Mouse Drift Test
Press start, take your hand off the mouse and wait. Any movement logged here happened without you.
Event Log
How to Use the Mouse Drift Test
A drifting cursor creeps across the screen when nobody is touching the mouse. It is usually caused by a dirty sensor, a shiny or patterned surface, a failing mouse, or a touchpad being touched by accident. This test watches for any movement while your hand is away.
- Pick a time. 20 seconds is a good start.
- Press Start. You get 3 seconds to let go.
- Don't touch anything. Keep hands off the mouse and the desk.
- Read the result. Zero moves means no drift.
How to Fix Mouse Drift
- Clean the sensor window with a dry cotton bud.
- Use a plain mouse pad. Glass and glossy desks confuse sensors.
- Replace or charge the batteries.
- Disconnect other pointing devices, like a drawing tablet.
- Turn off the laptop touchpad while you test.
Drift vs Jitter
Drift is movement without you. Jitter is shaky movement while you move. For jitter, use the mouse jitter test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my cursor move by itself?
Usually a dirty sensor or a bad surface. A failing mouse or another device can also cause it.
Can a game controller cause drift?
Yes, if a tool maps its stick to the mouse.
Can a touchpad cause it?
Yes, palm touches or a faulty pad.
Is it free?
Yes.
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