4.5Editor score
10 Best Replacement Laptop Trackpad (November 2026) Expert Guide
A replacement laptop trackpad can restore precise pointer control to a machine with a cracked, unresponsive, or worn touch surface. The right choice depends on whether you need a genuine internal replacement or simply a dependable external pointing device.
This guide compares ten options spanning model-specific MacBook parts, a bracket-and-screw repair kit, and compact external trackpads for Windows. We assessed compatibility, gesture support, connection method, installation requirements, included accessories, and practical limitations.
Each entry explains the most suitable use case, from repairing a specific laptop generation to adding portable cursor control. Ratings reflect the supplied customer feedback, while current prices can change, so verify fit, condition, and seller details before buying.
Top 3 Picks for Best Replacement Laptop Trackpad
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Top 10 Best Replacement Laptop Trackpad in 2026 Compared
The comparison below separates genuine internal repair parts from an external Windows trackpad and a small hardware kit, making it easier to identify the option that matches your laptop and repair experience.
1. Amazon Basics Wireless Trackpad – Flexible Windows Control
The Amazon Basics Multi-Touch Trackpad is an external pointing device for Windows PCs, not an internal laptop repair component. It carries a 3.9 rating and stands out for its combination of multi-touch gestures, dual-device control, and a slim portable design.
Pros
- Switches between two devices
- Supports common multi-touch gestures
- No cable required while active
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Does not support macOS
- May sleep after inactivity
- Cannot replace an internal assembly
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Its most useful feature is the ability to connect to two Bluetooth devices and switch between them with the mode button. Up to four-finger gestures, physical left and right buttons, and USB-C recharging make it a practical option for a Windows desktop or laptop that has lost comfortable pointer control.
The limitations are important: the product does not support macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux. It can enter sleep mode during inactivity, so the manufacturer recommends wired use for infrequent sessions where immediate responsiveness matters. It also cannot solve a cracked or disconnected built-in trackpad.
Choose this model if you want a flexible external trackpad and use Windows as your primary platform. Verify Bluetooth pairing behavior and your required gestures before purchase, and consider an external mouse as a backup when the trackpad is sleeping.
Useful Multi-Device Switching
Bluetooth control for two computers is particularly handy for a desk setup. The mode switch lets a user move between devices without reconnecting cables, reducing friction in a portable or shared workspace.
Clear Platform and Sleep Limitations
Windows-only support and automatic sleep behavior make this less flexible than a full-featured cross-platform accessory. Checking operating-system support and responsiveness expectations avoids disappointing daily use.
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2. Perixx PERIPAD-501 – Affordable Wired Simplicity
The Perixx PERIPAD-501 is a small wired USB trackpad designed for portable use with laptops and desktops. Its 4.2 rating reflects a straightforward approach, with plug-and-play operation, two external buttons, and seven listed gesture features.
Pros
- Immediate plug-and-play setup
- No charging required
- Useful scrolling and zoom
- Highly portable dimensions
Cons
- Limited to listed Windows versions
- Cable adds desk clutter
- Not an internal replacement
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The gesture set covers one-finger sliding and tapping, two-finger tapping, double-click, drag and drop, vertical scrolling, and zoom in or out. That range covers common cursor tasks without demanding driver installation, while the five-foot-three-inch durable cable provides a stable connection without battery management.
Its compact size of 3.39 by 2.95 by 0.43 inches makes it easy to carry, but that footprint may feel less comfortable during extended precision work. Compatibility is specifically listed for Windows 7, 8, and 10, so buyers using newer Windows releases should confirm behavior in advance.
This is a sensible budget choice for anyone wanting a portable secondary pointer on a compatible Windows system. It is best suited to quick navigation, travel, and workspaces where wired operation is acceptable. It will not repair a broken laptop trackpad.
A Simple Alternative to a Mouse
The compact layout takes little desk space and supports common navigation gestures. It can be especially useful when a mouse is inconvenient, such as in a tight travel workspace.
