How to set mouse for left-handed people on Windows 11

Windows 11 mouse for left-handed settings
Windows 11 mouse for left-handed settings (Image credit: Future)

Although Windows 11 can detect a mouse automatically, the system will configure it for a right-handed person by making the left click the primary key.

If you are a left-handed person, or you are among those who can switch hands to use a mouse, on Windows 11, you can use the Settings app and Control Panel to change the mouse settings to remap the left and right buttons to perform actions and navigate the desktop and apps.

In this Windows 11 guide, we walk you through the easy steps to change the mouse's primary and secondary button actions.

How to change your mouse's primary button on Windows 11

To configure the mouse for left-handed people on Windows 11, use these steps:

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

Open Mouse settings

(Image credit: Future)
  1. Select the Right option for the "Primary mouse button" setting.

(Image credit: Future)

Once you complete these steps, the primary button will switch actions and you can start using the mouse with your left hand.

How to change your mouse's primary button with Control Panel

To change the primary button of a mouse from left to right with Control Panel, use these steps:

  1. Open Control Panel.
  2. Click on Hardware and Sound.
  3. Under the "Devices and Printers" section, click the Mouse option.

(Image credit: Future)
  1. Click the Buttons tab.
  2. Check the Switch primary and secondary buttons option.

(Image credit: Future)
  1. Click the Apply button.
  2. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, the primary and secondary buttons will swap actions for left-handed people.

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.