
That’s a little bit more complicated, and probably isn’t worth it if you have both computers in the same room. If you are trying to do that with software, you’ll have to try Remote Desktop or a Virtual Network Computing program. Also, neither program supports sharing a monitor between the two computers. One potential downside of using one of these programs is that if your network is bogged down (for example if you are running streaming video or downloading a lot), you might notice a slight lag in reaction time.

Also, both programs support clipboard sharing, which allows you to copy text on one computer and paste it on the other.īoth programs are relatively small ones that don’t use up a lot of resources on your computers or bandwidth on your network. It’s a tiny bit harder to setup than ShareMouse, but it’s free and open-source, so there’s an entire community constantly working on it to make it better! On both programs you don’t have to press a button to switch computers - it’s as simple as sliding your mouse off the edge of one screen, and it will appear on the other screen. However, it normally costs $30 per computer!Īnother option is a program called Synergy (this is the one we prefer). It is super easy to use, and isn’t too difficult to set up. If you want to go the software route, there are two great programs that do the same thing as a KM switch, but over your network instead of a cable. Also, you’ll need to press a button, or turn a switch, to go back and forth between the two computers. The down side is that you are limited by the length of the cable.

The great thing about using a physical cable is that the connection is really fast, and you’ll never have any lag. If you are using the two different computers at the same time, that second one might be the best option for you.Įither way, they both run between $20 and $100.

There are also KM switch cables that allow you to share just a keyboard and mouse with two computers that have two separate monitors. These let you share one mouse, keyboard and monitor between two computers. There are a couple methods to control two different computers from one keyboard and mouse: either with a cable or with software.įirst, there is a cable called a KVM switch, which is short for “keyboard, video and mouse” switch. Is there any way I can use one keyboard and one mouse for both computers? Also, is there any app I can use to control my computer from my iPad?" Mike asks, "I use two desktop computers at work, and I’m starting to feel like having two keyboards and mice is taking up too much space on my desk.
