Best USB Switches for Two Computers to Share Keyboard and Mouse
Answering the common need to control two computers with a single keyboard and mouse, these USB switches let you switch devices quickly between machines. They’re ideal for mixed-work setups, home offices, teachers, and IT pros who work on two PCs. This guide highlights five solid options, showing who each is best for and why. The buying table below compares core details at a glance.
| Product | Connection Type | Ports | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB 3.0, 2x PC | 4 USB A, 1 USB A (for host) | Fast transfers, broad OS compatibility | |
| USB 3.0, 2x PC | 2x USB A ports per computer | One-touch switching, simple setup | |
| USB 3.0, 2x PC | 2x USB A, 2x USB ports for devices | Clear indicator lights, plug-and-play | |
| USB 3.0/USB-C, 2x PC | 3x USB 3.0, 1x USB-C | USB-C support, remote control option | |
| USB 3.0, 2x PC | 4 ports total (USB C & A) | USB-C and USB-A compatibility |
BENFEI USB 3.0 Switch: 2 Computers, 4 USB Ports
Best for users needing broad device support across two computers. This switch supports 2 computers sharing 4 USB devices such as keyboard, mouse, USB drives, printers, scanners, and more. It’s driver-free and compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS. Data transfers reach up to 5Gbps via USB 3.0.
Who it’s for: small offices or home setups with multiple USB peripherals and mixed operating systems. Why chosen: versatile device sharing with straightforward one-click switching and clear LED status indicators. Caution: requires BENFEI USB A to USB A cables for operation.
GUETAD USB 3.0 Switch: 2 In, 2 Out
Best for simple, two-computer setups needing a compact, plug-and-play switch. It supports two computers sharing two USB devices (keyboard, mouse, printer, webcam, etc.) with one-touch switching and LED indicators. Not a KVM switch, so video sharing isn’t supported.
Who it’s for: users who need a clean, minimal two-device sharing solution without monitor sharing. Why chosen: straightforward operation and reliable one-button switching. Caution: it does not support video or monitor transmission.
UGREEN 4-Port USB Switch: 2 Computers, 4 USB Devices
Best for users needing to share multiple USB peripherals across two PCs without using software. This 2-in/4-out switch shares 4 USB devices like keyboards, mice, printers, and scanners. It’s plug-and-play for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS but is not a video-sharing KVM.
Who it’s for: those who want to maximize the number of USB devices shared with two computers. Why chosen: clear, driver-free operation and wide OS compatibility. Caution: power supply is recommended when using multiple devices concurrently to prevent disconnection.
BENFEI USB 3.0/USB-C Switch: 2 Computers, USB-C Port
This model adds a USB-C port alongside USB 3.0, enabling two computers to share three USB 3.0 devices and one USB-C device. It supports Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS with a remote control option for convenient switching. Data transfer remains up to 5Gbps.
Who it’s for: setups needing USB-C device sharing in addition to standard USB-A peripherals. Why chosen: expanded port options with remote control for easier operation. Caution: requires compatible USB-C devices and appropriate cables for full use.
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch: USB-C And USB-A Devices
Best for mixed USB-C and USB-A devices across two computers. This 2-in/4-out switch supports two PCs sharing four USB devices, including printers and scanners. It’s a plug-and-play device with USB 3.0 speeds and backward compatibility with USB 2.0. Note the note: the USB ports mainly handle data transfer, not charging.
Who it’s for: users with a combination of USB-C and USB-A peripherals. Why chosen: versatility in port types and strong OS compatibility. Caution: ensure peripheral power needs are managed to avoid disconnections with multiple devices.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- What you share: Determine how many devices (keyboard, mouse, printer, scanner, USB drives) you plan to connect. If you need video or monitor sharing, a true KVM switch is required, not just a USB switch.
- Port types: Decide between USB-A and USB-C devices. If you have USB-C laptops, look for models offering USB-C ports or included USB-C cables.
- Transfer speed: USB 3.0/3.1 supports up to 5Gbps. USB 2.0 is slower; choose USB 3.0 when you frequently transfer large files between PCs.
- Power considerations: Some setups benefit from external power or a powered hub to prevent device drop-offs when multiple devices are active.
- Switching method: Consider one-click switching versus remote control options. LED indicators help confirm which PC is active.
- Compatibility: Verify OS compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS). Driver-free devices simplify setup.
- Future-proofing: If you expect USB-C devices to increase, prioritize models with USB-C ports or dual-port support.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do USB switches support gaming keyboards and high-DPI mice? Yes, many USB 3.0 switches support standard HID peripherals, but performance can vary with models and drivers. Check the product’s data sheet for polling rate notes if you need ultra-low latency.
- Can I share a printer and a keyboard with two PCs at the same time? You can share multiple USB devices across two computers, but not all devices will work simultaneously if bandwidth is limited. Choose a model with enough ports for your needs.
- Is a powered USB switch better for heavy device usage? Power can help maintain stable connections when multiple USB devices draw significant power, reducing dropouts.
- Will these switches work with Linux or Chrome OS? Most listed models advertise broad OS compatibility, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS. Verify specific model compatibility if you rely on Linux-based systems.
- Do I need drivers to use a USB switch? Most of these devices are driver-free, enabling plug-and-play setup across supported OSes.
- Can I use these to extend USB device sharing to a second monitor or GPU? No. USB switches do not transmit video or graphics signals. They are intended for USB peripherals only.