Cables! They’re essential for a computing system, but they look ugly! Of course, once you’ve spent your hard-earned bucks on a sleek computer setup, you don’t want the look to be ruined by big, sturdy cables. Not to mention how much of a pain it is to reconnect all the wires every time you switch between computing systems.
But the sad thing is unless the tech for wireless data transfer drastically improves in the coming years (it doesn’t look like it), we’re stuck with cables.
There are a few ways to reduce the number, though, and if you’re working with multiple PCs but using the same peripherals, a KVM switch will work wonders for your setup’s aesthetics and efficiency.
For example, if you have a gaming PC and a work laptop. You can hook up your display unit and other peripherals to the KVM switch and then connect the KVM to your computers. Using a KVM, you can switch between each computer with a click of a button, so you won’t have to juggle wires whenever you switch between your PC and laptop.
In the past, KVM switches were only used in workplaces to increase efficiency, but they have also found their way aboard home stations. The market is medium-sized, with several local and international power electronics companies producing these.
Thunderbolt KVM switches were unheard of up till a little while back. KVM manufacturers often play on words and market their USB-C devices as “Thunderbolt” devices. But things have changed now, and you can easily find a True Thunderbolt KVM switch that suits your requirements.
We’ve assembled a list of KVM switches equipped with USB-C ports, making them easier to hook up with your monitor and other peripherals. Read our buying guide at the end; it’ll help you decide which switch is better.
Table of Contents
Comparison of the Best USB-C KVM Switch
| Image | Product | Details | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Formula | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4) 5x M.2 slots Storage: 6x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk Wi-Fi | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.3 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 4.0 x4 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 4x M.2 slots Storage: 7x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z790 | Check on Amazon |
 | GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.3 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 4.0 x4 1x PCIe 3.0 x4 5x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z790 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASUS Prime Z690-P Wi-Fi | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 2x PCIe 3.0 x16 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 3x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASRock X670E Taichi | Socket: AM5 Form Factor: ATX CPU: AMD Ryzen 7000 series onwards RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.3 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 4x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: X670 | Check on Amazon |
 | GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: E-ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.3 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4) 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x1) 5x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z790 | Check on Amazon |
 | MSI PRO Z690-A Wi-Fi | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4) 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x1) 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 4x M.2 slots Storage: 6x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | GIGABYTE Z690 UD AX DDR4 | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 128GB DDR4 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4) 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x1) 2x PCIe 3.0 x1 3x M.2 slots Storage: 6x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASRock Z690 AQUA | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: E-ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 (x8/x8) 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4) 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 3x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASUS ROG Strix B760-I Gaming Wi-Fi | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: Mini-ITX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 96GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.3 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 2x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: B760 | Check on Amazon |
 | GIGABYTE B760M DS3H AX | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: mATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 128GB DDR4 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 2x PCIe 3.0 x1 2x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: B760 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Extreme Glacial | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: E-ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 (x8/x8) 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 5x M.2 slots Storage: 6x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS Wi-Fi | Socket: AM5 Form Factor: ATX CPU: AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Onwards RAM: Max. 128GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4) 2x PCIe 4.0 x1 3x M.2 slots Storage: 4x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: B650 | Check on Amazon |
 | ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 192GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 (x8/x8) 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4) 5x M.2 slots Storage: 6x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
 | EVGA Z790 Classified | Socket: LGA1700 Form Factor: E-ATX CPU: Intel 12 RAM: Max. 128GB DDR5 Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth: 5.2 Expansion Slot: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 (x8/x8) 1x PCIe 4.0 x4 3x M.2 slots Storage: 8x SATA 6GB/s Chipset: Z690 | Check on Amazon |
1. IOGEAR 2-Port 4K USB-C KVM GCS1602CC – KVM Switch For Mac Devices
A worthy upgrade, this KVM switch from IOGear offers 4K@60Hz video and has 100W Power Delivery, compared to 4K@30Hz and 75W of the Access Pro 2 from IOGear.
Like the IOGear Access Pro 2, the GCS1602CC is a compact KVM switch that offers considerable utility while retaining an insignificant footprint. Thus, it requires very little space at your workstation, and its form factor makes it convenient to carry wherever work takes you.
