5 Apps to Turn Your Phone into a Keyboard and Mouse for Windows
Using a PC can be frustrating when your mouse or keyboard stops working, or worse, gets damaged. But don't worry, because your phone can come to the rescue. Whether you have an Android or iPhone, there are several apps available that can turn your phone into a keyboard and mouse for your Windows PC. In this article, we will explore the best apps that we have tried and tested.
Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse
The Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse app is the easiest to use on the list. It allows you to control your Windows PC from your Android phone without the need for a desktop client. Simply connect your Android device to your Windows PC via Bluetooth, open the app on your phone, and you're ready to go. The best part is that there are no ads, even in the free version of the app. However, the free version only supports mouse and keyboard input.
Pros:
- No PC application required
- Easy setup
- Works in the background
- No ads
Cons:
- Limited to mouse and keyboard input in the free version
- Not platform agnostic
- No file transfer option
Price: Premium version available for $4.49
Download: Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse
KDE Connect
KDE Connect is a popular application that supports virtual mouse and keyboards. It is available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, Linux, Windows, and macOS. This open-source app offers a wide range of features, including multimedia control, file transfer, clipboard sharing, and remote input for mouse and keyboard. It is completely free to use and has no ads. However, both your phone and desktop need to be connected to the same network for it to work.
Pros:
- Supports file transfer, remote connectivity, and more
- Completely open source
- Cross-platform availability
- No ads
- Free to use
Cons:
- Jittery mouse operation
- Requires devices to be on the same network
Price: Free
Download: KDE Connect
Remote Mouse
Remote Mouse is another app that allows you to control your Windows PC remotely using your phone. While a free version is available, most of the advanced features are locked behind a paywall. The app supports mouse and keyboard control, and also offers options like multimedia control and power menu. However, these features are only accessible to paid users. Remote Mouse is available on iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Pros:
- Cross-platform functionality
- Can connect via Bluetooth
- Supports different remote profiles
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
- Jittery mouse operation
- Annoying sticky ads
Price: Premium version available for $14.99
Download: Remote Mouse
Unified Remote
Unified Remote is a comprehensive desktop controller application that offers a wide range of options. It supports mouse and keyboard control on Windows PC, as well as advanced controls like IR and NFC actions. The free version of the app includes features like power menu options, basic remote input, media controls, and a desktop file manager. Unified Remote has a large community and is available on Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, macOS, and embedded systems.
Pros:
- Platform agnostic
- Many options available in the free version
- Unique features like voice commands and Android Wear support
- Can add multiple devices with different remote profiles
Cons:
- Sticky ads
- Connection can be unreliable
- Requires devices to be on the same network
Price: One-time purchase of $4.99 for the premium version
Download: Unified Remote
PC Remote
PC Remote is an app that offers a wide range of options and customizations. In addition to mouse and keyboard control, it also supports gaming layout for controllers like Xbox360 and offers Super NES games within the app. The free version of the app includes features like screen mirroring, file explorer, and camera control. However, it has ads at the bottom and banner ads that can be distracting. PC Remote is only available for Windows devices as a server, but can be controlled with iOS or Android devices.
Pros:
- Can connect via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB charging cable
- Gamepad control and virtual games
- Free version has all features
Cons:
- Finicky mouse control in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modes
- Only supports Windows devices
- Annoying banner ads
- Lag in screen mirroring
- Subscription-based premium
Price: Monthly plan starts at $2/month
Download: PC Remote
These apps not only allow you to use your phone as a mouse or keyboard for your Windows PC but also offer additional features for remote control. Whether you're giving a presentation or streaming, these apps can be a convenient solution. So, take back control of your PC with these powerful apps.
Related: How to Control Your Android Phone With Galaxy Watch/Wear OS
Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”