10 Best KVM Switches For Gaming in 2022

If you want to buy a KVM switch for gaming, home or office without going further into details, the Tupavco TKVM-U2 USB-C KVM Switch is what we liked the most based on the performance and testing. The KVM switch offers reliable connectivity, 4K display at 60Hz, and decent plug and play connectivity for ease of use.

Strangled wires, badly organized hardware, and ill management of multiple active computers are some of the usual spectacles of the room of a gaming geek in general. However, all gaming enthusiasts aren’t the same – some of them do understand the importance of proper management of devices, and it doesn’t take much effort, thanks to the best KVM switches for gaming.

Device sharing is common these days but doing it efficiently requires a reliable and stable KVM Switch. Today, I am going to list the KVM Switchers you should have for gaming or organize things even if you have little space available. Keep in mind, there are other types of Switches as well. For example, HDMI Switches Deal in connecting multiple displays across vast resolutions like 4K. Likewise, there are also Tactile Switches, which are gaming keyboard’s caps in different types working towards unique sounds and speed.

What Exactly is a KVM Switch?

KVM Switch Connection Diagram

The term KVM is the contraction of Keyboard, Video, and Mouse taking the initials of each. Technically, the KVM Switch is the hardware that facilitates bridging between multiple PCs while the Input and Output devices can control any of them at any given time. The switch features a button or a dial and works as the main controller, whereas the connected servers and PCs serve as the secondary devices.

The gaming geeks and anybody with multiple devices, Desktop gaming PCs, smartphones, gaming laptops, and tabs may at times need one of these switches for multitasking without having to disconnect hardware from a system to use it with a different device. A common example in offices and shops is the connection of just one printer to multiple PCs so that there remains no need to disconnect and connect wires repeatedly to make the printer serve multiple desks. You must have seen this in banks!


10 Best KVM Switches 2022

  1. Tupavco TKVM-U2 USB-C KVM Switch
  2. IOGEAR GCS52DP
  3. Rosewill RKV-2UC
  4. ULBRE Soho
  5. TESmart HDMI 4K Ultra HD
  6. UGREEN USB Switch Selector
  7. RIJER 8 Port KVM Switch
  8. ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box
  9. CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch
  10. JideTech 4 Port VGA KVM Switch

1. Tupavco TKVM-U2 USB-C KVM Switch

Tupavco TKVM-U2 USB-C KVM Switch (1)

Features:

  • Best KVM switch for dual PC gaming setup
  • Cmobination of USB-C and HDMI 2.0
  • Supports 4kUHD at 60Hz
  • Helps switch between devices using hotkey, mouse click, manually, and with remote.
  • Full compatibility with Thunderbolt 3.
  • Supports all Operating Systems
  • Plug & Play feature with auto detection and auto scan mode.

Reasons to Buy

  • Supports higher resolutions and refreshes rates at 60 Hz
  • Plug and play connectivity
  • 2x KVM support for PC and console
  • User friendly and no setup required

Reasons to Avoid

  • Pricey
  • No wireless connectivity feature

The market is already flooded with KVM switches of various types and price points, yet you need an effective and practical solution. Tupavco is another KVM switch I would recommend due to its superior quality and highly compatible plug-and-play connectivity. It allows the users to operate two PC at a time without connecting an extra piece of a mouse, keyboard, and video.

If you wonder why try the Tupavco KVM switch when there are plenty of other options available, you may be right about the availability. However, all the options are not packed with superior video quality. It has USB-C and HDMI 2.0 connectivity that can carry 4k 60Hz signals. It is also compatible with the 3480×2160 while transmitting at 60Hz. You don’t have to use any other gimmicks from markets since you can get the desired functionality by buying Tupavco HDMI 2.0 KVM switch.

While testing and comparing the Tupavco with competitors, I felt like it is equally capable of doing what others offer. The remote buttons are super easy to use and practical when switching between the sources. Furthermore, the Thunderbolt 3, with all the operating system connectivity, ensures that you don’t have to worry about connecting it with various devices. Just plug and let the things work while you sit back and enjoy the hardware connectivity without any issues. The auto mode instantly scans and identifies the device to let you have hassle-free connectivity.

Testing results:

Overall, the Tupavco TKVM-U2 USB-C KVM Switch is excellent for 2xKVM. It allows to easily connect two computers simultaneously with the same mouse, keyboard, and video set. The resolution and refresh rate support are second to none, while you can plug and play it to any operating system without setting up additional things.

