If you are looking for the best KVM switch, you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will discuss what a KVM switch is, how it works and why they are so useful. We will also talk about some of the best options on the market today!
Here’s the shortlist to save your time:
Top 10 Best KVM Switch Reviewed
IOGEAR’s 2-Port Cinema 4K DisplayPort KVMP Switch is the perfect solution for controlling two computers with one keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The 2-Port Cinema 4K DisplayPort KVMP Switch allows you to switch between computers via pushbuttons, hotkeys, Mouse, or RS-232 commands. The IOGEAR 2-Port Cinema 4K DisplayPort KVMP Switch also supports audio pass-through from the connected computer.
The 2-Port 4K DisplayPort KVMP with USB 3.1 Gen 1 Hub from IOGEAR allows you to control two computers using a single keyboard, mouse, and video console. The KVM switch connects to your computer via a DisplayPort cable and supports resolutions up to 4096×2160 at 60Hz while providing superior video quality and compatibility with HDCP-compliant content. In addition, the switch features two USB 3.0 ports that can be used for connecting additional peripherals such as flash drives or printers.
This HDMI KVM switch allows you to control 2 computers with only one set of controls(Monitor, Mouse, Keyboard, and Printer). You can easily switch between two displays. It makes your work and life much more simple and efficient.LED light color(Green or Blue) indicates the active computer.
The USB 3.0 Switcher Selector allows one button swapping between 2 computers to share 4 USB peripheral devices without constantly swapping cables or setting up complicated network sharing software;
Ideal for sharing devices such as a printer, scanner, mouse, keyboard, card reader, flash drive, and another USB device between 2 computers; If the switcher doesn’t work on an external hard disk, please connect the device with a Micro USB Cable for extra power.
The KVM-4404 4 Port USB HDMI is a USB 2.0 device that allows you to share one monitor and up to three USB devices between four computers. It supports the DDC (Display Data Channel) protocol for automatic identification of connected monitors and can also be configured manually. The KVM-4404 features an all-in-one design with integrated switching and power supply circuitry, which makes it ideal for space-constrained applications such as digital signage displays or kiosks.
The CKL 2 Port USB 3.0 KVM Switch with Dual Monitor and HDMI 2.0 provides a simple solution to control two computers or laptops from one keyboard, mouse, and two extended or mirrored monitors at the same time. This KVM switch features dual monitor support for each connected computer, allowing you to view an image from both connected computers on one screen simultaneously.
The CKL 2 Port USB 3.0 KVM Switch is a console to control two computers or laptops with 1 independent set of USB keyboard, mouse, and monitor or 2 monitors extended or duplicated display with dual head input. The best KVM Switch to make your workspace tidy and efficient, also a premium choice for working from home.
This HDMI KVM Switch Dual Monitor Extended Display 4 Port helps you control 4 PCs share 2 monitors (Extend display mode or copy display mode) by only one set of USB keyboards & mice, under the condition that your computers or laptops support multi-display or dual display. If your computer has only one HDMI output, you can use a converter or conversion cable, such as VGA to HDMI converter or conversion cable, DVI to HDMI converter or conversion cable, etc.
DGODRT HDMI USB KVM Switch is a sharing switch, which can share one HD 4K monitor and 3 USB 2.0 devices such as a scanner mouse keyboards between two computers. It features two switching modes by panel button and external controller, freely switch between two computers, increasing productivity in the office or home. The HDMI output can achieve up to 4K (3840×2160) at 30Hz resolution. The colors are brighter and more moving, which makes a feast for your eyes.
This kit helps you use one set of keyboards and mice to control 2 computers and share 2 monitors, you can switch anytime. It requires every computer to support 2 screen or above display functions. If your computer supports this function and only has one HDMI output, you can use a converter or conversion cable, such as VGA to HDMI converter or conversion cable, DVI to HDMI converter or conversion cable, etc.
5 Things You Must Know While Choosing The Best KVM Switch
1. Do I Really Need One?
Sometimes, it is better not to have an expensive solution for a problem that does not really exist. Ask yourself if you truly need one or if you are just wasting money on something that won’t be used frequently. If so, then by all means go ahead!
2. What Are The Specifications?
Make sure you look at the type of ports available, as well as other connectors such as USB and audio. Keep those cable lengths shorter than 10 meters (32 feet) for best results because long cables can cause signal degradation. In addition, if you’re looking to use a monitor as well as a USB mouse and keyboard, it’s best to aim for four USB 2.0 ports.
3. What About VGA?
Although today’s KVM switches can support many types of displays such as HDMI and DVI, the most common port type is still VGA. If your computer system has a display with a VGA connection, make sure that the KVM switch you choose has an adapter included in order to facilitate both connections (VGA & DVI).
4. How Much Power Do I Need?
Look at the power specifications of the device, not only the maximum power draw but also how much each connected device draws individually. This will help reduce interference between your computers and the switch. Some switches have a power inserter box that provides power to each of the devices independently, but this does add an extra step when setting it up.
5. What About Hot-Plug?
It is important to find out whether the KVM switch supports hot-plugging or hot-swapping. If you want to be able to swap cables without powering down your computer systems, make sure that any device you consider matches the capability in terms of speed and cable length.
3 Advantages Of KVM Switch
1. Console Sharing :
Allows the user to share the computer’s console with other users on a network. It can also provide different resolution settings for each screen.
2. USB Peripheral Sharing :
A type of KVM that lets you share peripherals such as printers or scanners between your computers. This that only one device needs to be plugged in to control all of your computers.
3. You are sharing One Keyboard and Mouse :
A type of KVM that lets you share only the keyboard and mouse between multiple computers.
Wrapping Up
In this guide, we’ve explored the different types of KVM switches and how they work. We also looked at what to look for in a switch so you can find one that is perfect for your needs. With our help, it should be easier than ever before to figure out which KVM switch will best suit your business or home office needs!