Reliable Plug-and-Play Operation
Wired USB connectivity removes pairing delays and charging concerns. Driver-free setup also keeps the initial process simple for compatible Windows computers.
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3. HAWSON A1706 Trackpad – Targeted Older MacBook Repair
The HAWSON A1706 is a genuine internal replacement for the trackpad in a 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro A1706 from 2016 or 2017. It has a 4.5 rating and includes a flex cable, making it a targeted repair for a compatible machine with a failed touch surface.
Pros
- Precise model designation
- Flex cable simplifies connection
- Units tested before shipping
- Directly restores pointer control
Cons
- Limited to A1706 laptops
- Requires technical installation skill
- Color and year must match
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Its strongest benefit is exact fitment. The product description identifies the model, supported years, and silver configuration, and states that each replacement is tested before shipping. Including the flex cable removes the need to source that associated cable separately.
The repair is not an easy task for someone without laptop disassembly experience. Buyers should compare the model number, year, photographs, and physical part shape before ordering, and should disconnect power safely if undertaking installation. A similar-looking part may still use a different connector or mounting arrangement.
This option is best for a technically capable owner of an A1706 MacBook Pro who wants to replace the built-in assembly rather than work around it with an external device. Confirm the machine's exact model and review the seller's compatibility information before purchasing.
Model-Specific Fitment Reduces Guesswork
Clear A1706 and year references help narrow the purchase to the intended laptop. Still, checking the bottom-case label remains the safest way to confirm compatibility.
A Repair-Oriented Purchase Decision
The product addresses a failed internal component directly. Its value depends on matching the part and possessing the tools and confidence needed to disassemble and reassemble the computer.
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4. A2337 Space Grey Trackpad – Complete M1 Repair Kit
This A2337 replacement is a Force Touch trackpad for the 13.3-inch M1 MacBook Air from 2020. It holds a 4.5 rating and offers one of the more complete repair packages in the guide, including the trackpad, flex cable, and specialized tools.
Pros
- Broad model-order references
- Trackpad and flex cable included
- Specialty screwdrivers included
- Matches Force Touch design
Cons
- Excludes A2179 models
- Professional installation advisable
- Only one color per listing
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Compatibility information lists specific order numbers and identifies EMC 3598. The included set covers a P5 pentalobe screwdriver, T5 and T3 Torx drivers, an anti-static pry bar, a triangle opening pick, and a fiber polishing cloth, reducing the need to assemble a separate toolkit.
The fitment is narrow by design: it does not fit the A2179 version of the 13.3-inch MacBook Air. Installation involves the bottom case, trackpad mounting screws, and the IPD connector cowling, so buyers without technical experience should consider professional service.
This Space Grey option is a strong match for an A2337 owner who wants to replace a cracked, scratched, or unresponsive original trackpad and prefers a package with tools included. Confirm all model and order-number markings before disassembling anything.
Specialty Tools Support the Repair
The bundled screwdrivers and opening tools address the exact fasteners encountered during MacBook Air disassembly. This makes the package more convenient for a prepared DIY repair.
Detailed Compatibility Lists Prevent Confusion
The product distinguishes A2337 from the visually similar A2179 and lists several order numbers. That precision is valuable because choosing by screen size alone can lead to an incompatible part.
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5. A2337 Gold Trackpad – Premium Color-Matched Repair
The Gold A2337 replacement combines a color-specific Force Touch trackpad with the flex cable and a useful tool kit. It has a 4.5 rating and is intended specifically for the 13.3-inch M1 MacBook Air A2337 from 2020.
Pros
- Gold finish matches color
- Includes flex cable
- Specialized tools bundled
- Direct internal replacement
Cons
- Strict A2337 compatibility
- Requires careful installation
- Not compatible with A2179
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For a compatible Gold-finished laptop, matching the replacement color can help preserve the original exterior appearance. The component itself is a full internal trackpad assembly rather than an external add-on, and the included P5, T5, and T3 drivers plus opening tools support the intended repair.
