Many people frequently use multiple computers, such as a desktop and laptop or a mix of Windows and Mac machines. They switch between these devices with different keyboards, microphones, and computers. To manage two or more devices using just one setup, so you’ll need to consider using a high-quality KVM switch.
Here are Key factors to consider:
- Number of Computers: When choosing a KVM switch for multiple computers, consider how many computers it supports. Basic models handle 2, while advanced ones manage up to 4 for heavy use.
- Input Ports: Look at the input ports like USB, HDMI, and VGA to see which devices you can connect. More ports and faster speeds are beneficial.
- Cable Length: Opt for longer cables (e.g., 2 meters instead of 1 meter) for easier connections between your KVM switch, computers, and peripherals.
By considering “Buying Guide” Choose a KVM switch that suits your needs to improve your workspace and productivity.
Best KVM Switches Table
| Best KVM Switches | No. of Computers | Input Ports | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN KVM Switches | Up to 2 computers | 4 x USB ports | Check On Amazon |
| ABLEWE KVM Switches | Up to 2 computers | 2 x USB, 1 x HDMI ports | Check On Amazon |
| KSWLLO KVM Switches | Up to 2 computers | 4 x USB ports | Check On Amazon |
| JideTech KVM Switches | Up to 4 computers | 3 x USB, 1 x VGA, 2 x audio ports | Check On Amazon |
| DGODRT KVM Switches | Up to 2 computers | 3 x USB, 1 x HDMI ports | Check On Amazon |
| TCNEWCL KVM Switches | Up to 4 computers | 3 x USB, 1 x HDMI, 1 x audio ports | Check On Amazon |
| Rijer KVM Switches | Up to 8 computers | 2 x USB, 1 x VGA ports | Check On Amazon |
| TESmart KVM Switches | Up to 4 computers | 3 x USB, 1 x HDMI, 1 x audio ports | Check On Amazon |
| IOGEAR KVM Switches | Up to 2 computers | 2-Port, HDMI and USB connections | Check On Amazon |
| MLEEDA KVM Switches | Up to 4 computers | 4 HDMI and 4 USB-C cables | Check On Amazon |
Best KVM Switches Reviews
1. UGREEN KVM Switche
Ugreen makes all kinds of smartphone and computer accessories where most of them are highly affordable and perfect for those who are on a tight budget and looking for something affordable.
The Ugreen KVM switch is present in the 1st position in this list since it is the cheapest option given here making it the perfect entry-level option. As for its features and functionality, this KVM switch is designed to be used with 2 computers at once.
Taking a look at its input ports, you will find 4 x USB ports since it is not made for switching monitors but only for switching peripherals between your laptop and desktop. Despite being an entry-level option, Ugreen still offers a 1-year long warranty with it.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 2 computers at once
- Offers 4 x USB ports for input
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Superb KVM switch for buyers on a tight budget
- Multiple USB ports for a large number of peripherals
- Solid build quality and a decent warranty for the price
Cons:
- Cannot switch monitors between computers
2. ABLEWE KVM Switches
If you want a straight forward KVM switch without any obsolete features and functions, then Ablewe and its KVM switches can be a great value for money option for many.
Ablewe’s KVM switch is present in the 2nd position in this listicle as this is a highly functional option that focuses on the basics instead of extra bells and whistles. Starting with its computer support, this KVM switching can be used along with 2 computers at the same time.
And while it might not be the highest, the included 2 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports are more than enough for everyday computer usage. You even get a 1-year warranty with this KVM switch which is always great to have if you are looking for something reliable.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 2 computers at once
- Offers 2 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports for input
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Great value for money thanks to multiple included functions
- High-speed ports for modern computers
- Includes long connectivity cables for ease of use
Cons:
- Could have included more ports for extra peripherals
3. KSWLLO KVM Switche
KSWLLO can be another great option for all those who are looking for something affordable and entry-level for switching between different peripherals between their desktops and laptops.
This KSWLLO KVM switch is present in the 3rd position in this article because it is a great entry-level option for laptop and desktop users. Since it is primarily made for switching peripherals between your laptop and desktop, it supports a total of 2 computers at maximum.
As for the input ports supported by this KVM switch, it comes with 4 x USB ports since it is made for only switching between peripherals where all of them are high-speed USB 3.0 ones. Unfortunately, being an entry-level KVM switch, it does not offer any included warranty.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 2 computers at once
- Offers 4 x USB ports for input
Pros:
- Pretty great option for buyers on a budget
- Comes with high-speed ports for storage devices
- Works great with an easy to use button
Cons:
- Misses out on an included warranty period
4. JideTech KVM Switche
JideTech has been around for quite a long time and offers a wide range of entry-level yet highly functional KVM switches for all those who are looking for something practical.
The JideTech KVM switch is the perfect option for those who have multiple computers and want a KVM switch without spending a premium. To be exact, this KVM switch is able to support up to 4 computers to be used together.
