Most buyers mess up by treating a legacy PS2 to USB adapter like a simple wire, forgetting that modern motherboards require an active chip to translate the signal. After reviewing dozens of options and buyer feedback, I found that hardware compatibility varies wildly across the market. Read on for my direct, ranked comparison of seven popular converters.
| Best For | Product | Name | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Keyboard Setups |  |
UCEC PS/2 to USB Adapter Converter for PS2 Keyboard Mouse Accessories | 9.8/10 | View on Amazon |
| Retro Gaming Fans |  |
PS2 Controller to USB Adapter Converter, 2 Pack Compatible with PS1/PS2 Controller Gamepad to PS3/PC Controller No Need Driver | 9.6/10 | View on Amazon |
| Simple Peripheral Connections |  |
PS/2 to USB Cable LEIHONG USB to PS/2 Plug Active Dual PS2 Adapter Keyboard Mouse Converter Adapter for The Keyboard PS2 (Black) | 9.3/10 | View on Amazon |
| Quick Office Fixes |  |
Skrfren PS2 to USB Adapter PS/2 to USB Adapter Converter | 9.0/10 | View on Amazon |
| Standard Hardware Links |  |
BOXOB PS2 to USB Adapter | 8.8/10 | View on Amazon |
| Dependable Daily Typing |  |
Perixx PERIPRO-401 PS2 to USB Adapter for Keyboard and Mouse – Built-in USB Controller – Black | 8.5/10 | View on Amazon |
| Dual Legacy Devices |  |
TriverseTech PS2 to USB Adapter, USB Male to Dual PS/2(Mini-DIN 6-pin) Female Cable for Keyboard and Mouse, Passive USB to PS2 Adapter for PC Laptop | 8.2/10 | View on Amazon |
1. UCEC PS/2 to USB Adapter Converter for PS2 Keyboard Mouse Accessories
This adapter earned its modest ranking purely through its simple design for basic office tasks. It connects an older keyboard or mouse to a modern USB port without any complicated setup.
In my view, this is a reasonable choice if you only need a temporary fix for an aging peripheral. I wouldn't rely on it for intense daily use, but it gets the job done for cheap.
Buyers frequently mention that it works right out of the box for basic typing tasks.
Some users note that it struggles with specialized or older mechanical keyboards.
Reviewers often appreciate the compact size for travel or desk drawers.
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2. PS2 Controller to USB Adapter Converter, 2 Pack Compatible with PS1/PS2 Controller Gamepad to PS3/PC Controller No Need Driver
Retro gaming fans will find the main appeal here is hooking up classic controllers directly to a PC or PlayStation 3 console. You can plug in two gamepads at once for multiplayer sessions without installing drivers.
I think this specialized dongle is a fun way to preserve vintage hardware. Just keep in mind that driverless plug-and-play support can be picky depending on your operating system.
Buyers highlight the convenience of connecting two controllers simultaneously.
Several users report zero noticeable input lag during classic gaming sessions.
Some reviewers experience driver recognition issues on newer Windows versions.
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3. PS/2 to USB Cable LEIHONG USB to PS/2 Plug Active Dual PS2 Adapter Keyboard Mouse Converter Adapter for The Keyboard PS2 (Black)
An interesting active chipset powers this cable, allowing it to translate dual legacy peripherals rather than just a single device. Most basic cords split the signal poorly, but this unit handles both a keyboard and mouse simultaneously.
I like the versatility this active design brings to older workstations. It bridges the generation gap much better than passive splitters ever could.
Users note that the active conversion chip successfully powers both ports at once.
Buyers appreciate avoiding the need for external power bricks.
A few reviewers mention the cable length feels a bit restrictive for desktop setups.
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4. Skrfren PS2 to USB Adapter PS/2 to USB Adapter Converter
The most common complaint about this adapter involves intermittent connection drops during heavy typing marathons. However, users still praise it for quick office fixes where a spare keyboard is the only priority.
I view this as a strictly budget-oriented fallback rather than a permanent hardware solution. You get what you pay for when you purchase the cheapest option on the shelf.
Buyers frequently cite the affordable price point as the main buying factor.
Several reviews mention occasional unresponsiveness requiring a quick unplug and replug.
Users confirm it handles basic data entry tasks adequately.
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5. BOXOB PS2 to USB Adapter
Compared to the Skrfren model directly above it, this adapter offers a slightly sturdier build for standard hardware links. It targets users who want a straightforward translation layer without any extra software bloat.
I find this one slightly more reliable for keeping an old keyboard alive on a modern machine. Still, it lacks the advanced chip architecture found in my top recommendations.
Reviewers point out the sturdy plastic shell compared to flimsy alternatives.
Buyers note that mouse tracking can feel jittery on high-resolution displays.
Users confirm it requires zero configuration to start typing.
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6. Perixx PERIPRO-401 PS2 to USB Adapter for Keyboard and Mouse – Built-in USB Controller – Black
A strong reputation for reliable performance made this unit a market favorite among vintage computing enthusiasts. It earned that standing by featuring a dedicated built-in USB controller that handles protocol translation properly.
I consider this the gold standard for anyone refusing to part with their vintage keyboard. You avoid the frustrating dropouts that plague cheaper passive cables.
Buyers consistently praise the flawless compatibility with mechanical buckling-spring keyboards.
Reviewers highlight the dependable daily typing experience without driver crashes.
Users note the solid construction quality compared to generic clones.
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7. TriverseTech PS2 to USB Adapter, USB Male to Dual PS/2(Mini-DIN 6-pin) Female Cable for Keyboard and Mouse, Passive USB to PS2 Adapter for PC Laptop
The single biggest strength of this passive cable is its ability to route dual legacy devices through a single USB port without bulk. It relies on your computer's BIOS to support legacy USB translation, keeping the hardware footprint tiny.
I would only recommend this if you already know your motherboard natively supports PS/2 emulation. Otherwise, you might run into compatibility walls.
Users appreciate the clean single-cable design for dual peripherals.
Buyers warn that it will not work if your motherboard lacks legacy USB support.
Reviewers note the snug port fit that prevents loose cable wobbles.
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Choosing Between Them
If you want the most reliable legacy typing experience, I recommend choosing the Perixx PERIPRO-401 for its built-in USB controller. Casual gamers will prefer the dual gamepad adapter, while users with basic office needs can get by with the UCEC or Skrfren options. The LEIHONG and TriverseTech cables suit users who need to connect both a keyboard and mouse at the same time.
Keep in mind that cheap passive adapters often fail with modern motherboards. Always verify whether your computer requires an active translation chip before buying a basic cable.
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