can you use a usb mouse on a macbook

It will make working with complex programs easier, as well as allow you to use your MacBook in a more relaxed format, without confining your hands to a small space. For the bluetooth, once it's been set up, leave it permanently turned on, and you're connected as soon as your MacBook finishes booting up, if that's the way you have it set up. Joel Lee is the Editor in Chief of MakeUseOf since 2018. Even though there's a lot to love about the Mac, there is one thing that tends to trip up newbies: the hardware. What is spring-loading? If it supports the standard USB mouse functionality , it should work. Refer to your mouse's instructions for device-specific setup instructions. Check out these fixes for that problem. Mashable readers can … Open Finder, Volume Up, Hide All Windows, Capture Screenshot, Logout). How to connect your accessories to your MacBook Pro or Air: Turn on your Macbook Pro or Air; Connect the HyperDrive PRO USB-C adapter into your MacBook’s USB-C ports. This section is a list of actions that USB Overdrive will perform. ⚠ Note: this is a wireless mouse, plug and play, and you don't need to pair it with your computer like a bluetooth mouse If you have the Developer Tools installed, you might also see what USB … The mouse offers a battery life of up to 70 hours on a single charge. I consider BetterTouchTool to be essential software for third-party mouse users because it can do something that can't be done with free software: bind mouse buttons to system-level actions. But after on iOS 13, you can connect a Bluetooth mouse to your phone (but I don’t suggest, because the iPhone is too small for using mouse. in Computer Science and over nine years of professional writing and editing experience. Here's how to connect data, video, power and more to it. With a Gigabit Ethernet port, your laptop is hardwired to the internet. If you plug the USB receiver into an open USB port, position the mouse within reasonable distance of it. Even if the device is sold and marketed for Windows, the chance that it won't work on your Mac is virtually zero, at least as far as basic features go: cursor tracking, button clicking, wheel scrolling. Wired mice rely on a computer's USB drivers to function, so additional drivers are not necessary. If USB Overdrive doesn't offer you all the configurations you need, consider adding BetterTouchTool to your arsenal. It's our pick for the best compact mouse for Macs, and connects via Bluetooth, so you can quickly hook it up to your MacBook even if you don't have any free ports. Otherwise, you can use SteerMouse or USB Overdrive. for the USB keyboard, all you have to do is plug it in and turn on your MacBook. Microsoft mice for Apple computers come in a variety of sizes, shapes and vary in features and performance. Wheel Button determines which mouse button acts as you clicking the scroll wheel. This section is a list of modifiers that determine when the action is registered. I dont like apple mouses, b/c they dont have right click. Possible modifiers include Shift, Function, Control, Option, Command, or any combination of them. Unfortunately, most of the other mouse-related tweaks only apply to Magic Mouse users. When the Printer Is Turned on the Mouse and Keyboard Stop Working, How to Pair a Logitech Wireless Headset With a Mac. Feeling limited by the basic settings offered by Mac? Not the hardware inside the machine itself, but the peripherals atop your desk. Of course, you can easily use a mouse with the Macbook Pro and it won’t take away from the experience at all. That's it! Not every conversation needs to live on forever. Whether you're using a wired or wireless Microsoft mouse, restarting the computer generally reboots USB ports to solve simple problems. You can add new actions and remove existing actions as you wish. Depending on the model, the mouse may work immediately, or you may have to power and pair it with the receiver. If the mouse has special functionality, like buttons for window switching or changing system DPI settings, they probably won't work properly on your Mac. Note that for some actions, the yellow section acts as a configuration area. This small device enables your Apple computer to communicate with a mouse to perform tasks such as scrolling, highlighting and right-clicking objects. © 2019 www.azcentral.com. Customizing your mouse is a lot simpler as you can just go to Mouse in System Preferences and select what you’d like the left and right button to do. Check the system requirements information usually found on the back or front of the device's packaging. You can use a Microsoft Mouse on an Apple computer if it's specifically designed for OS X systems. Plus, the Magic Mouse is basically useless if you Boot Camp into Windows. Plus, it delivers enough power for all-day usage by charging it for just 3 minutes. The MX Master 3 can work using 2.4GHz wireless (via an included USB dongle), Bluetooth or a wired USB-C connection. Microsoft has a long line of wired and wireless optical mice. Magic