How to Disable the Touchpad on Windows 10

This article explains how to disable a laptop touchpad in Windows 10. Additional instructions cover how to adjust touchpad sensitivity and how to reset touchpad settings.

Why Disable the Touchpad in Windows 10?

Some users prefer using a mouse because it's generally more comfortable. Others with touchscreen-enabled PCs may prefer to tap and swipe their laptop screens like a tablet.

While working on a document, you might want to temporarily disable the touchpad to avoid accidentally tapping something or moving the mouse pointer while typing on the keyboard. A touchpad's proximity to the keyboard makes it more vulnerable to these kinds of accidents.

How to Disable the Touchpad on Windows 10

Check to see if there's a physical key on your laptop to disable/enable your touchpad's functionality. The key may have an icon resembling a touchpad. You will likely have to hold the Fn key as you press it.

If your device doesn't have such a key, follow these instructions to disable the touchpad from your Windows Settings:

1. Select the Windows icon in the lower-left corner of your screen, then select the gear icon to open Windows Settings.

   Alternatively, type settings in the Windows search box and select Settings from the list of options that appear.

2. Select Devices.

3. Select Touchpad in the left pane, then switch Touchpad to Off.

   To automatically turn off the touchpad when you plug in your mouse, uncheck Leave touchpad on when a mouse is connected.

4. If you want to change the touchpad's level of sensitivity, scroll down to Touchpad Sensitivity. You can also choose what happens when you tap the touchpad, and when you Scroll and zoom.

5. Scroll down farther to customize Three-finger gestures and Four-finger gestures.

6. Scroll to the bottom of the screen and select Reset to restore the touchpad's default settings.