Is Your Mouse Frozen on MacBook? 8 Potential Solutions

If your MacBook is anything like mine, the mouse tends to freeze up every once in a while. It’s frustrating when you’re working on something, and suddenly your mouse stops responding. 

But don’t worry; a few potential solutions might fix your frozen mouse issue. In this blog post, we’ll explore a few different methods that you can try to get your mouse moving again. Hopefully, one of them works for you.

Why Mouse Freezes on MacBook

There are several potential reasons why a Macbook mouse may freeze. If your mouse freezes, you won’t be able to drag and drop on Mac or perform any function with your mouse. The first and most common concern is that the wireless mouse is out of range or needs new batteries.

Alternatively, if you are using an older wired mouse, it may malfunction due to age or wear and tear. Additionally, if the trackball on the laptop itself is not working correctly, this can also cause the mouse to freeze. 

In some cases, there could also be a software issue that needs addressing, such as outdated drivers or a conflict with another program running in the background.

Whatever the cause of the problem, it is essential to identify and rectify any underlying issues before attempting to resolve the frozen mouse situation. 

Potential Fixes for Frozen Mouse

1. Check Bluetooth Connectivity

One potential fix for a frozen mouse on a Macbook is to check your Bluetooth connection. You can do this by going into the System Preferences and clicking on the Bluetooth icon. 

Ensure that your mouse is still connected and paired with your Macbook. If not, try disconnecting and reconnecting it to see if that helps resolve the issue.

2. Check Batteries

If the Bluetooth connection appears to be working, check the batteries in your mouse. This can help eliminate laggy behavior or a frozen cursor. Try replacing them with new ones and see if this resolves the issue. 

3. Try Another Mouse

If neither of those options works, you may need to use another mouse entirely. Consider purchasing an external USB-connected mouse as an alternative to a wireless one. This could significantly improve your user experience while solving any frozen cursor issues you may have been experiencing.

Additionally, though not necessarily related to freezing issues, an external mouse gives you more control over customization settings like sensitivity and scroll speed than most wireless mice do. Select your mouse according to your use like if you need a mouse for gaming, then G Pro X superlight is the best option for you.

4. Trackpad Malfunctioning

One potential fix for a frozen mouse in a MacBook is to check the trackpad for any signs of faulty performance. The trackpad is responsible for interpreting your movements and translating them into actions on the screen. If it has become worn or damaged, it can cause the mouse to freeze.

Try cleaning your trackpad with an anti-static cloth and rubbing alcohol if necessary. This will help remove any dirt or particles which could be causing interference with its operation. 

5. Update MacOs

Updating macOS is one of the most effective methods to fix a frozen mouse on a MacBook. It is essential to keep the latest version of Mac’s Operating System as this will ensure it has all the necessary updates and patches to protect it from security threats and keep it running smoothly.

To update the macOS, open the App Store application and click on the Updates tab. If there are any available updates, they will appear in the list, so select them and hit Install.

6. Restart Mac

You can also restart your Mac or even force quitting any applications running in case they are causing an issue with your mouse cursor.

To restart your Mac, click on Apple in the top left corner of your screen and select ‘Restart.’ 

7. Reset NVRAM

One potential fix for a frozen mouse on a MacBook is to reset the Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM). NVRAM is a type of memory that stores certain settings and information, such as display resolution, system time, and speaker volume. Resetting this memory could fix the issue with the frozen mouse. To do so:

• Shut down your MacBook by pressing and holding the power button until it turns off. 
• Press and hold the Command + Option + P + R keys on your keyboard. 
• Turn on your Mac by pressing the power button. 
• Hold down the keys until you hear two startup chimes indicating NVRAM has been reset. 
• Release the keys and let your Mac finish starting up normally. 
• Try using your mouse again to see if it has been fixed. 

8. Reset SMC

You may need to reset the SMC. This can be done by shutting down your Mac and disconnecting any external power source (if applicable). Once it is powered off, press and hold Shift + Control + Option on one side of your keyboard and then press the Power button once. 

Hold these keys until you hear a startup chime, and release them. Your SMC will now be reset.

Final Thoughts

If you have a MacBook and your mouse is frozen, don’t panic. There are several potential solutions. First, check to see if the batteries need to be changed. If that doesn’t work, try resetting the NVRAM or SMC. 

You may also need to update the macOS or apps. If none of these solutions work, you may need to reset your Mac.