Best USB Port Switches for Multi-Device Setups
If you need to share USB devices between two or more computers or simply expand USB access at a single outlet, these switches with USB ports offer clean, toggle-friendly solutions. This guide highlights five top options, describing who each product is best for and why it stands out. Whether you need a simple 2-PC USB switch, a multi-port hub with individual on/off switches, or a wall outlet with USB charging, you’ll find practical, data-backed choices here.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| BENFEI USB 3.0 Switch | Two PCs sharing peripherals | Strong USB 3.0 performance and cross-OS compatibility |
| UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch | Two PCs, mixed USB devices | USB C + USB A ports; clear host switching |
| THXCDBID USB 3.0 Switch (3 Computers) | Three PCs sharing four USB-A peripherals | IR remote and button switching for triple-PC setups |
| TOPELER USB C Wall Outlet | Home/office charging with USB | Integrated wall outlet with multiple USB ports and high charging power |
| WIRWTRU USB Hub 7 Port | Single system with many USB devices | Individual on/off switches on each port |
Best BENFEI USB 3.0 Switch for Two Computers
The BENFEI USB 3.0 Switch lets two computers share four USB devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, scanners, and USB storage. It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS, with plug-and-play operation and a 5Gbps transfer rate on USB 3.0. It’s best for users who want a simple two-PC setup with reliable USB peripheral sharing and clear LED status indicators. Best for home office users who routinely switch between work and personal machines.
Limitations: It uses a dedicated BENFEI A-to-A cable connection; ensure you have the appropriate cable to connect both computers. Data transfer is limited to USB devices; no video or audio over IP is supported.
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch With USB C And A Ports
The UGREEN 2-in-4-out USB switch supports two computers sharing four USB devices and includes both USB-C and USB-A ports. It’s ideal for mixed device ecosystems where you have a USB-C laptop and USB-A peripherals. It’s not a KVM switch, so it will not transmit video signals, but it offers easy one-click switching and generally stable performance with up to 5Gbps data transfer. Best for users needing multi-port USB sharing without monitor control.
Limitation: Not a KVM switch; no video transmission. It’s recommended to power-harvest from the USB-A devices when using multiple high-power peripherals to prevent disconnections.
ANDTOBO USB Switch Extension Cable (Power-Enabled)
ANDTOBO offers an upgraded USB extension with a power switch, intended for data-enabled devices and power delivery needs. It’s a practical add-on when you want a longer connection with a controlled power-on switch for LED strips, iOS-adjacent devices, or similar low-to-moderate power USB peripherals. Best for users seeking a reliable USB extension with on/off control for intermittent devices.
Caution: This cable is primarily a power-extension accessory; data transmission support is implied but not its core function. High-power devices should be evaluated for total current usage to avoid overload.
Legrand Pass & Seymour USB Charging Decorator Switch
This combination switch-and-USB charging port is suitable for controlling lighting from a single location while simultaneously charging USB devices via two 5-volt ports. It’s best for integrated wall setups where surface aesthetics and wall-space efficiency matter. It’s not a data-sharing USB hub, but a convenient pairing of electrical control and charging capability for low-power devices.
Limitation: Not designed for data transfer or device sharing across multiple computers; intended for charging and local control only.
WIRWTRU 7-Port USB Hub With Individual Switches
The WIRWTRU hub provides seven USB ports with independent on/off switches and LED indicators, allowing precise control of each connected device. It’s suitable for users needing to connect multiple peripherals to a single host computer, such as keyboards, mice, drives, or webcams. Best for users who want per-port power control to manage devices individually and minimize unplugging.
Limitation: This is a hub with a focus on expansion and control; it is not a two-computer switch. Ensure your PC can supply enough power for all active devices to avoid disconnections or instability.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right USB Port Switch
What will you connect? If your goal is to share peripherals between two computers, a true USB switch (like BENFEI or UGREEN) is typically best. If you need multiple ports on a single machine with per-port control, consider a multi-port hub with individual switches (WIRWTRU) or a wall outlet with USB charging if integrated power and charging is a priority (TOPELER, Legrand).
Power needs matter. Some USB devices draw more current than a switch can safely supply when multiple devices are connected. If using high-power peripherals, a powered hub or an external power source is advisable.
Data vs. charging. Distinguish between data-sharing switches (for keyboards, mice, printers) and charging-only outlets. KVM-style behavior (video transmission) is not supported by most USB-only switches; if you need video, you must consider separate KVM hardware.
Port configuration. If you have both USB-C and USB-A devices, a switch that includes both ports (like UGREEN) can simplify connections. If you only need USB-A, simpler models may suffice and save space.
Ease of use. Look for one-click switching with clear LED indicators and a reliable, driver-free experience. Consider whether IR remotes or physical buttons better match your workflow and desk layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do USB port switches work with all operating systems? Most USB switches are plug-and-play and support Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS. Check compatibility with particular devices and ensure USB-C or USB-A port support matches your peripherals.
- Can I connect a monitor to these switches? USB port switches described here generally do not carry video signals. They are designed for data devices like keyboards, mice, printers, and storage. For video, you need a KVM switch or separate video hardware.
- Is power delivery important for USB switches? Yes. If you plan to connect several high-power devices at once, choose a powered switch/hub or devices that support adequate current per port to avoid disconnections.
- What’s the difference between a USB switch and a USB hub? A switch allows you to select which computer controls the connected USB devices; a hub expands a single computer’s USB ports to include more devices. Some hubs include independent port controls, which can offer more granular management.
- Should I buy a USB-C port alongside USB-A? If you have newer laptops with USB-C only or want faster or more versatile connections, a switch with both USB-C and USB-A ports is advantageous. If you only use USB-A peripherals, a single-type switch may be simpler.
- Can I use these switches for peripheral expansion on a desktop? Yes. They’re well-suited for desks with multiple USB devices and a single host PC, helping manage peripherals without cable clutter.