Our testing gear comprised a Viotek GNV27DB curved gaming monitor, two Windows 10-based desktop mini-PCs we recently reviewed (the Geekom IT8, and the Beelink GK Mini), and a standard wired gaming keyboard and mouse from Logitech. In turn, we set up each KVM device and switched between or among PCs 10 times, using a stopwatch to measure the switchover time and then averaging the results. To test the audio and video quality, we played a 4K HD movie (our old testing stalwart, Tears of Steel) on each PC through each KVM switch in turn to our Viotek monitor. We also watched the same video with the PCs direct-connected to the monitor to see if any perceptible difference. This two-PC-capable KVM switch uses HDMI for the connection to the primary monitor's input, as well as to the outputs from your connected systems. (Credit: Kyle Cobian) Prior to starting at PCMag, I worked in Big Tech on the West Coast for six years. From that time, I got an up-close view of how software engineering teams work, how good products are launched, and the way business strategies shift over time. After I’d had my fill, I changed course and enrolled in a master’s program for journalism at Northwestern University in Chicago. I'm now a reporter with a focus on electric vehicles and artificial intelligence. Each here works with one monitor (see below for some dual-monitor suggestions) and allows you to switch among two or four PCs using one set of peripherals. They all use HDMI cables (instead of VGA or DisplayPort, although you can definitely find KVM switches that use those). Most newer computers and monitors connect via HDMI for superior sound and image quality. For the least hassle, you'll want to choose a KVM that works natively with the video outputs of all connected PCs (assuming they all support one in common!) to avoid having to deal with clumsy adapters. If this kind of teleportation magic sounds like something your home setup needs, here’s a guide to finding the right KVM switch for you. KVMs are venerable tech, but once you start shopping, you'll see a fair bit of nuance around them. We're here to help.

USB Ports for Peripherals: Four (reserve two for keyboard and monitor; the others for items like a USB headset) This affordable KVM offers a bit more value than the Greathtek since it comes with a wired remote. That means you can put the KVM out of sight, as long as it's still close enough for the remote's cable run. But it has only three USBs for peripherals, in case you needed the Greathtek's fourth. As one of the world’s leading suppliers of cables, converters and adapters you’re sure to find everything you need here at Lindy Electronics. Once you've assessed ports and peripherals, consider your home setup. Where will you put the KVM box? How long do the cables need to be to keep your space de-cluttered? Will you be able to press a button on the KVM to switch PCs, or do you need a remote? If you need a remote, do you want a wireless one, or will a wired unit do (connected to the KVM switch by a cable)? To help walk you through it, we tested six basic KVMs for ease of use and setup. USB switches are another KVM alternative, of sorts. They look just like KVMs, and will likely show up in the search results if you're hunting for a KVM from a retailer. But they have one critical difference: no video support. They will only allow for switching of a keyboard and mouse. That means you can switch between computers with a keyboard and mouse, but a standard, inexpensive USB switch will not pass through a video signal. If your monitor has dual video inputs (most do), and you can attach a system to each, that arrangement can work as a KVM surrogate along with a USB switch, but you'll have to switch the display input via the monitor OSD and the peripherals via the USB switch separately. That's a much less elegant solution than a "true" KVM.

My Experience

Most of us begrudgingly accept that switching between or among several computers requires some amount of cable swapping, moving devices around, or other general awkwardness. But with a KVM switch (the KVM short for “keyboard, video, mouse”), you can leave those bothers behind and save time, space, and money. Not to mention, a whole lot of hassle.

Also, this model has a wireless remote compared to the Tcnewcl's wired remote, meaning more flexibility and one less cable to fuss with. Your desk could be completely de-cluttered (KVM out of sight, out of mind) with only the wireless remote in view. Given the price, the remote, the number of supported PCs, and the number of peripheral USB ports, this is the highest-instrinic-value KVM we tested. The first step to finding the right KVM switch is taking inventory of what you'll use it with: specifically, the number of computers, monitors, and additional peripherals, such as a keyboard and mouse. You may also want to hook up a direct-connected printer, webcam, speakers, or external microphone (for all the streamers and podcasters out there).Most mainstream KVM switches support between two to four computers, one to three monitors, and two to four peripherals. Prior to starting at PCMag, I worked in Big Tech on the West Coast for six years. From that time, I got an up-close view of how software engineering teams work, how good products are launched, and the way business strategies shift over time. After I’d had my fill, I changed course and enrolled in a master’s program for journalism at Northwestern University in Chicago. I'm now a reporter with a focus on electric vehicles and artificial intelligence. The Technology I Use A software KVM can offer distinct benefits over a hardware solution. You can avoid the tangled web of cables, as well as switch between or among PCs through hotkeys or an app, rather than pressing a physical button (although some hardware KVMs offer hotkey-based switching, as well). Established in 1932, our range has steadily expanded over the years and we’re now proud to bring you a comprehensive range of computer and AV connection technologies.If you're looking for a four-PC-capable KVM switch and choosing between this one and the Tcnewcl, the biggest difference is that this one has four USB ports for peripherals instead of the Tcnewcl's three. That's a lot of additional value for only a few extra dollars. Setting up a PC? Our dedicated USB and firewire and networking ranges are home to everything you require. In addition, our audio and video department features top-quality supplies for your home cinema system. This KVM from IOGear has the same core features as the previous one: wired remote, two USB ports, and permanently attached input cables. Beyond that, the standout feature is superior video and sound quality, hence the higher price. For video, it provides support for up to 4,096 by 2,160 at 60Hz, whereas the previous IOGear KVM supports 1,920 by 1,080 at 60Hz.