Using a PC can be painful if you don’t have access to the right peripherals. Even more so if the basic ones like mouse or keyboard are not working properly or when your pet dog decides to take a bite out of them. Fret not because your phone can do it all, be it Android or iPhone. Here are some of the best apps for using your phone as a keyboard and mouse that we tried.
Table of Contents
1. Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse
The easiest app to use on the list to control your Windows PC from your Android phone. Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse has all the basic implementations like using your Android as a keyboard or mouse and the best part is, that it doesn’t require a desktop client to work. Just connect your Android device to your Windows PC via Bluetooth, open the app on your Android and you’re ready to work.
There are NO ads even in the free version of the app, though you can get the premium as a one-time purchase for more features like Multimedia control, Presenter, Code Scanner, etc.
Pros:
- No PC application required
- Works snappy, an easy setup.
- Works in the background
- No ads
Cons:
- Not platform agnostic.
- Only mouse and keyboard input in the free version.
- No File Transfer Option, even in the pro app.
Price: Premium is for $4.49
Download: Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse
Also Read: 7 Ways to Stop Bluetooth from Turning on Automatically on Android
2. KDE Connect
KDE Connect is one of the most popular applications for virtual mouse and keyboards. Available everywhere including iOS, Android, Linux, Windows, and macOS among others. It is an open-source app listed on GitHub, which is generally safe to use.
The list of features includes multimedia control, file transfer, sending clipboard, slideshow remote, command terminal, and remote input for mouse and keyboard. It is completely free to use and there are no ads whatsoever. You can also grant additional permissions for SMS, contacts, and telephony access on the desktop along with notification sync. However, you need to be connected to the same network as your desktop.
Pros:
- Supports file transfer, remote connectivity, command terminal, etc.
- Completely open source
- Cross-platform availability
- No ads
- Free to use
- Can save different remote profiles for different desktops.
Cons:
- Jittery mouse operation, though functional
- Both devices need to be in the same network to work
Price: Free
Download: KDE Connect
3. Remote Mouse
Remote Mouse is another application that can be used for remote operation of mouse and keyboard on Windows. Though a free version is available, most options are locked and reserved for paid users.
Available on iOS, Android, Windows, Linux and macOS. Only features like mouse control, keyboard control, and power menu are available to a free user. All other features like multimedia control, browser controls, function keys, and numpad are only accessible to a paid user.
Pros:
- Cross-platform functionality
- Connection is also possible via Bluetooth.
- Saves different remote profiles for different desktops.
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version.
- Jittery mouse operation, even on Wi-Fi.
- Sticky ads at the top are annoying.
Price: $14.99
Download: Remote Mouse
4. Unified Remote
A long-standing desktop controller application, Unified Remote has a multitude of options. From basic functionality like mouse and keyboard control on Windows PC to advanced controls like IR and NFC actions, this has it all.
Almost all of the features are available in the free version including power menu options, basic remote input, media controls, and a desktop file manager as well. It has a big community which should if case you encounter something. It is also the only remote app on this list with upcoming ChromeOS functionality. Available for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, macOS, and embedded systems like Raspberry Pi, Arduino, etc.
Paid features include ad-free operation, floating remotes, screen mirroring, Android Wear support, voice commands along with IR and NFC actions.
Pros:
- Platform agnostic.
- Options like media control and power menu are available in the free app.
- Unique features like voice commands and Android Wear are supported in the paid version of the app.
- Can add multiple devices with different remote profiles.
Cons:
- Sticky ads at the bottom tab.
- Can be a hit or miss while connecting.
- Both devices need to be on the same network to work.
Price: One-time purchase of $4.99 for the premium.
Download: Unified Remote
5. PC Remote
The next app on the list is PC Remote. This application has the most number of options and customizations available. It also has a nostalgic feel to it with the addition of Super NES games like Contra, Donkey Kong, and Dr. Mario within the app. Also, there is gaming layout support for controllers like Xbox360, GTA series, and Forza Horizon as well which converts your smartphone into a fully functional touch controller.
Connection type includes connecting with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB charging cable. There are also features like screen mirroring, File Explorer, and camera control available in the free version of the app itself. Although the app is free to use, it has sticky ads at the bottom and banner ads also greet you every once in a while which can be a bit distracting.
Available ONLY for Windows devices as a server, though it can be controlled with either an iOS or Android device.
Pros
- Connection can be done via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB charging cable.
- Gamepad control along with some virtual games.
- Free version has all features.
Cons
- Mouse control is a bit finicky in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modes.
- Can only control Windows devices.
- Banner ads are frustrating.
- Screen mirroring lags while in operation.
- Subscription-based premium.
Price: Monthly plan starts at $2/month
Download: PC Remote
Also Read: How To Use Your Phone as a Controller to Play PC Games
Take Back The Control
These methods can also help use your smartphone as a remote on Windows when you’re streaming or giving a presentation in the office. You can not only use your phone as a mouse or keyboard on Windows PC using the above apps, but can also have access to multiple options to control your PC remotely.
Related: How to Control Your Android Phone With Galaxy Watch/Wear OS
