How to enable or disable mouse acceleration in macOS

Mouse acceleration determines how the cursor speed on your screen corresponds to the speed of the physical movement of the mouse. When enabled, the cursor moves faster across the screen with swifter mouse movements and slower with more gradual motions, offering a balance between precision and quick navigation.

In macOS, mouse acceleration is enabled by default, aiming to provide users with a smoother and more intuitive experience. However, some users, especially gamers or those accustomed to a linear mouse response, might prefer to disable it to achieve consistent mouse movement.

Unlike the past, where external applications like SteelSeries ExactMouse Tool or the LinearMouse app were required, macOS now provides built-in option within the System Settings app to toggle mouse acceleration on or off.

1. Open System Settings from the Apple menu at the top left of the screen.
2. Open the Mouse settings.
3. Click on the Advanced button.
4. Toggle the Pointer acceleration option on or off.
5. Click the Done button.
6. Test your mouse movement after making the adjustment.