Moreover, its design is aesthetically pleasing, and the switch looks like it belongs to Apple’s line of products. Its simple design features the four USB-A ports on the front, with all other ports on the rear panel. The top panel has indicators that show the active host, and the switch has a wired remote to toggle between the host computers.
The USB-C ports are compatible with the Thunderbolt ports on Mac-based computers and the iPad Pro, and you can use it with USB-C devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Ports
- 2x USB-C
- 1x DisplayPort v.1.4
- 1x USB-C Power pass-thru (100W)
- 4x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1
The IOGear GCS1602CC is a versatile KVM switch compatible with Mac-based devices. Apple loyalists will love the aesthetic as the switch doesn’t feel out of place when you use it with Apple products. Moreover, its compact form factor makes it a handy device to carry when you are on the move.
- The 100W Power Delivery will charge even the most power-hungry laptop.
- The switch supports 4K@60Hz video.
- Four USB-A ports enable you to share several peripheral devices.
- The compact size makes it suitable for travel.
- Versatile compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Android devices.
- No support for dual-display setups.
- No wireless remote to toggle between hosts.
- The power adapter is not included.
2. Cable Matters Dual 4K USB-C KVM Switch – USB-C KVM Switch with Dual-4K Support
Working on a dual-monitor setup is common to many workflows that require multitasking. Because a KVM switch is essentially a multitasking tool, your KVM switch must support more than no displays. The Cable Matters Dual 4K USB-C KVM Switch does this by including two video output ports.
Interestingly, the KVM switch also supports 8K@30Hz video using a single monitor setup, making it ideal for workflows requiring high-resolution monitors. Unlike most KVM switches, which offer only two USB ports to connect peripheral devices, this switch provides four, enabling you to share more than just your keyboard and mouse.
The Cable Matter Dual 4K USB-C KVM Switch is considerably lighter on the pocket and offers tremendous value. It includes a wireless remote and features dedicated buttons (for each host) on its top panel to toggle between hosts.
Unfortunately, the USB-C ports lack Power Delivery. So, if you want to use your laptop, consider using the more versatile, albeit costlier, VisionTek VT4950, as it supports dual monitors and offers Power Delivery.
Moreover, while Windows users can extend displays and use a dual monitor setup, Mac users are limited to screen mirroring. So, unless you use Windows (or Linux), you will find better utility with other KVM switches.
Ports
- 2x USB-C
- 1x DisplayPort
- 1x HDMI
- 1x micro-USB (optional)
- 4x USB-A 3.0
The Cable Matter Dual 4K USB-C KVM Switch is perfect for Windows and Linux users on a tight budget as it offers all the basic functionality of a KVM switch. Its most significant advantage is its support for dual 4K monitors, making it ideal for multitasking and workflow that require high-resolution displays.
- Price
- Dual 4K monitor support is ideal for multitasking.
- The switch supports 8K video.
- The compact size makes it convenient to carry when you travel.
- It has a wireless remote to toggle between hosts.
- No Power Delivery to charge your laptop.
- Poor compatibility with Mac-based computers.
3. VisionTek VT4950 – KVM For Dual 100W Power Delivery
The VisionTek VT4950 is streamlined for productivity and multitasking workflows. You can connect (and charge) two laptops as the USB-C port features 100W Power Delivery to each host, ensuring uninterrupted work sessions and minimal wire clutter.
The switch is thoughtfully designed and includes several features, the chief among them being compatibility with all leading operating systems. The VT4950 is among the few KVM switches with a sharable USB-C (10Gbps) and Gigabit Ethernet port, enabling you to share a LAN connection and use newer peripheral devices such as USB-C flash drives or external SSDs.
According to the manufacturer’s claims, you can use this KVM switch for a triple monitor setup using the two DisplayLink DisplayPort and HDMI (Alt Mode) ports. But take that with a grain of salt, as there are several reported issues about this.
The VT4950 uses a 230W external power adapter to power up the device and provide Power Delivery to both host computers. Combined with an impressive selection of sharable ports that include two USB-A 10Gbps ports, the VT4950 is a bulky device that will need considerable space at your workstation.
Ports
- 2x USB-C
- 2x DisplayPort (DisplayLink)
- 1x HDMI (Alt Mode)
- 1x USB-C 10Gbps
- 2x USB 2.0
- 2x USB-A 10Gbps
- 1x Audio jack
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet
Consider the VisionTek VT4950 if you use two heavy-duty laptops that require up to 100W Power Delivery. This KVM switch is excellent if you use a combination of newer and legacy peripheral devices because it offers a versatile selection of ports.
