Learn About Trackpads

What is it?

Also known as "Touchpad", it is an input device that captures user input from surface movement, then sends them to your computer. It allows users to navigate graphical user interfaces (GUI) with ease, by moving a cursor. They mostly come included built-in laptops.

How does it work?

Trackpad works by doing the following (over simplified) steps:

1. Capture movement
2. Send data to computer

Look for

• Comfort

  Check how comfortable it is to use

• Surface Feel

  Check how comfortable the surface feels

• Precision

  Check how precise is it in tracking your movement

• Multi-Touch Gestures

  Check the multi-touch gestures it can do

• Integrated Buttons

  Check how the buttons are clickable and if they are easy to click from the entire surface

  Some trackpads with an integrated button are only easy to click from certain areas.

• Wireless

  Check if the trackpad is wireless

  Wireless trackpads can make your desk look more clean. It can be very useful if set away from your PC.

• Bluetooth

  Check if the trackpad uses Bluetooth

  Wireless Bluetooth trackpads can connect to your computer without using any ports, unlike wireless trackpads without Bluetooth, which usually need a USB port for their wireless receiver.

• Rechargeable

  Check if the trackpad batteries are rechargeable

  Wireless trackpads can either be equipped with rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. It is better to get one with rechargeable batteries.

• Noise

  Check the noise levels from using the trackpad

  It can be annoying to some people around you if you are using a noisy trackpad.

• Compatibility

  Check compatibility with your computer ports and OS

Avoid

• Uncomfortable

  Avoid uncomfortable trackpads

  It is very important to get a trackpad that is comfortable for you. Nothing matters as much as comfort. Best way to know is testing it yourself. See if you can try the trackpad before purchase.

• Gaming

  Avoid getting a trackpad for gaming