Embodiments are generally directed to switchable input modes for external display operation. An embodiment of an electronic device includes a touchscreen display; a processor; a connection for an external monitor; and a switch button. The electronic device includes a switchable input state including a first input mode for which the touchscreen display operates as a touchscreen input and a second input mode for which the touchscreen display operates as an input device for the operation of the external monitor, and the processor is to change operation of the electronic device to the first input mode or to the second input mode based upon a selection of input mode received from a user using the switch button.