Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallA KVM switch lets you use one keyboard, video display, and mouse with more than one computer. Select a computer, and the switch routes the shared display and input devices to it. Some models also switch other USB peripherals; the exact connections and supported display setup depend on the model.
What does KVM mean?
KVM stands for keyboard, video, and mouse. A KVM switch connects multiple computers to shared equipment, then lets you choose which computer uses it. In a typical setup, you can work at either computer using the same monitor, keyboard, and mouse rather than moving those devices between machines. Some switches can also share additional USB devices, such as other peripherals; check the product specifications to see what USB devices it supports.
How does a KVM switch work?
A standalone KVM has connections for the computers and separate connections for the shared equipment, often called the console side. Each computer gets its own host-side connection for video and USB. When you select one of the computers, the switch routes that computer’s video to the shared display and connects it to the shared keyboard and mouse. Selection may use a physical button or a keyboard shortcut, depending on the model.
Video and USB are separate parts of the connection. A switch may need a video cable and a USB connection for each computer, so that it can carry the picture and pass input-device signals. Port layouts, cable requirements, and whether video and USB change together vary. For a concrete example of a standalone DisplayPort model and its connections, see StarTech’s P2AD122 product page.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What is different about a monitor with built-in KVM?
A monitor with an integrated KVM combines the display and switching function. Connect the computers to the monitor’s video inputs, then connect its USB upstream port or ports to the computers. The keyboard and mouse plugged into the monitor can then be made available to the selected computer. Dell’s monitor KVM setup guide describes using video links and USB upstream cables for two computers.
USB-C may carry both data and video, but the port must support video output for that arrangement to work. ASUS calls out this requirement in its KVM monitor guidance. Some monitors also require you to choose the USB source separately from the video source. For example, BenQ documents a configuration in which the user manually selects the USB source after using HDMI as the second source; follow the instructions for the specific monitor rather than assuming its controls work like another brand’s.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to connect a KVM switch
- Identify the console and host ports. Use the labels and diagram in the switch manual to distinguish the shared-device connections from the computer-side connections.
- Connect the shared equipment. Attach the monitor to the console-side video output and the keyboard and mouse to the console-side USB ports. Connect other USB peripherals only if the switch supports them and you want them shared.
- Connect each computer. Run the required video and USB connections from each computer to its matching host-side ports. Use the cable types and port pairings specified in the manual.
- Select a computer and check operation. Use the switch’s button, hotkey, or other documented control. Confirm that the monitor shows the selected computer and that the keyboard and mouse control it. If they do not, check that the video and USB paths are both connected to the same computer’s host input.
For a monitor-integrated KVM, connect each computer’s video and the monitor’s USB upstream connection as directed by the monitor manual. If the picture switches but the keyboard and mouse do not, check the monitor’s USB source selection as well as its video input selection.
How to check compatibility before choosing a KVM
Match the switch to the actual computers, display, and peripherals—not just the phrase “KVM switch” on a product listing. Verify these points:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Video connectors: Confirm that the computers’ outputs and the switch’s inputs support the same connection type, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C, and that the switch’s output matches the display.
- Number of computers and displays: A switch for two computers and one monitor is not interchangeable with a dual-monitor or multi-computer setup. Check how many computers and displays the model supports.
- Resolution and refresh rate: Check the limits for the complete configuration, including source version and operating system. A headline maximum may not apply when you connect multiple displays or use a particular computer.
- USB needs: Check whether the switch shares only keyboard and mouse or supports the other USB devices you need. Confirm that it switches USB along with video if you expect both to move together.
- USB-C video support: Do not assume every USB-C port sends video. Confirm video output support on the computer for the intended connection.
- Switching and EDID features: Check how the model changes between computers and what its EDID management feature is stated to do. EDID management may help maintain monitor behavior during switching, but it is not a guarantee that every display issue or change in window placement will be prevented.
Why advertised display limits are model-specific
Anker’s KVM FAQ illustrates why resolution claims need context: for the product covered by that FAQ, it lists 4K at 60 Hz for a single monitor with a DisplayPort 1.4 source and 4K at 30 Hz with a DisplayPort 1.2 source. Its dual-monitor outcomes differ by source version and operating system, and the FAQ says macOS mirrors the display in the described configuration. These are that product’s stated limits, not a general rule for KVM switches.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When does a KVM switch make sense?
A KVM can be useful if you regularly use multiple computers at one desk and want to share a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. A standalone switch is one option; a monitor with built-in KVM is another if you are selecting a monitor and want switching integrated into it. Before choosing either, confirm the video connections, display count and limits, USB requirements, and any host requirements for your computers. A product-specific guide is the best source for its ports, setup, and switching behavior.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
