Embodiments are generally directed to switchable input modes for external display operation. An example electronic device includes a touchscreen, at least one processor, a transmitter to transmit information to an external display, and one or more memories including instructions which, when executed, cause the at least one processor to at least, upon display of a user interface at the external display, in response to detection of a first user input received from the touchscreen, operate the touchscreen as a touchpad for interaction with the user interface presented at the external display, and in response to detection of a second user input received via the touchscreen, operate the touchscreen as a touchpad using a first setting or a second setting, the first setting corresponding to a right-handed use of the touchpad, the second setting corresponding to a left-handed use of the touchpad.