KVM switches are highly practical devices that allow you to connect multiple computers on one display and easily switch between them, at the press of a button, or buttons. In other words, this is a device that can save you both time and resources.
However, finding the best KVM switch that will successfully perform each required task isn’t as easy as it may sound. You must have some basic knowledge of the matter, or simply use somebody else’s experience and advice, in order to purchase the best device possible.
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Last update on 2022-06-29 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon
How to choose the best KVM switch
If you want to buy the best KVM switch available, and it is assumable that you do, you should take care of the following KVM switch characteristics:
Number of ports
As you may guess, the more ports there are, the more computers you can connect to the KVM switch. For that reason, make an assumption of how many computers you will simultaneously work with and make the purchase in accordance with that.
Compatibility
The last thing you need is to purchase a device and later discover it cannot work with your computer because of compatibility issues. Therefore, be sure that the desired device complies with this “small” requirement.
Video Output Type
Things are pretty straightforward considering KVM switches. If, for instance, your rigs have only the VGA video outputs, your only option is the KVM switch with that connection.
In other words, these two things must comply with each other. Therefore, don’t forget about this little detail before the final decision.
Best KVM Switches
IOGEAR KVM Switch GCS52DP
A Decent Two-Port KVM Switch
Having a good quality KVM switch, with excellent overall compatibility, ease of use and practicality is essential for any user who must continuously switch between two rigs, and a device such as IOGEAR DisplayPort KVM Switch GCS52DP perfectly fits into that role.
It is compatible with Windows, Linux, Mac, Unix, and many other operating systems, it offers plug and play functionality and more importantly, it provides a straightforward use (switching between the PCs is done by pressing the remote button) that makes it a solid option for both professionals and enthusiasts.
IOGEAR DisplayPort KVM Switch GCS52DP comes with a three-year warranty and supports only a single monitor and 30Hz 4K resolution. It comes equipped with built-in 1.2 meter long cables that allow for the connection of up to two computers, providing a single DP (HDCP compliant), as well as both audio and microphone connection, for each of the two machines. Moreover, it comes fitted with two USB ports that allow you to connect your mouse and keyboard, and mic and audio jack that support both 7.1 and 2.1 audio.
All in all, if you are searching for the best DVI KVM switch that is easy to use at the same time, IOGEAR DisplayPort KVM Switch GCS52DP is a more than a solid option.
- Plug and play
- Great Compatibility
- Three-year warranty
- Not the best customer support
- Keyboard and mouse can freeze during switching from one PC to another
Rosewill RKV-2UC
A Cheap, but Efficient Two-Port KVM Switch
Rosewill RKV-2UC is a budget-oriented two-port KVM switch that brings only the basic stuff, but for the price, it is a masterpiece.
This KVM switch comes with built-in cables that allow for the connection of up to two computers (there is a single VGA and a double USB connection, for each of the PCs) and allows for a single-monitor displaying, with the maximal resolution of 2048×1536 pixels and two USB connections that are in the most cases reserved for keyboard and mouse.
Rosewill RKV-2UC offers good overall compatibility and can work with Windows and Mac-based systems, while on Linux, its resolution is limited to only 1024×768 pixels, which is, on the other hand, enough if you don’t use Linux on a regular basis.
This is an entry-level, plug-and-play KVM switch, which means there are no advanced features, including the USB3.0, or audio connection. Nevertheless, if the price is one of the decisive factors, for your decision, Rosewill RKV-2UC is the best 2 port KVM switch you can find.
- Cheap
- Easy to use
- Plug and play
- No audio connection
- Not the best quality control
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch Selector
An Affordable yet Fast-Performing Device
UGREEN USB 3.0 switch is a compact and lightweight device that brings excellent 5Gbps data transfer speeds, and more importantly, it is super easy to use. This device comes with the plug-and-play functionality and a one-button design that allows you to easily switch from one connected peripheral USB device to another.
The UGREEN USB 3.0 switch allows the connection of up to four USB devices, including scanners, mice, keyboards, printers, and so on. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows and it provides everything that the best USB switch should. Two 1.5-meter USB cables let you use this switch with up to two different computers, there are also LED indicators for easier controls, as well as the excellent build quality, which is another welcome bonus.
In other words, if you want a reliable and easy-to-use device, with solid speeds, and versatility of the best USB hubs, UGREEN USB 3.0 switch is more than a good option for you.
- Plug-and-play device
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows
- It supports 5Gbps data transfer speeds
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to use
- None
Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector
A Good Value for the Price
Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector is an affordable and easy-to-use device that doesn’t bring anything amazing; however, it brings just enough for the majority of users. There is the respectable 5Gbps data transfer speed, as well as its plug-and-play functionality and straightforward use.
