TrackPoint

TrackPoint is a pointing device embedded in the keyboard of many IBM and Lenovo ThinkPad laptops, and it has appeared on other notebook models as well. It is a pressure-sensitive pointing stick, commonly known as a nipple or joystick in the keyboard, that allows cursor control without moving a finger away from the keys. Movement is produced by applying pressure in the desired direction; the cursor speed generally increases with the amount of pressure applied.

Physically, TrackPoint is a small nub located in the center of the keyboard, typically between the G, H, and B keys, and it is often red. It is used together with three physical buttons beneath the space bar: left-click, middle-click, and right-click. The middle button is frequently used for scrolling, either on its own or in combination with the TrackPoint, though implementations vary by model.

History and adoption: TrackPoint was developed by IBM and introduced with the ThinkPad line in the early 1990s. After Lenovo acquired IBM's personal computer business, TrackPoint remained a standard feature on ThinkPads and later appeared on other Lenovo laptops and some models from other manufacturers. It serves as an alternative to a touchpad or external mouse.

Advantages and usage: TrackPoint allows users to keep their hands on the keyboard, enabling rapid cursor movement without reaching for a separate input device. It is supported by major operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, with sensitivity, acceleration, and scrolling behavior adjustable through system or manufacturer software. Some users prefer TrackPoint for precise control on small screens, while others find it less intuitive than a touchpad.