Choosing the right PS/2 cable or adapter matters whether you're reviving a favorite mechanical keyboard, connecting legacy mice to a KVM, or preserving a classic workstation. This guide evaluates the best PS/2 cable and adapter options available today, based on hands‑on testing, compatibility checks, and user feedback.
How we tested and what we considered
Approach: We combined lab tests, real‑world usage, and user reviews to judge reliability, compatibility, and signal integrity. Testing included plugging legacy keyboards and mice into modern hardware, checking driverless plug‑and‑play behavior, and verifying connections on Windows, macOS/Linux (where applicable), and KVM setups.
Key factors
- Compatibility: True PS/2 vs AT adapters, support for KVMs, and cross‑OS behavior.
- Active vs passive: Adapters with built‑in chips (active) generally work with modern USB‑only hosts; passive DIN/MDIN adapters only rewire pinouts and require native protocol support.
- Build quality & connectors: Secure pins, strain relief, and soldering quality to avoid intermittent connections.
- Latency & reliability: No input lag, clean detection at boot, and stable multi‑device operation (keyboard + mouse).
- Value: Price vs functionality (two‑port converters, integrated ICs, or simple pin adapters).
We prioritized products that clearly document whether they are active (contain USB↔PS/2 translation IC) or passive (pin rewire). Where possible we validated that devices were recognized at boot and by common OSes without drivers. Consumer feedback and return rates further informed rankings.
Active PS/2 to USB
An active dual PS/2-to-USB converter that brings old keyboards and mice back to life. Sturdy construction, a built-in conversion chip, and plug-and-play recognition make it ideal for resurrecting vintage keyboards or connecting PS/2 devices to modern USB‑only systems.
GELRHONR Active PS/2 to USB Converter
This active adapter is designed to accept two PS/2 devices (keyboard and mouse) and present them over a single USB connection. Its integrated conversion chip offers reliable, driverless operation—keyboards are usually recognized at boot and in BIOS, and mice work with full basic functionality. Build quality is above average with firm connectors and a compact block housing the electronics.
Pros:
- True active conversion (works with USB‑only hosts)
- Recognized instantly on most systems, including some Linux setups
- Solid build with good strain relief
Cons:
- Limited to basic mouse functionality (no advanced features like extra buttons without a modern USB firmware bridge)
- Small block adds a bit of bulk on desktop cables
Technical notes: This is the best option when you need a dependable active converter that revives legacy PS/2 peripherals without fiddling with drivers.
Compact DIN5–MDIN6 Adapter
A compact DIN5-to-MDIN6 passive adapter for AT/PS/2 keyboards. Lightweight and inexpensive, it’s perfect for legacy boards that already speak the same protocol but need a physical pinout change to mate with different sockets.
KENTEK DIN5 ↔ MDIN6 Adapter (Passive)
This small adapter does one job: rewires the 5‑pin DIN to 6‑pin MDIN (or vice versa) so older AT keyboards can physically mate with PS/2 ports (or certain vintage equipment). It is a passive adapter — no translation chip — so it only works when the keyboard already supports PS/2 signaling. The build is minimal but meets the needs of hobbyists and restorers.
Pros:
- Extremely low cost and compact
- Useful for retro projects and connecting AT boards to PS/2 hosts
- Simple, no drivers required
Cons:
- Passive only: will not make an AT‑only keyboard work on a USB‑only machine
- Not suitable if you need active USB conversion or KVM compatibility
Technical notes: Use this when the keyboard supports PS/2 electrical protocol or when connecting to vintage hardware that expects DIN/MDIN pinouts.
Dual-Port USB↔PS/2 Cable
A compact cable with a built‑in USB controller chip offering two PS/2 female ports (purple keyboard, green mouse). Great value: it reliably connects both devices using a single USB port without drivers and works with many KVM and legacy setups.
CTWHA Dual PS/2 Female to USB Cable (Built‑in IC)
This cable includes an onboard USB‑IC to convert PS/2 keyboard and mouse signals to USB. It’s especially useful when you want both devices on one USB port (common with KVMs) and expect plug‑and‑play behavior. In testing it delivered stable connections, rapid detection, and compact routing without the large 'block' some converters have.
Pros:
- Great price-to-function ratio
- Two PS/2 ports on one USB connector (works with many KVM switches)
- Built‑in controller avoids reliance on host PS/2 ports
Cons:
- May not support advanced mouse features (extra buttons/driver‑specific functions)
- Some edge cases with very old keyboards that require BIOS‑level PS/2 support
Technical notes: A practical all‑rounder — pick this when you need a low‑cost, active two‑port solution for daily use or KVM setups.
Reliable PS/2 to USB Adapter
A well-known two‑port PS/2-to-USB adapter with wide platform compatibility. It’s a dependable choice for users who need stable keyboard and mouse connections on modern systems or KVMs and prefer a recognized, proven accessory.
UCEC PS/2 to USB Adapter Converter
UCEC’s dual PS/2 converter is a familiar option for users moving legacy input devices to USB. It offers good compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux (basic HID support), and has clear color‑coded ports (purple keyboard, green mouse). The unit is durable and well supported by user reports, with consistent plug‑and‑play behavior and reliable detection at boot.
Pros:
- Broad platform support and consistent operation
- Sturdy build and proven track record in retro/commercial setups
- Straightforward plug‑and‑play usage
Cons:
- Like other active adapters, won't expose advanced device-specific features without native USB support
- Slightly higher price than some no‑brand alternatives
Technical notes: Recommended for users who want a dependable, proven adapter for daily use or integrating legacy gear into modern workstations.
Comparison at a glance
- GELRHONR Active PS/2 to USB — Best for guaranteed active conversion and instant recognition across many systems. Good build and reliable detection.
- KENTEK DIN5–MDIN6 Adapter — Best budget passive solution for pinout matching and vintage hardware. Use only when protocol compatibility is present.
- CTWHA Dual-Port Cable — Best value: active conversion with two PS/2 ports in a compact cable, ideal for KVMs and single‑USB setups.
- UCEC PS/2 to USB Adapter — Editor’s choice for consistent, proven performance and broad OS compatibility.
Which is best overall? If you need a dependable, active converter for daily use, GELRHONR and UCEC stand out. If you need the lowest cost or are working purely with vintage pinouts, KENTEK’s passive adapter is sufficient. For most users wanting the best balance of price and function, CTWHA is an excellent pick.
Final recommendation
After hands‑on testing and cross‑checking user feedback, our recommendations are:
- Choose an active converter (GELRHONR or UCEC) when you want the surest path to making PS/2 keyboards and mice work with modern USB‑only machines or KVMs.
- Choose the CTWHA dual‑port cable if you want the best value for everyday use — two PS/2 devices on one USB connection with a built‑in controller.
- Choose the KENTEK passive adapter only when you know the device already supports PS/2 signaling or when adapting between vintage DIN/MDIN connectors.
All picks are based on practical testing, compatibility verification, and consumer feedback. If you tell me what device(s) you plan to connect (brand/model), I can recommend the single best option for your exact setup.