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While some people only need one computer to do all their work, many still need at least two devices to get maximum productivity. This can be quite a hassle because you need to keep switching keyboards and mouses. Thankfully, there are inventions like the KVM switch that make everyone’s lives easier. Such a switch allows you to connect a mouse, a keyboard, a printer, an external hard drive, a USB, a webcam, etc., to two computers simultaneously. These switches look like a small USB hub because they have several USB and HDMI ports. You can also use the KVM switches to connect your consoles or other computers to a single display. Having the switch will make everything convenient and save you more time. The KVM switch can also make your workspace setup look cleaner because it keeps your cables more organized. You can easily find many options for KVM switches on the market, and we know how this can get confusing, so we’re here to tell you some of the best choices you can purchase on the market in 2022.
It’s not hard to see why many people like the Ablewe USB and HDMI KVM Switch because of its performance and affordability. This switch allows users to use the same mouse, monitor, keyboard, and printer for two different computers. The switch has a convenient button that instantly switches between your two computers. It has an LED light indicator that will tell you which computer it’s currently displaying. The switch works well with high-end monitors because it supports a maximum resolution of 4K with a 60 Hz refresh rate. You can expect crisp images with dynamic color. If your monitor’s specs aren’t too advanced, the switch also supports 4K at 30 Hz and below. It also supports different operating systems, from Mac OS to Windows to Chrome OS. The Ablewe USB and HDMI KVM switch doesn’t only work with computers; you can also connect different gaming consoles with HDMI support as well. Upon purchase, customers will receive lifetime technical support and a 12-month warranty. Other freebies include two HDMI cables and two USB 2.0 cables. You don’t need any driver installation or power adaptor for the switch, just plug it in, and you’re good to go.
AffordableMaximum resolution of 4K at 60HzLED light indicator12-month warranty and lifetime technical support
Could have better cable routing
The IOGEAR 2-Port 4K KVM switch features a user-friendly experience with different ports and features. You can use the switch to connect to two computers using its DisplayPort 1.1 technology, and it’s HDCP compliant. Once you connect your two computers, you can conveniently use a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The switch will work with high-quality displays because it supports a 4K UHD resolution (4096 x 2160) at 30 Hz. The IOGEAR 2-Port 4K KVM switch is compatible with Mac OS, Linux, Windows, etc. You can easily switch between your computers using its remote switch button. The switch already comes with built-in cables, but you can quickly get more ports by purchasing a USB hub. It also supports 2.1 analog audio and 7.1 HD audio. The switch doesn’t need any setup or installation, and it will work immediately after plugging it in. The only catch is that you will need an external power supply for it. Some users have also noticed that the switch can lag when switching between the two connected computers. The company could also use some improvements in its customer service.
Connects to 2 DisplayPort computersSupports 4K UHD at 30HzUSB hub compatible
Needs an external power supplyCan experience lag when switchingCustomer service needs improvements
If you want an affordable KVM switch and don’t necessarily need HDMI ports, the ABLEWE KVM switch is an excellent choice for you. It comes at a low price tag, and it has a free 12-month warranty. The switch makes two different computers share four devices through four USB 3.0 ports. Each port guarantees a data transfer speed of 5 Gb/s. Aside from keyboards, mice, printers, and monitors, you can also connect webcams, multi-channel audio, camcorders, and external hard drives. The switch connects to computers using the two free USB Type-A to A cables. Users can conveniently tell which computer is active because it has an LED indicator. It has a physical button that you press to change between computers quickly. The ABLEWE KVM switch will need a charging cable and 5V adaptor, which you have to purchase separately. The switch supports Mac OS, Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP, Chrome OS, and Linux.
Budget-friendly12-month warranty4 USB 3.0 Type-A ports with a data transfer speed of 5Gb/sTwo USB Type-A to A cables includedSwitching button and LED indicatorSupports different Operating Systems
External power supply needs to be purchased separatelyNo HDMI ports
Another KVM switch that won’t break the bank is the UGREEN KVM switch. For only $19.99, you get a KVM switch that can connect up to four external devices to two different computers. It’s compatible with flash drives, keyboards, mouses, card readers, scanners, printers, or anything that uses a USB Type-A connection. You don’t need to install any drivers for the switch; it’s as easy as plug-and-play. The UGREEN KVM switch is compatible with Chrome OS, Linux, Windows, and Mac OS. There is a button on the switch that you can use to switch between the two connected computers quickly, and it has an LED light indicator that will tell you which is the active computer. The switch will need an external power supply, but you have to purchase the cable and adaptor separately. Your chosen power supply should have a standard 5V adapter. Using an adaptor with a higher voltage could affect your switch’s performance. The freebies you get with the switch are two 1.5 m USB 2.0 Type-A to A cables.
AffordableFour USB 2.0 Type-A portsLED indicatorMulti-OS support
Charging cable and adaptor needed for power supply aren't included
The TESmart KVM switch is an outstanding choice if you don’t have any limitations with your budget. It costs over $200, but you get an HDMI KVM switch that can simultaneously connect to up to eight different computers. The switch has a feature where it detects a new connection and automatically switches to that particular device. The switch can deliver superb image quality once connected to your monitor because it supports a resolution of 4K at 30 Hz. It can also do QHD at 60 Hz and FHD at 60 Hz. The switch is perfect for when you want to use a single mouse and keyboard to control several computers, a TV box, and a gaming console. You don’t need to worry about any installation when you purchase it because it will work right out of the box. You will receive four 5-foot KVM cables and a DC 12V Power Adapter with the switch, and you also get free TESmart technical support and a 1-year warranty. The TESmart KVM switch is pretty large, so you have to ensure that you have enough extra space on your desk.
Can connect to 8 different computersSupports 4K at 30HzDurable design
ExpensiveLimited compatibilityBulky
The ULBRE Soho KVM switch comes at an affordable price, and you can connect four different devices to two computers. The switch’s four ports are a USB 3.0 Type-A port that delivers a data transfer speed of up to 5 Gb/s. It will also work with older USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 devices, but you will get slower data transfer speeds. The switch comes with a one-push button for easy switching, and its LED light will tell you which of the two computers is active. If you plan to connect a scanner, printer, hard disk drive, or any other high power consumption device to the switch, you will need an external power supply that you can connect to its micro-USB port. You have to purchase the cable and standard 5V adaptor separately. The switch is compatible with Mac OS, Linux, and Windows. Customers also get two 1.5 m USB 3.0 Type-A to A cables for free. The switch will immediately work once you plug it in, requiring no additional installation or software. ULBRE offers 24/7 email support and a one-year warranty when purchasing the ULBRE Soho KVM switch.
AffordableCompact designOne-Push switch and LED indicator
Could have a buzzing sound when you connect a mechanical keyboard
The AIMOS KVM switch is ideal for those who simply need a KVM switch to connect a mouse and keyboard to two different computers. Users can switch between the two computers either through the button on the switch or a hot key shortcut on the connected keyboard. One great thing about this KVM switch is that you won’t need to purchase an external power supply. The AIMOS KVM switch is perfect for gamers because it supports 4K resolution at 30 Hz. It also supports 3D, 1080p, and lower resolutions. Since the switch comes with HDMI ports, you can easily connect high-end monitors, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. The switch has a small profile that won’t take up too much space on your table, and its non-slip rubber feet will make sure that it sits in place and doesn’t cause any damage to whatever surface you place it in. Customers will get two USB Type-A cables and one 1.5 m HDMI cable upon purchase. The AIMOS KVM switch’s main selling point is its price, but you have to remember that it only supports a wired/wireless keyboard and mouse. This switch won’t suit those who need to connect cameras, printers, etc.
AffordableConnect to 2 computersNo need for an external power supplySupports 4K resolution at 30Hz
Only supports a mouse and keyboard
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