Mouse cursor drifting on its own

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Level 1

4 points

Mouse cursor drifting on its own

My mouse cursor keeps drifting on its own to the point my computer is practically unusable. It initially started as if my mouse just wasn’t responding that well, and jumping about, making it hard to click on anything. But it eventually turns into full on drifting across the screen until it hits the edge. I’ve been using a non-Apple mouse that uses a USB dongle, so I presumed it was a hardware issue and got my Apple mouse out and it does the exact same thing. Turning the Mac on and off only fixes it temporarily, but it seems to happen quicker each time. I’ve tried to look at past discussions but the only answers always say it’s a trackpad issue, which I don’t have.

This only started today. So no new downloads or updates, no new Bluetooth devices in the house etc. It’s a 2021 M1 iMac, running the most up to date version of Sequoia.

iMac 24″, macOS 15.3

Posted on Mar 23, 2025 9:35 AM

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Answer 1

Old Toad

Level 10

212,099 points

Mar 23, 2025 11:00 AM in response to Mcginge23

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

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Answer 2

den.thed

Level 10

84,868 points

Mar 23, 2025 10:32 AM in response to Mcginge23

Are you Screen Sharing with a second Mac..?

Is there a bluetooth mouse paired with the iMac..?

Are you mirroring an iPhone or iPad with this iMac..?

If you answered no to all the above,

1) Check and clean the sensor on the bottom of the mouse.

2) Test a different USB mouse with the iMac.

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Mouse cursor drifting on its own