While you do get a total of 3 x USB and 2 x audio ports for input, it relies on 1 x VGA port for video input instead of HDMI. Thankfully, for the given price, this KVSM switch is still quite great especially when you consider its included 1-year warranty.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 4 computers at once
- Offers 3 x USB, 1 x VGA, and 2 x audio ports for input
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Amazing for multiple computers even with an entry-level price tag
- Large number of input ports including audio ports
- Quite good build quality and warranty
Cons:
- Uses VGA ports instead of HDMI ports
5. DGODRT KVM Switches
DGODRT is one of the latest and a pretty small brand of KVM switches which can be the perfect pick for those who are looking for budget-friendly and affordable options.
The DGODRT KVM switch is one of the best entry-level options out there making it ideal for buyers on a budget. Similar to most other budget-oriented KVM switches, this one is also made to be used with 2 computers together if needed.
However, unlike other budget options, this KVM switch not only offers 3 x USB ports, but also offers 1 x HDMI port for its inputs. Although, as you would expect from such an affordable option, you do not get any warranty with it.
Taking a look at its input ports, you will find 4 x USB ports since it is not made for switching monitors but only for switching peripherals between your laptop and desktop. Despite being an entry-level option, Ugreen still offers a 1-year warranty with it.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 2 computers at once
- Offers 3 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports for input
Pros:
- Amazing KVM switch for buyers on a tight budget
- Quite great performance numbers for the given price
- Works with multiple peripherals at the same time
Cons:
- Does not offer any sort of warranty
6. TCNEWCL KVM Switche
TCNEWCL and its KVM switch offerings can also be a great option for all those who wish to use a KVM switch with multiple computers at the same time without needing to pay a premium for the same.
This TCNEWCL KVM switch is one of the best value for money options out there when you consider its given price tag and included functions. One of the best things about this KVM switch is that it supports connectivity with a total of 4 computers at once which is always great to have.
Similarly, you also get high-performance input ports including 3 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports for all your peripherals. However, if you are looking for something reliable and durable, then you should look elsewhere as this one misses out on an included warranty period.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 4 computers at once
- Offers 3 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports for input
Pros:
- Superb value for money KVM switch with amazing performance
- Works great with multiple computers and peripherals
- Includes an external switch remote
Cons:
- Lacks an included manufacturer warranty
7. Rijer KVM And Switche
Rijer and its KVM switches are highly popular for heavy-duty usage which is to be expected at such a high end and premium price tag offered by these KVM switches.
The Rijer KVM switch is the most powerful and versatile option given here especially if you want something for heavy-duty usage. For making the same possible, Rijer offers support for up to 8 computers to be connected to this KVM switch at the same time.
Unfortunately, this KVM switch does fall behind in terms of its input ports since you only get 2 x USB and 1 x VGA ports and no HDMI ports. Because it is a highly premium and high-end KVM switch, you also get a 1-year warranty with it which is always great to have.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 8 computers at once
- Offers 2 x USB and 1 x VGA ports for input
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Excellent KVM switch for heavy-duty usage with multiple computers
- Fairly reliable and durable with a solid build quality
- Easy to switch
Cons:
- Does not support HDMI monitors and video devices
8. TESmart KVM Switches
In comparison to most other brands of KVM switches out there, TESmart is a much more premium option which is to be expected considering that these are high-performance options for most.
TESmart’s KVM switch is one of the best-performing options out there in terms of the functionality and features it offers to the user. For starters, this KVM switch allows you to connect up to 4 computers to it at the same time.
And because you get 3 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports with it for input via your peripheral devices, this KVM switch is fairly practical. Being such a high-end and premium KVM switch, it also comes with a 1-year warranty which is to be expected.
Best Features:
- Works with up to 4 computers at once
- Offers 3 x USB and 1 x HDMI ports for input
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Perfect for using with a large number of computers
- Offers high-performance ports for the best performance
- Includes pretty long connectivity cables for practicality
Cons:
- Highly expensive and premium KVM switch
9. Iogear KVM Switches
Those of you who are restricted by budget and want something affordable can also consider IOGEAR and its offerings when it comes to buying a KVM switch for your computers and peripherals.
IOGEAR KVM 2-Port Full HD Switch with Cables a versatile solution for efficiently controlling two HDMI full HD computers using a single USB keyboard, a USB mouse, and an HDMI monitor. This KVM switch supports HDCP compliance and delivers a resolution of up to 1920 x 1080 at 60Hz on widescreen HDMI displays. IOGEAR KVM 2-Port Full HD is compatible with Xbox, PS4/5, Windows, Mac, and Linux
Best Features:
- Works with up to 2 computers at once
- Light indicator displays active computer (PC1 or PC2)
- Seamless computer switching with remote port selector button and 6ft remote port cable
- Built-in USB ports for sharing and controlling peripherals between computers
- Integrated audio cables for sharing speakers or headphones
Pros:
- Switch HDMI, keyboard, mouse between two computers with ease
- Plug & Play Convenience
Cons:
- Random Screen Blanking
10. MLEEDA KVM Switches
MLEEDA is one of the known brands that manufacture high-quality products, including KVM switches that manage to make for a great reliable pick for various users.
