There are a few ways to reduce the number, though, and if you’re working with multiple PCs but using the same peripherals, a KVM switch will work wonders for your setup’s aesthetics and efficiency. Computers won’t detect KVM switches. Your system will boot normally, and your laptop/PC will detect all peripherals as if they were directly attached to it. How are USB-C ports helpful on KVM switches?

Like the IOGear Access Pro 2, the GCS1602CC is a compact KVM switch that offers considerable utility while retaining an insignificant footprint. Thus, it requires very little space at your workstation, and its form factor makes it convenient to carry wherever work takes you. ATEN US3342 is a 2-port USB 3.2 Gen 2 peripheral sharing device that allows users to share data between four USB devices in two different USB-C enabled laptops. The US3342 is USB 3.2 Gen 2 compliant, which can support data transfer rate up to 10Gps, and also compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 2.0 and USB1.1. If you’ve only got a laptop and a PC to switch between, you can buy something portable and efficient, with extra features such as charging or wireless remotes. If switching between many computers, you should look for KVM switches with excellent protection and synchronization capabilities. KVM switches with only a few PC connections usually do not have a dedicated power supply; they take power from the monitor’s power supply or through the USB bus. Bigger or higher-rated KVM switches usually have dedicated power supplies, especially if they can charge connecting devices. The absence of a dedicated power supply seems attractive, but we only recommend smaller KVM devices, like the ones switching between two or three computers. The switch is thoughtfully designed and includes several features, the chief among them being compatibility with all leading operating systems. The VT4950 is among the few KVM switches with a sharable USB-C (10Gbps) and Gigabit Ethernet port, enabling you to share a LAN connection and use newer peripheral devices such as USB-C flash drives or external SSDs.

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The switch supports dual 4K monitors at a 60Hz refresh rate, which you can connect using two DisplayPort. Unfortunately, the device doesn’t have a remote toggle, and you’ll have to use the button on the front panel to switch sources. Supports USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 for laptop charging up to 85W (Additional USB-C Power Adapter is needed)* The device supports two hosts via the USB-C ports, providing a combined Power Delivery of 135W. While the active host receives 90W, the inactive host receives 45W Power Delivery. StarTech.com uses a 180W external power adapter to support this, which connects to a DC pin next to the Power Switch.

Includes an adjustable lamp cooldown mode to avoid prematurely powering up a projector after shutdown You can connect four different computers to four different devices. On top of that, it works with Mac, Windows, and Linux computers. While not as robust as the previous entry, it still covers the main systems. People usually go for a KVM switch after they’ve spent a lot of time and money on setting up their Computing system, so they end up not paying attention to the KVM switch. That could be a mortal sin because a bad KVM switch will render most of your functionality useless. By a bad KVM switch, we do not necessarily mean a device of poor quality but rather suitability.

Compared to the previous model, this switch features two HDMI ports and supports a dual-4K monitor setup, making it the go-to choice for users who need additional screen real estate. Interestingly, the KVM switch also supports 8K@30Hz video using a single monitor setup, making it ideal for workflows requiring high-resolution monitors. Unlike most KVM switches, which offer only two USB ports to connect peripheral devices, this switch provides four, enabling you to share more than just your keyboard and mouse.

The switch can deliver 4K video at 60Hz, which is impressive for such a small device. You’ll get two USB-C inputs and two USB-out ports on the same side. The HDMI out port is on the other side, so you’ll have trouble choosing a wireless side to face you when you put the switch in your workstation. The device is compatible with most manufacturers. There is no remote, though; a single button lies on the device for switching. Something you should consider when shopping for a USB switch is what type of USB ports it supports. The most commonly supported ports are USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. The latter is the superior version as it has a better transfer rate than the previous. A worthy upgrade, this KVM switch from IOGear offers 4K@60Hz video and has 100W Power Delivery, compared to 4K@30Hz and 75W of the Access Pro 2 from IOGear. Each here works with one monitor (see below for some dual-monitor suggestions) and allows you to switch among two or four PCs using one set of peripherals. They all use HDMI cables (instead of VGA or DisplayPort, although you can definitely find KVM switches that use those). Most newer computers and monitors connect via HDMI for superior sound and image quality. For the least hassle, you'll want to choose a KVM that works natively with the video outputs of all connected PCs (assuming they all support one in common!) to avoid having to deal with clumsy adapters. If you have only two computers/laptops, getting a powerless device and saving your desk space from clutter makes more sense. PortsAnd the final entry for the best USB switchers has to go to StarTech’s USB 3.0 Peripheral Sharing Switch. When it comes to a pure USB switch, this is one of the best. Be aware it’s not a KVM switch so it doesn’t work with video games, TVs, or the like. The VT4950 uses a 230W external power adapter to power up the device and provide Power Delivery to both host computers. Combined with an impressive selection of sharable ports that include two USB-A 10Gbps ports, the VT4950 is a bulky device that will need considerable space at your workstation. Ports Secure corporate Ethernet interfaces ensure secure device control and configuration under the SSH, SSL, and HTTPS standards, whilst the device can also be securely connected to a closed network of room control devices such as wall panels or routed to the corporate system for additional control options, all via separate Ethernet layers. Using a USB-C KVM switch negates this requirement, as USB-C allows data, power, and video signals on a single cable. Thus, USB-C KVM switches minimize wire clutter and help optimize your workstation. Video Output It’s also pretty expensive so we recommend getting this while it’s on sale. Apart from those restrictions, you’ll be happy to know that the device supports USB 3.0 for assured fast speeds.

The TESmart USB-C KVM switch is an externally powered device. Despite that, it has an additional USB-C port for power pass-thru to enable Power Delivery to the host computer. While it adds to the wire clutter, it also gives you flexibility if you use the switch to connect desktop computers. If this kind of teleportation magic sounds like something your home setup needs, here’s a guide to finding the right KVM switch for you. KVMs are venerable tech, but once you start shopping, you'll see a fair bit of nuance around them. We're here to help. The first step to finding the right KVM switch is taking inventory of what you'll use it with: specifically, the number of computers, monitors, and additional peripherals, such as a keyboard and mouse. You may also want to hook up a direct-connected printer, webcam, speakers, or external microphone (for all the streamers and podcasters out there).Most mainstream KVM switches support between two to four computers, one to three monitors, and two to four peripherals.It doesn’t matter what you’re buying; the first question should always be why. You need to know precisely your requirements before you wander into a store, or all the tech will fog your judgment, and you’ll waste your money. A software KVM can offer distinct benefits over a hardware solution. You can avoid the tangled web of cables, as well as switch between or among PCs through hotkeys or an app, rather than pressing a physical button (although some hardware KVMs offer hotkey-based switching, as well). Manage configuration and firmware updates for AV devices spanning a facility, building, enterprise, or residence