Trackpad won't click and drag with external monitor connected

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Trackpad won't click and drag with external monitor connected

I'm finding inconsistent click and drag behavior with my 2020 MacBook Air when I have an external monitor connected. Frequently, I can click a file or folder but am not able to drag it anywhere if I am using my external monitor (connected to a USB C hub via HDMI). If I disconnect the hub, I can then click and drag with the trackpad as normal. Unfortunately, replicating this is inconsistent. It seems to happen after working for a while, changing desktop spaces, opening and closing windows and apps. But it inevitably returns and lasts until sleep/restart or disconnecting the hub.

Click and drag works as it should with my wireless mouse regardless of whether the monitor is connected or not.

MacBook Air

Posted on Nov 25, 2020 2:25 PM

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Answer 1

CarlAVII

Community Specialist

Dec 3, 2020 3:08 PM in response to JonKas

Hi JonKas,

It sounds like you are experiencing issues clicking and dragging when using an external monitor with your MacBook Air. We can look into this with you.

Since the issue is not easily replicated, we'd recommend starting with some basic steps like making sure your Mac is up-to-date. You can find out more information about updating your Mac here: How to update the software on your Mac

Also, if you have another user account on your Mac, you could try testing the issue in the other user to see if it ever occurs. You can find out more information about setting up users here: Set up users, guests, and groups on Mac

Let us know how it goes.

Cheers!

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Trackpad won't click and drag with external monitor connected

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