Switching one keyboard, mouse, printer, or scanner between computers should not require unplugging cables every time. The best USB switch boxes let you share peripherals with a button press while keeping your desk organized.
Our 2026 roundup compares USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C, multi-port, bidirectional, and remote-controlled options so you can choose the right fit for your computers and devices.
Best 10 USB Switch Boxes Picks for 2026
Best Multi-Device Pick
UGREEN 2-Computer, 4-Port USB 3.0 Switch
- Shares four USB devices between two computers
- Up to 5Gbps USB 3.0 transfers
- Includes two USB 3.0 cables
Best For: Two-computer workstations with multiple shared peripherals
Best Bi-Directional Value
Aluminum USB 3.0 1-in-2/2-in-1 Switch
- Works in either switching direction
- Supports up to 5Gbps transfers
- Compact aluminum housing
Best For: Flexible single-peripheral or dual-device switching
Best Four-Port Alternative
BENFEI 2-Computer, 4-Port USB 3.0 Switch
- Shares four USB devices between two computers
- USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps
- Includes USB-A power cable and 18-month warranty
Best For: Multi-peripheral desks needing broad OS compatibility
Best Compact Setup
USB 3.0 Bi-Directional Switch with Cables
- Includes two USB 3.0 cables
- Compact aluminum-alloy design
- One-button switching with LED indicator
Best For: Space-conscious desks and quick peripheral sharing
Best Overall
BENFEI 2-Computer USB 3.0 Switch
- Shares four USB devices between two computers
- 5Gbps USB 3.0 performance with USB-C support
- Manual or remote switching with optional power
Best For: Mixed USB-A/USB-C workstations
Best High-Capacity Pick
UGREEN 7-Device USB 3.0 Switch
- Shares up to seven USB-A and USB-C devices
- 5Gbps USB 3.0 data transfer
- Includes adapter and external controller
Best For: Peripheral-heavy dual-computer desks
Best Budget Manual Option
OLLGEN 4-Port USB 2.0 Switch Box
- Lets four computers share one USB device
- Simple individual push-button operation
- Compact USB 1.1/2.0 design
Best For: Basic printer or scanner sharing
Best Dual-Computer USB Switch
- Shares USB peripherals between two computers
- Three USB-A plus one USB-C port
- Includes a convenient wired controller
Best For: Two-computer workstations with shared peripherals
Best Plug-and-Play USB Switch
UGREEN 4-Port USB 3.0 Switcher
- Shares four USB devices between two computers
- Includes USB-C and USB-A ports
- Supports controller or button switching
Best For: Flexible two-computer peripheral sharing
Best High-Speed USB Switch
- Shares four USB devices across four computers
- Provides USB-A and USB-C 3.2 ports
- Supports up to 10Gbps data transfer
Best For: Multi-computer setups needing fast peripheral sharing
Best Multi-Device Pick – UGREEN 2-Computer, 4-Port USB 3.0 Switch
For shoppers comparing usb switch boxes, the UGREEN is a practical choice when two computers need to share several peripherals. It switches four USB devices between two computers with one button and supports USB 3.0 transfer speeds up to 5Gbps.
Best For: Home offices or workstations sharing keyboards, mice, printers, scanners, drives, or other USB peripherals between two computers.
Pros:
- Shares four USB devices between two computers.
- Supports USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps and is backward compatible with USB 2.0.
- Includes two USB 3.0 cables and offers plug-and-play compatibility across major operating systems.
- Extra USB-C power input can improve stability with higher-power devices.
Cons:
- It does not support monitors or video transmission, so it is not a full KVM switch.
- The power adapter is not included.
- USB-C input computers may require a USB-C-to-A adapter.
This model stands out for capacity and included cabling. Choose it when four shared USB connections matter more than monitor switching, and plan on optional external power for demanding peripherals.
Best Bi-Directional Value – Aluminum USB 3.0 1-in-2/2-in-1 Switch
This compact option is one of the more flexible usb switch boxes because it works in either direction: two computers can share one USB device, or one computer can switch between two USB devices. Its aluminum housing and 5Gbps USB 3.0 support suit straightforward peripheral sharing.
Best For: Offices, meeting rooms, classrooms, or home users who need to share one peripheral or alternate between two USB devices.
Pros:
- Supports both 2-computers-to-1-device and 1-computer-to-2-devices setups.
- Offers USB 3.0 transfer speeds up to 5Gbps.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS.
- Compact aluminum construction with a blue activity indicator.
Cons:
- USB 3.0 cables are not included.
- It is designed for USB peripherals rather than monitor or video switching.
- Its current rating is listed as 1A, which may be limiting for some power-hungry devices.
The reversible design gives this switch broader placement flexibility than a fixed-direction model. It is a good fit when you want a simple, cable-dependent setup and already have suitable USB 3.0 cables.
Best Four-Port Alternative – BENFEI 2-Computer, 4-Port USB 3.0 Switch
The BENFEI is a capable choice among usb switch boxes for sharing a full set of USB accessories between a work computer and a personal computer. It provides four USB 3.0 peripheral ports, one-button switching, and broad operating-system compatibility.
