To use a trackpad, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with the computer’s operating system, whether it is Windows, MacOS, or both. While trackpads are generally compatible with both, some models may only work with older Windows 10 software and not the latest Windows 11 operating system (double-check what OS the computer is running before buying one).

　　If it’s a Mac computer (or iPad), we recommend using Apple’s . The trackpad offers deeper integration with the software, including multi-touch gestures and Force Touch (more on that later).

　　Wired vs. Wireless

　　Next, you need to decide whether you want a wireless or wired trackpad. Wired trackpads connect to your computer with a USB cable, while wireless uses Bluetooth. Wired connections are much more reliable and you won’t have to worry about recharging the battery, either. However, wireless models are more versatile and less annoying to use, since a cord won’t get in the way. Unfortunately, wireless models may occasionally suffer from lag, so keep that in mind.

　　Additional Features

　　Some trackpads come with additional features like customization, haptic feedback, and palm rejection technology. These features can greatly enhance the experience beyond pointing a computer’s cursor where to go. For instance, multi-touch gestures, such as two-finger scrolling, three-finger swipe, and pinch-to-zoom, can enhance productivity and help you interact well with specific apps. For photographers and graphic designers, pinch-to-zoom allows for precise viewing and detailed editing.

　　1Best Overall

　　Apple Magic Trackpad

　　Credit: AppleProsCons

　　Charges with proprietary cableWe recommend Apple’s Magic Trackpad to Mac and iPad owners. The trackpad offers deep integration with Apple’s software, with several customizable gesture controls allowing users to tailor the experience to their needs. For example, the trackpad’s settings make it possible to pinch-to-zoom and rotate images with two fingers. Users can also swipe between pages and open the Notification Center with simple gestures. These features are intuitive and can enhance productivity.

　　The trackpad features a wide surface area that’s 6.30x4.52 inches, giving you plenty of real estate for scrolling and clicking with precision. With support for Force Touch, the trackpad also enables additional actions, like instantly looking up a word on a website with a slightly firmer-than-normal click. Force Touch also mimics a traditional “click” sensation thanks to the haptics inside.

　　While built for Apple devices, it also works with Windows and Chromebook machines. However, it doesn’t support the same customizable gesture controls you get with a Mac. Still, the Magic Trackpad is, without question, the best trackpad for everyday use, thanks to its precision and customizable gestures.

　　2Best Budget

　　Perixx PERIPAD-501 Wired USB Trackpad

　　Pros

　　Supports multitouch gestures

　　Affordable

　　Small, portable designCons

　　Small touch surfacePerixx’s touchpad comes in two sizes: one that measures in at just 2.3x1.7 inches, and another that’s slightly larger at 4.7x3.5 inches. In addition to the touch surface, both options feature two buttons for clicking through the computer's interface.

　　Unlike the Magic Trackpad, which is wireless, Perixx’s model needs to be plugged into a computer via a USB-A port. Both Perixx trackpads are compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11 and support plenty of gestures to rotate, zoom, and scroll.

　　Despite its more practical design, Perixx’s PERIPAD is comfortable and quick to set up — just plug and play. However, we found the trackpad’s small touch surface cramped, which can be problematic for people with larger hands. That said, the trackpad’s size and weight make it easy to travel with, and its features provide an excellent alternative to a traditional mouse.

　　Key Specs

　　3Best for PC

　　VssoPlor USB Touchpad

　　Pros

　　Highly responsive

　　Slim, sleek design

　　Multitouch gesturesCons

　　Included microUSB cable is shortMeasuring in at 5.5x4 inches, it’s a tad smaller than Apple’s trackpad, but it’s plenty spacious to get work done. Although this option is much more expensive than other PC trackpads, it’s worth the splurge since it has a durable aluminum construction, support for multitouch gestures, and is more responsive.

　　“The responsiveness of the touchpad is quite good,” wrote Vlad, a reviewer on Amazon. “It doesn’t have any dead zones or issues that cause erroneous presses, so you're free to set this to High Sensitivity and use it reliably.”