Related: Best Keyboards for Fortnite.


2. IOGEAR GCS52DP

IOGEAR GCS52DP - Best KVM Switch Overall

Features

  • HDCP Compliant DisplayPort1. 1
  • Best KVM switch for 4K gaming @ 30Hz
  • DisplayPort Switch
  • Remote switch button
  • Compatible with the wired USB Keyboard (Standard 104-Key)
  • Compatible with the wired USB Mouse (2 and 3 buttons)
  • Supports Optional Microphone and Speaker
  • Lifetime technical support (FREE)
  • 3-Year IOGEAR Warranty
  • Compatible with Windows (7, 8.1, 10), Linus, Oracle Solaris, UNIX, and Mac OS X 9.0+

Reasons to Buy

  • Compatible with multiple Operating Systems, including Linux
  • Plug & Play Device
  • 3-Year Warranty
  • Lifetime Technical Support (FREE)

Reasons to Avoid

  • Average Customer Support
  • Inputs (Keyboard & Mouse) may freeze sometimes while switching between devices

If you are looking for a KVM Switch with the most basic features at a competitive price, you need to consider IOGEAR GCS52DP. The design and finishing of the box are compact, aesthetically appealing, and minimal, and it is compatible with Unix, Mac, Linux, and Windows Operating Systems. It means that you can even use this KVM Switch with SBCs, including Raspberry Pi and Arduino.

Since GC52DP is a Plug&Play hardware, it is convenient for most beginners. Press the remote button to switch between devices, so you don’t have to be a tech-geek to use this product.

1.2-meter built-in cables let you connect a maximum of two computers. The box comes with the HDCP-compliant DisplayPort. The display supports 4K at 30Hz. In addition, there are 2x USB interfaces, one for the USB mouse and the other for the USB keyboard. The audio in/out jacks is compatible with 2.1 and 7.1 audio. As per our recommendations and testing, the IOGEAR GCS52DP Is the best KVM switch in the market.

The IOGEAR GCS52DP worked well in our tests and allowed us to switch easily between both PCs that we connected. The VGA resolution was good and provided a clear image for viewing our PCs. Also, this device offers 2x console connector ports like the Rosewill RKV-2UC; it only supports 2 at one time on automatic mode.

For beginners, this DVI KVM switch is more convenient for casual use at your workshop or home. Build quality is delicate and robust, and the box doesn’t require much space, thanks to its compact design.

Testing results:

Overall, the IOGEAR GCS52DP KVM Switch is a good 2-port device that allows you to share a 4K gaming TV or monitor, keyboard and mouse with two PCs. It supports video resolutions of up to 4K at 30Hz and comes with a 3-year warranty. The IOGEAR GCS52DP offers all the ports you need to connect the latest devices. We would definitely recommend this Rosewill KVM switch to anyone looking for a reliable 2 to 4 port KVM that won’t break the bank.


3. Rosewill RKV-2UC – 2Port USB KVM Switch

ROSEWILL RKV-2UC -Best Budget USB KVM Switch.

Features

  • Best KVM switch for dual gaming monitors
  • 2x removable console connector ports enable quick and easy connection of up to 2 PCs or laptops via one set of console controls
  • VGA resolution of up to 2048×1536 provides sharp and clear images for viewing your PCs
  • Supports a USB mouse and keyboard up to 500Hz polling rate for smooth data transmission
  • Automatic mode switches between machines on programmable schedule
  • 2-year warranty provides peace of min

Reasons to Buy

  • Offers 2x console connector ports to manage up to 2 PCs from one set of controls  
  • Features a VGA resolution of up to 2048×1536
  • Automatic mode switching between PCs on programmable schedule
  • On-screen display provides easy switching and configuration
  • 2-year warranty

Reasons to Avoid

  • No PS/2 ports for older style keyboard and mouse connections
  • Doesn’t have an audio connection
  • Poor quality build

I don’t, normally, recommend anything with below-average quality, but I’ve noticed that sometimes readers want something to get into the basics of hardware, so they want to give it a try by spending too little. Rosewill RKV-2UC is available at a shoestring budget and is best for those looking to have a practical overview of a KVM Switch.

