keyboard tray or a chair adjustment solves most height problems.
Frequently asked questions
Should the keyboard be flat or tilted?
Flat or slightly negative tilt keeps wrists neutral. The rear feet up bend the wrists backward, which contributes to strain over long sessions.
How close should the mouse be?
Close enough that your elbow stays near your body and you do not reach. If your arm extends to reach it, move it in — aim comes from space and posture, not distance.
Does position really affect aim for enthusiasts?
Yes — a consistent, close position gives repeatable arm movement, which is the basis of consistent aim. A drifting setup means drifting aim.
The bottom line
For enthusiasts, centre the keyboard, keep the mouse close and level, and set height to your elbows. Comfort and aim both improve.