Best For: Users who want to share several USB peripherals between two computers and value an included power cable and extended warranty.
Pros:
- Lets two computers share four USB devices.
- Supports up to 5Gbps USB 3.0 data transfer and USB 2.0 compatibility.
- Includes a USB-A charging cable for the extra power input.
- Includes an 18-month unconditional warranty.
Cons:
- The power adapter is not included.
- The product notes specify using a BENFEI USB-A-to-USB-A cable for connection.
- It switches USB peripherals, not displays or video signals.
BENFEI’s four-port layout mirrors the needs of a multi-peripheral desk, while the included power cable helps with setup. Verify your computer connections and cable requirements before buying.
Best Compact Setup – USB 3.0 Bi-Directional Switch with Cables
For a tidy desk, this compact entry among usb switch boxes combines bi-directional switching with two included USB 3.0 cables. A single front button changes the active computer or device, while USB 3.0 support reaches up to 5Gbps without requiring driver installation.
Best For: Small home offices, gaming setups, and meeting spaces where easy installation and a low-profile design are priorities.
Pros:
- Supports both two-computer/one-device and one-computer/two-device configurations.
- Includes two USB 3.0 cables for quick setup.
- Offers one-button switching, an active-device LED, and plug-and-play operation.
- Compact aluminum-alloy housing measures about 2.04 by 2.04 by 0.59 inches.
Cons:
- It is intended for USB peripherals, not monitor or video switching.
- Its listed current rating is 1A, so high-power devices may not be ideal.
- The warranty is listed as one year.
This model is particularly convenient when you want the cables included and have limited desk space. Its simple, reversible design suits ordinary keyboards, mice, flash drives, printers, and scanners.
Best Overall – BENFEI 2-Computer USB 3.0 Switch
For shoppers comparing USB switch boxes, the BENFEI is a versatile choice for sharing several peripherals between two computers. It provides three USB 3.0 ports plus one USB-C port, supports up to 5Gbps transfers, and offers both onboard and remote switching.
Best For: Workstations that need to share multiple USB-A and USB-C devices between two computers.
Pros:
- Shares three USB 3.0 devices and one USB-C device between two computers.
- Supports up to 5Gbps data transfer and is backward compatible with USB 2.0.
- Includes remote and manual switching, LED status indicators, and an optional USB-C power connection.
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS without added drivers.
Cons:
- Requires BENFEI USB-A-to-USB-A cables for connection.
- High-power devices may need the optional external power supply.
The BENFEI stands out when capacity and flexible control matter. Its USB-C port and remote make it particularly convenient for a mixed-device desk, although cable requirements and power needs should be checked before purchase.
Best High-Capacity Pick – UGREEN 7-Device USB 3.0 Switch
Among USB switch boxes, the UGREEN model is designed for setups with a large number of peripherals. Two computers can share up to seven USB-A and USB-C devices, with 5Gbps USB 3.0 data transfer, an included controller, and a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter.
Best For: Busy desks that need one switch for keyboards, mice, printers, flash drives, and other USB data devices.
Pros:
- Connects up to seven shared devices: four USB-A and three USB-C.
- Supports up to 5Gbps transfer speeds through its USB 3.0 ports.
- Includes a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter for mixed computer setups.
- Offers onboard or external-controller switching with LED status indication.
Cons:
- It is not a KVM switch and does not transmit video.
- USB ports are intended primarily for data transfer, not device charging.
- Requires the specified compatible operating-system versions.
The UGREEN is the strongest fit when seven shared USB connections can replace separate hubs or docks. Its limitations are important for buyers expecting monitor switching or charging support, but for peripheral sharing it offers substantial capacity.
Best Budget Manual Option – OLLGEN 4-Port USB 2.0 Switch Box
This compact option takes a different approach to USB switch boxes: four computers share one USB device through a straightforward manual switch. It supports USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 and uses individual push buttons for selecting access.
Best For: Basic printer, scanner, camera, or keyboard sharing where USB 2.0 speeds are sufficient.
Pros:
- Allows four computers to share one USB peripheral.
- Individual front-panel buttons make switching simple and direct.
- Compact, portable design supports USB 1.1 and USB 2.0.
- Works with the listed Windows and Mac operating systems.
Cons:
- Limited to USB 2.0 speeds up to 480Mbps.
- Shares one USB device rather than multiple peripherals.
- Manual switching has no remote control or LED status feature listed.
The OLLGEN is a practical low-complexity choice for a single shared peripheral and up to four computers. It is less suitable for modern high-speed storage or multi-device workstations, but its compact manual design keeps the setup simple.
Best Dual-Computer USB Switch – 4-Port USB 3.0 Switch
If you need practical USB switch boxes for a two-computer desk, this model lets one keyboard, mouse, printer, scanner, drive, or other compatible peripheral serve two computers. Its three USB-A ports and one USB-C port provide a flexible shared setup, while the wired controller keeps switching within easy reach.
