Three-finger trackpad gestures for middle-click on macOS
Professional 3D software expects a middle mouse button. Mac trackpads don't have one. For years, CAD users have been forced to carry an external mouse or use awkward modifier key combinations.
Native gestures misfire constantly. Two-finger scroll zooms uncontrollably.
Force-click only. No tap gestures. Users report hand strain after extended use.
Zero multi-touch recognition. Official response: "not supported."
Requires Ctrl+Cmd+Shift+drag for orbit. Causes hand cramps.
Trackpad breaks after sleep cycles. Requires app restart.
"Emulate 3 Button Mouse" breaks Alt-click for loop select and node editing.
MiddleDrag adds three-finger gestures to your Mac trackpad:
| Feature | MiddleDrag | BetterTouchTool | Middle | MiddleClick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | $10-24 | $8 | Free |
| Open Source | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| GUI Settings | Yes | Yes | Yes | No (terminal) |
| Middle-drag | Yes | Complex setup | Limited | No |
| Mission Control | Works | Conflicts | Conflicts | Conflicts |
Homebrew (recommended):
Manual: Download from GitHub Releases, move to Applications, and grant Accessibility permissions when prompted.
Requires macOS 15 (Sequoia) or later. Works with built-in trackpad and Magic Trackpad.