How to change mouse scrolling settings on Windows 11

Windows 11 change mouse settings
Windows 11 change mouse settings (Image credit: Windows Central)

On Windows 11, the default mouse scrolling behavior is typically suited for most users. However, if you feel it needs tuning, you can set the number of lines to roll at a time or specify to roll one screen with a single roll.

In addition, you can even control whether you can scroll inactive windows as you hover over them while working on another application.

In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to customize the scrolling settings on your laptop or desktop computer.

How to change mouse scrolling settings on Windows 11

On Windows 11, you can decide how the mouse wheel should scroll and whether you should be able to scroll inactive windows when hovering over.

Change scroll wheel behavior

To change the scroll wheel behavior on Windows 11, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Bluetooth & devices.
  3. Click the Mouse page on the right side.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. Under the "Scrolling" section, use the "Roll the mouse wheel to scroll" setting and select one of the options.
    • Multiple lines at a time.
    • One screen at a time.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. (Optional) Use the slider to select the number of lines to scroll at a time.

Once you complete the steps, the next time you roll the mouse wheel, the scrolling should occur based on your configuration.

Configure inactive windows scrolling

To scroll on windows that are not active, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Bluetooth & devices.
  3. Click the Mouse page on the right side.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. Under the "Scrolling" section, turn on the Scroll inactive windows when hovering over them toggle switch.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

After you complete the steps, you will now be able to scroll windows even when they are not focused and you are hovering over them.

More Windows resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

Mauro Huculak

Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.