Synergy is a popular software for sharing a keyboard and mouse across multiple computers, allowing users to seamlessly switch between devices without the need for additional hardware like KVM switches. However, some users look for alternatives due to Synergy’s pricing, setup complexity, or lack of certain features like encryption, remote access, or cross-platform compatibility.
If you need a multi-device control solution for Windows, macOS, Linux, or even mobile devices, here are 15 of the best Synergy alternatives in 2025.
Page Contents
1. Barrier
Barrier is an open-source alternative to Synergy, offering seamless keyboard and mouse sharing across multiple computers. It is essentially a free fork of Synergy’s older version, meaning it provides similar functionality without the cost.
It supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it ideal for users who need a no-cost, open-source solution.
2. Input Director
Input Director is a powerful multi-computer control software for Windows users. Unlike Synergy, which supports multiple operating systems, Input Director is Windows-exclusive but provides low-latency control, encryption, and clipboard sharing.
It is a great choice for Windows-only users who want a free and efficient alternative to Synergy.
3. ShareMouse
ShareMouse is a user-friendly software that enables keyboard and mouse sharing across multiple computers over a network. It offers drag-and-drop file transfer, clipboard sharing, and secure data encryption.
Unlike Synergy, ShareMouse provides a more intuitive setup process, making it ideal for beginners who need a simple yet powerful multi-device control tool.
4. Multiplicity
Multiplicity is a KVM-like software solution that allows users to control multiple computers with a single keyboard and mouse. It supports both seamless control and remote access, making it more versatile than Synergy.
It is perfect for users who need KVM functionality, encrypted connections, and remote desktop capabilities in one package.
5. Mouse Without Borders
Mouse Without Borders is a free tool from Microsoft that lets users share a mouse and keyboard across up to four Windows PCs. It provides drag-and-drop file sharing and clipboard synchronization.
Unlike Synergy, it is completely free but only works with Windows, making it perfect for Windows users who need a no-cost alternative.
6. AnyDesk
AnyDesk is primarily a remote desktop software, but it also provides multi-device control features, making it a viable alternative to Synergy. It allows remote access, file transfer, and smooth mouse movement between connected devices.
For users who need remote control and multi-monitor support, AnyDesk is a strong choice with a free tier available.
7. Remote Desktop Manager (RDM)
Remote Desktop Manager is a powerful remote access and multi-device control tool. Unlike Synergy, which mainly focuses on local device control, RDM is designed for secure remote access, team collaboration, and enterprise-grade IT management.
It is best for IT professionals, businesses, and system administrators who need advanced remote access and multi-computer management tools.
8. Spacedesk
Spacedesk is a unique alternative that allows users to turn secondary devices into additional monitors. Instead of just sharing a mouse and keyboard, Spacedesk lets users extend their screen to tablets, phones, and other computers over Wi-Fi.
For users who want multi-screen functionality along with multi-device control, Spacedesk is an excellent alternative.
9. RealVNC
RealVNC is a remote desktop software that enables users to control multiple computers from a single device. Unlike Synergy, which focuses on local network control, RealVNC allows secure remote access from anywhere.
It is a great alternative for users who need both remote access and multi-device control with enterprise-level encryption.
10. x2x
x2x is an open-source tool for Linux and Unix systems that allows users to share a keyboard and mouse between multiple machines. It is lightweight and perfect for users in a Linux environment who need a command-line-based alternative to Synergy.
While it lacks a graphical interface, x2x is one of the best free options for Linux power users.
11. RemotePC
RemotePC is a remote access and control software that provides secure connections, file transfer, and multi-device control. Unlike Synergy, which is local network-based, RemotePC offers cloud-based remote access from anywhere.
It is best suited for businesses and professionals who need enterprise-level security and multi-device control from remote locations.
12. TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a remote desktop application that allows users to control multiple computers, transfer files, and collaborate in real-time. Unlike Synergy, it supports remote access over the internet, making it ideal for work-from-home setups and IT teams.
It’s best for users who need multi-device control along with remote collaboration tools.
13. Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is a Google-based remote access tool that lets users control multiple computers through a Chrome browser. Unlike Synergy, it does not require installation of extra software beyond the Chrome extension.
It is a great free alternative for users who need basic multi-device control over an internet connection.
14. Unified Remote
Unified Remote is designed for controlling PCs from mobile devices, allowing users to turn their smartphones into wireless keyboards and mice. It supports Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it a versatile Synergy alternative for mobile-based control.
It’s ideal for users who want mobile-to-PC control instead of multi-PC keyboard sharing.
15. UltraVNC
UltraVNC is a free, open-source remote desktop and control tool that allows users to connect to multiple computers over a local network or the internet. Unlike Synergy, which is designed for local networks, UltraVNC supports remote access and advanced security features.
It’s best for IT professionals who need full control over multiple systems remotely.
Final Thoughts
If you need a Synergy alternative, there are many options depending on your requirements.
For free and open-source solutions, Barrier, Mouse Without Borders, and x2x are great choices. If you need advanced remote access, TeamViewer, RealVNC, and RemotePC provide enterprise-level features. Input Director and ShareMouse offer seamless multi-device control with clipboard sharing, while Spacedesk and Unified Remote provide screen extension and mobile device control.
No matter your workflow, these 15 alternatives provide powerful solutions for multi-device control, remote access, and seamless workflow management in 2025.
