Skip to main content

Disable Windows Ink

Windows Ink Causing Input Issues​

In some applications such as Unreal Engine (UE5), Photoshop, Blender, or other creative tools, Windows Ink can interfere with mouse input.

Common symptoms include:

  • Mouse cursor turning into a crosshair (+)
  • Erratic or inaccurate mouse movement
  • Issues with camera controls in game engines
  • Brush/tool behaving incorrectly in design software

Disable Windows Ink Workspace

Understanding the Issue​

Windows Ink Workspace is a feature designed for pen and touch input (stylus, drawing, handwriting).

However, many professional applications rely on raw mouse input, and Windows Ink can override or interfere with this input system.

This conflict is especially noticeable in:

  • Game engines (UE5, Unity)
  • Creative tools (Photoshop, ZBrush, Blender)
  • Remote/virtual workstations (like Spark Workstations)
important icon

If you experience cursor issues, crosshair pointer, or input lag, disabling Windows Ink is recommended.

When Should You Disable Windows Ink?​

Disable Windows Ink if:

  • You are not using a stylus or pen device
  • You experience cursor/input issues
  • You are working with:
    • 3D tools
    • Game engines
    • Design or editing software
    • Remote workstations
Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor
  • Press Win + R
  • Type gpedit.msc and press Enter

Run gpedit.msc

Step 2: Navigate to Windows Ink Settings
  • Go to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Ink Workspace

GPO Windows Ink Workspace Path

Step 3: Disable Windows Ink
  • Double-click Allow Windows Ink Workspace
  • Select Enabled
  • Then choose Disabled in the Options section
  • Click Apply → OK

Disable Windows Ink Policy

Step 4: Restart System
  • Restart your workstation for changes to take effect

Solution 2: Disable via Registry (Alternative Method)​

Step 1: Open Registry Editor
  • Press Win + R
  • Type regedit and press Enter

Run regedit

Step 2: Navigate to Path
  • Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft

Registry Editor Path

Step 3: Create Key (if missing)
  • Right-click Microsoft
  • Select New → Key
  • Name it: WindowsInkWorkspace

Create New Registry Key

Step 4: Create DWORD Value
  • Right-click in right pane → New → DWORD (32-bit)
  • Name it: AllowWindowsInkWorkspace
  • Set value to 0

Create DWORD and set to 0

Step 5: Restart System
  • Restart your workstation

Re-enable Windows Ink (Optional)​

If you need Windows Ink again:

  • Change value to 1 in registry
  • Or set Group Policy to Enabled

Additional Notes​

info icon

If you are using devices like Wacom tablets, Windows Ink behavior may be controlled separately by device drivers or software. Ensure "Use Windows Ink" is unchecked in your tablet settings.

Wacom Tablet Properties - Disable Windows Ink