What’s an Input Device? What’s an Output Device? (And Why It Matters!)

Input Devices: Stuff You Use to Control the Computer

You send info “IN” to your PC—these are the tools you use to tell your system what to do.

• Keyboard

  • Type letters, numbers, and commands.

• Mouse / Trackpad

  • Move the pointer, click on things, drag and drop.

• Microphone

  • Puts your voice or music into the computer.

• Webcam

  • Sends live video/images from you to the computer.

• Scanner

  • Turns paper or pictures into digital files.

• Game Controller / Joystick

  • Sends game moves, commands, and controls in to your system.

• MIDI Controller

  • Lets you play digital instruments and control music software.

• Touchscreen (when you touch it)

  • Your touch goes “in,” your actions are read by the device.

Output Devices: Stuff the Computer Uses to Show You Results

Your PC sends info “OUT” so you can see, hear, or use it.

• Monitor / Display

  • Shows you everything happening—videos, websites, games, apps.

• Speakers / Headphones

  • Play music, system sounds, and more out loud.

• Printer

  • Puts digital files out onto paper.

• Projector

  • Sends images, slideshows, or videos out onto a wall or screen.

• Vibration Motors (in controllers or phones)

  • Sends physical feedback (“rumble”) out to you.

Pro Tip (And Common Mixups)

• A mouse is NOT an output device. You move it to control the computer—so it’s input.

• A monitor never puts info “in”—it just shows you what’s happening.

• Some devices do both! (Touchscreen = input when you touch, output when it displays.)

• MIDI keyboards = input for music, but might also have a screen (output).

Echo’s Bottom Line

• “IN” = you control the computer. “OUT” = computer talks back to you.

• Get the words right—your studio (and your tech support) will thank you!