Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

Best Computer Touchpads

Updated
Expert product tester and reviewer providing unbiased evaluations and ensuring top-quality consumer goods.
Updated

Main Features

  • Larger edge-to-edge glass surface
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Force Touch technology
  • Seamless integration with macOS

Product Overview

The Apple Magic Trackpad 2 is a state-of-the-art touchpad designed to complement your Apple devices. With a larger edge-to-edge glass surface, it provides ample space for intricate gestures and precise control.

The device connects via Bluetooth, offering a clutter-free workspace. Its rechargeable battery lasts for about a month on a single charge, making it both convenient and environmentally friendly. The Magic Trackpad 2 also introduces Force Touch technology, allowing you to perform different actions based on the pressure you apply.

This touchpad is perfect for creative professionals and everyday users alike, providing an unparalleled user experience.

PROS
  • Sleek design
  • Responsive touch surface
  • Long battery life
  • Advanced gesture controls
CONS
  • Premium price
  • Limited to Apple ecosystem

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions 6.3 x 4.52 x 0.43 inches
  • Weight 0.51 pounds
  • Connectivity Bluetooth
  • Battery Life Up to 1 month
  • Compatibility macOS

Main Features

  • Large glass touch surface
  • Multi-touch gesture support
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Compatible with Windows and Mac

Product Overview

The Logitech Wireless Rechargeable Touchpad T650 provides an intuitive and fluid way to control your computer. Its large, glass touch surface supports a wide range of multi-touch gestures, making navigation easier and more efficient.

The touchpad connects wirelessly to your computer via a tiny USB receiver, ensuring a reliable connection with minimal lag. The built-in rechargeable battery eliminates the need for disposable batteries, offering up to a month of use on a single charge.

The T650 is compatible with both Windows and Mac, making it a versatile choice for any user.

PROS
  • Smooth and responsive surface
  • Supports a wide range of gestures
  • Long battery life
  • Cross-platform compatibility
CONS
  • Requires USB receiver
  • Surface may show fingerprints

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions 5.3 x 5.1 x 0.3 inches
  • Weight 0.42 pounds
  • Connectivity Wireless (USB receiver)
  • Battery Life Up to 1 month
  • Compatibility Windows, Mac

Main Features

  • High sensitivity touch surface
  • Multi-touch gesture support
  • Pressure-sensitive pen included
  • USB and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Customizable ExpressKeys and Touch Ring

Product Overview

The Wacom Intuos Pro Medium is a top-tier touchpad that caters to creative professionals. Its highly sensitive touch surface allows for precise control and supports multi-touch gestures for efficient navigation.

The touchpad includes a pressure-sensitive pen with 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural drawing experience. The Intuos Pro connects to your computer via USB or Bluetooth, offering flexibility in how you set up your workspace.

It also features customizable ExpressKeys and a Touch Ring, allowing you to streamline your workflow with shortcuts and commands. This touchpad is ideal for artists, designers, and anyone requiring high precision in their work.

PROS
  • Highly sensitive and precise
  • Includes a pressure-sensitive pen
  • Customizable keys for shortcuts
  • Supports both USB and Bluetooth
CONS
  • Expensive
  • Steeper learning curve

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions 13.2 x 8.5 x 0.3 inches
  • Weight 1.54 pounds
  • Connectivity USB, Bluetooth
  • Pressure Sensitivity 8192 levels
  • Compatibility Windows, Mac

Main Features

  • Rotational control
  • Seamless integration with Surface devices
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Customizable functions
  • Wireless and clutter-free

Product Overview

The Microsoft Surface Dial is a revolutionary input device designed to enhance your creative workflow. It offers a unique rotational control that can be used to adjust settings, navigate through content, and access shortcuts.

The Surface Dial integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Surface devices, providing additional functionality when placed directly on the screen. It connects via Bluetooth, offering a wireless and clutter-free experience.

The device is also customizable, allowing you to assign different functions to the dial based on the application you are using. The Surface Dial is perfect for artists, designers, and anyone looking to add a new dimension to their computing experience.

PROS
  • Unique and innovative design
  • Seamless integration with Surface devices
  • Customizable for different applications
  • Long battery life
CONS
  • Limited to Microsoft ecosystem
  • Not a traditional touchpad

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions 2.32 x 2.32 x 1.18 inches
  • Weight 0.32 pounds
  • Connectivity Bluetooth
  • Battery Life Up to 6 months
  • Compatibility Windows, Surface devices

Main Features

  • Large, responsive trackball
  • Four customizable buttons
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Ergonomic design
  • Scroll ring for easy navigation

Product Overview

The Kensington Expert Mouse Wireless Trackball is a high-performance input device designed for comfort and efficiency. It features a large, responsive trackball that provides precise cursor control with minimal hand movement.

