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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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.

7 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.

Pros:

• Plug and play
• Great Compatibility
• Three-year warranty

Cons:

• Not the best customer support
• Keyboard and mouse can freeze during switching from one PC to another

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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.

Pros:

• Cheap
• Easy to use
• Plug and play

Cons:

• No audio connection
• Not the best quality control

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UGREEN USB Switch Selector

An Attractive and Highly Practical USB Switch

UGREEN USB Switch Selector is an affordable and simple-to-use USB switch that allows for easy sharing of up to four USB devices (printers, scanners, card readers, etc.), between the two PCs.

It is stylish, it offers a plug-and-play functionality and more importantly, it is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, and many other operating systems.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector supports for a data transfer rate of up to 480Mbps, it is equipped with LED indicators and comes in a package with two 1.5m USB cables. However, it lacks a power supply unit, which affects its overall great impression a bit.

To make a long story short, if you want an affordable four-port USB hub that you can simultaneously use on two PCs, UGREEN USB Switch Selector is an ideal choice for you.

Pros:

• Good price
• Excellent versatility
• Great compatibility
• Easy to use
• Plug and play

Cons:

• It comes without power supply

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JideTech HDMI USB KVM Switch

A High-Volume HDMI KVM Switch

If you are a power user and looking for a device that will allow easy switching between the rigs, JideTech HDMI USB KVM Switch is a device made for you.

With this piece of equipment, you will have no problems and will be able to connect up to 8 computers to a single monitor and easily switch between PCs by pressing the Push button or using the keyboard hot-keys.

JideTech HDMI USB KVM Switch is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux and supports for 30Hz 4K resolution, which should be enough for most people. Moreover, it is fitted with three USB2.0 input ports and comes with eight HDMI cables, as well as eight 1.8m USB cables that are included in the package itself.

In other words, if you have multiple computers and are looking for a solid option that will allow for their easy and reliable use, JideTech is definitely the best KVM switch for you can get for your money.

Pros:

• It comes with cables included
• A large number of ports
• Good customer service
• Good performance

Cons:

• Not the best quality control
• Expensive

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TESmart HDMI KVM Switch

A Solid 4K HDMI Switch

As many of you probably know, finding a 4K HDMI KVM switch that will do a proper job is almost impossible. However, there are models that will give you a lot for your money and satisfy the majority of users, at least not too demanding ones, and TESmart HDMI 4K KVM Switch is exactly that type of device.

With this KVM switch, you will have to accept minor flaws, but most importantly, you will get the job done. TESmart HDMI 4K KVM Switch is available in black, gray and red color; it supports 60Hz 4K resolution and offers great compatibility that will let you use it with Windows, Mac, Unix, and other systems.

This device offers good flexibility and allows for easy switching between up to four different computers that are connected to the switch through HDMI and USB connection. Moreover, this device supports hot switching, one monitor displaying, as well as three USB connections, two of which are reserved for the mouse and the keyboard.

Unfortunately, TESmart HDMI 4K KVM Switch USB ports support only the basic keyboard and mouse functions, which means there is no RGB lighting, macros, or other gaming features. Also, its reliability is rather questionable, but still not so alarming that it should prevent you from buying it.

All in all, TESmart HDMI 4K KVM Switch definitely isn’t the best HDMI KVM switch you will find, but it still presents a good overall 4K KVM switch option that will, without a doubt, satisfy the majority of mainstream users.

Pros:

• Good flexibility
• Decent compatibility
• Available in multiple colors
• Aluminum body

Cons:

• Not the best reliability
• Mouse/Keyboard ports allow only the basic mouse functions (no macros, lighting effects, etc.)

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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.

Pros:

• Good value for the money
• Plug-and-play functionality
• Good compatibility
• Hot-key support
• Easy setup
• Excellent cable management

Cons:

• Not the best quality control

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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.

Pros:

• Plug-and-play functionality
• Excellent compatibility
• Easy to use
• Good price

Cons:

• Not the best quality control
• USB cords that come along with the device are a bit short

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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!