Monoprice

Monoprice 138296 2x4 USB 2.0 Sharing Switch

4.0 (41 reviews)
USB 2.0

Seamlessly Share USB Devices Between Two Computers The Monoprice 2x4 USB 2.0 Peripheral Sharing Switch allows two computers to share up to four USB devices. Simplify your workspace and eliminate the need for multiple peripherals. Specifications: Brand: Monoprice Model: 138296 Por...

$22.23*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 04, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

Seamlessly Share USB Devices Between Two Computers

The Monoprice 2x4 USB 2.0 Peripheral Sharing Switch allows two computers to share up to four USB devices. Simplify your workspace and eliminate the need for multiple peripherals.

Specifications:

  • Brand: Monoprice
  • Model: 138296
  • Ports: 4 USB 2.0
  • Computers Supported: 2
  • Function: Peripheral Sharing Switch

Key Features

4 built-in USB ports all-in-one design. Allows two computers to share 4 USB devices: A USB keyboard, mouse and up to two peripheral devices.

Simple port selection using the remote port selector.

Usb 2.0 compatible. Multiplatform support Windows, Mac OS x, Linux, and sun.

Led indicators display port focus.

Non-powered (Supports optional USB power adapter).

Specifications

USB Standard
USB 2.0
Number of Computers Supported
2
Number of USB Devices Supported
4
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Sun
Port Selection Method
Remote port selector
Power Source
Non-powered (supports optional USB power adapter)
Indicators
LED port focus indicators

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Allows two computers to share a USB keyboard, mouse, and up to two additional peripheral devices
  • Features a simple remote port selector for straightforward switching between connected computers
  • Offers broad compatibility with Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Sun operating systems
  • Includes LED indicators that clearly display which computer port is currently active
  • Designed as a non-powered unit, though it supports an optional USB power adapter for enhanced flexibility

👎 Cons

  • Relies on USB 2.0 technology, which may offer slower data transfer speeds compared to newer USB standards
  • Requires an optional USB power adapter for situations where bus power is insufficient, adding a potential separate purchase
  • The all-in-one design integrates only four USB ports, which might be limiting for setups with more peripheral needs
  • Port selection is managed via a remote selector, meaning the main unit might not be directly accessible for switching
  • Lack of included power adapter could be a minor inconvenience for users who anticipate needing supplementary power

Frequently Asked Questions

This USB sharing switch offers multiplatform support, working with Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Sun operating systems for broad compatibility.
Port selection is made simple through the included remote port selector, allowing you to easily switch control between the two connected computers.
The Monoprice 138296 is designed to be non-powered, but it does support an optional USB power adapter for situations where additional power might be beneficial.
This sharing switch allows two computers to share up to four USB devices, including a keyboard, mouse, and two additional peripheral devices.
The Monoprice 138296 sharing switch is compatible with the USB 2.0 standard for connecting and sharing devices.