The trackball is complemented by four customizable buttons, allowing you to tailor the device to your specific needs. The Expert Mouse connects wirelessly via Bluetooth or a USB receiver, offering flexibility in how you set up your workspace.

Its ergonomic design reduces strain on your hand and wrist, making it ideal for prolonged use. The trackball also includes a scroll ring for easy navigation through documents and web pages. This device is perfect for professionals who require precise control and customization in their input devices.

PROS
  • Precise and responsive control
  • Customizable buttons
  • Ergonomic design reduces strain
  • Flexible wireless connectivity
CONS
  • Larger footprint
  • Learning curve for new users

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions 5.0 x 5.0 x 2.0 inches
  • Weight 0.53 pounds
  • Connectivity Bluetooth, USB receiver
  • Battery Life Up to 1 year
  • Compatibility Windows, Mac

Understanding Touchpads

Touchpads, also known as trackpads, are pointing devices featuring a tactile sensor that translates the motion and position of fingers to a relative position on the screen. They are commonly found on laptops but can also be used as external devices for desktops.

Key Factors to Consider

Sensitivity and Responsiveness

A high-quality touchpad should offer precise tracking and quick responsiveness to finger movements. Sensitivity is crucial for tasks that require accurate cursor control, such as graphic design or detailed editing. Look for touchpads with adjustable sensitivity settings, allowing you to customize the responsiveness to your preference.

Multi-Touch Gestures

Modern touchpads support multi-touch gestures, enabling various commands through finger movements like pinch-to-zoom, two-finger scrolling, and three-finger swipes. These gestures can significantly enhance productivity and ease of use. Ensure the touchpad you choose supports a comprehensive range of gestures and that these gestures are customizable.

Surface Material

The surface material of a touchpad affects the tactile experience. Premium touchpads often feature glass surfaces, providing a smooth and consistent glide that minimizes friction. Other materials, such as plastic, may not offer the same level of comfort and may wear out more quickly over time.

Size and Ergonomics

The size of the touchpad can impact usability. Larger touchpads provide more space for gestures and reduce the need for frequent repositioning of the fingers, which can be beneficial for extended use. Ergonomics also play a role; a touchpad should be positioned comfortably relative to the keyboard to prevent strain.

Integration with Operating Systems

Compatibility with your operating system is essential. Touchpads designed specifically for Windows (Precision Touchpads) or macOS (Apple's Force Touch) often provide better integration and support for system-specific gestures. Ensure the touchpad is tailored to your operating system to take full advantage of its features.

Customization and Software

Look for touchpads that come with dedicated software for customization. This software allows you to fine-tune settings, assign specific functions to gestures, and update firmware. Customization options can greatly enhance the overall functionality and user experience.

Build Quality and Durability

A well-built touchpad should withstand daily use without degrading in performance. Check for touchpads made from durable materials with solid construction. Reviews and user feedback can provide insights into the longevity and reliability of the touchpad.

Popular Touchpads on the Market

Apple Magic Trackpad 2

The Apple Magic Trackpad 2 is highly regarded for its seamless integration with macOS, offering a large glass surface and support for Force Touch, which detects varying levels of pressure for additional functionality. It is rechargeable and provides a smooth, responsive experience tailored for Apple users.

Microsoft Surface Precision Touchpad

Designed for Windows, the Microsoft Surface Precision Touchpad delivers excellent performance with a glass surface and support for Windows Precision drivers. It offers customizable gestures and settings through the Windows operating system, ensuring a responsive and comfortable experience.

Logitech Touchpad T650

The Logitech Touchpad T650 is a popular choice for users seeking an external touchpad for Windows. It features a large, smooth glass surface and supports a wide range of multi-touch gestures. The touchpad's rechargeable battery and wireless connectivity add to its convenience and usability.

Conclusion

Selecting the best computer touchpad involves considering factors such as sensitivity, multi-touch gesture support, surface material, size, integration with operating systems, customization options, and build quality. By carefully evaluating these aspects and reviewing user feedback, you can find a touchpad that meets your needs and enhances your computing experience.