Skip to content

Instantly share code, notes, and snippets.

Show Gist options
  • Select an option

  • Save ntfromchicago/685108f04910dec52b663f4ed74a5658 to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.

Select an option

Save ntfromchicago/685108f04910dec52b663f4ed74a5658 to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.
Alternative Control Devices for Apple Vision Pro

Alternative Control Devices for Apple Vision Pro

Last updated Feb. 11, 2026

The purpose of this gist is to document compatible Bluetooth devices that are not keyboards, trackpads, mice or game controllers that can be used to control Apple Vision Pro as if you had a trackpad or mouse connected.

Why Alt Devices?

The problem with using a Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad and holding tray is that it’s too expensive and way too much to travel with.

At that point, it’s better to just travel with a Mac, to get the benefit of Mac Virtual Display.

However, it’s not always practical to pull out a Mac just to get keyboard and trackpad access. For instance, when on a plane when space is tight, you’d be better off connecting to a smaller keyboard and trackpad.

That’s why I did extensive research on third-party keyboard and trackpad combos to find some good options that were both affordable and portable.

Over the years as an active Vision Pro user, I’ve found that I use the trackpad less often. Instead, I rely on gestures. For apps that require extensive use of the trackpad (e.g. Figma) I wind up using the Mac trackpad instead.

But outside of that, I mainly rely on gestures. I even turn off the trackpad temporarily so I don’t accidentally move the cursor while typing.

However, there is one other use case where a trackpad is required: When trying to select really tiny buttons or links on a web page or iPad app. In these cases, gaze and pinch doesn’t work or is way too inaccurate.

But since I’ve found myself only using the trackpad for these occasional instances, would it be worth exploring alternatives to the trackpad that would be easier to travel with? Thus this Gist, as I drop down the rabbit hole.

The Requirements

  • The Alt Device couldn’t be a keyboard, trackpad, mouse or game controller
  • The Alt Device had to be very portable and easy to travel with
  • The Alt Device had to be compatible with visionOS without additional hardware or cables
  • The Alt Device had to be less than $100 total with the keyboard

To clarify, I didn’t include traditional trackpads or mice because both required flat surfaces and/or desktop real estate. You couldn’t guarantee that you’d have either when traveling. Plus, mice might work erratically depending on the surface that it’s on.

Alt Device Reviews

CheerTok Air

Sign up for free to join this conversation on GitHub. Already have an account? Sign in to comment