Best USB Switches to Share Peripherals Between PCs
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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
If you work at a multi-computer desk, run a home lab, or split your work between a desktop and a laptop, a USB switch can be a small device with a big impact. These compact switch boxes let you share keyboards, mice, printers, external drives and other USB peripherals between two (or more) computers without constantly swapping cables. Compared with full KVM switches, USB switches focus just on peripherals and often cost less, require fewer ports, and are easier to set up.
This guide walks through five well-regarded USB sharing switches—covering USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 options, USB-C compatibility, and models with simple button swapping. I’ll explain practical differences, real-world use cases, and buying considerations so you can choose the right model for your setup. Each product section includes who it’s best for, realistic scenarios, pros and cons, and a friendly Amazon CTA.
Buying Guide
Why pick a dedicated USB switch instead of a KVM or a dock? USB switches are focused tools: they let you share USB peripherals without duplicating hardware or reconnecting cables. They’re particularly useful when you already have separate monitors or use software KVMs for screen sharing but need a reliable, low-latency way to switch physical input devices and storage.
Key factors to evaluate:
– USB version and bandwidth: USB 3.0 switches handle high-speed external drives and some audio interfaces much better than USB 2.0. If you plan to share NVMe-to-USB enclosures or large backups, prioritize USB 3.0 or USB-C-capable devices. For keyboards, mice, printers and scanners, USB 2.0 is usually fine and less expensive.
– Number of ports and computers supported: Some switches support two host computers and multiple devices; others advertise multiple hosts. Choose a unit that matches the number of computers you’ll toggle between and the number of peripherals you need to share.
– Power and power delivery: Bus-powered switches are simpler but can struggle with power-hungry devices like some external hard drives. If you plan to share powered peripherals, check whether the switch requires an external power adapter or supports self-powered hubs.
– Cable type and included accessories: Some models include host-to-host cables (USB-A to A or USB 3.0 cables), while others require you to supply your own USB-C or Thunderbolt adapters. If you use modern laptops with USB-C/Thunderbolt only, look for units that include or can be paired with a USB-C adapter.
– Switching method and device compatibility: Look for a clear switching button, LED indicators, and compatibility with your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux). Some high-end alternatives add hardware-based hotkey switching or integrate with KVM features, but they’re larger and pricier.
Common pitfalls: expecting a USB switch to share monitors (it usually won’t), assuming USB 2.0 is fine for external SSDs, or overlooking cable compatibility with USB-C/Thunderbolt ports. Consider the typical load of your peripherals and whether you might later add a fast external drive or audio interface.
Below are detailed profiles of five solid USB switch options to suit different budgets and needs.
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch 2 Computers Sharing USB C & A Devices, 4 Port USB Switcher Sharing Keyboard and Mouse, Printer/Scanner USB Switch Hub for Two Computers with 2 USB3.0 Cables and Controller
Best For:
Users who need USB 3.0 speeds to share external SSDs, audio interfaces, and multiple peripherals between two computers.
UGREEN’s USB 3.0 4-port switch is a practical mid-range option for anyone who needs to share high-speed peripherals across two computers. This model emphasizes USB 3.0 throughput, which is important if you plan to move large files from an external SSD, use a high-resolution USB audio interface, or want responsive input devices with minimal lag. Unlike budget USB 2.0 boxes, this switch includes two USB 3.0 host cables (so you won’t need to hunt for compatible cables) and a small controller button for fast, obvious switching.
Real-world benefits include noticeably faster file transfers when compared to USB 2.0 alternatives and more reliable performance for devices that draw moderate power from the bus. The four downstream ports give you flexibility to connect a keyboard, mouse, a backup drive and a printer or scanner. The device is plug-and-play on Windows, macOS and Linux in most typical setups; that means no extra drivers for basic functions. Customers who use it in multi-PC workstations report fewer driver hiccups than with older USB 2.0 switchers.
