The red button or red dot on a ThinkPad keyboard is the TrackPoint, a small pointing stick that controls the mouse cursor. Push gently in the direction you want to move. It is not the power button, and moving the pointer does not require a downward click.
The point is to let you control the pointer while keeping your hands near the typing position. You can use it alongside the touchpad or an external mouse; which feels better is a matter of your setup and preference.
What is the point of the red dot on a ThinkPad?
It lets you move the pointer while your hands stay near the keyboard. For example, you can click somewhere else in a document and carry on typing without reaching for a mouse. You can still use the touchpad when you prefer it.
“Red button,” “red dot” and “red nub” usually describe the same TrackPoint cap between the G, H and B keys. The clicking buttons, where fitted, are separate and sit near the top of the touchpad.
The red dot and the middle button do different jobs
| Control | Where it is | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Red TrackPoint stick | Between the G, H and B keys | Moves the pointer when you apply sideways pressure. |
| Middle TrackPoint button | Between the left and right buttons near the touchpad, on models with that layout | Hold it while pushing the stick to scroll, as described in Lenovo’s model guide below. |
If you mean the button between left-click and right-click, try holding that button and gently pushing the red stick up or down on a long page. The red stick and the scroll button work together; they are separate controls.
How to use the TrackPoint
| Action | What to do |
|---|---|
| Move the pointer. | Apply light pressure to the cap in the direction you want the pointer to move. |
| Move faster. | Apply more pressure, rather than trying to push the stick a long distance. |
| Left-click or right-click. | Use the buttons next to the TrackPoint, if your laptop has them. |
| Scroll. | On models with the documented three-button layout, hold the centre button while applying pressure to the stick. |
These basic controls are described in Lenovo’s TrackPoint user guide. The exact button layout and extra functions depend on the laptop, so use the manual for your model.
Try it with a simple task
- Open a document or a familiar web page.
- Rest a finger on the red cap and apply a little pressure to the right, then to the left.
- Stop applying pressure to stop moving the pointer.
- Use the appropriate button to click a link or select text.
- If your model has the centre-button scrolling function, try it on a long page.
The stick moves very little. Pressing harder changes pointer speed; it does not require the large movement of a joystick. Start gently until you are comfortable with the response.
Can the TrackPoint replace a mouse?
For normal pointing, clicking and scrolling, it can provide the functions you would use a mouse for. That does not mean it is automatically more accurate than every touchpad or that it will improve everyone’s productivity.
It can be convenient while typing or when desk space is limited. An external mouse may still suit tasks such as detailed drawing or long gaming sessions better. Try the device with your own tasks before deciding.
If the pointer does not respond
- Check the model’s pointing-device settings to confirm that TrackPoint is enabled.
- Check that the cap is fitted correctly; follow Lenovo’s instructions if it needs replacement.
- Use Lenovo’s support page for the exact laptop to check the appropriate driver or utility.
- Test the touchpad or a mouse to see whether the problem affects only the TrackPoint.
If the pointer is too fast or too slow, look for the model’s pointing-device settings rather than assuming that the stick is faulty. Settings and shortcuts differ between generations.
Can you turn off the red button?
If you do not use it, check the pointing-device settings for your exact ThinkPad. Some models let you disable TrackPoint separately from the touchpad. Follow Lenovo‘s model guide rather than removing the driver, because that can affect other pointing controls.
Does pressing the red dot click?
The basic control is pressure to move the cursor, with the separate left and right buttons used for clicks. Extra gestures or tapping features depend on the model and its settings. Use the controls shown in your laptop’s manual.
Does it recognise which finger you use?
The TrackPoint responds to the direction and pressure you apply. You don’t need to use a different index finger for each direction.
Technical review: October 26, 2026. Updated using Lenovo’s TrackPoint documentation.
If the pointer works but the keys type the wrong characters, use the separate keyboard layout and number-key checks. A TrackPoint setting does not change what the letter keys type.
Frequently asked questions
What is the red dot between the ThinkPad keys?
It is the TrackPoint pointing stick. Gentle sideways pressure moves the mouse pointer while your hands stay near the keyboard.
How do I click with a TrackPoint?
Use the model’s separate left and right pointing-device buttons. Additional tapping or gesture features depend on the exact laptop and settings.
What does the button between left-click and right-click do?
On the documented three-button layout, hold the center TrackPoint button while applying pressure to the stick. Check the model manual for its controls.
Can I disable TrackPoint and keep the touchpad?
Some models offer separate pointing-device controls. Check the supported settings for your ThinkPad rather than removing a shared driver.