What is a KVM Switch?

Edmund_McGowan

Welcome back, tech enthusiasts. Today we’re hitting switches. Not lowrider hydraulics, but KVM switches for controlling multiple computers from a single keyboard, monitor and mouse setup. Yes, a KVM switch is short for keyboard, video, and mouse switch, with video referring to your monitor. A KVM switch is a nifty bit of kit that revolutionizes how you control multiple computers.

If this sounds like an appealing tool for your multi-computer environment, read on to discover all you need to know about KVM switches, including what they’re used for, how they work, and whether you actually need one. Once we’ve covered KVM switch basics, we’ll share three of the best KVM switches with you, and even touch upon KVM monitors. 

KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switches

First, let’s answer the burning question: what is a KVM switch? As we mentioned above, a KVM switch is a device that allows you to control two or more PCs without needing the kerfuffle of corresponding keyboards, monitors and mice for each computer. By tapping a hotkey on the keyboard, a button on the KVM switch, or an on-screen-display (OSD) program, the user can quickly switch between different computers or servers, and continue using the same keyboard, monitor and mouse setup with no added hassle.

What is a KVM switch used for?

Increased efficiency, improved management as well as cost and space saving are a few of the benefits that a KVM switch delivers. Most KVM switches feature between 2 and 64 ports, allowing desktop users and server rooms to select a switch that meets their requirements. The ability to effortlessly switch between multiple PCs is useful in many fields. Common applications of KVM switches include the diverse fields of: IT professionals, system admin, video editing, control centers, and financial trading desks.

How does a KVM switch work?

While there are remote and IP-based KVM switches, in the good old fashioned local application of a KVM switch, PCs are connected to the KVM switch via USB cable. Keyboard and mouse inputs are similarly connected via USB, while monitor output is connected via HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, or similar. When the user selects an input PC, the KVM switch routes the signals from the connected keyboard, monitor, and mouse to the chosen PC.

A KVM switch works by using signal emulation technology. This means that the KVM switch sends and receives the correct signals (from the selected PC) and the single keyboard, monitor and mouse, without impact on CPU operations during switching. KVM switches also offer stable video resolution, support multiple PC platforms and OS, and interface with all keyboard, monitor and mice models. 

Do I need a KVM switch?

If you’re regularly using two or more desktop PCs simultaneously, then a KVM switch is really a no-brainer. Bypass the confusion and stress of running multiple keyboards, monitors and mice, and opt for KVM. While KVM switches may not be on every home office worker’s Christmas Wishlist, if you’re controlling multiple systems as developer, system administrator, or other IT professional, then a KVM switch is a must.

A KVM switch streamlines your workflow and reduces desk clutter, especially in professions that require multiple monitors, such as finance, video editing and design. For gamers and techies, who may run multiple PCs or consoles, a KVM switch means simple switching and improved space efficiency. Right, now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s figure out the best KVM switch for you.

Three of the best KVM switches

There’s a KVM switch to meet every budget and expectation. We’ve chosen three KVM switches: entry level, intermediate and advanced:

1. Greathtek 2-Port HDMI KVM Switch.

This is a neat entry level dual port KVM switch that can be yours for just $19.99.  

The HDMI KVM Switch allows 2 computers to share a keyboard, monitor and mouse. Offering UHD 4K@30Hz with zero transmission delay, the switch also supports lower resolutions such as 1080p and 2K. With a button switch, convenient, quick switches will be the new norm, and 4 USB 2.0 ports ensure that you can conveniently share and switch multiple devices, as needed. Here’s an informative review of the Greathtek 2-Port HDMI KVM Switch if you’re curious about setup and performance.

2. Camgeet 3 PC 2 Monitor KVM Switch

Next on our KVM switch tour, we present the mid-range Camgeet 3 PC 2 Monitor KVM Switch, currently priced at $98.99. Camgeet’s KVM switch dual monitor lets you connect 3 computers as well as 2 monitors and 4 USB 3.0 devices. Supporting resolution 8K@60Hz 4K@144Hz, this KVM switch supports connection to 3 computers with different resolutions, such as 4K@60Hz, 4K@30Hz, 1440P@60Hz. Featuring 4 integrated USB 3.0 ports for data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps, switching between devices is easy via the button on the panel, or 1.5m wired remote.  Have read of thegamer.com’s review of the best KVM Switches In 2024, featuring the Camgeet 3 PC 2 Monitor KVM Switch.

3. AV Access iDock

For more advanced users, the iDock C10 by AV Access is a 12-in-1 docking station featuring a plethora of peripheral ports including 3x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x USB-C, 1x SD card, 1x Toslink out, 1x 3.5mm headset, and two HDMI outputs. This new dual monitor design is currently available for $199.99 and has a USB-C (MST) input port for laptop, and an integrated HDMI + DisplayPort + USB-B input port for desktops. Ultra-fast refresh rates make this KVM switch stand out for gamers: 4K@60Hz, and1080P@240Hz/165Hz/144Hz/120Hz, and 2560×1440@144Hz/120Hz.

Data transfer is also a rapid-fire affair, thanks to the 20Gbp/s USB-C port, which also supports simultaneous charging up to 60W. The easy access front control button, auto PC wake up function and EDID simulation mean that switching between sources only takes 2-3 seconds. Curious? Here’s a recent review of the AV Access I Dock C10 if you want to find out more about this KVM switch.

What is a KVM monitor?

As the name suggests, a KVM monitor is simply a monitor with a handy integrated KVM switch. Armed with a KVM switch, you can control multiple computers from one monitor, a perfect computer control solution for compact gaming and office setups. Acer currently has a variety of KVM monitors to meet a wide range of display requirements, including these popular KVM models:

• Acer CB342CUR, 34”, 3440x1440, IPS 
• Acer Predator X27U, 27”, 2560x1440, OLED
• Acer X32 FP, 32”, 3840x2160, IPS 
• Acer XB273K LV, 27”, 3840x2160, IPS 
• Acer XB283K KV, 28”, 3840x2160, IPS 
• Acer XR343CKP, 34”, 3440x1440, IPS 
• Acer XR383CUR, 38”, 3840x1600, IPS

The takeaway

We hope that you’ve enjoyed learning about the world of KVM switches and their diverse applications. If you’re a gamer with multiple computers and consoles, or trader with several PCs and monitors, it may behoove you to get kitted out with a KVM switch. As well as streamlining your workflow and de-cluttering your desk, a KVM switch, or KVM monitor helps maximize your space and efficiency. Check out Acer’s range of KVM monitors today, and find a KVM integrated monitor that lets you control all of your computers at the flick of a switch.

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