Use cases: If you’re a content creator who alternates between a desktop and a laptop and needs to share fast external storage and an audio interface, this switch keeps transfers efficient. Home office workers who run two computers and want to share a single keyboard/mouse combo plus occasional access to a printer will find the four ports handy. IT pros building a small test bench might use the unit to quickly move peripherals between machines during troubleshooting.
Buying considerations: Make sure your cables match—this unit includes USB-A host cables, so if your laptop is USB-C only, you’ll need a USB-C to USB-A adapter or a short USB-C host cable. Bus power is usually sufficient for typical peripherals, but very power-hungry 3.5" drives may require an external powered hub. Compared with full KVMs, the UGREEN switch is smaller and budget-friendly but does not handle video switching.
Who should buy this: Choose the UGREEN USB 3.0 switch if you need a balance of speed and simplicity for two-host setups and expect to share high-bandwidth devices. Who may skip it: If you only share basic keyboard/mouse and printer and want the cheapest option, a USB 2.0 switch will save money; if you need monitor switching too, a KVM is the better pick.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Pros
- USB 3.0 bandwidth suitable for fast external drives
- Includes two USB 3.0 host cables
- Four downstream ports for multiple peripherals
Cons
- Uses USB-A host cables (may need adapters for USB-C laptops)
- Not suitable for sharing monitors—only USB peripherals
If you want fast transfers and simple switching between two computers, check the latest price on Amazon.
UGREEN USB Switch Selector 2 Computers Sharing 4 USB Devices USB 2.0 Peripheral Switcher Box Hub for Mouse Keyboard Scanner Printer PCs with One-Button Swapping and 2 Pack USB A to A Cable
Best For:
Budget-conscious users who mainly share keyboards, mice and printers between two computers.
The UGREEN USB 2.0 Switch Selector is a reliable, budget-friendly option designed around everyday peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers and scanners. Where USB 3.0 units aim at high-speed storage, this USB 2.0 model prioritizes compatibility and value. It features four downstream USB ports, a single clearly marked button to swap between two host computers, and LED indicators so you always know which computer currently has access to the devices.
Practical advantages are straightforward: it’s compact, easy to set up, and rarely requires driver configuration for basic HID (human interface device) peripherals. Small home offices and shared desks benefit from the convenience of toggling with a single press rather than unplugging cables. Many buyers pair it with a wireless keyboard dongle and mouse, leaving a second USB port free for a printer or external drive used less frequently.
Use cases: If you alternate work between a desktop and a laptop and only need to share a keyboard, mouse and occasional printer access, this UGREEN 2.0 switch keeps things simple and inexpensive. Small business owners with a front-desk PC and back-office machine can share a multi-function printer without buying duplicates. Teachers or lab supervisors who need quick switching between two machines for demos will appreciate the single-button swapping.
Buying considerations: Remember USB 2.0 can’t match USB 3.0 speeds, so don’t expect rapid backups across this shared connection. Power-hungry bus-powered devices might not behave optimally—powered drives or devices with separate adapters are safer. The included USB A-to-A cables make initial setup painless, but if you use modern USB-C-only laptops you’ll need adapter cables.
Who should buy this: Choose this UGREEN 2.0 switch if you mainly share keyboards, mice, printers and other low-bandwidth devices and want a fuss-free, affordable solution. Who may skip it: If you plan to share external SSDs or high-bandwidth peripherals frequently, opt for a USB 3.0 or USB-C switch instead.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Pros
- Affordable and easy to set up
- Single-button swap with LED indicators
- Includes USB A-to-A cables
Cons
- USB 2.0 limits transfer speeds for storage devices
- May not supply enough power for some bus-powered hard drives
For a simple, cost-effective way to share basic peripherals, check the latest price on Amazon.
BENFEI USB 3.0 Switch, USB Switch 2 Computers Share 4 USB for PC, Mouse, Keyboard, Printer, Scanner, USB KVM Switch Selector Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux
Best For:
Users in mixed OS environments who need USB 3.0 speeds for shared storage and reliable compatibility.
