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To change a pointer scheme or replace an individual cursor in Windows 11, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse > Additional mouse settings, then use the Pointers tab in Mouse Properties. To make the pointer larger or change its color, use Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch.
Choose the right Windows 11 control
| What you want to change | Where to go | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Pointer artwork or a coordinated set of cursors | Mouse Properties > Pointers | Apply a scheme or select a cursor role and browse for a pointer file. Microsoft Support |
| Pointer size, style, or color | Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch | Adjust the built-in pointer’s size and appearance. Microsoft Support |
Change a pointer scheme or individual cursor
- Open Settings and select Bluetooth & devices > Mouse.
- Under Related settings, select Additional mouse settings to open Mouse Properties.
- Select the Pointers tab.
- To change the full set, open the Scheme list and select a scheme. To change just one cursor, select its role in Customize, select Browse, choose a pointer file, and select Open.
- Select OK to apply the change.
Changing one cursor role lets you customize that item without choosing a complete scheme. The available schemes and pointer files depend on what is present on your PC; the Microsoft instructions do not specify a fixed list of third-party cursor files.
Make the pointer larger or change its color
- Open Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch.
- Adjust Size to enlarge the pointer.
- Select a pointer style or color: white, black, inverted, one of the recommended bright colors, or a custom color.
Microsoft notes that changing pointer color also changes the text cursor. See Microsoft’s accessibility instructions.
Use trails and other visibility controls
If your goal is to follow pointer movement or change what happens while you type, those are separate from choosing pointer artwork, size, or color:
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#1 Best Overall
Sale
Logitech M185 Compact Ambidextrous 2.4 GHz Wireless Mouse - Swift Grey
- Compact Mouse: With a comfortable and contoured shape, this Logitech ambidextrous wireless mouse feels great in either right or left hand and is far superior to a touchpad
- Durable and Reliable: This USB wireless mouse features a line-by-line scroll wheel, up to 1 year of battery life (2) thanks to a smart sleep mode function, and comes with the included AA battery
- Universal Compatibility: Your Logitech mouse works with your Windows PC, Mac, or laptop, so no matter what type of computer you own today or buy tomorrow your mouse will be compatible
- Plug and Play Simplicity: Just plug in the tiny nano USB receiver and start working in seconds with a strong, reliable connection to your wireless computer mouse up to 33 feet / 10 m (5)
- Better than touchpad: Get more done by adding M185 to your laptop; according to a recent study, laptop users who chose this mouse over a touchpad were 50% more productive (3) and worked 30% faster (4)
- In Mouse Properties, open Pointer Options to turn on Display pointer trails and adjust the trail length, or enable Hide pointer while typing. Microsoft’s Mouse settings guide covers these options.
- Pointer trails are also available through Windows accessibility settings. Microsoft’s visibility guidance describes pointer visibility and trails.
These settings affect visibility or pointer behavior rather than the cursor artwork itself.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
VssoPlor Wireless Mouse, 2.4G Slim Computer Laptop Mouse, Black and Gold
- LOW POWER CONSUMPTION: Intelligent sleep mode can better extend battery life. It will enter auto sleep mode if you don't use it for 5 minutes to save battery and need to click it, the mouse will enter working mode again
- STABLE CONNECTION: 2.4 GHz wireless provides stronger anti-interference ability, a faster transmission speed and a more reliable connection, working distances can up to 10 m, and high DPI can make it track more smoothly over most surfaces
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY: Well compatible with Windows7/8/10/XP, Vista, Mac OS X 10.4 etc. Fits for desktop, laptop, PC and other devices
- ERGONOMIC & COMPACT DESIGN: USB-receiver stays in your PC USB port or stows conveniently inside the wireless mouse when not in use. The lightweight and simple features make the mouse perfect for the journey, office, home
- WHISPER & SENSITIVE CLICKING: Smooth frosted surface and quiet clicks can bring a better user experience and free your worry about bothering others and keep you stay focused while working
Rank #4
HP X3000 G3 Wireless Mouse Silver, up to 15-Month Battery,Scroll Wheel, Side Grips for Control, Travel-Friendly, Blue LED, Powerful 1600 DPI Optical Sensor, Win XP,8, 11 Compatible (683N9AA#ABL)
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN: Contoured, wireless optical mouse with 3-button navigation and integrated scroll wheel lets you be productive all-day using either-hand; multi-OS (1), multi-device optical mouse and gives you the freedom to work or play from almost anywhere.
- WIRELESS CONVENIENCE: Go cordless with 2.4 GHz USB-A connectivity that keeps you connected up to a range of 30 feet; USB nano receiver stores inside the mouse for easy portability
- MULTI-SURFACE PERFORMANCE: Be ready for anything with LED multi-surface technology that smooth, lag-free movement on virtually any surface (2)
- PRECISION CONTROL: 1600 dpi optical sensor provides reliable mouse tracking, exceptional speed, and pinpoint accuracy that can be customized to match your working style
- DEPENDABLE POWER: With up to 15 months of use on a 1 AA battery (3), this HP wireless mouse is designed to push the limits and work as hard as you do
Rank #3
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HP X3000 G3 Wireless Mouse - Black, 15-Month Battery, Side Grips for Control, Travel-Friendly, Blue LED, Powerful 1600 DPI Optical Sensor, Compatible with Wins PC/Laptop, Mac, Chromebook (683N7AA)
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN: Contoured, wireless optical mouse with 3-button navigation and integrated scroll wheel lets you be productive all-day using either-hand; multi-OS (1), multi-device optical mouse and gives you the freedom to work or play from almost anywhere
- WIRELESS CONVENIENCE: Go cordless with 2.4 GHz USB-A connectivity that keeps you connected up to a range of 30 feet; USB nano receiver stores inside the mouse for easy portability
- MULTI-SURFACE PERFORMANCE: Be ready for anything with LED multi-surface technology that smooth, lag-free movement on virtually any surface (2)
- PRECISION CONTROL: 1600 dpi optical sensor provides reliable mouse tracking, exceptional speed, and pinpoint accuracy that can be customized to match your working style
- DEPENDABLE POWER: With up to 15 months of use on a 1 AA battery (3), this HP wireless mouse is designed to push the limits and work as hard as you do
Rank #2
Amazon Basics 3-Button USB Wired Mouse with Responsive Tracking, Plug & Play, Compatible with Windows and Mac, Black
- Computer mouse for easily navigating a computer interface; click, scroll, and more
- USB-A wired connection; if existing device only supports USB-C, an additional adapter will be required
- High-definition (1000 dpi) optical tracking ensures responsive cursor control for precise tracking and easy text selection
- 3 buttons offer effortless fingertip control
- Plug-and-go ready for instant use
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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