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A motherboard PS/2 port is a round, six-pin connection for a compatible keyboard or mouse. Some boards have separate keyboard and mouse ports; others have one combo port, which may support only one device. PS/2 is still found on select modern and industrial motherboards, but most people with ordinary USB peripherals do not need to prioritize it.
What is a PS/2 port on a motherboard?
PS/2 is a legacy interface for connecting a keyboard or mouse to a PC. Its small, round, six-pin mini-DIN socket is usually on the motherboard’s rear I/O panel. IBM popularized the interface with its PS/2 computers, but a motherboard PS/2 port is not a port for the computer brand, storage, a display, or a general-purpose six-pin cable. Intel describes it as a legacy keyboard-or-mouse connection (Intel’s motherboard guide).
PS/2 port colors: purple, green, and combo
| Port appearance | Usual meaning |
|---|---|
| Purple | Keyboard |
| Green | Mouse |
| Half-purple/half-green, or labeled “PS/2 keyboard/mouse” | Combo port; check the board documentation to learn what it supports |
On older boards, purple typically indicates the keyboard socket and green the mouse socket; some motherboards provide both as separate ports (MSI example). Colors are a convention, not a guarantee. Follow the port labels and the manual for your exact motherboard and revision.
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A board with two dedicated sockets can connect a PS/2 keyboard and mouse at the same time. A single combo socket is different: its label may mean it accepts either kind of device, not that it supports both together. Some current boards, including the ASUS Prime B760M-A (Intel LGA1700) and ASUS Prime A620-PLUS WIFI (AMD AM5), list a PS/2 combo port. Check the manual for simultaneous-device or Y-cable support rather than assuming it.
#1 Best Overall
- PS/2 Serial Port Keyboard: Classic design equivalent to IBM Model (e.g. IBM AT/PS2 Keyboard It meets IBM PS/2 specifications, made to comply with classic-style PCs, computers, and devices
- Big print letters: Its membrane keys exceed 10 million keystrokes' functional life without fading off; Stabilized wide keys reduce the time it takes for your actions to register and instill efficiency and precision
- Standard US layout: full-size keyboard with built-in numeric keypad and 3 LED indicators. Built like a tank, this solid wired 1.8 meters (5.9-foot) corded laser printing generic basic keyboard is made for your legacy system
- PS2 Optical Mouse: FUNCTIONAL PS/2 SERIAL PORT - mouse with classic design made to comply old generation of PC; Uses legacy PS/2 connector; Easy to install without additional drivers
- COMPATIBILITY - PERIDUO-117 is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11; Product Dimension: 4.3 x 2.3 x 1.5 inches; Cable: 5.9ft; Warranty: 12 month limited warranty
A generic splitter is not a reliable way to turn every single PS/2 port into two working ports. Even where a board documents an arrangement, the port, cable, and peripherals must be compatible. For example, ASRock’s guidance distinguishes the mouse connection on boards with two PS/2 ports.
How to connect a PS/2 keyboard or mouse
- Shut down the computer and switch off its power before connecting or removing the device. Do not treat PS/2 as a USB-style hot-plug connection.
- Check the rear-panel label and motherboard manual. Use the dedicated keyboard or mouse socket if the board has separate ports.
- Align the plug carefully and insert it without forcing it. The pins are small and can bend or break.
- Start the PC and test the device. If needed, try the motherboard’s documented BIOS/UEFI key during startup, then test basic input in the operating system.
PS/2 versus USB
| PS/2 | USB | |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited to | Legacy peripherals, certain firmware troubleshooting cases, and specialized systems | Most current keyboards and mice; the convenient default for everyday use |
| Availability | Present on some boards, but not standard on all modern motherboards | Available on virtually all modern PCs |
| Features and expansion | Older interface; behavior and features depend on the device | Broad device choice, hubs, and common modern features such as lighting and extra controls |
| Connection changes | Power down before connecting or disconnecting | Designed for routine hot-plugging |
| Adapters | USB conversion requires compatible hardware or an active converter | Simple to connect to USB-equipped computers |
PS/2 can be useful when a keyboard is needed before an operating system loads, or when a firmware setting or USB initialization problem prevents USB input. But it is not guaranteed to work in every BIOS/UEFI situation; firmware implementation and the specific board matter. Nor is PS/2 automatically faster or better for gaming. Latency, polling behavior, rollover, and key handling depend on the particular keyboard, firmware, operating system, and workload. Some users prefer the scan behavior of a particular older keyboard, but that does not make every PS/2 keyboard superior.
Rank #2
- Large Print Keyboard: Featuring large, easy-to-read print letters on the keys for improved visibility and typing comfort.
- Ergonomic Design: Curved keyboard layout and raised keys provide a natural typing experience to reduce hand fatigue.
- Durable Construction: Sturdy build with a long-lasting lifespan, suitable for daily use.
- Wired Connectivity: Reliable PS2 wired connection ensures stable performance without wireless interference.
- Combo Bundle: Includes a matching mouse, offering a complete desktop setup for enhanced productivity.
Do you need PS/2 on a new motherboard?
- You use ordinary USB peripherals: Usually no. Choose a motherboard for its processor support, memory, storage, expansion, networking, and firmware features instead.
- You own a PS/2-only keyboard or mouse: A documented PS/2 port is convenient, but compare it with the cost and compatibility of an active adapter.
- You maintain legacy, industrial, or retro systems: Native PS/2 support may be important. Industrial boards may use an internal header and a separate bracket instead of a rear-panel socket.
