I'm not very tech-savvy and would like to simplify my desk setup. I have a company-provided Dell dock and want to switch between my work Dell laptop and either a MacBook Pro or a Mac mini without repeatedly unplugging and reconnecting my keyboard, mouse, monitor, and other peripherals. Ideally, I'd like to change computers with a physical button. What kind of KVM switch or dock arrangement should I look for?
4 Answers
For a more demanding setup, look at a higher-quality KVM such as one from Level1Techs. These are better suited to ultrawide or high-refresh monitors and several USB peripherals, while cheaper units can have connection or display issues. Check that the switch supports your exact resolution, refresh rate, USB features, and number of displays.
A reasonably priced UGREEN KVM can work well for a straightforward keyboard-and-mouse setup. Some models also provide an extra USB port for moving a flash drive or sharing another USB device, but confirm the video standard and resolution support before buying.
Since you’re switching laptops, it’s usually easier to place a dock between each laptop and the KVM. USB-C KVMs are less common and can be limiting, so connect each computer to its own compatible dock, then run the dock’s video and USB connections into a KVM. If you want all three computers connected at once—the Dell, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini—look for a three-port KVM and verify whether it supports one or two displays.
A KVM is specifically designed to share a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and sometimes other USB devices between computers with the push of a button. The right model depends mostly on your monitor setup and resolution. For a basic 1080p monitor at 60 Hz with just a keyboard and mouse, an inexpensive KVM should be fine. Higher resolutions, high refresh rates, multiple monitors, webcams, DACs, or other USB devices require a more capable model.
For a simple setup, you probably don’t need to spend that much. A basic two-computer KVM or even separate monitor inputs combined with a USB switch may be enough.