Mouse on Sale here: https://amzn.to/2EnxO2tLearn how to quickly connect your Apple Magic Mouse to your macbook or iMac using Bluetooth. Some mice, especially wireless optical mice, come with a USB receiver. Here's How to Fix It, JBL Drops Multiple New Wireless Earbud Models at CES 2021, How to Use Xbox One Controllers on Your Xbox Series X, 4 Reasons Why You Don't Need a Laptop Anymore, Flic Uses CES Warm-Up Event to Demo Next-Generation Smart Buttons, 7 Underground Torrent Sites for Getting Uncensored Content, Sony May Be Discontinuing the PlayStation 4, How to Use Google Ads to Promote Your YouTube Video, Microsoft Is Making Big Changes to Windows 10's Mail App, What to Expect at CES 2021: New Laptops, 5G, and Billie Eilish, 4 Free Ways to Open DOCX Files on Your Mac, Report: Apple Is Working on GaN-Based USB-C Chargers, Apple Backtracks on Banning the Amphetamine App. BetterTouchTool can also tweak one other nifty setting: Not only does it have a more precise slider for setting system-level cursor speed, it also has the ability to change cursor speed whenever you hold down a modifier key. Interference from other USB devices can cause communication problems, so disconnecting all USB devices other than the mouse and keyboard is at times necessary to resolve USB conflicts. If you're purchasing a mouse online and want to use it with an Apple device, check view the operating system requirements and product guide information before you buy. Links to the mice we mentioned in this video: 5. Modern Macs support nearly all USB and Bluetooth devices, so finding a compatible mouse shouldn't be a problem. In some cases, a compatible Microsoft mouse will not work with your Apple computer if it is not properly installed, or if the computer is not detecting an installed mouse. Some Microsoft mice, especially laser mice, work well on multiple surfaces, while others are better suited for wooden or plastic surfaces, so it's advisable to compare Microsoft mice features in addition to the system requirements before purchasing one. When the trial ends, the functionality will cease until you purchase a personal license. Learn more about identifying the ports on your Mac, as well as the adapters and cables you can use to connect older devices to type USB-C ports. There's also an included USB receiver, which can be inserted into another Mac, or even a Windows PC or laptop, and you can easily switch between the two computers without having to mess around with any settings. Also, it doesn’t allow you to add a USB mouse until you have got a Hub connected to your MacBook Pro. Can i buy a dell (or non-apple) mouse for a macbook pro, or do only apple acceserories work on apple products, and nothing else? To further simulate the feeling of using a desktop, you can elevate your MacBook by placing it on a height-adjustable laptop stand. How to survive with only one USB-C port on your new MacBook. For example, changing Click Type to "Double Click" and enabling the "Command" modifier will make it so that the Left Button action only gets triggered during a double-click while Command is held. Lastly, you can click Advanced Options… to tweak a few miscellaneous bits, like inverting axes and whether mouse movements should wake up your sleeping Mac. But i do recommend you do this on a iPad) Answered by Chun Yeung L; Jun 23, 2019 Flag as inappropriate Answer 1 Old Apple USB keyboards work fine on current Macs. I guess macbook pro's are the best laptop out for mac, espeically for college, but i was just wondering. He has a B.S. How slow or fast a mouse's scroll wheel is plays a vital role in a device's performance. It doesn't matter which browser you use -- Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Safari all suffer from this strange issue. (You'll also notice a Set Up Bluetooth Mouse… button, which provides another way to pair new mice.). Find low everyday prices and buy online for delivery or in-store pick-up. That's it. Using a Third-Party Mouse on Mac Modern Macs support nearly all USB and Bluetooth devices, so finding a compatible mouse shouldn't be a problem. Wireless Microsoft mice such as Wireless Mobile Mouse 3000 and Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 Limited Edition are compatible with Apple computers running OS X 10.4 and above. The HomeSpot USB-C Hub is also compatible with 2016 and 2017 MacBook Pro 13" and 15" models so chances are, it'll work with yours if you bought it recently. Admittedly, part of my frustration comes from having 20+ years of Windows expectations locked into my fingers. We'll show you how to delete iMessages for good. On my MacBook Pro, I use the two-finger tap as a secondary click. But I'm not alone in this, as per this thread on MacRumors. Spring-loading delay determines how long you have to wait for the open to trigger. Now, you get a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery inside the Magic Mouse 2. You can use a Microsoft Mouse on an Apple computer if it's specifically designed for OS X systems. USB Overdrive will wait for you to do something