Moving windows and selecting items using a mouse is an everyday task for most computer users. Typically, we click on the title bar of a window, hold it, and then drag the window to reposition it. Similarly, while selecting items, we continuously hold down the mouse button. But what if you could make this process even simpler? Imagine just clicking a window for a short, preset duration, releasing the button, and still having the ability to move it wherever you desire. This is not some advanced tech magic but a built-in feature of Windows called “ClickLock.” With Clicklock enabled, the usual process of holding the mouse button down to select or drag items becomes obsolete. Instead, a simple prolonged click is all you need to start moving things around. Whether you’re aiming for convenience or addressing issues like finger strain from constantly pressing the mouse button, Clicklock is the solution. In this risewindows guide, we will take you step-by-step on how to activate Clicklock on Windows 11/10. And for those still using older versions, don’t fret; Clicklock is also available on Windows 8/7, making your dragging and selecting tasks a breeze.
How to enable or turn on Clicklock to select and drag items without holding the mouse button on Windows 11?
Follow the below-illustrated steps to enable or turn on the Clicklock feature on Windows 11 with the help of the Control Panel:-
Step 1. Open Control Panel.
To do that, click on the Start button and type Control Panel. From the search results, click on the Control Panel app.
Step 2. Type the mouse in the control panel’s search tray at the top right corner.
Step 3. You will get the Mouse option in the search results. Click on the Mouse, which will take you to the Mouse Properties dialog.
Step 4. Switch to the Buttons tab. Here, you will find the ClickLock section. In that section, tick the Turn on Clicklock option to turn on Clicklock.
Step 5. After that, click on the Apply button.
Step 6. Then, click on the OK button to complete the process.
When the above process is completed, you can select, highlight, or drag items without holding the mouse button. You have to press the mouse button to start. Click on the mouse button to release it.
How to enable or turn on ClickLock to select and drag items without holding the mouse button on Windows 10?
Follow the below-illustrated steps to enable or turn on the Clicklock feature on Windows 10 with the help of the Control Panel:-
Step 1. Open Control Panel.
For that, click on the Start button and type Control Panel. Then, from the search results, click on the Control Panel app.
Step 2. When the Control Panel opens, type mouse in the top right search box. In the search results, click on the Mouse option.
Step 3. Once you complete the above steps, the Mouse Properties window will appear on your PC.
Step 4. Navigate to the Buttons tab to find the ClickLock section. In that section, tick the Turn on ClickLock option to turn it on.
Step 5. After that, click on the Apply button.
Step 6. Then, click on the OK button to complete the process.
When the above process is completed, you can select, highlight, or drag items without holding the mouse button. You have to press the mouse button to start. Click on the mouse button to release it. The holding-down part is no longer required to move the items.
How long do you need to press the mouse button initially before your click is locked?
To adjust the timing, how long do you need to press the mouse button initially before your click is locked, first, complete the above steps up to step 4. Then, click on the Settings button under the ClickLock section. Finally, to adjust the timing, drag the slider.
Now, click on the OK and then Apply button.
Finally, click the OK button to complete the process.
Conclusion
Clicklock is a valuable feature in Windows that facilitates easy dragging and selecting items without the constant need to hold down the mouse button. This tool not only simplifies daily tasks but also addresses ergonomic issues like finger strain. The step-by-step guides above help users activate Clicklock in Windows 11 and Windows 10 seamlessly. Adjusting the initial press duration is also straightforward, ensuring that the feature works in line with individual preferences.