Compatibility remains the critical issue. The listing expressly excludes the A2179 model, even though both are 13.3-inch Air configurations, and installation requires opening the laptop and handling the trackpad and IPD connector cowling. Cosmetic wear or an aging mechanism can make replacement worthwhile when the part fails.
This is the premium pick for a compatible A2337 Gold owner who wants a complete, color-coordinated repair package. Verify the model number, EMC number, order number, and connector details before purchase, and seek professional help if internal laptop work is unfamiliar.
A Cohesive Exterior Finish
The Gold option is intended to blend with a matching MacBook Air enclosure. Appearance is especially relevant when a repair part remains visible beneath the keyboard.
One Package Covers Core Repair Needs
Combining the assembly, flex cable, and specialty tools simplifies gathering the necessary items. It does not eliminate the need to verify fitment or handle the repair safely.
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6. A2337 Silver Trackpad – Versatile Silver M1 Replacement
The Silver A2337 trackpad is another internal repair option for the 13.3-inch M1 MacBook Air released in 2020. It carries a 4.5 rating and includes the Force Touch assembly, flex cable, and a set of tools intended for opening and servicing the laptop.
Pros
- Suitable for Silver configurations
- Includes required flex cable
- Broad order-number references
- Tools support disassembly
Cons
- Limited to A2337 model
- Installation remains technical
- Exact fit still requires checking
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Its compatibility notes list EMC 3598 and a broad collection of order numbers across Silver, Space Gray, and Gold configurations, while the selected trackpad APN in this listing is 661-16826 for Silver. Buyers should still use the physical part and order number—not color alone—to make the final selection.
Because the product addresses a damaged or aging internal component, it is most appropriate for users comfortable with laptop disassembly. The special screws, bottom case, connector cowling, and touch surface all require care, and an incompatible connector could make installation impossible.
This Silver version is a sensible choice for a matching A2337 whose original trackpad no longer responds reliably or has suffered physical damage. Confirm the complete part identifiers, review the supplied images, and use qualified repair assistance if you lack the required experience.
Convenient Silver-Finish Compatibility
The listed Silver APN and broad order-number references help owners identify the appropriate version for their laptop. Matching all identifiers before opening the machine protects against an avoidable return.
Internal Repair Rather Than Workaround
Unlike an external trackpad, this part restores the laptop's original control area. That makes it a more complete solution when the built-in mechanism is cracked, scratched, loose, or unresponsive.
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7. HAWSON A3113 M3 Trackpad – Precise Newer-Model Replacement
The HAWSON A3113 is the highest-rated option in this guide, with a supplied rating of 4.6. It is a specific internal replacement for the Space Gray 13.6-inch M3 MacBook Air A3113 from 2024, complete with a flex cable.
Pros
- Highest listed rating
- Exact newer-model fitment
- Includes flex cable
- Pre-shipment testing noted
Cons
- Only fits A3113 models
- Requires technical repair skill
- Limited to Space Grey listing
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Modern-model support is its defining advantage for owners of the A3113 configuration. The product description states that each replacement is tested before shipping, while the included cable provides the connection required to integrate the trackpad with the laptop.
It remains a highly specialized repair component rather than a universal trackpad. The manufacturer explicitly notes that installation is not easy for people without disassembly and assembly experience, and the buyer must confirm the model, year, photographs, and part shape before ordering.
This is the Editor's Choice for a compatible A3113 owner seeking a direct replacement for a failed internal touchpad. Its strong rating, exact model designation, and included flex cable make it a focused solution for the right laptop, provided the buyer has the skills or professional help required.
Targeted Support for M3 Models
The A3113 designation is especially useful for owners of a 2024 M3 MacBook Air. Newer boards and connector layouts can differ from earlier Air generations, making exact identifiers essential.