The BENFEI USB 3.0 switch positions itself as a versatile, OS-friendly option that supports two host machines and up to four USB peripherals. Its USB 3.0 support makes it a stronger choice for workflows that combine input devices with external storage or faster peripherals. BENFEI highlights compatibility across Windows, macOS and Linux, which matters if you work in a mixed-environment office or test different operating systems regularly.
Compared with basic USB 2.0 boxes, the BENFEI unit reduces file-transfer bottlenecks and offers the responsiveness expected by creatives and IT professionals. It’s compact but solidly built, with clear LED indicators and a tactile switch button that tends to be more reliable than flimsy alternatives. Several buyers note that it behaves well with common USB devices like programmable keyboards and multi-button mice, as well as with multi-function printers and card readers—though, as with most USB switches, some specialized hardware with unique drivers or firmware can be unpredictable.
Use cases: A photographer who shoots on a laptop and desktop might use this switch to swap an external SSD and card reader quickly between systems for fast imports. A developer maintaining two test rigs could share input devices and a USB dongle for licensing. Home-office setups that mix a work laptop and personal desktop can consolidate a tidy desk by sharing a single high-quality keyboard and mouse while keeping data transfer speeds reasonable for backups.
Buying considerations: Confirm cable types—this switch typically uses USB-A host cables; pair with USB-C adapters if needed. If you plan to connect a 3.5" bus-powered drive, a powered hub or externally powered enclosure may be necessary. For extremely low-latency gaming peripherals or certain USB audio interfaces, a dedicated direct connection might still be preferred.
Who should buy this: Pick the BENFEI if you want solid USB 3.0 performance and broad OS compatibility in a straightforward package. Who may skip it: If you only share very low-bandwidth devices and want the lowest possible price, a USB 2.0 switch could suffice.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Pros
- Good USB 3.0 performance with broad OS compatibility
- Tactile switch and clear LED indicators
- Works well with a variety of common peripherals
Cons
- Uses USB-A host cables (may need adapters for USB-C laptops)
- Some specialized devices may still require direct connection
For cross-platform setups needing faster transfers, check the latest price on Amazon.
Cable Matters 4 Port USB 3.0 Switch USB Sharing Switch for 4 Computers and USBA Peripherals Including Keyboard, Mouse & Hard Drive, with a USBC Adapter for USBC USB4 and Thunderbolt 4/5
Best For:
Users who want USB 3.0 speeds plus USB-C adapter compatibility for modern laptops and Thunderbolt systems.
Cable Matters’ 4-port USB 3.0 switch is built for users who want flexibility and future-proofing. A notable advantage is explicit support for USB-C workflows via an included adapter, which makes this model friendlier to modern laptops and Thunderbolt-equipped machines. This unit is designed to handle faster external drives and the common mix of input devices many people have—keyboard, mouse, webcam, and one or two storage devices—without the transfer limitations of USB 2.0.
In practice, the Cable Matters switch is a good compromise between convenience and capability. It provides solid throughput for backups and media transfer, robust LEDs to show active hosts, and a sturdy switching control. Some buyers appreciate that the package generally includes quality cables and an adapter, reducing the need to purchase extras. It’s also a compact alternative to multi-input hubs that combine video and USB switching—if you already have dedicated monitor switching or multiple monitors per machine, this device neatly fills the peripheral-sharing role.
Use cases: Video editors who shuttle large video files between an editing desktop and a laptop reviewer will benefit from the higher transfer speeds. A developer who frequently connects external SSDs for builds can toggle drives between systems without reaching behind the case. Small offices that rotate a central USB scanner among multiple PCs can streamline workflows while avoiding duplicate hardware.
Buying considerations: While the included USB-C adapter helps, confirm whether your Thunderbolt-only ports require additional adapters for full data lane support. For very high-power or bus-hungry drives, consider a powered hub or externally powered enclosure. This model is not a KVM—it won’t switch monitor signals—so ensure your display arrangement matches your needs.
