Easily Stop Folders Opening Automatically when Hovering Cursor Over Them on Mac

Stop Folders Opening Automatically when Hovering Cursor Over Them

I really hate how folders open automatically when you hover your mouse cursor over them on Mac. Sometimes I need to place a number of files into different folders, and having them open automatically when I just want to drop something in there is a real pain. It slows me down, and is just plain annoying. Thankfully, it is easy to stop this behavior. Open Preferences, and look for the accessibility option.

Preferences TabOnce you have the accessibility tab open, look for mouse & trackpad options in the left pane, and then click it to open.

accessibilityNow you will be able to see the source of the problem. Spring loaded folders.

Springy Folders

To slow down the time it takes for folders to pop open when you are hovering over them, slide the slider towards “long” delay. To stop folders from springing open automatically completely, uncheck the “spring-loading delay” option.

Springy DelayProblem Solved!

6 thoughts on “Easily Stop Folders Opening Automatically when Hovering Cursor Over Them on Mac

  1. Jennifer Sullivan says:

    my trackpad cursor keeps opening, and moving files in my email – very frustrating! I opened up the box as directed, the was no check in the spring load box. I moved the slider to long, left it unchecked, and it is still happening. Any other suggestions?

  2. Mike Gilligan says:

    I had the same experience. My “Spring Load” box is unchecked and the slider is on “long.” It still opens files, etc, when my cursor is on them. Your solution doesn’t work and I can’t think of any possible reason why this feature would be designed for a computer. Is it only on Mojave?

  3. Annalisse Mayer says:

    Yay! Thanks!

  4. John smith says:

    Thank you so much ! It was so annoying having the folders open unintentionally, and your fix was exactly on point 🙂 You are a genius and should be Apple CEO !!!

  5. Billy says:

    Unfortunately I have to use a Mac for work. It’s a real pain sometimes. But thanks to your tip there is now a little less pain. Thank you!

  6. The Webernets says:

    You’re welcome. Glad you found the article useful

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