Anyways, this product only comes with some basic features. You can connect the switch with up to two PCs via the built-in cables. It serves each connected PC with 2x USB and 1x VGA interfaces. The USB ports are reserved for the input (mouse and keyboard). The monitor can support up to 2048x1536p.

Rosewill RKV-2UC supports Mac and Windows; however, you can use it with Linux, but in that case, the maximum resolution drops to 1024x768p. Since RKV-2UC is a Plu&Play switch, it is fairly simple and convenient for newbies.

You can’t expect advanced features at this price so forget about audio connection or USB3.0 Port. Obviously, the quality is not what you find with high-end switches or even with mid-range switches. At the end of the day, you get the most of what you spend on this hardware. So to conclude, If you are unable to spend a lot of money on a KVM Switch, and want to get most out of your purchase; the Rosewill RKV-2UC could be decent choice, and we recommend it as the Best Budget USB KVM Switch.

Having said that, I mustn’t forget the remote selector; I didn’t anticipate this feature. With this feature, Rosewill RKV-2UC lets you switch ports via desktop. Switching between PCs using a low-end Switch could cause issues with the display quality, but this isn’t the case with the RKV-2UC since it uses the Video DynaSync technology.

Another notable feature of this product is Power-ON Detection, allowing the switch to monitor and detect if a computer turns OFF. It quickly identifies the problem and switches to the system that is running.

The Rosewill RKV-2UC worked well in our tests and allowed us to quickly and easily switch between each of the 2 PCs that we connected to it. The VGA resolution was good and provided a clear image for viewing our PCs. The Rosewill RKV-2UC also comes with a 2-year warranty, which is a nice added bonus.

Testing results:

Overall, the Rosewill RKV-2UC is a good 2x KVM that allows you to manage up to 2 PCs via one set of console controls. It’s VGA resolution provides a clear image for viewing your PCs and the included 2-year warranty is also another nice bonus. While there are no PS/2 ports for older style keyboard and mouse connections, the RKV-2UC offers all the ports you need for current devices and is compatible with Windows 7/8/10, Linux and Mac OS X. We would definitely recommend this Rosewill KVM switch to anyone looking for a reliable 8x port KVM that won’t break the bank.


4. ULBRE Soho

ULBRE Soho Best KVM Switch For Office.

Features

  • 4x USB 3.0 fast and shareable ports (max. 5 Gbps that is 10x faster as compared to the data transfer rate of USB 2.0 ports)
  • One-Second USB switcher is convenient since there is no need to plug and unplug cables.
  • One-Key (One-Push) switch
  • 2x USB Cables (1.5-meter each) make the device compatible with high-bandwidth devices such as webcams, external Hard Disks, and digital cameras
  • PC selector box lets you select two systems to share a scanner or a printer
  • MicroUSB Port (built-in) supports power supply in case if it needs when connecting high-power-consumption devices
  • Plug & Play, user-friendly, and easy-to-operate hardware that doesn’t require additional software or drives
  • 1-Year Warranty

Reasons to Buy

  • User-friendly and easy assembly
  • One-Push (One-Second) Switch is very convenient to use
  • Fast and shareable USB 3.0 ports

Reasons to Avoid

  • When using a mechanical keyboard, the box produces a buzzing sound

The ULBRE Soho KVM Switch is also good for beginners, especially hobbyists. It is compatible with 2 computers at a time and serves with 4x USB 3.0 high-data-rate ports. This product also works with mechanical keyboards, but you may have to live with a somewhat frustrating buzzing sound in that case.

Switching from one system to the other is simple and quick. The one-press switch makes things extremely convenient, and the practice becomes instinctive within a few hours. The power supply is sufficient for a storage drive, mouse, and keyboard; however, if you want to use a scanner, printer, or an HD camera, please make sure to use the MicroUSB charging port. After all, its a great office peripheral, and our award to the ULBRE SOho through our Benchmarks and reviews conclude – It is the Best KVM Switch For Office.

The problem is with the positioning of the interfaces for cable connection. Wherever you place the box, the cable will be visible to the onlookers, which is inappropriate in any setting. The cable connectors must have been to the back of the box.

Testing results:

The best part about the ULBRE Soho KVM Switch is its minimal design that requires the least space. Swapping files between computers was never that simple and quick before. I find the data transfer speed fairly impressive as compared to that of USB 2.0 ports.


