The touchpad on the MacBook is considered by many to be the best on any laptop. While it’s mostly related to how smooth it is, the touchpad gestures are also a contributing factor. You can swipe around to switch windows, the desktop, and even minimize apps. However, all of this only works when using the touchpad. Or Apple’s expensive Magic Mouse. So you might be wondering — can I use my Mac gestures with a regular mouse?
Thankfully, there’s a workaround that lets you do exactly that. All you need is a small third-party software to modify some files and you are good to go. You don’t have to spend a bomb to get Magic Mouse. Here’s how to use Mac gestures with whichever mouse you choose.
How to Use Gestures on Mac with Any Mouse
Once you have your Mac and optional mouse available, follow the steps below to enable gestures. Then swipe around with your mouse to open Mission Control or switch between multiple desktops!
Install xGestures
Step 1: Connect the mouse to your Mac. You can connect it over wired or wirelessly via dongle or Bluetooth.
Step 2: Download the xGestures DMG file from their website using the link below. This app allows you to customize your click functions.
Step 3: Double-click the DMG file to open it.
Step 4: Now, double click on the xGestures.prefPane file. This will start installing the app on your Mac.
Step 5: Click the Install button when prompted. xGestures will now be installed.
Download the script
Step 6: Now you have to download three additional files for gesture assignment. These are the scripts that need to be loaded into xGestures. Download them using the link below. Save them to any folder of your choice.
Step 7: Open the Settings app on your Mac. Scroll to the bottom in the left pane. You will see a new tab named xGestures. Click it.
Setting up and Configuring xGestures
Step 8: In the Gestures tab, click the drop-down menu next to Use Gestures. Select the button you want to press on the mouse while performing the gestures. This is the button you will hold down the mouse to perform a set gesture.
You can also select a key from the section while holding. This way you will have to press and hold a key to perform a gesture.
Step 9: Now switch to the Applications tab at the top.
Step 10: Click on New Gesture. You will now be asked to select the gesture to perform.
Step 11: Select the Right Arrow key to indicate the Right gesture. Then click OK.
Step 12: Select the drop-down menu next to the Gesture action text. Click Run AppleScript.
Step 13: Click the Choose File button next to the Script file option.
Step 14: Navigate to the folder where you saved the downloaded scripts. select ctrl-left.scpt document. Then click Open.
Step 15: Finally, press the Apply Settings button to save the gesture.
Step 16: Do the same steps from Step 9 onwards for Left and Up gestures. Just make sure you choose the right script for the respective gestures.
Step 17: Switch to the Options tab at the top.
Step 18: Enable the checkbox next to ‘Start xGestures at login’. Click Apply settings again.
This will ensure your custom gestures are enabled by default when you start up your Mac every time.
Using xGestures
That’s it! You now have a mouse that is compatible with Mac gestures. Now that custom gestures are set and enabled, all you have to do is hold down the button you selected and swipe your mouse in the direction you want. The set gesture will be activated each time you do this.
For example, holding down the trigger and swiping the mouse left or right will switch apps in that order. It’s great isn’t it?
What to do if Mac gestures don’t work with the mouse
If your gestures suddenly stop working, it’s possible that the xGestures process has stopped. Here’s what you need to do to continue the process on your Mac.
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Mac. Scroll to the bottom in the left pane. Select the xGestures option.
Step 2: Navigate to the Options tab at the top of the window.
Step 3: Click Start xGestures. This will restart the process. Also, while you’re at it, make sure the checkbox next to Enable xGestures is checked.
Improve your workflow with gestures
Using Mac gestures with a regular mouse will definitely help you significantly improve your workflow. You no longer have to learn and perform keyboard shortcuts or alternate between trackpad and mouse when using your Mac. Simply swipe your mouse in any direction and enjoy seamless Mac gestures on your mouse. You may also want to know how to add special characters in Mac and other tricks.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
