Skip to content
Follow
Ubuntu Linux

Adjust Mouse and Touchpad Speed in Ubuntu Linux

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 10, 2022 Updated Sep 15, 2026 2 min read
Enable Auto Login on Ubuntu Linux: Step-by-Step Guide
Enable Auto Login on Ubuntu Linux: Step-by-Step Guide

Adjusting the mouse and touchpad speed in Ubuntu Linux changes how fast your cursor moves across your display. Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and newer versions include built-in speed controls to help you speed up or slow down the pointer.

Advertisement

Getting the right pointer speed keeps your mouse or laptop trackpad feeling sharp and easy to control as you work.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Settings , then click Mouse & Touchpad. Use the Mouse Speed or Touchpad Speed slider to adjust how quickly your cursor moves across the screen until it feels comfortable.

Advertisement

How to adjust mouse and touchpad speed in Ubuntu Linux

You can adjust mouse and touchpad speed in Ubuntu Linux by opening the Settings app and selecting the Mouse & Touchpad menu. From there, drag the slider for pointer speed left to slow it down or right to speed it up. This quick change works for both external mice and built-in laptop touchpads without needing any extra tools or terminal commands.

Here is how to adjust the mouse and touchpad speed settings in Ubuntu Linux:

Ubuntu Linux keeps its settings in one central place. Manage your system configurations, user accounts, and updates from the System Settings panel.

Ubuntu Linux activities overview screen
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, click the System menu at the top-right corner of your desktop’s top bar.

Advertisement

Select Settings from the System menu, as shown here.

Ubuntu Linux system menu showing settings option
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

Click the Mouse & Touchpad tile in the Settings app to open its panel.

Mouse and Touchpad settings tile in Ubuntu
ubuntu linux mouse and touchpad tile

In the 'System Settings - Mouse & Touchpad' panel, look under 'Mouse'. Adjust the 'Mouse Speed' or 'Touchpad Speed' slider until the pointer motion feels comfortable.

Mouse and Touchpad speed settings in Ubuntu Linux
ubuntu linux mouse and touchpad settings

Settings that work well for a mouse might not suit a trackpad.

Advertisement

Close the Settings app to finish the process.

Dialing in the right pointer speed ensures your hardware feels natural and responsive under your fingertips.

  • Adjusting the mouse and touchpad speed in Ubuntu Linux is crucial for a comfortable user experience.
  • Ubuntu Linux provides a centralized location in the System Settings panel for adjusting these speed settings.
  • Following the outlined steps, users can easily customize the pointer speed for their mouse and touchpad devices.
  • Finding the optimal settings for mouse and touchpad devices can significantly enhance productivity and user comfort.

Was this guide helpful?

Was this helpful?
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

Advertisement

📚 Related Tutorials

How to Locate Your Mouse Pointer in Ubuntu Linux
Ubuntu Linux How to Locate Your Mouse Pointer in Ubuntu Linux
How to Change Touchpad Scroll Speed in Windows 11
Windows How to Change Touchpad Scroll Speed in Windows 11
How to Change Touchpad Zoom Speed in Windows 11
Windows How to Change Touchpad Zoom Speed in Windows 11
How to Change Mouse Scroll Speed in Windows 11
Windows How to Change Mouse Scroll Speed in Windows 11

No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *