Fix Mouse Lagging or Not Responding in Windows 10/11

Mouse lagging or not responding in Windows 10 and 11 is a common issue that can significantly hinder productivity and overall user experience. Whether you are using a wired or wireless mouse, problems such as delayed cursor movement, freezing, or complete unresponsiveness can be frustrating. This comprehensive guide explores the causes of mouse lag, along with step-by-step solutions to resolve it effectively.

Common Causes of Mouse Lag in Windows 10/11

Mouse lag or unresponsiveness can be attributed to multiple factors. Here are some common causes:

Cause	Description
Outdated Drivers	If mouse drivers are outdated or corrupt, they can cause lag or disconnection issues.
Wireless Interference	Other wireless devices operating on the same frequency may disrupt mouse connectivity.
High CPU Usage	Overloaded system resources can delay mouse response.
Faulty USB Port	Damaged or malfunctioning USB ports can cause intermittent disconnections.
Power Management Settings	Windows may turn off USB devices to save power, causing the mouse to lag or disconnect.
Display Settings	Incorrect refresh rate or resolution settings can impact mouse movement.
Software Conflicts	Background applications may interfere with mouse functionality.

How to Fix Mouse Lag or Unresponsiveness in Windows 10/11

To effectively fix mouse lag, follow the solutions below in order.

1. Update or Reinstall Mouse Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause lagging issues. To update or reinstall your mouse driver:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Mice and other pointing devices.
3. Right-click your mouse and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. If no updates are found, uninstall the driver and restart your computer to reinstall it automatically.

➡ Official Microsoft Support – Windows Updates

2. Check for Wireless Interference (For Wireless Mice)

If you’re using a Bluetooth or wireless mouse, interference may be causing the lag. Try these fixes:

• Move other wireless devices away from the mouse.
• Replace the batteries or recharge the mouse.
• Unpair and reconnect the mouse: Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices, remove the device, then re-add it.

➡ Logitech Support – Wireless Mouse Troubleshooting ➡ Razer Support – Wireless Mouse Help

3. Optimize CPU Usage

High CPU usage can slow down system responses, including mouse movement. Reduce load by:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Processes tab.
3. Identify and close applications consuming high CPU by right-clicking and selecting End Task.

➡ Windows Task Manager Guide

4. Adjust Display Settings

Incorrect display settings can affect cursor movement. To adjust:

1. Right-click the desktop and select Display settings.
2. Scroll down to Advanced display settings.
3. Ensure that the refresh rate matches your monitor’s specifications.
4. Apply changes and restart the system if needed.

5. Test USB Ports and Connections

For wired mice, ensure the USB port is functioning properly:

• Try plugging the mouse into a different USB port.
• Test the mouse on another computer to rule out hardware failure.
• Inspect the cable and connectors for physical damage.

➡ Dell Support – USB Port Issues

6. Modify Power Management Settings

Windows may turn off USB devices to save power, causing the mouse to lag. To disable this feature:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click each USB Root Hub, select Properties.
4. Navigate to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
5. Click OK to apply changes.

➡ Windows Power Management Settings Guide

7. Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup can sometimes cause peripheral issues. To disable it:

1. Open Control Panel > Power Options.
2. Click Choose what the power buttons do.
3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
5. Click Save changes and restart your PC.

8. Scan for Malware

Malware infections can interfere with mouse performance. Perform a system scan using Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.

➡ Windows Defender and Malware Protection

9. Use a Different Mouse

If none of the above solutions work, test another mouse to determine if the issue is with the hardware itself.

Conclusion

Mouse lagging or unresponsiveness in Windows 10/11 can stem from multiple causes, ranging from software glitches to hardware problems. By systematically following the troubleshooting steps above, you can identify and fix the issue effectively. If the problem persists, consider replacing the mouse or checking for deeper system issues.