Best Features:
- Share a 4K monitor and up to four USB devices
- Supports various resolutions, including 4K@60Hz
- HDMI 2.0 compatibility for optimal performance
- Built-in automatic adjustment system for smooth image quality
- Two switching modes: panel buttons and battery-free remote control
- LED lights indicate the active computer
- Wide compatibility with HDMI devices, including TV boxes, PCs, and laptops
Pros:
- It Works well
- Good for HTPC
Cons:
- Have minor issues
- USB-C cables are very short
- Cannot support a Mechanical Keyboard.
Buying Guide For The Best KVM Switches
A KVM switch stands for Keyboard Video Mouse switch which essentially allows you to switch these peripheral devices between different computers. But since connecting and reconnecting multiple peripherals to multiple computers can be quite time-consuming, you can use something like the best KVM switch given above to switch peripherals at the press of a button.
To help you pick the right KVM switch for your computers, we have already stated all of the primary factors and aspects of these various KVM switches. Although, if you wish to learn even more, considering checking out this extensive buying guide for the best KVM switches:
1. Number Of Computers
In order to use a KVM switch you have to connect it to your peripherals as well as different computers at the same time. However, not all KVM switches are going to be the same in terms of the number of computers they support. While entry-level KVM switches only work with 2 computers at the same time, higher-end options can even support up to 4 or even up to 8 computers at the same time which is much more ideal for heavy-duty usage.
2. Input Ports
Apart from connecting to multiple computers at the same time, a KVM switch also needs to be connected to multiple peripherals too. And for the same, you need to look at the various input ports offered by your KVM switch. When it comes to checking the input ports of your KVM switch, you need to look at the type of ports, number of ports, and port versions.
Starting with the type of ports, you can find ports like USB, HDMI, VGA, and a few others depending on the KVM switch that you are going for. As for the number of ports, you can find 4 USB ports, 2 USB ports, and 1 HDMI port, or 4 USB ports and 1 HDMI port depending on the KVM switch you are going for. Coming to the port version, you should go with newer port versions like USB 3.0 over USB 2.0 for the best possible performance from your KVM switch.
3. Cable Length
Whether your KVM switch only has a few ports or it is made for heavy-duty usage, it still needs to be connected to multiple computers and peripherals at the same time. Due to this, it is highly necessary to ensure that you have long enough cables for connecting your KVM switch. Regarding the same, you can find different cable lengths like 1 meter, 1.5 meter, and even 2-meter long cable. Out of all these options, the longer 2-meter cable will be perfect for larger setups and better cable management.
4. Warranty
Just like any other peripheral or accessory that you would use with your computer, you would also want your KVM switch to stay as functional and practical as possible. And to ensure the same, checking the included warranty of your KVM switch is always a great idea. This is due to the reason that a KVM switch with a 3 year long warranty is most likely going to last much longer than one with just a 1-year warranty.
KVM Switches – FAQs
Ans: In most cases, you will find your KVM switch to have a button on the top or an included external switch for switching between different computers. And depending on the KVM switch that you have, you can either cycle between computers using this button or choose the specific computer you want to use.
Ans: Many KVM switches can also come with a micro USB port that can be connected to a USB power adapter. Such a port is there to provide extra power to your KVM switch. This is highly important when you want to connect high-power devices like hard drives and SSDs to your KVM switch which needs extra power via the micro USB port.
Ans: In most cases, your KVM switch will not require any kind of drivers to be installed for using it. This is highly useful and handy when you are using multiple computers with your KVM switch at the same time since installing drivers on multiple computers can be quite time-consuming.
Conclusion
While there are many devices you can connect to your computer, the keyboard, mouse, and monitor are crucial ones. You might want to use these three items with all your devices like desktops, laptops, and Macs. To help you choose the right KVM switch for your needs, we’ve highlighted key features of the top-rated switches mentioned. You can also find a detailed buying guide and FAQs about the best KVM switches.
Here are our recommendations and picks for the best KVM switches:
- If you’re looking for a high-quality KVM switch for multiple computers, consider the RIJER KVM switch. It supports up to 8 computers and has 2 USB and 1 VGA ports, making it suitable for heavy use. It comes with a standard 1-year warranty.
- For reliability and longevity, the KSWLLO KVM Switch is a top choice with a lifetime warranty. It’s designed for 2 computers and offers 4 USB and 1 HDMI ports, which is better than other 2 PC KVM switches.
- On a budget and need a switch for peripherals between a desktop and a laptop. The Ugreen KVM switch supports 2 computers and has 4 USB ports.
