How to change mouse DPI
Optimize your cursor control for precision
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Whether you’re a gamer or designer, understanding how to change mouse DPI is essential for optimizing your computer’s cursor speed and precision.
Mouse DPI (dots per inch) refers to the sensitivity of your mouse, determining how much the cursor moves on the screen relative to the physical movement of the mouse. A higher DPI means more cursor movement with minimal mouse movement (speedy), while a lower DPI results in low cursor movement despite greater mouse movement (slow).
In this article, we’ll explain how to change your mouse DPI using Windows, Mac, and relevant third-party apps. And if you want a mouse with an impressive DPI range, don’t miss our ranking of thebest micefor work and play.
Tools and requirements
Steps for how to change mouse DPI on Windows
Step by step guide to change mouse DPI on Windows
1. Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Mouse
Launch Settingson your computer,select Bluetooth & devicesfrom the left-hand menu, thenscroll downandclickMouse.
2. Adjust the mouse pointer speed
Adjust thesliderbesideMouse pointer speedto increase or decrease the mouse DPI.
Movingthesliderto theleft lowers the DPI, which causes the cursor to move slower.Movingthesliderto theright increases the DPIand makes the cursor move faster with minimal movement.
Tools and requirements
Steps for how to change mouse DPI on Mac
Step by step guide to change mouse DPI on Mac
1. Launch System Settings
ClicktheApple iconin the top left corner andselect System Settings.
2. Mouse settings > Adjust Tracking speed
Scroll downthe left-hand menu andclick Mouse.AdjustthesliderbesideTracking speedto increase or decrease the mouse DPI.
Shiftingthesliderto theleft reducestheDPIand slows the cursor.Movingthesliderto theright increasestheDPIand makes the cursor move faster.
Tools and Requirements
Steps for how to change mouse DPI using third-party software
Step by step guide to change mouse DPI using third-party software
We’ve demonstrated the steps below using theLogitechOptions app, which is compatible with Logitech mice.
1. Open the third-party app
Launchthethird-party app(in this case, Logitech Options).
2. Adjust the pointer speed
Click Point & Scrollat the top left andadjusttheslider under Pointer speed.
Movingit to theleft lowerstheDPIand slows the cursor speed whilemovingit to theright increasestheDPIand speeds up the cursor.
Final thoughts
Adjusting your mouse DPI tailors it for your specific needs and enhances precision and productivity. Whether you’re navigating through large documents, designing, or playing FPS games, using the right DPI setting is vital for optimal performance.
It’s worth bearing in mind that some mice - especially thebest gaming mice- will come with a dedicated button (usually on the underside or top center of the mouse) for switching between DPI presets without the need for software. Some even have a ‘sniper button’ which can be held down to lower your mouse sensitivity temporarily for careful shots in first-person shooters.
For more tips on computer mice, readhow to control two computers with a single mouse,how to change your mouse cursor, andhow to power up your mouse with Mouse Utilities.
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Nikshep Myle is a freelance writer covering tech, health, and wellbeing. He has written for popular tech blogs like Tom’s Guide, GadgetReview, SlashGear, and Creative Bloq, and has extensively reviewed consumer gadgets. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him meditating, gaming, discovering new music, and indulging in adventurous and creative pursuits.
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