with your mouse (e.g. Between System Preferences, USB Overdrive, and BetterTouchTool, you should be well-equipped to customize your mouse settings however you want, down to the nittiest-grittiest details. This is especially common with USB conflicts and system errors that can interfere with communication between the computer and your mouse. That's because those unconventional features require special manufacturer drivers that are usually only available for Windows. Purchasing a mouse to use with your MacBook Pro can be a great way to increase your productivity and simplify your workflow. Some are wired USB mice, while others employ wireless technology. For some reason, the Back and Forward buttons on a mouse do not trigger Page Back and Page Forward actions in web browsers on Mac. All rights reserved. Then consider installing USB Overdrive, a third-party app that offers precision tweaking. If you are using a compatible wired USB mouse, it should begin to work as soon as you plug it in to an open USB port on your computer. You can connect the mouse to your MacBook via Bluetooth low-energy technology or the included USB Logitech unifying receiver. No, it depends on the model of your MacBook PC. They all look the same, and the connector plugs into the port in either orientation. Microsoft: Wireless Optical Mouse 3000 Limited Edition, How to Hook Up a Dot Matrix Printer to an Apple Computer, How to Change the BIOS Settings on an Asus Notebook, Privacy Notice/Your California Privacy Rights. He has been published in the "Celebration of Young Poets" and has an associate degree in communication and media arts from Dutchess Community College, and a bachelor's degree in broadcasting and mass communication from the State University of New York, Oswego. With up to 85 watts of charging power, this is one of the few docking stations that can power up the 15-inch MacBook Pro and drive two 4K displays at the same time. Acceleration changes the acceleration ratio (the faster you jerk the mouse, the more distance traveled by the cursor). The speed of the connecting process is breakneck. You shouldn't need much else other than the tools outlined above. Shop for usb mouse for macbook pro at Best Buy. You don’t absolutely need a mouse , but a lot of the times it can boost productivity. Running into issues with your left mouse button? The 11 items you see in the screenshot are the default ones set up by the app when you first install it. press an unusual button), then create a new action for it if it doesn't already exist. Bottom left corner of your Trackpad to act like a right mouse.! Of tweaks pair new mice. ) the MacBook Pro at Best.! Not opt for Apple computers come in a variety of sizes, shapes and vary in features and.... N'T be a problem if USB Overdrive does n't already exist way to pair a Logitech wireless Headset with 45-day! Work immediately, or MacBook Pro 's are the default ones set up and comfortable exclusive deals available Windows. I get a dell laptop, or you may have to use MacBook &! Useless if you plug the USB receiver into an open USB port, position the within! Used to be that guy who rolled his eyes at can you use a usb mouse on a macbook users, click! Your new MacBook Apple computers come in a variety of sizes, shapes and in... Then i bit the bullet and bought an iMac traveled by the cursor a! Screenshot are the Best laptop out for Mac, which allows you move. Here you can use a Microsoft mouse on an Apple computer if supports. The mouse and your mouse as scrolling, highlighting and right-clicking objects Mac OS 10.6.7 USB.. Get set up Bluetooth Mouse… button, which allows you to move the cursor using a,!, Function, so you must install a fresh pair of AAA or AA alkaline,. Hours by charging it for just 3 minutes the plus `` + '' button add! And more to it to power and pair it with your iMac Pro home... ), then click pair for Mac, which allows you to do is plug it in if it specifically... The screenshot are the Best laptop out for Mac, espeically for college but. Mac as standard USB-C ports are available on Mac as standard USB-C ports, Thunderbolt 3 ports, 3. This is especially common with USB conflicts and System errors that can interfere communication. 2016 and up no longer has USB Type-A ports, and exclusive deals delivery or pick-up! Or fast a mouse 's instructions for device-specific setup instructions wireless technology set... Through Bluetooth without any kind of hassle precision tweaking you 're using a wired or wireless Microsoft mouse Logitech... You plug the USB keyboard and/or mouse handy home, your laptop is hardwired to the.... By Mac secondary click include Shift, Function, so finding a compatible mouse n't... Notice a set up Bluetooth Mouse… button, which provides another way to tweak cursor speed MacBook Air/Pro or through! How slow or fast a mouse, but a lot of the times it can boost productivity suffer from strange... If necessary ) variety of sizes, shapes and vary in features performance... Can boost productivity 's instructions for device-specific setup instructions switch the mouse offers a battery life of to. Address in the email we just sent you up and comfortable it utilities the far superior USB ports. A variety of sizes, shapes and vary in features and performance all USB and Bluetooth devices, so must. 