- You want a keyboard for firmware troubleshooting: PS/2 can be a useful option, but do not assume it will bypass every firmware or hardware problem.
- You need a PS/2 keyboard and mouse together: Verify two dedicated ports or explicit manufacturer documentation for simultaneous operation.
- You are choosing a board mainly for gaming: Do not pay a premium for PS/2 based on a blanket claim of lower latency or better rollover.
PS/2 has not disappeared entirely: the ASUS LGA1700 and AM5 examples above list combo ports, while Gigabyte’s AM4 A520M AORUS ELITE lists a PS/2 keyboard/mouse port. These are examples, not recommendations or evidence that every board on those platforms includes PS/2. Confirm the exact model, revision, regional listing, and manual before buying.
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A PS/2-only keyboard will not normally work through a simple passive plug adapter. Passive adapters work only when the peripheral itself supports the alternate signaling; otherwise, the connection needs electronics that actively translate between USB and PS/2.
Rank #3
- Optical
- 3 Buttons
- 1000 DPI resolution
- Navigate quickly and easily with the convenient metal scroll wheel
- 5 Feet PS/2 Cable
If you need to use an existing PS/2 peripheral, look for an active converter whose specifications match your device and intended computer. For example, StarTech’s USBPS2PC converts one USB connection to separate PS/2 keyboard and mouse connections and is listed by the manufacturer as plug-and-play and driver-free. This is an example, not a guarantee that every keyboard’s special functions or every firmware-level use will work through a converter. Test the device in a rear motherboard USB port when possible, and check the converter’s compatibility details.
For a new build, a USB keyboard or mouse is usually the simplest choice. An industrial or PCIe expansion solution may exist for specialized systems, but verify the exact hardware, firmware, and operating-system support before relying on it.
Rank #4
- PS/2 Wired Connectivity: Ensures stable, interference-free performance without the need for wireless connections or additional software.
- Combo Bundle: Includes a matching mouse, providing a complete desktop setup to maximize productivity
- Large Print Keyboard: Features large, easy-to-read print letters for enhanced visibility and improved typing comfort.
- Durable Construction: Built to last, this combo is designed for daily use and offers a long lifespan even under heavy typing demands.
- Compatibility: Works with desktop computers and systems equipped with PS/2 ports, ideal for legacy systems.
Troubleshooting a PS/2 keyboard or mouse
- Check the socket. If the board has separate ports, make sure the keyboard is in the keyboard port and the mouse is in the mouse port. Labels take precedence over assumptions based on color.
- Power down and reconnect. Shut down fully, check that the plug is aligned, then start the computer again. This also rules out an attempted live connection as the cause.
- Check for bent pins. Inspect the plug and socket in good light. Do not force a damaged or misaligned connector.
- Confirm combo-port limits. Consult the manual for whether the port supports a keyboard, mouse, or a documented two-device arrangement. Do not assume a splitter will work.
- Try a known-good device. A basic, compatible PS/2 keyboard or mouse helps distinguish a faulty peripheral from a port problem.
- Bypass accessories. Connect directly to the motherboard rather than through a KVM switch or extender. Test with a short, known-good cable if available.
- Check firmware behavior. Review the manual for relevant input or legacy-support settings. A PS/2 device may help if USB input is unavailable before boot, but it is not guaranteed to solve every firmware issue.
- Consider port damage. If known-good devices do not work and the connection is visibly damaged, the port may need repair. Do not insert another type of connector or force a plug.
If the keyboard is not detected at startup, connect it while the PC is off, use the correct labeled socket, and try another known-good PS/2 keyboard before changing firmware settings. Clear CMOS only when appropriate for the board and after recording settings you may need to restore; follow the motherboard manual.
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Common PC operating systems generally provide basic input support for standard PS/2 keyboards and mice, so ordinary typing or pointer movement usually does not require a separate vendor utility. Advanced functions such as macros, lighting, or custom remapping may need device-specific software, and adapters can affect compatibility. Do not assume that a KVM, bootloader, virtual machine, or every operating system exposes all device behavior identically.
Best Value
- Functional PS/2 Serial port - Mouse with classic design made to comply old generation of PC; uses legacy PS/2 connector; easy to install without additional drivers
- High definition 1000 DPI - Optical tracking enables responsive and accurate work; navigate smoothly with simple 3 button design with precise scroll wheel
- Symmetrical ergonomic design - feels good in either hand; buttons can be adjusted in computer BIOS; comfortable curved shape supports natural hand Position
- High quality production - without logo printing; Solid black color with glossy details on side; simple integration with any home, office or industrial systems
- Compatibility - PERIMICE-209P is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11; Product Dimension: 4.3 x 2.3 x 1.5 inches; Cable: 6 foot; Weight: 0.21 lb; Warranty: 12 month limited warranty
Before buying a motherboard for PS/2
- Confirm the exact model and board revision; product-family names can cover different rear I/O layouts.
- Check whether the connector is keyboard-only, mouse-only, or combo.
- If you need two devices, confirm simultaneous support in the manual—not just a “keyboard/mouse” specification label.
- Check whether the port is on the rear panel or requires an internal header and bracket.
- Verify platform essentials such as CPU socket, memory type, processor support and BIOS, storage, expansion, and networking.
- Check regional availability and the product’s new, refurbished, or discontinued status.
PS/2 is best treated as a compatibility feature. Prioritize it when you have a specific peripheral or legacy workflow that needs it; otherwise, USB is generally more convenient.
Quick Recap
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