Abstract: A computer input device is provided which is laterally symmetric and which has a protective bumper to shield its precious metal outer shell from damage resulting from contact with other objects. The lateral symmetry and contoured control buttons provide an ergonomic shape suitable for use by both left-handed and right-handed persons. The invention has a base which further has an protective bumper and an upper surface in which the protective bumper extends above the upper surface. A plurality of depressible contoured control buttons are mounted on the upper surface of the base. The invention also has a housing having a plurality of openings, the housing being coupled to the base along a bottom periphery of the housing such that the protective bumper extends outward beyond the shell and extends above the bottom periphery of the housing. Each of the plurality of contoured control buttons extends though a respective one of the plurality of openings in the housing.