5. TESmart HDMI 4K Ultra HD KVM Switch

TESmart HDMI Best 4K KVM Switch

Features

  • Sharing between 4 computers
  • Supports Ultra HD 4K at 60Hz
  • Lightweight aluminum-alloy design with anodic oxidation and multiple cooling features
  • Compatible with Windows, macOS X, and Unix
  • Remote switch (DOES NOT include the battery)

Reasons to Buy

  • Supports Ultra HD 4K at 60Hz
  • Better image sensor
  • Lightweight aluminum-alloy build
  • Anodic oxidation and multiple cooling systems

Reasons to Avoid

  • The design looks a bit casual
  • Lacks support for multimedia keyboards
  • Pricey

The purpose of including the TESmart HDMI KVM Switch, despite some of its major drawbacks, is that it features HDMI KVM Switch compatible with 4K at 60Hz display quality.

Accepting the drawbacks, this box still is considerable since you can’t ignore some of its prime features. It will be tricky to select the best color variant, but I’d recommend you avoid maroon or red and go for either grey or black. It is made of aluminum allows, and the shiny maroon surface looks a bit cheaper.

Switching between devices is simple and convenient. You can use 4 systems at a time to share devices between them. This switch supports hot switching, but please note that hotkey switching may not work if the USB 2.0 port is connected. Our benchmarks and reviews scores suggest, that If you want a KVM Switch for Higher Resolutions, the TESMart HDMI is the Best 4K KVM Switch available in the market to purchase.

As long as the warranty and technical support are concerned, I’d ask you to forget post-purchase services or support since you aren’t going to get any after buying TESmart HDMI KVM Switch.

Testing results:

All basic keyboards and mice work nice and quickly with this box, but it may not support a few multimedia keyboards, lighting mouses, or advanced mechanical keyboards. This is a major drawback for gaming geeks in particular.


6. UGREEN USB Switch Selector

UGREEN USB Switch Selector

Features

  • One-Button Switch
  • 4x USB 2.0 Ports
  • Can share flash drive, printer, keyboard, mouse, card reader and scanner
  • Driver free for Linux, Windows, Mac OS X, and Chrome
  • LED indicators
  • Supports Female Micro-USB Port for optional power supply
  • The optional Micro-USB Port is best suited for the standard 5V adapter

Reasons to Buy

  • Versatile features and compatibility
  • User-friendly Plug & Play hardware
  • Competitive price
  • Compatible with All OS

Reasons to Avoid

  • The box comes without a power supply

This is an affordable, user-friendly USB Switch from a credible maker. The build quality looks more stable and compact than many of its competitors. UGREEN USB Switch Selector lets you share various USB-compatible devices between computers, including printers, card readers, and scanners.  It can entertain two computers, and one-press switching makes things pretty simple.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector is compatible with Chrome, Linux, Mac, and Windows Operating Systems. Since it is Plug & Play, you don’t really have to arrange for the drivers. The USB 2.0 Ports can transfer data up to 480Mb/sec. The box features indication LEDs. You get a couple of USB cables (1.5-meter each) with this product.

The downside is that UGREEN USB Switch Selector comes without a power supply unit. However, it has a Micro USB Charging port that is compatible with a 5V adapter. Overall, this is a nice and minimal KVM Switch most suitable for simple settings at a small office or home.

Testing results:

If you are not willing to dig deep into statistics, simply look at the reviews, and grab this one while you are out for shopping.


7. RIJER 8 Port KVM Switch

RIJER 8 Port Manual KVM Switch

Features

  • Supports both, Button-Press and Remote Switch
  • Supports sharing between 8 computers
  • Supports 1920 x 1440p (max.) display quality
  • Works with Windows, Novell, and Linux OS
  • Features unique protection feature against lightening which protects systems and device through 15KV air discharge
  • 8x KVM cables in the box
  • Suitable for internet café, security system, trading system, industrial control, video surveillance, school/college laboratories, and more

Reasons to Buy

  • 8x Cables (5-feet each) included
  • Nickel-plated connectors
  • Rackmount design – Ideal for professional settings
  • Air discharge (lightning protection) 15KV

Reasons to Avoid

  • Comparatively expensive
  • No specific warranty from the manufacturer

This is a decent design for all professional settings. What I like the most is the positioning of the cable connectors because convenient clearance should avoid fuss. If you are not satisfied with sharing between two or four computers, consider Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch, as it lets you share hardware between up to 8 computers.

