Tap to click on your Mac trackpad instead of pressing

Why it happens

Macs come with Tap to click off, so the trackpad only clicks when you press it down until it gives. Many people find a tap easier and quieter, especially if pressing hurts their fingers. The setting works for a MacBook's built-in trackpad and a Magic Trackpad.

How to fix it

1. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, then click Trackpad in the sidebar.

2. Click the Point & Click tab and turn on Tap to click.

   Trackpad›Point & Click›Tap to click

3. Try it: tap once to click, tap twice quickly to double-click, and tap with two fingers to right-click.

Still not fixed?

1. Want to keep pressing but with less effort? Set Click to Light in the same tab. That also helps if pressing feels hard.

   Trackpad›Point & Click›Click

2. If the pointer now clicks by itself while you type, your palm is brushing the trackpad. Rest your hands a little higher, or turn Tap to click off again.

3. If you don't see Trackpad in System Settings on a desktop Mac, connect your Magic Trackpad or pair it in Bluetooth settings.

   Bluetooth

4. If the trackpad won't press down at all, feels stiff, or the MacBook rocks on a flat table, stop using it and keep it off the charger. A swollen battery can push the trackpad up. That's a hardware problem: contact Apple Support or a repair shop.