Turning off mouse acceleration in Windows 11 can seriously improve your control, especially if you’re into gaming or doing some design work. It might seem like a small change, but for those who need smooth, predictable cursor movements, disabling “Enhance pointer precision” makes a big difference. Sometimes, this feature makes your mouse feel a bit twitchy or inconsistent, which is bloody annoying when accuracy matters. The steps are pretty straightforward, but Windows can hide a few options, so it’s easy to miss a step. Here’s a simple walkthrough that might save you some headaches.
How to Turn Off Mouse Acceleration in Windows 11
This all works because Windows applies mouse acceleration via the “Enhance pointer precision” setting, tucked away in the Mouse Properties. When you turn it off, your cursor should move more linearly — you move the mouse, and the cursor moves the same distance every time. Dead easy, but it takes a few clicks. Once done, you’ll notice a more solid feel, especially if you’re into gaming or pixel-perfect stuff.
Enable Developer Mode & Open Hidden Options (If Needed)
- Sometimes it helps to flick on Developer Mode to access some deeper settings or tools like DIP switches or registry hacks — but honestly, that’s usually not necessary here, just for the nabbers wanting to go the extra mile.
Open Settings
First up, press Windows + I to jump straight into Settings. If you prefer clicking around, hit the Start menu and select Settings. Easy as. This is where the magic begins.
Navigate to Devices
Once in Settings, click on Bluetooth & devices (or just Devices, depending on your build), then select Mouse from the sidebar. Here you’ll find all the mouse-related options, like speed and tweaks. Note: in some Windows versions, the path might differ a tad, but generally it’ll be under “Devices”.
Open Additional Mouse Options
Scroll down a bit and click on Additional mouse options — that’s the link you need. It opens the classic Mouse Properties window, which is a bit old-school but still handy.
Disable Enhance Pointer Precision
In the Mouse Properties window, go to the Pointer Options tab. That’s where the magic happens. Uncheck Enhance pointer precision. That’s the key step to turning off acceleration. Sometimes, it’s checked by default, so make sure you switch it off. Hit Apply, then OK — and you’re all set.
Quick heads up: on some setups, Windows might ignore this change until you restart your PC. Try rebooting straight away or just turn your mouse off and back on. Strangely, sometimes it takes a restart before it applies properly — typical Windows magic, eh?
Tips for Turning Off Mouse Acceleration in Windows 11
- Use a smooth, flat mouse pad or surface — it helps with accuracy during testing.
- If you’ve got a fancy gaming mouse, tweak the DPI settings in their software for even better control.
- Test your setup by dragging the mouse slowly and then quickly across a blank area. If the cursor travels similar distances, you’re all good.
- Keep your mouse drivers updated, especially if you notice stutters or erratic movements.
- Sometimes, the setting doesn’t take immediately, so a quick reboot or disconnect/reconnect of your mouse can help seal the deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mouse acceleration?
It’s that feature where moving your mouse faster makes the cursor go further — even if you move it the same amount physically. Kinda odd, but Windows uses it to help with some interface animations. Not everyone’s a fan, especially when doing precise work.
Why should I turn off mouse acceleration?
Because it makes cursor movement more predictable. That’s especially handy for gaming, design, or anything that needs steady, pixel-perfect control. When it’s on, your mouse can feel a bit inconsistent, especially with quick flicks.
Does turning it off mess with gaming?
Most competitive gamers swear by turning it off. It helps develop muscle memory and makes aiming or camera control smoother. Casual users might need a bit of time to get used to it, but it’s well worth trying.
How can I tell if it’s actually turned off?
Move your mouse slowly and then quickly over the same distance — the cursor should move the same each time. If it feels consistent and predictable, you’re sorted.
Can I re-enable it later?
No worries — just head back into Mouse Properties and check Enhance pointer precision again. Easy as.
Summary
- Open Settings (Windows + I)
- Go to Bluetooth & devices > Mouse
- Click Additional mouse options
- Uncheck Enhance pointer precision
- Reboot or reconnect your mouse to make sure the change sticks
Wrap-up
Turning off mouse acceleration in Windows 11 isn’t too tricky once you find the right spot, though it’s a bit tucked away. The main thing is opening the classic Mouse Properties and flipping that checkbox off. It can really smooth out your experience if you need pixel-perfect control, and a bit of tweaking makes it feel more natural. Just be aware that sometimes, a reboot or reconnect is needed for the setting to fully take effect. Whether you’re into gaming or design, give it a go — it could make a real difference.