In this article, FPT Shop will show you how to quickly and easily enable the laptop touchpad on Windows, allowing you to enjoy a smooth experience without unnecessary obstacles.
Why Enable the Laptop Touchpad?
A touchpad is an input device that is built into all laptops. It works by detecting the movement of your fingers on its surface using sensors. This allows you to perform actions like clicking, dragging, and dropping with ease.
In case you forget to bring an external mouse, the touchpad acts as your only “lifeline,” providing convenience and faster, more precise control.
3 Ways to Enable the Touchpad on Windows 10 Laptops
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
You can use keyboard shortcuts to enable the touchpad on Windows 10 laptops. Here are the shortcuts for different laptop brands:
- Asus laptops: Fn + F9 or F10.
- Acer laptops: Fn + F7.
- Lenovo laptops: Fn + F6.
- Dell laptops: Fn + F3 or F8.
- HP laptops: Fn + F7.
Using Bluetooth & Devices
Step 1: Access Settings by pressing Windows + I > select Devices.
Step 2: Click on Touchpad on the left-hand side of the interface > move the slider to the right to enable (On) the touchpad.
Step 3: Click on the checkbox labeled Leave touchpad on when a mouse is connected so that the touchpad remains active even when an external mouse is connected.
Using the Keyboard
Step 1: Press the Windows key on your keyboard > the Start menu will appear.
Step 2: Type “touchpad” to search for related keywords > press Enter to confirm.
Step 3: Press the Spacebar on your keyboard to enable the touchpad.
3 Ways to Enable the Touchpad on Windows 11 Laptops
Similar to Windows 10, there are 3 ways to enable the touchpad on Windows 11 laptops:
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
The keyboard shortcuts for Touchpad control are usually located in the top row. Different laptop models will have different Touchpad-labeled keys. The general shortcut formula is Fn + Touchpad symbol key. For example Fn + F6, Fn + F3, Fn + F9 or Fn + F7.
Using the Touch Keyboard Service
Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Services menu > type “services.msc” in the Run window > click OK.
Step 2: Select the Name column > scroll down and double-click on Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Panel Service.
Step 3: A new window will appear > select Automatic in the Startup type menu > click Start > OK.
Using Mouse Properties in Control Panel
Step 1: Open Control Panel > click Mouse to open the Touchpad control panel.
Step 2: In the Mouse Properties window, click Device Settings > select Enable > click Apply.
Troubleshooting: Why Can’t You Enable the Touchpad?
If you are unable to enable the touchpad using the methods above, there is a chance that the hardware on your laptop is faulty. Here are 4 steps to help you check the hardware:
Step 1: Open Start > click the Settings icon.
Step 2: Click Updates and Security > select Troubleshoot.
Step 3: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter.
Step 4: Restart your laptop to check if the issue has been resolved.
Conclusion
The methods for enabling the touchpad on Windows 10 and Windows 11 laptops are generally easy to follow and effective. If you find this guide helpful, share it with your friends and family.