- The switch is compatible with all leading operating systems.
- The dual 100W Power Delivery allows you to simultaneously work on (and charge) two heavy-duty laptops.
- It supports a triple 4K monitor setup.
- The versatile port selection enables you to use new and legacy devices.
- You can share a LAN connection using the Gigabit Ethernet port.
- Reported issues in setting up a triple-monitor configuration.
- Expensive
- No remote
4. StarTech.com 2 Port USB C KVM Switch – A mini USB-C switch with no power lead
Startech’s KVM switch might be the most miniature switch on this list, but it packs quite a punch. Your first reaction when you buy it will be that of surprise. It is tiny in size, and it does not use a power adaptor but is instead powered by the USB bus. It means the switch will draw power from your laptop, so the adaptor hasn’t vanished as much as it has moved to a different device. However, its power efficiency is still quite impressive, especially for a device in this price range.
The switch can deliver 4K video at 60Hz, which is impressive for such a small device. You’ll get two USB-C inputs and two USB-out ports on the same side. The HDMI out port is on the other side, so you’ll have trouble choosing a wireless side to face you when you put the switch in your workstation. The device is compatible with most manufacturers. There is no remote, though; a single button lies on the device for switching.
Switching might take longer than most KVM switches, probably because of low power consumption.
Ports
- 2 x USB-C ports (Thunderbolt compatible)
- 2 x USB-out ports
- 1 x HDMI-out port
This device does everything a KVM should do but nothing else. That’s not a bad quality, though; for the size and price this switch offers, it gives you more bang for your buck. First-time KVM users will especially enjoy it because of its portability and simplicity.
- The small size and portability are pretty impressive
- 60Hz at 4K is more than what you’ll usually get for this price range
- No power adaptor, so there is less of a cluster
- Switching between computers is slow
- No remote, wired or wireless to toggle between computers
- Inconvenient design, with HDMI port on a separate panel
- No Power Delivery on USB-C ports
- Bus-powered, which means it will draw power from your computer
5. TESmart USB-C KVM Switch 3 – KVM Switch For Three Hosts
Most USB-C KVM switches allow you to connect only two hosts, but the TESmart USB-C KVM has USB-C ports to connect three hosts. While this is its most notable feature, it’s worth noting that only one of the three ports offers Power Delivery.
The TESmart USB-C KVM switch is an externally powered device. Despite that, it has an additional USB-C port for power pass-thru to enable Power Delivery to the host computer. While it adds to the wire clutter, it also gives you flexibility if you use the switch to connect desktop computers.
The switch has one HDMI port and supports 4K@60Hz video. Further, each input port has an EDID emulator that informs the host about the display settings, allowing it to tweak the video signals to give you ideal picture quality.
The device is compatible with all leading operating systems, allowing you to use any computer. Moreover, TESmart includes a wireless IR remote, enabling you to toggle between host computers conveniently. You can switch sources with mouse gestures, keyboard hotkeys, or the front panel button.
Ports
- 3x USB-C
- 1x HDMI
- 3x USB-A 2.0
- 1x Audio jack
- 1x USB-C Power Pass-thru
The TESmart USB-C KVM switch is unique because it lets you connect three computers, whereas most other USB-C KVM switches allow only two. While it lacks support for dual monitors, it supports a single 4K@60Hz monitor and is compatible with all major operating systems.
- It supports three USB-C hosts.
- The wireless remote makes it convenient to switch sources.
- HDR10 and Dolby Vision give you premium-quality video.
- The EDID emulators ensure optimized video quality.
- Power Delivery for charging host laptop.
- The outdated USB-A ports are unsuitable for newer peripheral devices.
- Price
- Power Delivery is limited to only one host.
6. SABRENT KVM Switch – Efficient Power and data transfer on a budget
Sabrent 2-port KVM switch offers you a lot in a very narrow price range. The device can provide 4K video at 60Hz and has two USB-C inputs for host computers. In addition to that, it has two USB-C ports with power pass-thru to charge your laptops/gadgets with up to 60W Power Delivery. The switch does a beautiful job of using up all of the sweet power and data transfer capabilities of the USB-C port.
