Many of us use our monitors with multiple devices, whether it’s a work laptop and a personal PC, a gaming console, or a combination of all three. Switching between these inputs can be a minor annoyance, especially on monitors lacking dedicated input buttons. Navigating through on-screen menus can be tedious, and accidentally hitting the wrong button (like the power button – whoops!) is all too common. Here’s a straightforward solution to streamline this process.
A Low-Tech Solution for a High-Tech Problem
The answer, surprisingly simple yet effective, is to add a tactile marker directly onto your monitor’s bezel, right above the input buttons. This allows for quick and accurate input switching without needing to look at the buttons.
Two sticky flags marking the buttons I need to change my display input
Options for these markers are plentiful: stickers, tape (painter’s, Scotch, or even washi), or even small sticky flags like those used for editing documents. Personally, I started with editor’s tabs, a nod to my background in print publishing, but stickers offer a more permanent solution. The key is to choose something easily removable without leaving residue, especially if you plan to upgrade or sell your monitor in the future.
Why This Simple Fix Works
While many modern monitors offer automatic input switching when only one device is active, this isn’t always foolproof. Multiple active devices, or occasional glitches, can still necessitate manual switching. And while improving one’s depth perception to avoid hitting the power button instead of the input button is a noble goal, a more immediate solution is often preferable.
HDMI switch, close up
Alternatives like HDMI or KVM switches exist, but they introduce potential complications of their own. Switchers can have quirks and may not always function seamlessly, as I discovered during a particularly intense Overwatch match (apologies to my former teammates for the brief period of monitor-less gameplay).
Embrace the Simple Solution
This “hack” may seem obvious to some, but for those of us raised in environments where affixing anything to a monitor bezel was a major no-no, it might not be the first instinct. Thankfully, modern adhesives are easily removable and won’t damage surfaces. So, if you’re tired of fumbling with monitor input buttons, try this simple, effective, and surprisingly satisfying solution. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in your daily workflow.