Functional Testing Adds Confidence
The stated pre-shipment testing suggests the seller checks basic operation before dispatch. It cannot replace a fitment check, but it adds reassurance for a component that must function both mechanically and electrically.
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8. HAWSON A1989 Trackpad – Direct MacBook Pro Restoration
The HAWSON A1989 replacement targets the trackpad in 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro models A1989 from 2018 and 2019. It has a 4.5 rating and includes a flex cable, providing a direct internal solution for a compatible computer.
Pros
- Exact MacBook Pro designation
- Covers two model years
- Flex cable included
- Tested before shipping
Cons
- Limited to A1989 laptops
- Requires disassembly expertise
- No broad tool kit listed
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The product's clear model and year references are useful because MacBook components are not interchangeable across many generations. A silver replacement assembly and attached flex cable are supplied, and the description states that each unit is tested before shipment.
As with other genuine internal replacements, installation is the central challenge. Buyers need to open the laptop, remove retaining hardware, disconnect the relevant cable carefully, and align the new assembly correctly. A replacement may resolve cracks or an unresponsive mechanism, but installation mistakes can create new problems.
Choose this option for an A1989 MacBook Pro whose original trackpad has worn out or failed and where internal replacement is preferable to using an external accessory. Confirm the exact model year and compare the part before ordering, and arrange professional service if needed.
Coverage for Two Model Years
The listed 2018 and 2019 range is useful for owners locating an A1989 identifier on their laptop. Visual similarities with other MacBook Pro versions do not guarantee connector compatibility.
Restores the Original Pointer Surface
A genuine assembly replaces the worn component in its normal location. This preserves the laptop's familiar layout and avoids adding another peripheral to the user's workflow.
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9. HAWSON A2681 M2 Trackpad – Color-Matched Air Repair
The HAWSON A2681 is an internal trackpad replacement for the 13.6-inch M2 MacBook Air A2681 from 2022. Its supplied rating is 4.2, and the Midnight Blue finish makes it a color-matched option for the corresponding enclosure.
Pros
- Exact M2 Air fitment
- Matches Midnight Blue enclosure
- Includes flex cable
- Units tested before shipping
Cons
- Limited to A2681 laptops
- Requires technical installation skill
- Lower rating than leading options
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The included flex cable and stated pre-shipment testing support the part's purpose as a direct replacement. Rather than adding a separate accessory, this assembly addresses a damaged, cracked, or aging original trackpad while preserving the laptop's built-in layout.
Compatibility is limited to the named A2681 configuration. The manufacturer advises checking the computer year, description, and pictures, and clearly states that the repair is not easy for someone without technical skills in laptop disassembly and assembly.
This is a practical choice for a compatible Midnight Blue A2681 owner who wants the original pointer experience back. Verify the A2681 model designation and physical part details before purchasing, and use professional service if the repair requires tools or procedures you do not routinely handle.
Midnight Blue Exterior Match
A matching finish helps preserve the laptop's visual continuity after the repair. Color should still be confirmed alongside the model identifier rather than used as the sole compatibility check.
Built-In Control Restoration
Replacing the original assembly keeps navigation centered in the laptop's normal palm-rest position. This is preferable for users who dislike external mice or depend on gestures tied to the internal hardware.
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10. MacBook Pro Brackets and Screws – Targeted Mounting Hardware
This is not a complete trackpad but a repair hardware kit containing trackpad brackets and screws for selected 13-inch unibody MacBook Pro A1278 models. It has a 4.4 rating and covers specific configurations from mid-2009 through mid-2012.
Pros
- Useful repair hardware package
- Includes all three part types
- Covers several A1278 years
- Clear model-number references
Cons
- Does not include a trackpad
- Cannot fix failed electronics
- Limited to specific hardware
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The package includes two trackpad brackets, eight trackpad screws, and one height adjustment screw. Detailed compatibility references identify MacBook Pro 5,5, 7,1, 8,1, and 9,2 configurations, including several order numbers within each family.