The VGA interface supports up to 1920 x 1440 pixels, not what I expected at this price, but good for most professional settings. The rackmount design keeps things simple and efficient. The designers didn’t try anything out of the box, and sometimes this is the best idea to avoid loopholes in the design of any electronic gadget.

In the case of high-voltage overflow, the box can handle it easily with 8KV discharge in addition to the air discharge (15KV) if needed. This KVM switch doesn’t need an external power source. It automatically feeds on the power of one of the connected computers.

What I don’t like is the confusion between the buyer and the manufacturer since there is no hint about the expected warranty, replacement, or a money-back guarantee. Nor is there anything clear about the technical support.

Testing results:

As per its statistics, benchmarks, and our reviews, the RIJDER 8 Port is the Best KVM Switch for Datacenter – through its amazing 8x Cables and 5-feet each included alongside.


8. ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box

IeGeek KVM Switch Box

Features

  • Facilitates 4 computers at a time
  • 4x VGA Cables
  • Plug & Play, no need for drivers and additional software
  • Compatible with Windows, Unix, Linux, Netware, and Mac OS
  • Supports stable 1920 x 1440 pixels (max.) display quality
  • USB 2.0 ports to support USB devices, including scanners and printers
  • 12-Month Warranty (Money-Back)

Reasons to Buy

  • 4x Port KVM Switch
  • Doesn’t require an external power supply
  • Compatible with various Operating Systems
  • Supports up to 1920 x 1440 resolution

Reasons to Avoid

  • Buttons are on the opposite side
  • Improper assembly of cables connectors is really annoying

If you need a KVM Switch that supports 4 computers rather than 2 at a time, consider ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box. It is available at a competitive price. The muscular design of the box looks appealing, but the positioning of cable interfaces is a bit surprising since you will have to arrange for space from where the wires can spread in all directions. Anyways, the features are convincing – it is Plug & Play, it doesn’t require an external power supply, and it supports decent video quality.

4x VGA USB cables come with the box, so you don’t have to arrange additional accessories. The switching speed is not bad. The best thing I noticed is the compatibility with Windows 98 up to 2007 versions which you don’t find with some KVM switches. In addition, this box works with Linux, Mac OS, and Unix to let you integrate SBC such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi. We recommend the ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box as the best KVM switch for dual monitor setup. So, if you got multiple screens or monitors, go for this USB KVM switcher.

Testing results:

As far as the scope is concerned, I find ieGEEK VGA USB Switch Box suitable for virtual meetings, interviews, conferencing, business, gaming, and office settings. However, the box’s design gives the impression that it is meant more for enthusiasts and gaming geeks.


9. CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch

CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch

Features

  • 4x HDMI SUB Switches
  • Supports Computers, NVRs, and DVRs
  • Supports microphone and speakers
  • 4x KVM Cables (5-feet each)
  • 4K and 2K Compatible (@30Hz)
  • Single Wireless Keyboard and Mouse compatibility
  • 12-Month warranty
  • Apple Keyboard is also compatible
  • Independent Switching via Keyboard and Mouse 

Reasons to Buy

  • Good price to performance ratio
  • HDMI 4K and 2K display support
  • Better device and OS compatibility
  • Configurable Hot-Keys

Reasons to Avoid

  • Moderate build quality

Well, a long list of features makes this best HDMI KVM switch a viable option if you are looking for a switch compatible with 4K displays. CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch can facilitate 4 computers, and you can control the switch using configurable hotkeys or the remote that is included in the box.

I consider this KVM Switch best for most open-source developers working with SBCs and microcontrollers since it supports Raspbian, Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian, in addition to the conventional Operating Systems. This feature makes this board more convenient for multitasking while working with sensors, AI devices, and even trying to throw a small party at your workplace with your close friends.

It is important to note that the 4K and 2K compatibility is meant for display quality at 30Hz. Apparently, the box looks reliable and conventional to modern standards, but in reality, the build is not as good as expected from the KVM Switches at this price. Alongside its price, specifications, and our review scores, the CKLau 4Kx2K is the Best HDMI KVM Switch currently available in the market.

There are 3 USB inputs, two of them are reserved for the gaming mouse, and the third one is reserved for a keyboard. The box also supports Apple Keyboards, which is a good feature you won’t often find in most switches.

