How to enable middle click on a Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To enable middle click functionality on a Mac, you can use third-party software like BetterTouchTool or configure your mouse settings if you have a multi-button mouse. This feature is not natively supported in macOS, so additional steps are necessary.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before enabling middle click on your Mac, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Mac running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later.
  • •A multi-button mouse or trackpad that supports additional gestures.
  • •Administrative access to install third-party software if required.
  • •Backup important data to prevent loss during software installation.

Method 1: Using BetterTouchTool

BetterTouchTool is a powerful customization tool that allows you to assign middle click functionality to various mouse buttons or gestures.
  • •Step 1: Download BetterTouchTool from the official website: https://folivora.ai.
  • •Step 2: Install the application by opening the downloaded file and dragging it to your Applications folder.
  • •Step 3: Launch BetterTouchTool from your Applications folder.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Mouse' in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 5: Click the '+' button to add a new gesture.
  • •Step 6: Choose 'Middle Click' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 7: Assign the action you want to perform with the middle click (e.g., 'Open Link in New Tab').
  • •Step 8: Close BetterTouchTool and test the middle click functionality in your browser or application.
  • •Step 9: If it doesn't work, ensure BetterTouchTool is running in the background and check your mouse settings.

For macOS Monterey (12) and later

In Monterey and later, BetterTouchTool has enhanced support for gestures.
  • •Ensure you have granted BetterTouchTool the necessary permissions in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Accessibility.
  • •Use the new gesture options to create more complex middle click actions.

For macOS Big Sur (11) and earlier

In Big Sur and earlier versions, the steps are similar but may lack some advanced gesture options.
  • •Follow the same installation steps, but be aware that some features may not be available.

Method 2: Configuring Mouse Settings

If you have a multi-button mouse, you can configure its settings to enable middle click functionality.
  • •Step 1: Connect your multi-button mouse to your Mac.
  • •Step 2: Open System Preferences by clicking the Apple logo in the top left corner and selecting 'System Preferences.'
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Mouse' or 'Trackpad' depending on your device.
  • •Step 4: Look for an option labeled 'Additional Buttons' or similar.
  • •Step 5: Assign the middle button to 'Middle Click' or 'Button 3'.
  • •Step 6: Close System Preferences and test the middle click functionality in your applications.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to enable middle click, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'BetterTouchTool is not responding' - Solution: Restart the application and ensure it is updated to the latest version.
  • •Issue: 'Middle click does not work in specific applications' - Fix: Check application settings to ensure they support middle click functionality.
  • •Problem: 'Mouse settings do not save' - Workaround: Ensure you have administrative privileges and restart your Mac after making changes.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your productivity with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Option + M - This can simulate a middle click in some applications.
  • •Command line: Use 'defaults write com.apple.mouseButton -int 2' to set mouse button configurations (requires Terminal knowledge).
  • •Hidden feature: Use gestures on the trackpad to simulate middle click by configuring BetterTouchTool.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using BetterTouchTool is the most effective way to enable middle click on a Mac, as it provides extensive customization options.