The switch does not use a power adaptor. Instead, it gets power from the USB bus. Of course, that means that one of your computers or the monitor power supply will end up charging the other. For some, it is still a better power consumption profile than powering the switch and your laptops separately.
The package also contains a jack that you can use to mount the device. No device is perfect, but for the price, this KVM switch is the best option on the market right now, especially considering that this device has a significant improvement over its older sibling.
Compared to the previous model, this switch features two HDMI ports and supports a dual-4K monitor setup, making it the go-to choice for users who need additional screen real estate.
If you are an avid gamer, the 60Hz upper limit on the refresh rate might be a problem, but you will have that problem with most KVMs. For any other purpose, you’re all set with this device! The switching can be done by a remote toggle connected to the device.
Ports
- 2 x USB-C In
- 2 x USB-C out
- 2 x USB 2.0 out
- 2 x HDMI 2.0 out
The Sabrient KVM switch hits every benchmark we were looking for! It can charge devices, use USB-C for video, be mounted easily, and has a dual-monitor video output of 4K@60Hz. This device won’t disappoint unless you use an unusually powerful keyboard or mouse.
- The device is very affordable.
- Power Delivery on USB-C up to 60W allows you to charge your laptop and portable devices.
- It supports dual-4K monitors.
- The mounting jack enables you to declutter your workstation
- USB-C ports are fully compatible with Thunderbolt 3 to deliver higher data speeds.
- USB 2.0 out might be slow for some users. (No hotkeys)
- No wireless remote to toggle between computers
- No external power source means it draws power from your computer.
7. StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station – USB-C KVM Switch Cum Docking Station
The StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station combines two handy devices: a KVM switch and a Docking Station. Doing this helps you minimize cable clutter and eliminate the need for an additional device, helping you save space at your workstation.
The device supports two hosts via the USB-C ports, providing a combined Power Delivery of 135W. While the active host receives 90W, the inactive host receives 45W Power Delivery. StarTech.com uses a 180W external power adapter to support this, which connects to a DC pin next to the Power Switch.
The switch supports dual 4K monitors at a 60Hz refresh rate, which you can connect using two DisplayPort. Unfortunately, the device doesn’t have a remote toggle, and you’ll have to use the button on the front panel to switch sources.
The front panel is also where you’ll find all the expansion ports, including two USB-A and one USB-C 10Gbps port, suitable for connecting newer peripheral devices. Using this switch/dock, you can also share a single LAN connection, as the device features one Gigabit Ethernet port.
Lastly, the switch is compatible with all operating systems and Apple devices using the M1 and M2 processors, making this the most versatile KVM switch.
Ports
- 2x USB-C
- 2x DisplayPort v.1.4
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet
- 2x USB-A 2.0
- 2x USB-A 10Gbps
- 1x USB-A 10Gbps
- 1x Audio jack
- 1x Microphone jack
The StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station is a versatile device that comes with a KVM switch and docking station into one. Because of its impressive selection of ports and support for dual-4K video, the StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station is perfect for efficient multitasking with computers running on any OS platform.
- It supports Power Delivery to both USB-C ports.
- It has a versatile selection of ports for connecting legacy and new-generation peripheral devices.
- DisplayLink certified with support for extended display on Apple computers using the M1 and M2 chip.
- It supports dual-4K monitor configurations.
- It supports keyboard hotkeys to switch between computers.
- Expensive
- No remote
8. Vowish USB-C KVM Switch – 8K@60Hz USB-C KVM Switch
The Vowish USB-C KVM switch is among the few devices supporting 8K@60Hz video. It can host two computers and has two additional USB-C power pass-thru ports that support 100W Power Delivery per host, making it a hard-to-resist deal.
This KVM switch is lighter on the pocket without compromising functionality. It supports high-resolution displays, has a compact form, and offers Power Delivery, a rare combination of features at this price.
Moreover, the device also supports a significantly higher refresh rate when using a 4K monitor. Its support for up to 4K@144Hz and up to 165Hz (running on 1080p) is among the highest refresh rates among KVM switches.
The device draws power from your computer via the USB-C bus, and you need to connect external power sources if you want to charge your laptops while you work. So you can minimize the wire clutter and optimize the space at your workstation.