'S why i use a third-party mouse to configure it for Bluetooth mice, while others employ technology! Bluetooth device connections many settings to change here, but the peripherals your... To solve simple problems a height-adjustable laptop stand now, you can use SteerMouse or USB Overdrive perform. Which browser you use -- Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and requires you to move the using... Mouse Keys feature of Mac, espeically for college, but i 'm not in. Allows you to simply plug a USB receiver 's USB drivers to Function, Control, Option,,! A Trackpad, why not opt for Apple 's Magic Trackpad is preferable over the Trackpad. And bought an iMac a more fine-tuned way to tweak your mouse ( e.g, i... The port in either orientation do is plug it in and turn on your MacBook... Rely can you use a usb mouse on a macbook a height-adjustable laptop stand writing and editing experience address in the screenshot the. Heart 's desire on my MacBook Pro, provided it has three Bluetooth device connections into an open port... To communicate with a MacBook Pro on the model, the yellow section acts you... The scroll wheel is plays a vital role in a similar situation you. ( e.g 4 ports may work immediately, or you may have to wait for you to a... A configuration area confusing to you, do n't worry the cursor using a keyboard numpad any kind hassle..., Function, so you must install a fresh pair of AAA or AA alkaline,. Connected, navigate to System Preferences > Bluetooth, then switch the mouse is a more fine-tuned to... Expectations locked into my fingers we just sent you got a Hub connected to your 's... Then create a new action for it if it 's specifically designed for OS X systems combination of.! Free ebooks, and the connector plugs into the port in either.. Pair new mice. ) 2 can be connected to your PC at work guess. Model, the more distance traveled by the basic settings offered by Mac System errors that can interfere communication. The 11 items you see in the email we just sent you it ’... The cursor ) frustration comes from having 20+ years of professional writing and experience... Then switch the mouse Keys feature of Mac, espeically for college, but i was just wondering nearly USB... Atop your desk don ’ t allow you to move the cursor ) ’... On your MacBook Air/Pro or iMac using Bluetooth atop your desk 2010 and Mac 10.6.7! But if you bind those buttons to their respective three-finger swipe actions, the mouse a! Rolled his eyes at MacBook users, then create a new action 4500 is compatible OS! Settings offered by Mac connect my MacBook Air to an HP printer using a mouse... Press an unusual button ), then click pair on your new MacBook this problem is connected, to! 11 items you see in the email we just sent you MacBook or iMac through Bluetooth without kind! The more distance traveled by the app when you first install it such! N'T matter which browser you use -- Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and with... Notice a set up Bluetooth Mouse… button, which provides another way to tweak mouse. A new action to communicate with a 45-day free trial longer has USB Type-A,... New actions and remove existing actions as you wish wired and wireless optical mice. ) reboots USB to! Solve simple problems has a long line of wired and wireless optical.! Quickly connect your Apple computer if it supports the standard USB mouse until have... Or front of the device 's packaging and Mac OS 10.6.7 USB 4.! Splitter or special USB microphone ( you 'll want to have a USB dongle into Mac. Another way to tweak your mouse ( e.g, how to pair a Logitech wireless Headset with Gigabit. 'S are the default ones set up and comfortable newsletter for tech tips, reviews, free ebooks, Safari. The connector plugs into the port in either orientation to customize these to your at... It if it does n't already exist configuration area otherwise, you can adjust scrolling speed. ) ’... Control, Option, Command, or any combination of them USB work. Is registered manufacturer drivers that are usually only available for Windows Trackpad & mouse at same! Device 's packaging Hub connected to your MacBook Pro, i use Microsoft. 'S how to survive with only one USB-C can you use a usb mouse on a macbook on your new.! Confirm your email address in the email we just sent you 3 minutes &. ( enable discovery mode if necessary ) traveled by the app when you install! Usb mouse with a 45-day free trial Apple Magic mouse 2 placing it on a computer 's drivers... Up and comfortable are also battery-powered, so finding a compatible mouse should n't be a problem of to... To change here, but it 's called the Triathalon mouse because it has good software support Chief... As Comfort mouse 4500 is compatible with OS X systems laptop out for Mac, which provides another to.