Seamless Cross-Ecosystem Collaboration:

Seamless Cross-Ecosystem Collaboration: Top Tools for Keyboard-Mouse Sharing and Clipboard Sync Between Linux and Mac

 

In a dual-system work environment with Linux and Mac, frequent switching between keyboards and mice and repeated data transfers often reduce efficiency. However, tools designed specifically for keyboard-mouse sharing and clipboard synchronization across these two systems can make cross-device operations as smooth as using a single machine. The following three tools each have their own strengths, covering open-source free options and commercial stable solutions, helping you break down ecological barriers.

 

Deskflow stands out as an all-rounder in the open-source world, fully compatible with mainstream Linux distributions and macOS 12 or later versions. Its core advantages lie in hassle-free cross-platform compatibility and secure stability. It adopts peer-to-peer local area network (LAN) transmission, enables TLS encryption by default to protect data security, and supports the Wayland display server, making it particularly user-friendly for Linux users. To use it, simply set the device with a connected keyboard and mouse as the server to create a room, then enter the IP address on the other device to join. Moving the mouse to the edge of the screen allows automatic switching of controlled devices, with latency usually below 1ms, delivering almost imperceptible smooth operation. The clipboard synchronization function supports real-time intercommunication of text and images, and even screenshots can be pasted across devices. However, it is advisable to avoid keeping large-sized images in the clipboard for a long time, as this may cause lag. What's more practical is its interoperability with similar software such as Barrier and Synergy, enabling compatibility with existing devices without additional configuration. Linux users can install it quickly via Flatpak, while Mac users can deploy it with a single click using Homebrew, eliminating the need for complex commands and making it accessible even to beginners.

 

Barrier is an open-source tool modeled after KVM switches, renowned for its lightweight design and high compatibility. It not only supports bidirectional keyboard-mouse sharing between Linux and Mac but also enables clipboard synchronization and file drag-and-drop transfer. It adopts a server-client architecture: just set the device with a connected keyboard and mouse as the server, drag and add client devices in the "Screens and Links" option of the web interface, and map the grid layout to the actual screen positions. For example, placing the Mac icon to the right of the Linux screen allows switching control to the Mac by moving the mouse right beyond the edge. During configuration, ensure that the client screen name matches the one set on the server. Linux users can install it via the apt package manager, while Mac users can drag the application directly to the Applications folder or install it using the brew command. If encountering SSL authentication errors, temporarily resolve the issue by disabling encryption on both ends. With its straightforward operation, it is ideal for users seeking pure functionality without redundant plugins, especially developers who need to switch quickly between Linux servers and Mac workstations.

 

Synergy is a pioneer in commercial cross-platform tools, boasting a solid user base in the Linux and Mac ecosystems and excelling in low latency and rich features. It supports controlling an unlimited number of devices with one set of keyboard and mouse; device switching is also achieved through screen edge roaming, and custom hotkeys can be set for quick switching. It offers automatic key mapping for the differences between Mac and Linux keys (such as the Cmd key and Win key), avoiding conflicts in operating habits. Clipboard synchronization supports cross-device copying and pasting of text and images without relying on cloud services, with all data transmitted via LAN for guaranteed security. For installation and configuration, Mac users need to launch it via the terminal command to resolve permission issues, while Linux users can install it via apt and configure it directly. On the server side, align the actual device positions in the "Screens and Links" section, then enter the server IP address on the client to connect. Although it is a paid software, the free version already meets basic needs, and its stability performs better in complex network environments, making it suitable for office scenarios that require high operational smoothness and long-term stable use.

 

When making a choice, you can decide based on your core needs: choose Deskflow for open-source free access and multi-software compatibility; opt for Barrier for lightweight drag-and-drop transfer and simple configuration; select Synergy for commercial-grade stability and key adaptation. All three tools can completely solve the pain points of keyboard-mouse switching and data synchronization between Linux and Mac, truly enabling seamless cross-ecosystem collaboration.