Finger + Trackpad = Friction

March 15, 2007 10:13 AM

How can I reduce the friction between my finger and my MacBook Pro track pad?

I usually don't have any problems with my track pad, but sometimes when my hands are a little bit sweaty, freshly washed, or cold from being outside, it's nearly impossible to effectively my track pad. I've tried using paper towels but they don't seem to get my fingertips as dry as they could be.

Has anyone else experienced reduced track pad function due to moist/cold fingers? If so, what did you do to make it better?

posted by hsoj to computers & internet (7 comments total)

I switch fingers, it seems to help--all the fingertips that aren't being used air dry for a while and then I rotate again.
posted by anaelith at 10:27 AM on March 15, 2007

If your MacBook is anything lke mine there's a constant stream of very hot air blowing out of the grille at the back. Works a treat for me.
posted by roofus at 10:29 AM on March 15, 2007

Trackpads definitely don't work well with sweaty fingers. The above link explains what's going and advises some remedies. A friend of mine who suffers from a moderate case of Palmar Hyperhidrosis also keeps a gymnast's chalk bag on his desk.
posted by jamaro at 10:34 AM on March 15, 2007

Hand lotion. Works like a charm.
posted by fvox13 at 11:19 AM on March 15, 2007

I have that problem all the time. the mbp trackpad sucks donkey balls for those who are seriously working with their machines, just like the apple mice (well, they actually blow goats).

hand lotion kind of does it but get a real mouse like a cordless bluetooth logitech. it makes a hell of a difference.
posted by krautland at 12:43 PM on March 15, 2007

I "shine" my mouse finger on my pants. Vigorously rub said finger on your dry pants/shirt/underwear/coworker for about 10 seconds. Always works for me.
posted by Cat Pie Hurts at 12:58 PM on March 15, 2007

Personally I like a little more friction, not less friction; the idea of greasing up my hands before touching the trackpad is kind of horrifying. The nice trackpad surface wears down that much faster!

I think you might like Applepeelz Trackpadz, which are a very high gloss sticker that you can stick to the trackpad. Unlike most similar products I've tried, these don't start to peel around the edges over time. They can be removed, but they don't remove themselves.

Personally I'd rather something less smooth and more friction-y, but the Applepeelz product sounds perfect for you.
posted by majick at 1:04 PM on March 15, 2007