If you're experiencing a frustrating issue with your mouse cursor flickering in Pop!_OS, based on Ubuntu 20.04, you're not alone. Many users have encountered this problem, which can disrupt your workflow and lead to an overall negative computing experience. In this article, we'll explore the potential causes of cursor flickering and provide actionable solutions to fix the issue.
Understanding the Flickering Cursor Issue
Mouse cursor flickering can be attributed to various factors, including hardware compatibility, graphics driver issues, or settings within the operating system. The flickering may manifest as rapid movement, disappearing and reappearing, or jittery behavior. The following is a common scenario that might lead to cursor flickering:
The mouse cursor flickers on my Pop!_OS (Ubuntu 20.04) desktop, making it hard to use the computer effectively.
This statement can be simplified to: "My mouse cursor is flickering on Pop!_OS (Ubuntu 20.04), which makes it difficult to use my computer."
Possible Causes of Mouse Cursor Flickering
- Graphics Driver Issues: An outdated or incompatible graphics driver can cause display problems, including cursor flickering.
- Hardware Compatibility: Some mouse devices may not work well with Pop!_OS, especially if they require specific drivers or software.
- Display Settings: Incorrect resolution or refresh rate settings can also lead to display issues like flickering.
- Multiple Display Outputs: If you have more than one monitor connected, it may confuse the system and cause the cursor to flicker.
Solutions to Fix Cursor Flickering
1. Update Graphics Drivers
To ensure your graphics drivers are up to date, follow these steps:
- Open the terminal by pressing
Ctrl + Alt + T. - Update your package lists by entering:
sudo apt update - Upgrade your installed packages:
sudo apt upgrade - Check for any additional drivers:
sudo ubuntu-drivers devices - Install any recommended drivers using:
sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall
2. Adjust Display Settings
Check and adjust your display settings:
- Open the "Settings" application.
- Navigate to "Displays."
- Ensure your resolution and refresh rate are set correctly according to your monitor specifications.
3. Test with Different Mouse
Try using a different mouse to rule out hardware issues:
- If the flickering persists with a different mouse, the problem may lie within the system.
- If the issue resolves, your original mouse may need replacing or updating.
4. Disable Compositor
Disabling the compositor can help resolve flickering issues:
- Open the terminal.
- Install the
comptonpackage if it’s not installed:sudo apt install compton - Launch
comptonwith the following command to disable it:compton --no-fading --no-dimming --backend glx &
5. Reboot Your System
Sometimes, simply rebooting your system can solve the flickering issue as it resets hardware connections and system settings.
Additional Resources
Conclusion
Mouse cursor flickering in Pop!_OS (Ubuntu 20.04) can be a significant annoyance, but with the right troubleshooting steps, it can often be resolved quickly. From updating graphics drivers to adjusting display settings or even using different hardware, there are multiple avenues to explore. By applying the methods outlined in this article, you can get back to a seamless and productive computing experience.
By keeping your system updated and monitoring hardware compatibility, you'll likely avoid this issue in the future. If you have any additional solutions or tips, feel free to share them in the comments below!
