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Input Director vs PureRef

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Input Director icon
Input Director
PureRef icon
PureRef

Input Director vs PureRef: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Input Director: Input Director is software that allows you to share keyboards and mice between multiple computers. It enables seamless control of multiple computers from a single keyboard and mouse.

PureRef: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Input Director PureRef
Sugggest Score — —
Category Remote Work & Education Photos & Graphics
Pricing — Free

Product Overview

Input Director
Input Director

Description: Input Director is software that allows you to share keyboards and mice between multiple computers. It enables seamless control of multiple computers from a single keyboard and mouse.

Type: software

PureRef
PureRef

Description: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

Input Director
Input Director Features
  • Share mouse and keyboard between multiple computers
  • Supports Windows, Mac, and Linux
  • Easy to setup and configure
  • Low resource usage
  • Bi-directional clipboard sharing
  • Supports multiple monitors
  • Encrypted connections
  • Remote wake-up
  • Taskbar icon and system tray support
PureRef
PureRef Features
  • Tabbed interface to organize references
  • Resizable panels
  • Zoom and pan images
  • Minimal UI
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Search references
  • Fullscreen mode
  • Portable app
  • Dark mode

Pros & Cons Analysis

Input Director
Input Director

Pros

  • Seamless control of multiple computers
  • Saves desk space
  • Inexpensive compared to hardware solutions
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Works across different operating systems

Cons

  • Can only share one keyboard and mouse
  • Set up is more complex than hardware solutions
  • May not work well with some specialty hardware
  • Requires installation on all devices
  • Lacks advanced customization options
PureRef
PureRef

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Easy to use
  • Good for quick reference viewing
  • Free with no ads or limitations

Cons

  • Limited features compared to full reference managers
  • No cloud sync
  • Windows only

Pricing Comparison

Input Director
Input Director
  • Not listed
PureRef
PureRef
  • Free

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Learn More About Each Product

Input Director
Input Director
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
PureRef
PureRef
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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