Its scope is narrow. It cannot replace a damaged touch surface, failed mechanism, or broken electronic connection, and it does not include a trackpad assembly. It is most relevant when original mounting pieces are missing, bent, or broken during a larger repair.
Buy this kit only if you have diagnosed a specific need for replacement hardware and have confirmed the exact A1278 family and order number. It is better viewed as supporting hardware for an experienced repairer than as a standalone solution to a completely unresponsive trackpad.
Useful for Missing or Damaged Hardware
The brackets, screws, and adjustment screw support reinstallation when original pieces have been lost. They are especially helpful during trackpad removal, replacement, or reassembly.
A Complement Rather Than a Complete Repair
This kit addresses mechanical mounting hardware only. A cracked pad, unresponsive electronics, or connector problem requires a separate diagnostic process and possibly a complete assembly.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Replacement Laptop Trackpad
The most important choice is whether you need an internal part, repair hardware, or an external pointing device. Compatibility, installation demands, gestures, and connection method should guide the decision after that distinction is clear.
Confirm the Exact Laptop Model
A replacement laptop trackpad must match the laptop's exact model identifier, year, connector layout, enclosure color, and mechanical mounting arrangement. Screen size alone is not enough because several MacBook families share similar dimensions while using different parts. Locate the model number on the bottom case and compare it with the seller's supported list before ordering.
Use the complete identifier to verify compatibility. Do not rely on appearance or color alone.
Choose Internal or External
An internal replacement restores the original trackpad location and may preserve native gestures and Force Touch behavior. It usually requires opening the laptop and understanding delicate connectors. An external trackpad is easier to adopt and can work alongside a damaged built-in pad, but it adds a device to your workflow and may have platform limitations.
Choose internal repair for a lasting component-level fix. Choose external control for convenience or lower technical risk.
Review Included Cable and Tools
A trackpad with an attached flex cable can simplify assembly because the associated cable does not need to be sourced separately. A full tool kit is even more useful when it includes the correct P5, T5, and T3 drivers, an opening pick, and a pry tool. Check the package contents because accessories listed for one listing may differ from another.
Verify that required cables and specialty tools are included before planning the repair.
Assess Installation Difficulty
Internal trackpad replacement involves the bottom case, retaining screws, a flex or IPD connector, and careful reassembly. These are not maintenance tasks for every user. If you lack experience with laptop disassembly, professional service can prevent connector damage, stripped fasteners, or an incorrectly aligned replacement.
Only select a DIY internal part if you understand the required procedure and have suitable tools.
Check Operating-System Compatibility
External trackpads depend on operating-system support in addition to physical connection. The Amazon Basics option is specified for Windows and expressly excludes macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux. The Perixx model lists Windows 7, 8, and 10. For current systems, confirm that the expected gestures and buttons work as needed.
Check both the stated platform support and your own operating-system version.
Match Gestures to Your Workflow
Common gesture support can improve navigation, especially for multi-finger scrolling, zooming, and switching workspaces. The Perixx lists seven specific gesture features, while the Amazon Basics model supports up to four-finger gestures. Verify that the functions you rely on are present rather than assuming every multi-touch label behaves identically.
Prioritize the gestures you use daily and confirm their implementation.
Compare Connectivity Needs
Wired USB devices offer immediate power and a consistent connection without pairing or charging. Bluetooth devices reduce cable clutter and can switch between two computers, but they introduce pairing steps and may sleep after inactivity. USB-C recharging also requires access to a suitable cable when the battery needs replenishment.
Choose wired control for simplicity and wireless control for a cleaner, multi-device setup.
Consider Part Condition and Seller Support
For replacement parts, condition affects both appearance and long-term use. Scratches may remain visible on a newly installed trackpad, while aging or a cracked surface can cause the original part to malfunction. Seller support can help with questions before purchase, but clear compatibility information and a return process remain important for specialized parts.
Review photographs, condition descriptions, compatibility details, and support terms before ordering.
