10 Best Kvm Switches 2025 in the United States

The AV Access Docking Station KVM Switch is designed to connect two laptops to two monitors, making it a strong choice for users who need to switch between work and personal computers without hassle. It supports high-quality video up to 4K at 60Hz, plus faster refresh rates at lower resolutions, which is great for smooth gaming or crisp office visuals. With 16 ports total, including USB 3.0, USB-C, Ethernet, and audio, it offers excellent connectivity options for peripherals and network sharing. The built-in 100W USB-C charging for each laptop is a handy feature, allowing you to power your devices through the switch without extra adapters, though you need to use your original power adapter for charging.

Switching between computers is quick and can be done via a button or remote, aided by EDID emulation and automatic wake-up, so there’s minimal delay and no need to fiddle with settings. Mac users should note that extended dual monitor setups won’t work on Mac OS due to its limitations with USB-C MST, so you’ll only get mirrored screens. Also, some USB-C laptops might not support dual 4K output, so it’s worth checking your device’s video capabilities before buying.

This KVM switch is ideal for home office setups and gamers who want to streamline multiple devices with minimal clutter. Its combination of docking station features and fast switching makes it particularly useful for anyone needing efficient multitasking between two computers, though Mac users with multi-screen needs might find it less compatible.

The StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station is designed for users who need to manage two laptops at the same workspace, making it a strong choice for professionals or IT teams who frequently switch between devices. It supports dual 4K monitors at 60Hz via DisplayPort, providing sharp, smooth visuals suitable for detailed work or multitasking. With a total of 14 ports, including USB-A, USB-C, Gigabit Ethernet, and audio jacks, it offers plenty of connectivity for keyboards, mice, storage, and network connections. The front toggle button makes switching between laptops simple and fast, which is practical for a busy desk setup. It also charges both laptops simultaneously, delivering up to 90W to the active laptop and 45W to the one on standby, reducing the need for extra power adapters.

Compatibility is broad, working with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux, and supports popular laptop brands and models, including Apple’s M-series chips. However, using this dock requires driver installation for Windows and macOS, which might be a mild inconvenience for some. The docking station offers advanced network and USB event monitoring features ideal for IT professionals, though it may be more than what a casual user requires. Its compact size ensures it fits easily on a desk without clutter.

On the downside, the price might be on the higher side compared to simpler KVM switches, given its advanced docking and charging capabilities. Additionally, audio support is limited to basic stereo and mic jacks, so it may not suit users needing advanced audio switching. This device effectively combines KVM switching with powerful docking features, making it well-suited for dual-laptop users looking to streamline their workspace and keep multiple peripherals connected and charged.

The Tripp Lite NetCommander 16-Port Cat5 KVM Over IP Switch is designed for businesses or IT professionals managing multiple servers or computers. With the ability to connect up to 16 devices and support for two simultaneous remote users plus one local user, it offers significant flexibility for managing different systems. A standout feature is its BIOS-level control, allowing access regardless of the server's operational status, which can be crucial for troubleshooting.

Video resolution is supported up to 1920 x 1080 at 60Hz, which is adequate for most standard applications, though not suitable for high-definition displays or graphics-intensive tasks. Its dual Ethernet ports enhance reliability by providing a backup connection in case one fails, ensuring uninterrupted access. Additionally, the switch supports a high level of security with 128-bit AES encryption and HTTPS, giving peace of mind for sensitive environments.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The installation requires Cat5e/6 cabling, which can add to setup costs if not already in place. While the product is praised for its performance, the Java-based application required for remote access may not be as user-friendly for those who are not tech-savvy. The physical size, at 15.2 x 23.11 x 4.45 inches, means it needs adequate rack space, which might be a constraint in smaller setups.