Unfortunately, the KVM switch doesn’t have a remote, so you’ll have to place the device on the desktop and use the switch button to toggle between computers. But apart from that, the device is ideal for content creators who work on high-resolution monitors and must go back and forth between their computers.
Ports
- 2x USB-C
- 1x HDMI
- 1x DisplayPort
- 2x USB-C Power pass-thru
- 3x USB-A 2.0
- 1x Audio jack
The Vowish USB-C KVM switch is perfect for content creators and workflows requiring high-resolution, high-refresh rates. Its most significant feature is its support for 8K video and the pocket-friendly price, making the Vowish USB-C KVM switch ideal for budding media artists and such.
- Price
- It supports 8K@60Hz video.
- Dual-power delivery of up to 100W per host will charge any heavy-duty laptop.
- The bus-powered devices reduce wire clutter.
- It’s compatible with all leading operating systems.
- No support for dual-monitor setups.
- No remote to toggle between hosts.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for USB-C KVM Switches
People usually go for a KVM switch after they’ve spent a lot of time and money on setting up their Computing system, so they end up not paying attention to the KVM switch. That could be a mortal sin because a bad KVM switch will render most of your functionality useless. By a bad KVM switch, we do not necessarily mean a device of poor quality but rather suitability.
It doesn’t matter what you’re buying; the first question should always be why. You need to know precisely your requirements before you wander into a store, or all the tech will fog your judgment, and you’ll waste your money.
Are you buying the switch for your home setup or an office? What kind of work do you do on your computers? Are you a gamer? How far will the KVM switch be from your computer and peripherals? It would be best if you considered all these factors before you buy.
In this guide, we’ll talk mostly about domestic buyers or small office workspaces; however, if your needs are more extensive, you need a pre-buying audit before entering the market.
Number of computers
If you’ve only got a laptop and a PC to switch between, you can buy something portable and efficient, with extra features such as charging or wireless remotes. If switching between many computers, you should look for KVM switches with excellent protection and synchronization capabilities.
You should also check how the KVM switch connects to your computer—the switches in our list use USB-C. Still, if you’re going for a device that uses another connection, then you’ll need to connect more than one wire from your computer to the KVM switch, e.g., for a USB-B connection, you’ll need the USB bus for data and an HDMI or VGA cable for video transfer.
Using a USB-C KVM switch negates this requirement, as USB-C allows data, power, and video signals on a single cable. Thus, USB-C KVM switches minimize wire clutter and help optimize your workstation.
Video Output
You must know what kind of video is transported through the KVM switch. For example, all switches on the list will do if you’re watching 4K resolution on a 30Hz refresh rate. However, if you’re a gamer or graphics designer, you probably have a graphics card and a monitor capable of handling higher frame rates and better resolution. In that case, you’ll need a KVM switch with the same specs.
If you’re using multiple monitors, you should buy a switch that can transition between monitors. In that case, you might have to settle for a lower resolution or response time, or the switch will be too slow.
Compatibility
Most KVM switches work with all the commonly used Operating Systems. However, you could face problems if your OS version is not updated or the switch requires access to some hardware for which you need to install proper drivers. If you’re using a USB-C port to transfer video to your display, make sure your computer supports HDMI alt over USB-C or DisplayPort Alt over USB-C. Most newer models have it figured out, and all you need is a cable, but if your laptop is old or is a variant from another country, you might need some extra checks.
Audio Support
Most KVM switches transfer audio via the HDMI cable or a DisplayPort unless they use USB-C. If your professional work deals with a wide range of audio frequencies, these connections might not be enough, so you’ll need additional transfer ports for sound. These ports will suffice for everyday use, such as office work or gaming.
Many low-budget KVM switches have audio out, which you can connect to speakers or headphones. But the sound quality will be better if you go for costly devices.
Cable length
This depends on how far your peripherals, monitors, and computers are from each other. Most cables that come with the package will suffice for a setup in your home. If your computers are in another room than your monitors, you’ll need Cat5 cabling to ensure quick switching.
Remember that the switch button is often on the KVM device, which means the device should be close to you.
If your switch has a remote toggle, check its range; it’s usually 15 feet for domestically used KVM switches.
