What Are Input and Output Devices?

Input and output devices are the parts of a computer that let it **receive** information and **show** results. Input devices send data to the computer, while output devices present the processed information back to the user.

Input Devices

Input devices are used to enter data, commands, or signals into a computer. Common examples include a keyboard, mouse, scanner, and microphone.

Output Devices

Output devices display or deliver the results of processing. Common examples include a monitor, printer, speaker, and projector.

Simple Difference

• Input = data goes into the computer.

• Output = data comes out of the computer.

• Some devices do both, such as a touchscreen, USB drive, or network card.

Device Type	What it does	Examples
Input device	Sends data to the computer	Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone
Output device	Shows results from the computer	Monitor, printer, speaker, projector
Both input and output	Receives and sends data	Touchscreen, USB drive, network card

Example

When you type on a keyboard, that is input. When the computer displays the text on a monitor, that is output.

TL;DR

Input devices help you give information to a computer, and output devices help the computer give results back to you.