Testing results:

Nonetheless, a 12-Month warranty is good to see. Overall, this is a good option if you want an HDMI 4K compatible KVM switch at a mid-range budget with some promising features.


10. JideTech 4 Port VGA KVM Switch

Best KVM Switch with LED

JideTech 4 Port VGA KVM Switch

Features

  • Inexpensive, Plug & Play, and time-saving USB-Powered design
  • Features upgraded chipset to reduce device crash and freezing issues
  • Adapter-Less Plug & Play Box
  • USB 2.0 port and USB 2.0 HUB for USB compatible devices, including a printer
  • Auto-Detect DDC and 2K video quality compatible supports up to 2048×1536 pixels.
  • The box includes 4x KVM cables suitable for Home Theater, Gaming Room, Meeting Room, Office, Enterprise, and Multimedia Teaching.

Reasons to Buy

  • 4x Combo Cables VGA, Audio, Microphone support
  • Device status indicating LED
  • Doesn’t need an external power supply
  • Doesn’t need drivers or additional software
  • Supports up to 2048 x 1536p 2K Video

Reasons to Avoid

  • Multi-Media keyboards are not compatible
  • Not compatible with wireless peripherals

JideTech VGA KVM Switch is a 4-Port box with good audio/video features shareable between 4 computers. You can add a 144Hz gaming monitor, keyboard, mouse, console, microphone, speakers, etc. The 4 KVM link arrangement doesn’t need a power supply since the transport mapper (USB) controls power input.

This device is compatible with Mac and Windows Operating Systems. Being a Plug & Play switcher, it doesn’t need additional software or drivers. Considering a VGA Switch, the dimensions of the box are still compact and pleasing to the eye. The design is somewhat muscular but not ugly. Apparently, it looks like a plastic case, but actually, it is a metal case that is more durable and secure than its competitors.

The coordinated USB Hub of the JideTech 4 Port VGA KVM Switch lets you use to switch between 4 computers while sharing the devices between them through convenient mapping. There is no need to arrange for the power supply to feed the switch, making things more convenient for the user.

The lack of compatibility with the multimedia keyboard is what I personally don’t like about this device. Overall, it is a competitive product with reasonable features, especially the capacity to facilitate 4x computers instead of two at a time.


Other than the KVM switchers, you may also need:

KVM Switch Buyer’s Guide

Technology evolves quickly, and KVM Switches are no exception. Keeping this in mind, you need to consider the latest features in a KVM Switch, considering the OS and device compatibility. Shortlist your needs and try to maintain a realistic balance between your budget and features. This way, shortlisting the best KVM Switches becomes easier. The following are the important points you must consider when selecting the KVM Switch.

1. Features:

Device and OS compatibility is something you mustn’t ignore. At the same time, don’t forget to consider how convenient the functionality of the switch is in the work environment you want to use it in. Consider the type of input devices the switch supports or compatible with multi-media keyboards and gaming consoles with the latest features.

To judge the functionality of a KVM Switch, make sure to go through the most credible review sites and customers’ feedback on major eCom platforms. These reviews best highlight the cons of a device since they come from actual buyers. What you see on the internet is the seller’s perspective and promotional description of the product. What you can find in the reviews is what you need to anticipate what to expect while using the KVM Switch.

2. Device Compatibility

If you are an open-source developer, you must go for a KVM Switch that supports Debian, Linux, and Raspbian Operating Systems. For office setups, the KVM Switch is the one that not only supports Windows and Mac OS but is also compatible with contemporary USB printers and scanners. A KVM switch that supports a gaming keyboard, mouse, and a game console with advanced features is recommended for gaming. In short, it comes down to your anticipated use of the KVM Switch.

3. Connectivity

Carefully go through the cable connectors and communication interfaces to see if they are compatible with your existing setup. For instance, some KVM Switches are compatible with PS/2 or DVI display ports, and you can’t use them with VGA or USB exclusive interfaces.

You need to see if the KVM Switch supports the connection and equipment you are using instead of buying a new set of accessories and connectors to make the KVM Switch work properly.

4. Expansion Ports

You might need a KVM Switch for 2 or 4 systems for the time being. But if your budget allows, it is better to look for the switch that supports more computers than you need at the time of the purchase. The reason is, at setup expansion, you will not have to buy a new KVM switch to support more computers. However, if you don’t anticipate setup expansion in a couple of years, there is no real need to worry about the number of ports.