Electrical Power
KVM switches with only a few PC connections usually do not have a dedicated power supply; they take power from the monitor’s power supply or through the USB bus. Bigger or higher-rated KVM switches usually have dedicated power supplies, especially if they can charge connecting devices. The absence of a dedicated power supply seems attractive, but we only recommend smaller KVM devices, like the ones switching between two or three computers.
While a dedicated power supply does add to the cable bundle, it also helps protect your system against poor electric efficiency. A manifestation of this fact is the heating up of the monitor’s or PC’s power supply when connected through a powerless KVM switch.
If you have only two computers/laptops, getting a powerless device and saving your desk space from clutter makes more sense.
Ports
Besides the PC/display connections, a KVM switch has multiple USB ports to connect peripherals such as a mouse, keyboard, Bluetooth headphones, etc. Wireless mouse and keyboards work best with USB 2.0 or above, while if you want hotkeys, you’ll need USB 3.1 or higher. Check the specs for what kind of USB ports are available, and that’ll give you an idea of the range of peripherals you can attach to your system.
While if you want to use hotkeys, you’ll need USB 3.1 or higher. Check the specs for what kind of USB ports are available, and that’ll give you an idea of the range of peripherals you can attach to your system.
Best USB-C KVM Switch -Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Use a KVM Switch?
If you have to use multiple computers simultaneously, you will need to deal with various keyboards and mice. Further, you will need to install as many monitors as computers.
A KVM switch reduces the number to one (each). Therefore, you must attach one keyboard, mouse, and monitor to the KVM switch. The KVM switch will display the video of the active computer and allow you to use its peripherals.
With just one button, you can switch between computers without juggling the peripherals. This reduces the number of devices you need, thus reducing the clutter on your workstation.
Will my computer detect the KVM switch?
Computers won’t detect KVM switches. Your system will boot normally, and your laptop/PC will detect all peripherals as if they were directly attached to it.
How are USB-C ports helpful on KVM switches?
USB-C ports can transfer data and power simultaneously, so you’ll reduce the number of cables needed for the connection, and you can also charge your laptop. Make sure you use a USB-C cable with enough transmitting capability. Various USB-C cables are available, but most do not have enough transfer capability. Ideally, look for a cable with more than 10Gbps (you can find this rating on the wire).
How reliable are KVM switches?
It’s very reliable, but only if you get the right one. Users complain about issues when switching or inconsistencies in data transfer, such as latency, but these problems are commonly attributed to the poor compatibility of the attached devices and the switch. Since KVM switches are not manufactured by the same companies that make laptops, displays, or peripherals, compatibility issues are frequent. You’ll need quite a lot of research to find the ideal KVM switch for your system, but once you have it, it won’t bother you for a long time.
The power delivery outputs on the Sabrent 2-port do NOT provide any usb-c data out – they are power ONLY. I was disappointed to discover that I couldn’t use it to also switch my second display or any other peripherals between my two computers.
I wanted to share a LG display using its USB-C connector with a Mac mini and a PC laptop. So I bought a SABRENT 2-PORT USB SWITCH, based on this declaration on the article: “You can also use one of these USB-C out ports to transfer video instead of the HDMI 2.0.”
I was able to install the switch and make it work without any problem when I use the HDMI port. But impossible to use one of the USB-C out ports for the video. Can you tell me how to do this? It would be very useful as I plan to upgrade to an Apple Studio Display which has USB-C connector only (no HDMI).
Thanks.
Hi,
Some monitors have multiple USB-C ports. Only some of them will work as video input, while others are for peripherals.
My first thought would be to make sure I’m using the right USB-c port on my monitor.
Good luck 🙂
Thanks George. I know that the unique USB-C port on the LG monitor is fine for video input. When I connect it directly to the Mac or PC, the display is working fine. But the Sabrent switch does not seem to output video through USB-C, only through HDMI.
Any idea of a switch that outputs video through a USB-C port? All I have seen use HDMI. Thanks.
“Adding Thunderbolt would only increase the cost of these devices, as the bandwidth of 40GBs would be overkill.”
This is a peculiar statement, given the absence of multiple monitor support in any of the devices. ATEN makes Displayport (sigh) KVMs for up to a triple monitor setup. I would love a dual (or even triple) monitor KVM that required only one cable to be plugged in, and would gladly ensure that I had appropriate TB3/TB4 out from all my systems to allow it to work in a KVM.