What Am I Using?
Mouse pointer jumping or moving erratically?
Compare a mouse and trackpad, check the tracking surface and find whether the pointer jumps when the rest of the device stalls.
Does it behave normally with one input device at a time?
Disconnect the optional mouse and try the trackpad. If you have no trackpad, try a second mouse if available.
Device and operating system
Check the surface and the accessory
An optical mouse can track poorly on glass. A wet trackpad or low battery can also make movement erratic.
- Use the mouse on a plain matt surface or gently clean and dry the trackpad according to its manual.
- Charge a wireless mouse and compare a direct receiver connection. If the fault follows the accessory, ask the maker about service.
Check system pointer settings and stalls
Pointer settings or a busy system can affect several input devices.
- Check pointer speed and accessibility settings. Record the current values before making a small change.
- If the whole system pauses along with the pointer, check the activity monitor during the stall.
Try a repeatable movement
A simple movement helps you describe when the cursor goes off course.
- Move the pointer slowly from corner to corner and note when it jumps.
- Check whether it happens on a different surface or with the charging cable removed briefly from a charged laptop.