New trackpoint device designs

Oct 13, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 141 views

Trackpoint Devices Don't Have Left-Handed Mode: Understanding the Limitations

Trackpoint devices, commonly found on Thinkpad laptops, have been a staple for many users who prefer the precision and accuracy they offer. However, one feature that has been missing from these devices is the left-handed mode, which is available on other input devices such as touchpads and mice. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the absence of left-handed mode on trackpoint devices and explore the possibilities of its implementation in the future.

Before we dive into the details, let's take a look at the system information of the Thinkpad X13 used in this scenario:

niri version: niri stable v25.02 (commit b94a5db8790339cf9134873d8b490be69e02ac71)
Distro: Nixos 25.05.20250311.b62d2a9 (Warbler)
GPU: AMD Radeon RX Vega 6
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 4650U

Trackpoint devices are a type of pointing device that uses a small joystick-like mechanism to control the cursor on the screen. They are commonly found on Thinkpad laptops and are known for their precision and accuracy. However, one of the limitations of trackpoint devices is the lack of left-handed mode, which is available on other input devices.

Left-Handed Mode: What is it?

Left-handed mode is a feature that allows users to swap the functions of the left and right buttons on a touchpad or mouse. This feature is designed to accommodate users who are left-handed and prefer to use their left hand to navigate and interact with their computer. However, on trackpoint devices, this feature is not available, and users are limited to using the default button configuration.

Why is Left-Handed Mode Not Available on Trackpoint Devices?

The reason behind the absence of left-handed mode on trackpoint devices is not entirely clear. However, it is likely due to the fact that trackpoint devices are a proprietary technology developed by Lenovo, and the company may not have seen a need to implement this feature. Additionally, the trackpoint device is a complex mechanism that requires precise calibration and tuning, and adding left-handed mode may have been seen as a complex task.

Is Left-Handed Mode Planned for Trackpoint Devices?

While there is no official word on whether left-handed mode will be implemented on trackpoint devices in the future, it is possible that Lenovo may consider adding this feature in the future. However, it is worth noting that the company has not made any official announcements or statements regarding the implementation of left-handed mode on trackpoint devices.

In conclusion, trackpoint devices do not have left-handed mode, which is a feature that is available on other input devices such as touchpads and mice. While the reason behind the absence of this feature is not entirely clear, it is likely due to the fact that trackpoint devices are a proprietary technology developed by Lenovo. However, it is possible that Lenovo may consider adding this feature in the future, and users can continue to hope that this feature will be implemented in the future.

While there is no official word on whether left-handed mode will be implemented on trackpoint devices in the future, there are a few possibilities that could make this feature a reality:

Community-driven development: The open-source community may take it upon themselves to develop a patch or a driver that adds left-handed mode to trackpoint devices.
Lenovo's response to user feedback: Lenovo may respond to user feedback and consider adding left-handed mode to trackpoint devices in the future.
New trackpoint device designs: Lenovo may design new trackpoint devices that include left-handed mode as a standard feature.

In our previous article, we discussed the limitations of trackpoint devices, specifically the lack of left-handed mode. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about trackpoint devices and left-handed mode.

Q: What is left-handed mode?

A: Left-handed mode is a feature that allows users to swap the functions of the left and right buttons on a touchpad or mouse. This feature is designed to accommodate users who are left-handed and prefer to use their left hand to navigate and interact with their computer.

Q: Why is left-handed mode not available on trackpoint devices?

A: The reason behind the absence of left-handed mode on trackpoint devices is not entirely clear. However, it is likely due to the fact that trackpoint devices are a proprietary technology developed by Lenovo, and the company may not have seen a need to implement this feature.

Q: Is left-handed mode planned for trackpoint devices?

A: While there is no official word on whether left-handed mode will be implemented on trackpoint devices in the future, it is possible that Lenovo may consider adding this feature in the future. However, it is worth noting that the company has not made any official announcements or statements regarding the implementation of left-handed mode on trackpoint devices.

Q: Can I use a third-party driver or software to add left-handed mode to my trackpoint device?

A: While there are some third-party drivers and software available that claim to add left-handed mode to trackpoint devices, these solutions are not officially supported by Lenovo and may not work as expected. Additionally, using third-party software or drivers can potentially cause system instability or other issues.

Q: Can I contact Lenovo support to request left-handed mode on my trackpoint device?

A: Yes, you can contact Lenovo support to request left-handed mode on your trackpoint device. However, it is worth noting that Lenovo may not be able to provide a solution or may not be able to add this feature to your device.

Q: Are there any other pointing devices that offer left-handed mode?

A: Yes, many pointing devices, including touchpads and mice, offer left-handed mode. However, trackpoint devices are a unique technology developed by Lenovo, and the company may not have seen a need to implement this feature.

Q: Can I use a different pointing device if I need left-handed mode?

A: Yes, if you need left-handed mode, you can consider using a different pointing device that offers this feature. However, if you prefer the precision and accuracy of a trackpoint device, you may want to consider waiting for Lenovo to add left-handed mode to their devices.

Q: What is the difference between a trackpoint device and a touchpad? A: A trackpoint device is a small joystick-like mechanism that is used to control the cursor on the screen, while a touchpad is a flat surface that is used to control the cursor.
Q: Can I use a trackpoint device with a laptop that has a touchpad? A: Yes, you can use a trackpoint device with a laptop that has a touchpad. However, you will need to ensure that the trackpoint device is properly configured and calibrated.
Q: Are trackpoint devices more accurate than touchpads? A: Yes, trackpoint devices are generally more accurate than touchpads. However, the accuracy of a trackpoint device can depend on the specific device and the user's preferences.