i tried this using PC as media center but my teevee remote did not work with it like it does with PS.
what are you using to control the HTPC? mouse and keyboard?
I use a very portable touchpad + keyboard combo device via Bluetooth, a very compact version. Great question btw. See attachment image. That is the I used in the past.
You also have other products like the Logitech K400 Plus Touchpad Keyboard. Or even a steam controller if you want to lol. Itβs up to you at the end.
However, I hate track pads. So I recently moved to a trackball! Much better. I advice to use a trackball as well (not for gaming).