　　The biggest downside is that it isn’t battery-powered, so it needs to be plugged in via USB-A. The good news is the trackpad is plug-and-play, meaning it’ll work without downloading additional software. Overall, VssoPlor’s peripheral is a solid and reliable trackpad that’s compatible with all Windows PCs.

　　Key Specs

　　4Best for Artists

　　Wacom Intuos Pro Graphics Tablet

　　Pros

　　Equipped with customizable keys

　　Available in multiple sizes

　　Quick, responsive inputCons

　　ExpensiveIf you’re an artist, illustrator, or graphic designer, consider splurging for the Wacom Intuos Pro. It’s the gold-standard drawing tablet for professionals in the creative industry. The Intuos Pro offers a precise and roomy drawing space, customizable keys, and a durable build.

　　What separates it from other drawing tablets is its useful Touch Ring, which is used for scrolling, zooming, rotating your canvas, switching between layers, and adjusting brush size. Since the device supports multitouch, it completely functions as a trackpad. You can ditch your mouse and easily switch among tabs and apps, scroll, and select items on your PC or Mac. This option comes in three distinct sizes: small, , and .

　　Key Specs

　　5For the Mouse-Inclined

　　Microsoft Surface Arc Mouse

　　Pros

　　Highly portable

　　Connects over Bluetooth

　　Mouse-touchpad hybridCons

　　Can make your hand cramp after extended use

　　Requires two AAA batteriesThe Microsoft Surface Arc is a wireless mouse-touchpad hybrid with a unique collapsible design. When not in use, the mouse lays completely flat. But fold the mouse into the “arc” position, and it will instantly connect to a PC. When in arc mode, the device looks more like a traditional mouse. However, the upper half features a touch-sensitive trackpad to scroll vertically or horizontally. Unfortunately, the trackpad portion doesn’t support gestures like pinch-to-zoom, though it does offer right- and left-click abilities.

　　The Surface Arc’s collapsible design makes it an excellent option for those who like to work in coffee shops, airports, or wherever there’s Wi-Fi. While it lacks support for more advanced gestures, it offers a unique take on the traditional mouse, ultimately making it a solid hybrid option.

　　Key Specs

　　6Best Keyboard

　　Arteck Bluetooth Keyboard with Touchpad

　　Pros

　　Wide compatibility

　　Three devices in one

　　Colorful backlightCons

　　Limited multitouch gesturesRather than purchase a keyboard, trackpad, or mouse separately, the Arteck combines all three into a single device. The device features a compact keyboard with a row of slim media keys on top, a trackpad on the right, and left- and right-click buttons below. Despite the hybrid design, the keyboard is thin and light, with a Bluetooth range of up to 33 feet. That range means users can control a TV-connected computer from the comfort of their couch. Hey, who says you can’t be comfortable while working?

　　In addition to its hybrid design, the keyboard features seven backlight colors (red, blue, cyan, white, yellow, green, and purple), making it possible to use in a dimly lit room. Unfortunately, the touchpad only supports the pinch-to-zoom multitouch gesture. However, Arteck’s device is compatible with various devices, from Windows to macOS to Chrome OS. The brand also claims the rechargeable battery can last six months on a single charge, based on 2 hours of use per day.

　　Key Specs

　　7Most Portable

　　Sidiwen Backlit Mini Keyboard

　　Pros

　　Easily fits in a bag

　　Has keys for typing

　　Quick, responsive trackpadCons

　　Touchpad keys are smallIf you don’t want a full-sized keyboard like the Arteck, this remote-control-style trackpad is another portable option to consider for easily surfing through Netflix. It’s backlit and has a built-in multitouch trackpad to easily scroll through web pages. Meanwhile, the device is compatible with everything from Windows to macOS to gaming consoles.

　　The mini keyboard isn’t the most comfortable device to use, and you’ll probably type significantly more slowly on it than you would with a standard-sized keyboard or your smartphone. (That said, it harkens back to the early days of the smartphone, for those old enough to remember the Sidekick.) Still, it’s a lot better than typing with a cursor, and its trackpad is very responsive.

　　Key Specs