The switch itself is easy to use; it offers backward compatibility and allows its use with up to two different computers and the connection of up to four USB devices, including hard drives, card readers, mice, keyboards, and others.
Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector has a solid build quality; it is attractive-looking and can be used with most today’s computers, including ones run by Windows, Mac, Linux, or Chrome OS.
Therefore, if you are after one of the best-value-for-the-money USB switches available on the market, Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector is more than a good choice.
- Affordable
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Easy to use
- Nice looking
- Solid performance
- Good compatibility
- Numbers marking the USB connections are too tiny
TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch
A Pricey, High-Tech KVM Switch
TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch may not be the most affordable device on the market; nonetheless, if you want excellent build quality and top-class performance, this is the device for you.
To be exact, this KVM switch provides dual monitor 60Hz 4K video support, as well as 120Hz one at lower resolutions. It supports keyboard and mouse pass-through and allows you to use only a single mouse/keyboard set to fully control up to two different PCs, letting you use both wireless and corded devices, mechanical and gaming keyboards, offering low-latency performance.
TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch comes with EDID emulation support and one-year customer support. In addition, it also supports multiple control methods, including keyboard hotkeys, IR signal, and front panel buttons, offering both great versatility and ease of use in one.
Also, this KVM Switch comes in a package with four high-quality HDMI cables and two USB A/B cables; therefore, you won’t need to purchase additional ones.
In other words, if you want the best KVM Switch available and its high price doesn’t bother you, TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch is an excellent choice for you.
- EDID emulation
- It supports 60Hz 4K video
- Multiple switching methods
- Expensive
CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch
An Excellent HDMI KVM Switch
If you have an amazing 1440p monitor, but two rigs that need to work, CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch is the device for you. This is a KVM switch that supports both 30Hz 2K and 4K resolution, hotkey switching; it has its own remote, offers great compatibility (it works with Windows, Mac, Linux, etc.) and much more.
In other words, this is an amazing device and one of the best 4-port KVM switches you can find on the market right now. More importantly, it has everything that mainstream or advanced users might need. It supports hot-plug, comes fitted with three USB inputs (two reserved for the mouse and the keyboard), as well as audio and microphone connection.
Also, it allows for switching between up to four different computers that can be connected to the switch through combo cables that provide HDMI, USB, Microphone and Audio connection.
CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch is a plug-and-play device with exceptional cable management and overall an amazing deal for the price.
To make a long story short, if you need a good-quality HDMI KVM switch, this is the one to look for.
- Good value for the money
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Good compatibility
- Hot-key support
- Easy setup
- Excellent cable management
- Not the best quality control
Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM Switch
A Great USB Switch for the Money
Many of you are not in need of classical KVM switch, but you still demand some of its functionality, as the ability to share and simultaneously use multiple USB devices, and for such users, Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM Switch is the ideal option.
This device allows you to share up to four USB devices, such as printers, keyboards, scanners, card readers, flash drives, and other, between two computers. This KVM switch offers great compatibility and works efficiently with Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, and other operating systems.
More importantly, it is very easy to use; it comes with plug-and-play functionality and can be used with or without a power adapter, which depends on the type of device you are connecting. For instance, external HDDs require additional power.
Overall, Rybozen USB3.0 KVM Switch is a basic device, without fancy gadgets, but most importantly, it does an excellent job. In other words, there is no mistake with this one.
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Excellent compatibility
- Easy to use
- Good price
- Not the best quality control
- USB cords that come along with the device are a bit short
ABLEWE USB 3.0 Switch
More than a Solid USB Switcher
ABLEWE USB 3.0 Switch is a solid, yet affordable USB3.0 switch that brings just the right amount of everything needed by a mainstream user. It offers excellent compatibility and can be used on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS. More importantly, this device offers a plug-and-play functionality and straightforward use that makes it suitable for every age.
ABLEWE USB 3.0 Switch comes with a one-year warranty and allows connection of up to four USB devices, including scanners, printers, keyboards, mice, and others. This USB switcher supports button switching that offers easy changing from one device to another; it comes with LED indicators for easier orientation and handling and brings just what most users are looking for.
There is the compact design, ease of use, good performance, and of course an affordable price that makes a win-win situation without a doubt.
- One-year warranty
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Ease of use
- Excellent compatibility
- Not the best build quality
Summary
We are glad if we managed to help you pick the right KVM switch for your needs. Now, all you have to do is get one and connect your devices. We’re sure it will make your life much easier!