5. On-Screen Display

Visual assistance is important, especially when the system is online. GUI makes customization and configuration more convenient. This feature is more desirable if your setup needs frequent switching between systems.

6. Miscellaneous Features

  • A growing business will need a KVM Switch that is suitable for server racking. A switch that you can easily convert to a rackmount is ideal for expanding your business.
  • I’ve found over the years that a KVM Switch with its power supply is more consistent as compared to the KVM Switches that feed on power from the connected systems. Some KVM Switches don’t come with an adapter. Make sure to check if the compatible adapter is available on the local market.
  • An often-overlooked consideration is the cable length. It is better to check the length of the cables because occasionally, the cable length shipped in the box is significantly shorter than you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of a KVM Switch?

Primarily, the function of a KVM switch is to connect a single set of devices to multiple computers facilitating the user with switching between computers without having to unplug and connect cables from one computer to the other.

How many computers can you connect to a KVM Switch?

The Switch itself is a simple box with a connector and interfaces and comes with a set of compatible KVM Cables or Cat5 Cables. Most KVM Switches can connect from 2 to 8 computers, but some switches can even facilitate 32 computers. For enterprises, KVM Switches support cascading or daisy-chaining to support 500 computers or even more.

What are the major categories of KVM Switches?

You can categorize KVM Switches into 4 major categories depending upon control perspective and system access.

  • Single User KVM Switch

Best for newbies and suitable for a remote office or small setup. These switches can normally support from 4 to 8 systems.

  • Multi-User KVM Switch

Best for data centers and large installations in a professional setup. These switches support from 16 to 64 servers.

  • Analog KVM Switch

Based on the application perspective, the analog switch supports Cat5 or Coax cable connection between the server and the console through the KVM box.

  • Digital KVM Switch

Digital KVM Switch, aka KVM over IP, is the switch that still needs a direct connection between KVM and computers, but you can control the switch over the global network of LAN over IP address.

Conclusion

Before shortlisting the best KVM Switch, make sure to shortlist your needs realistically, keeping your budget in mind. There is no need to look for a high-end expensive KVM Switch if your setup is simple and has fewer computers. However, if you can afford and you anticipate setup expansion in the coming months, go for a KVM Switch that can support more computers than you currently have.

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Mathew Bradford

Hey! Mathew Bradford Here, A proud member of GamingExpert Team. I love playing games with new gaming gadgets. Our team is here to help you find the best gaming products, reviews of videos games and to help you decide which one is best for your. You can contact me if you need further assistance.

4 thoughts on “10 Best KVM Switches For Gaming in 2022”

  1. I came across this KVM comparison when I started having problems with my Tesmart KVM (after I replace a mouse that failed). Based on my testing, the Tesmart has problems with keyboard and mouse that are not a “generic” type. The new “Classic Intellimouse” would cause latency problems with the keyboard (it would have latency on key releases and cause the key to go into repeat mode). Most of the time, Ctrl-C and Ctrl-V for copy/paste would not work either. The newer “Pro Intellimouse” would actually freeze the KVM totally and I would have to disconnect power and all cables before it would work again.

    I found a work-around by connecting the mouse to the auxiliary USB input (labeled USB 2.0). Both the Classic Intellimouse and Pro Intellimouse work perfectly with this connection and do not cause any problems. The downside is that this connection is not a “simulated static” connection like the special keyboard/mouse usb inputs on the KVM. It operates as if you were physically disconnecting and re-connecting the mouse to the individual computers as you switched from one computer to another. This doesn’t pose any problems with Windows 10, but I have not tested with other operating systems.

  2. I have been looking for a Dual Head HDMI KVM switch that will work for (2) computes. You can finds several of these listed on the web, but when you read the 1 star reviews, you will find out these $100 or $200 KVM switches aren’t there yet. I reached out directly to Vertiv and and one company that makes KVM switches for the FAA. The company that makes them for the FAA said what I want if I get i from them would be solid, no issues, and would work flawlessly, however it would be $8,000. If you go to Dell.com you will find they list Avocent (Vertiv) and Belkin KVM switches. Note you will spend $1,000 or more. But if you buy it from Dell, they will stand behind it. If you buy a $200 Dual head KMV switch you are most likely wasting your time and money.

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