How to Use and Care for Your Replacement Laptop Trackpad
Before installation, disconnect the laptop from power and identify the exact model number. Compare the replacement, connector, and mounting points with the failed component and photograph the original arrangement. Work on a clean, static-conscious surface with the required specialty tools nearby.
For external trackpads, connect by USB or pair through the documented Bluetooth controls. Confirm that the operating system recognizes the device, then configure primary and secondary buttons as desired. Test one-finger movement, clicking, scrolling, and every multi-touch gesture needed for your work.
After an internal repair, reconnect the flex or IPD connector firmly without forcing it, replace covers and screws in their proper positions, and boot the laptop before closing everything. Use gentle pressure on the touch surface, keep liquids away from the palm rest, and investigate cracks or looseness promptly rather than continuing to use a damaged pad.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which replacement laptop trackpad fits my computer?
Start with the exact model number printed on the laptop's bottom case or available in the system information. Compare it with every identifier in the replacement listing, including the year, EMC number, connector, part number, and color when applicable. Similar screen sizes do not guarantee compatibility.
Can I replace a MacBook trackpad myself?
The listed internal replacements can be installed by someone comfortable with laptop disassembly, but they require specialized screws, careful connector handling, and correct reassembly. If you lack that experience, use an external trackpad temporarily or arrange professional service to reduce the risk of internal damage.
Is an external trackpad a permanent replacement?
An external trackpad can provide reliable navigation without repairing the laptop, especially when only the built-in mechanism has failed. However, it does not restore native Force Touch functions, occupies space, and may not support every gesture or platform. It is best viewed as a practical workaround or secondary control device.
What is included with the A2337 MacBook Air trackpad?
The listed A2337 packages include one trackpad, one flex cable, an anti-static pry bar, a triangle opening pick, a fiber polishing cloth, and P5, T5, and T3 screwdrivers. The drivers are described as serving different stages of bottom-case, trackpad-mount, and IPD connector work. Confirm the package contents when your specific listing arrives.
Will the HAWSON trackpads work in any MacBook?
No. Each HAWSON listing identifies a specific model family, including A1706, A1989, A2681, and A3113. These parts are intended for their named MacBook Pro or MacBook Air configurations, and using a different generation can lead to connector, mounting, or size mismatches.
Can the Amazon Basics wireless trackpad control a Mac?
The supplied product information states that this model is compatible with Windows and does not support macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux. Mac users should look for an accessory explicitly designed for macOS or use a wired pointing device with compatible driver support.
Do I need a special tool to install a trackpad?
Most modern MacBook repairs require specific screwdrivers, particularly a P5 pentalobe driver and the appropriate Torx drivers. The A2337 listings bundle several tools, while other HAWSON packages emphasize the trackpad and flex cable. Check the included components and source any missing tools before beginning.
Why would someone buy only brackets and screws?
Mounting brackets and screws are useful when the original pieces are missing, bent, stripped, or damaged during another repair. The listed kit does not include a trackpad and cannot correct a failed touch surface or electronic mechanism, so it should only be purchased for a diagnosed hardware need.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Replacement Laptop Trackpad
The HAWSON A3113 stands out for a tightly defined A3113 M3 fit, a supplied 4.6 rating, and an included flex cable. The A2337 Gold assembly offers a complete repair-oriented package for compatible M1 MacBook Air owners, while the Perixx PERIPAD-501 delivers the simplest budget route to portable external pointer control.
Prioritize exact model compatibility above every other feature for an internal part. For external devices, prioritize operating-system support, connection reliability, gestures, and whether automatic sleep fits your routine. If an internal installation exceeds your experience, a reputable service visit is usually more sensible than forcing a repair.
Customer ratings and product availability can change, and current prices fluctuate as well. Before purchasing, recheck the model identifiers, connector information, condition, included tools, seller details, and return terms to ensure the chosen replacement laptop trackpad is appropriate.