Key takeaways
- Multi-touch gestures: Intuitive scrolling, zooming, and navigation.
- Slim, clean designs: Aluminum and glass surfaces look great on any desk.
- Wired and wireless options: Choose plug-and-play or Bluetooth freedom.
- Ergonomic alternative: A comfortable change from a traditional mouse.
What's inside
A dedicated trackpad for your PC brings the smooth, gesture-driven navigation of a laptop touchpad to any desktop or workstation. For users who prefer multi-touch gestures over a traditional mouse, or who want a compact, ergonomic input option, an external trackpad is a genuinely useful accessory. They are especially popular with those who value precise scrolling, quiet operation, and a clean desk setup.
In this review we look at a range of trackpads for PC, from wired high-precision models to Bluetooth options and Apple’s Magic Trackpad. We cover design, performance, and value so you can find the right touchpad for your Windows or Mac setup.
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Design & Build
These trackpads range from slim wired pads to premium wireless models. The ProtoArc wired trackpad and similar high-precision pads feature ultra-slim aluminum designs that look sharp on any desk, while the ProtoArc T1 Plus adds Bluetooth and a large 6.4-inch touch surface for expansive gesture control. Apple’s Magic Trackpad offers a premium multi-touch glass surface with Force Touch, and the compact Perixx PERIPAD-501 keeps things small and simple. Build quality is generally strong across the group, with the aluminum and glass models feeling especially premium and durable.
Performance
Trackpad performance comes down to precision, gestures, and connectivity. The wired ProtoArc and multi-touch pads deliver responsive, high-precision tracking with multi-gesture support for Windows 10 and 11, making scrolling, zooming, and switching apps intuitive. The ProtoArc T1 Plus stands out with Bluetooth connectivity, three-device switching, and a rechargeable battery, eliminating cable clutter entirely. Apple’s Magic Trackpad shines on Mac with Force Touch and fluid gesture recognition, and also works with iPad and Vision Pro. The compact Perixx pad is a no-frills wired option for those who just want basic touchpad functionality in a small footprint.
Pros & Cons
- Multi-touch gestures: Intuitive scrolling, zooming, and navigation.
- Slim, clean designs: Aluminum and glass surfaces look great on any desk.
- Wired and wireless options: Choose plug-and-play or Bluetooth freedom.
- Ergonomic alternative: A comfortable change from a traditional mouse.
- Not ideal for gaming: Trackpads lack the precision of a gaming mouse.
- Gesture support varies: Some Windows gestures depend on drivers and setup.
- Premium pricing: The Apple Magic Trackpad commands a higher cost.
Alternatives to Consider
If you want wireless freedom and multi-device switching, the ProtoArc T1 Plus Bluetooth trackpad is the standout pick. Mac users will get the most from the Apple Magic Trackpad with its Force Touch and deep gesture integration. For a simple, affordable wired option, the ProtoArc wired pad or the compact Perixx PERIPAD-501 cover the basics well without the premium price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do trackpads work with Windows?
Yes. Models like the ProtoArc trackpads are designed for Windows 10 and 11, supporting multi-touch gestures for scrolling, zooming, and navigation right out of the box.
Are trackpads good for gaming?
Not really. Trackpads excel at navigation and gestures but lack the speed and precision needed for gaming, so a dedicated gaming mouse remains the better choice for play.
Wired or wireless trackpad, which is better?
Wired pads offer simple plug-and-play reliability, while Bluetooth models like the ProtoArc T1 Plus reduce clutter and allow multi-device switching. Choose based on your setup preferences.
Can I use the Apple Magic Trackpad on a PC?
It works best on Mac with full gesture support. It can connect to Windows via Bluetooth, but some advanced gestures require additional drivers to function properly.
Verdict
A trackpad for PC is a smart, ergonomic alternative to the mouse for gesture-loving users. The ProtoArc T1 Plus leads for wireless multi-device use, the Apple Magic Trackpad is the premium choice for Mac, and the wired ProtoArc and Perixx pads deliver solid value. Consider your operating system, connectivity preference, and how you navigate, and you will find a trackpad that makes daily computing smoother and more comfortable.