Who should buy this: Choose the Cable Matters switch if you want USB 3.0 speeds and USB-C compatibility with included adapters. Who may skip it: If you only need to share basic peripherals across two computers or only have USB-A devices, a simpler and cheaper 2.0 switch may be adequate.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Pros
- Includes USB-C adapter for modern laptops
- USB 3.0 speeds suitable for fast storage
- Sturdy build and clear LED indicators
Cons
- May need additional adapters for some Thunderbolt-only setups
- Does not switch video—only USB peripherals
For USB-C-friendly setups with fast transfers, check the latest price on Amazon.
SABRENT USB 2.0 Sharing Switch for Multiple Computers and Peripherals LED Device Indicators (USB-SW20) Black
Best For:
Schools, small offices and budget-conscious users who mainly share keyboards, mice and printers.
Sabrent’s USB-SW20 is a no-frills, dependable USB 2.0 sharing switch that’s been a popular budget choice for home offices and classrooms. It focuses on the essentials: share multiple USB peripherals between computers with a clear set of LED indicators and a simple selection mechanism. Because it’s USB 2.0, the unit is best suited to devices like keyboards, mice, printers, scanners and small peripherals where high data throughput isn’t required.
What stands out is the practicality and long track record: many IT administrators and educators pick Sabrent switches for lab environments where cost, reliability, and ease-of-use matter more than fast external drive transfers. The switch is plug-and-play for standard input devices and printers; it’s small, unobtrusive on a desk, and less expensive than USB 3.0 models.
Use cases: Classroom situations where a teacher needs to toggle between a presentation laptop and a desktop, or a shared front-desk printer serving two receptionist PCs, are ideal scenarios. People who keep a dedicated wired keyboard and mouse for an at-home workstation and a secondary laptop for travel can use the Sabrent device to avoid reconnecting USB dongles or cables repeatedly.
Buying considerations: Don’t expect high-speed file transfers—USB 2.0 is limited to lower bandwidth. It can struggle with bus-powered external drives and isn’t suitable for sharing high-speed audio interfaces or large SSD backups. However, its reliability for HID and printer sharing is what makes it valuable.
Who should buy this: Pick the Sabrent USB 2.0 switch if you need a robust, affordable solution to share basic peripherals across multiple computers. Who may skip it: If you regularly share fast storage or need USB-C support, choose a USB 3.0 or USB-C-capable model instead.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Pros
- Very affordable with a proven track record
- Simple plug-and-play operation
- Clear LED indicators for active devices
Cons
- USB 2.0 limits data transfer speeds
- Not ideal for powering or sharing bus-hungry external drives
If you want a reliable, budget-friendly switch for basic peripherals, check the latest price on Amazon.
Final Verdict
USB switches are a low-cost, low-complexity way to share peripherals across multiple computers without duplicating hardware. If your setup centers on keyboards, mice and printers, a USB 2.0 switch like the UGREEN 2.0 or Sabrent USB-SW20 will save money and simplify your desk. If you need to share high-speed storage, audio interfaces or faster peripherals, prioritize USB 3.0 or USB-C-capable switches such as the UGREEN USB 3.0, BENFEI, or the Cable Matters model with a USB-C adapter.
When choosing, think about the types of devices you’ll share, whether your computers use USB-A or USB-C ports, and whether bus-powered devices may require an externally powered hub. Also remember that USB switches handle only USB peripherals—not monitors—so if you need video switching, look into a KVM or a combined solution instead.
Each product profiled here fits a different set of needs: from ultra-budget classroom and front-desk solutions to faster, crossover-ready switches for creatives and IT pros. Consider the recommended ‘best for’ notes above and pick the model that matches your peripheral mix and machine ports. Check the latest price on Amazon.
Conclusion
These USB switch for sharing peripherals across workstations picks are trending now and offer great value and variety. Check the links above for latest prices and reviews.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Tags:
USB switch, USB switcher, share peripherals, USB 3.0 switch, USB-C switch, KVM alternative, peripheral sharing
