Can You Use a Mouse with an iPad?

It’s the update iPad users around the world have been waiting for. Besides fixing a number of other known bugs, one of the most celebrated parts of the newest iPad update was the addition of support for wireless trackpads and mice. Finally, iPad fans can use a mouse with their iPads!

Apple’s iPadOS 13.4 update was released on March 24, 2020. But, with new features come new questions. Keep reading to find out:

Which iPads are compatible with the 13.4 update?
Can you use a mouse with an iPad?
What are the benefits of using a mouse with an iPad?
How do you connect a mouse to your iPad?

Is your iPad compatible with the 13.4 update?

The following models of iPad, iPad Pro, iPad Air and iPad mini are compatible with the new update:

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st and 2nd generation)
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
iPad Pro 9.7-inch
iPad Air (2nd and 3rd generation)
iPad (5th, 6th and 7th generation)
iPad mini (4th and 5th generation)

How can you find out which iPad you have?

If you’re not sure which iPad version you own, you can find out by going to Settings > General > About on your device.

How to install the iPadOS 13.4 update

Still need to update your device? Simply plug in your iPad and go to Settings > General > Software Update. And, make sure you have a solid Wi-Fi connection.

Can you use a mouse with an iPad?

Yes. If you have one of the iPad models listed above, you can now use a mouse with your iPad. Once you update to the new iPadOS 13.4, you can use any of the following compatible products:

Apple Magic Mouse
Apple Magic Trackpad
Bluetooth mouse
Wired mouse (with a USB)
After-market mouse (i.e., not an Apple product)

What are the benefits of using a mouse with an iPad?

iPads have long been able to function with Bluetooth keyboards, but the absence of a mouse was holding many people back from completely replacing their desktops or laptops with the device. So, what can you do when you connect a mouse to your iPad?

According to one Reddit user, “If you’re trying to just type out some notes or use the iPad like a laptop, it can be awkward to reach up to tap the screen. Keeping your hands on the desk is a more natural way to interact with some apps like word processors and spreadsheets.”

The ability to use an iPad with a mouse is catapulting the famed tablet into a new tier of laptop alternatives. What kind of tasks are possible now using a mouse or trackpad with an iPad?

Improved accessibility, especially for individuals with motor control issues
Precise control when navigating and editing complex documents, such as in Excel and PowerPoint
Increased functionality when using your iPad as a standard computer substitution, especially when using it in addition to a keyboard
No fingerprints on your screen

Although the reception of the iPad OS 13.4 update has been positive overall, some early criticisms include the circular shape of the cursor, instead of the standard pointer shape, as seen in the image below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1wM9pnC2kb/?igshid=1hn5m4kiwfemh

How do you connect a mouse to your iPad?

Connect a Bluetooth mouse or trackpad to your iPad

It’s easy to get your iPad set up with a Bluetooth mouse. Just go to Settings > BlueTooth and select your Bluetooth mouse or trackpad device from the list (and make sure your Bluetooth device is on and in pairing mode so your iPad can detect it).

Connect a wired mouse to your iPad

If you’re using a mouse with a Lightning or USB-C port, just plug it in. If you are using a mouse with a USB-A port, you will need to purchase a Lightning to USB adapter. Double-check which type of USB port your mouse has below.

USB-C (left) vs. USB-A (right)

iPad mouse support

There are a couple of other adjustments you can make to customize your iPad mouse experience. If you are using a Bluetooth device and want the pointer to move slower or faster on the iPad screen, go to Settings > General > Trackpad & Mouse, and adjust the Tracking Speed slider.

Want to change the look of your on-screen pointer? Go to Settings > Accessibility > Pointer Control, to alter the color, size and contrast level of the cursor.

Still confused? Watch this handy demo for setting up and using your mouse with the new iPadOS 13.4 update.

Have other iPad or broadband-related questions? Ask our experts on Facebook and Twitter. Your question might be featured in an upcoming post!