Best For: Workstations that share USB peripherals between a work PC and a personal computer.
Pros:
- Shares compatible USB peripherals between two computers.
- Includes three USB-A ports and one USB-C port.
- USB 3.0 supports fast data connectivity for compatible devices.
- Wired remote controller allows convenient desktop switching.
Cons:
- Supports two computers rather than four.
- It is a USB peripheral switch, not a monitor or video switch.
- Its IP00 rating indicates no stated protection against dust or water.
This is a straightforward choice for a compact two-computer USB setup. The four-port mix and extended controller are especially useful when the switch itself is tucked behind or beneath a desk.
Best Plug-and-Play USB Switch – UGREEN 4-Port USB 3.0 Switcher
Among USB switch boxes for two computers, this UGREEN model combines four USB 3.0 device ports with USB-A and USB-C support. It can share keyboards, mice, printers, headphones, cameras, and other compatible peripherals, with button or wired-controller switching and optional USB-C power for demanding devices.
Best For: Users who want a flexible two-computer switch with broad operating-system compatibility and optional supplemental power.
Pros:
- Allows two computers to share four USB peripherals.
- Provides one USB-C and three USB-A ports.
- Supports data transfer up to 5Gbps and plug-and-play use with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux.
- Offers button and controller switching, plus optional USB-C power.
Cons:
- Does not support monitors or video transmission and is not a KVM switch.
- Optional power may be needed when using multiple or high-power devices.
- USB ports are intended primarily for data transfer, not device charging.
The CM662 is a well-rounded option when port variety and easy switching matter. Its power input adds stability for suitable higher-power peripherals, but buyers needing display switching should choose a true KVM instead.
Best High-Speed USB Switch – 4-Computer USB 3.2 Selector
For users comparing USB switch boxes that support more than two computers, this USB 3.2 selector connects four computers to a shared set of peripherals. Its three USB-A 3.2 ports and one USB-C 3.2 port target devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, scanners, storage drives, webcams, and gamepads, with button or remote-control switching.
Best For: Multi-computer desks that need shared USB 3.2 peripherals and faster data transfer.
Pros:
- Lets four computers share four USB peripherals.
- Offers three USB-A 3.2 ports and one USB-C 3.2 port.
- Supports data transfer speeds up to 10Gbps for compatible devices.
- Includes button switching, remote control, and a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter.
Cons:
- It is not a KVM switch and does not support monitors.
- High-power devices require an independent power source or the included Micro USB 5V supply.
- The remote control does not include batteries, and hot-key switching is not supported.
This selector stands out for four-computer sharing and USB 3.2 speed. It is a strong fit for peripheral-only switching, provided you account for external power needs and the remote’s battery requirement.
How We Picked the Best USB Switch Boxes
We focused on practical features that affect everyday switching: USB generation, port count, connector types, computer compatibility, switching method, build quality, and the kinds of peripherals each model can support. We also separated simple manual selectors from higher-capacity models designed for several computers or mixed USB-A and USB-C equipment.
USB Switch Boxes generally share peripherals rather than displays. You may need separate video switching hardware if you also want to move a monitor between computers.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Recommended Type | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard and mouse | USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 | Easy button access and reliable switching |
| Printers and scanners | USB 3.0 | Broad compatibility and adequate power |
| USB-C peripherals | Mixed USB-A/USB-C switch | Native USB-C ports and included cables |
| Several computers | Four-computer selector | Enough host inputs and clear status indicators |
| Frequent switching | Remote-controlled model | Remote access or a conveniently placed selector |
Key Buying Factors for USB Switch Boxes
USB Speed and Compatibility
USB 3.0 or USB 3.2 models are the better choice for external drives, scanners, and other data-heavy devices. USB 2.0 is usually sufficient for keyboards, mice, and basic printers, but it may limit transfer speeds.
Number and Type of Ports
Count both the shared device ports and the computer connections. Four-port designs work well for a keyboard, mouse, printer, and scanner, while seven-port models suit more elaborate workstations. Check whether ports are USB-A, USB-C, or a combination.
Power Requirements
Bus-powered switches are convenient, but several connected devices can exceed what a computer port can reliably provide. If you plan to use hard drives, cameras, or multiple power-hungry peripherals, verify whether external power is supported or required.
Switching Method and Layout
A physical button is simple and dependable. A remote control is useful when the switch sits out of reach, while indicator lights help confirm which computer is active. Bidirectional models are more flexible, but confirm their intended input and output arrangement before buying.
Who Should Buy Which USB Switch Boxes?
Choose a compact USB 2.0 switch if you only need to share a keyboard, mouse, or basic printer. For general office use and faster peripherals, a USB 3.0 four-port model offers the best balance of speed, capacity, and compatibility.
Buy a USB-C and USB-A model if your setup includes newer laptops or USB-C accessories. Choose a higher-port-count switch for a multi-device desk, and select a remote-controlled model if the selector will be mounted behind a monitor or under a desk. If you need to share displays as well as USB devices, look for a complete KVM rather than a USB-only switch.