KVM 101 - Starter Kit | What you need to know and why it matters

[@lobbyskids2]

Thank god I finnally found a video with someone who knows what they are talking about and actually demonstrates the kvm.

[@TechCritter]

unfortunately not many general users know the existence and use of KVM.

[@magicflute5947]

This is the pure one stop KVM knowledge shop for free. So many thanks!

[@MrRedstonefreedom]

Wow you are so rad, thank you for making this video. You are the best KVM video in KZbin, no joke. Thanks for learning all this so well, and thanks for spending the effort to share that knowledge. You are a good human.

[@tinykingcontractor1396]

Dude thank you so much for the information. Before coming to your channel I was watching a guy who was suggesting switching cable of the USB hub between the mac and PC :)))))))

[@l30n.marin3r0]

That power strip is beautiful

[@ELEKTROGOWK]

THX, that's exactly the video I was looking for.

[@DevJonathanRamos]

Great video. I already own a setup using an external KVM but you approach to add a usb dongle to one of the monitor ports is smart.

[@AnnoyingW]

That faq list helps so much thank you

[@FortyTwoBlades]

Genuinely excellent video on the subject. Well done, and entertaining! I use my laptop at two different places in the same room, and had to learn all this stuff the hard way when looking into an option that would allow me to connect to my peripherals at either location. In theory, a simply splitter or Y cable would work because I'd only be plugging in one cable at a time, but those "don't exist" (some do but are potentially dangerous and shoddily made) because it violates USB specification. In order to get that switching ability within proper USB spec, I'll need a KVM and even though it's expensive it should be worth it for the convenience it'll provide.

[@alwayzlame9247]

Hey there, is there a way to have a KVM plug for a gaming pc with 144hz refresh rate and a macbook pro for work? Trying to find the most optimal way not to have to unplug everything and plug it back in

[@fhd21]

Great video. Thank you

[@MrRedstonefreedom]

"Looks like Medusa had a bad hair day" lmfao

[@VicharB]

Thanks for this great video and explanation.

[@TechCritter]

Glad it was helpful!

[@deathward990]

There exists now a KVM which can give 4k 144Hz or 8k 60Hz. I personally use it with 1 38 inch alienware monitor and it works great with my pc and laptop. Its Tessmart DKS202-M24-USBK.

[@afz902k]

Nice video! I still haven't found what I need though. My mac has a thunderbolt port but my PC doesn't support that, so I need a KVM that supports either thunderbolt OR hdmi/usb inputs, OR some adapter that converts hdmi/usb to usb-c. Not only that, but I need the output to be standard hdmi or displayPort because my monitors don't support usb-c or thunderbolt. Sadly I haven't been able to locate those products!

[@TechCritter]

Thanks for watching! To summarize - you need a KVM with: One Thunderbolt for Mac One DisplayPort/HDMI for PC I'm not sure how it'll work but you can convert that Thunberbolt port into a HDMI/DisplayPort by buying another adapter. I'm absolutely not going to comment anything about the delay as there might be some noticeable lag.

[@afz902k]

@@TechCritter Yeah I thought of that, I have a couple of thunderbolt->HDMI/USB adapters but I'm not sure those will work in "reverse", if you know what I mean. Currently these adapters connect 2 USB 2.x devices as inputs and an HDMI port as output to a USB-C/Thunderbolt device, but if I plug it into a Thunderbolt KVM I'm going to want those USB 2.x ports to work as outputs (the other side of the cables connect to the PC) and the HDMI port as input (connecting also to the PC, instead of connecting to a screen). I feel like I might need a dedicated "converter" if I want that kind of functionality, but if it works that way too I'd definitely like to know! :D

[@BallsworthBallsbury]

Great job, my friend

[@paulgross682]

Great video! Thanks for taking the time to do it. Will a wireless mouse & keyboard with a USB dongle work on a monitor that has KVM built in?

[@LDBaha]

Yes

[@TechCritter]

Yes

[@MrRedstonefreedom]

Three questions: (answer any or none! Thanks for the vid!) 1: do you know the limitations involved with 4:4:4 chroma subsampling in trying to use a TV as an output display monitor with your computer? 2: do you know the requirements for USB-C connectivity, eg how to figure out what cable "quality" is required, and how long you're limited to it being? 3: do you know if you can daisy-chain KVM modules with other switchers, eg OERI's line of HDMI-switches? Would be nice to be able to post-hoc route the display-throw to various different screens if you want to mix up postures, eg supine computing with a ceiling-pointed projector or ceiling-mounted TV from the couch.

[@TechCritter]

Happy to help - here are the answers 1. That I'm unsure, I just use a monitor here 2. Yes. If you want to connect everything like what I did here, then you'll have to get either USB 4 or Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 cable. We did another video on another channel here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j3jNYo2vf6eWqs0 3. I don't think there is a way to daisy-chain KVMs as of now, you can connect USB hubs to the dock to get more ports. Displays might be more complicated as I don't think KVMs have DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST) support.

[@kaerscarface]

Thank you so much. ❤

[@GeneralAlgren]

I have AMD gaming PCs and Macs I use for work with 2 "stations" I tried the Anker 553 for a while, and it would have been the perfect solution if they had gone with a thunderbolt controller and perhaps more inputs per host to allow endpoints to run at full speed. I have since moved to using the TH3P4G3 eGPU with my Macs and then just a regular Displayport KVM switch for video signal and a USB switch for keyboard/mouse. It's a mess lol. The best you can do these days is move all hosts to Thunderbolt/USB4. The "perfect" solution would be the combination of the Anker 553, Sabrent Thunderbolt KVM, and the Lenovo Think Pad Thunderbolt Dock (or some other full featured TB dock. You'd have to include software to configure such a device as well so you could pin different ports to different devices i.e. ethernet port stays here..

[@TechCritter]

Yeah that's a compromise. For me, I think this monitor is working fine for me since everything is integrated. The programming is also a once-off thing too since it has on-board memory.

[@bl8115]

Great video. Would appreciate help in identifying an appropriate KVM switch that would be compatible with a Dell docking station (work laptop connects to it) and my gaming rig.

[@edrambali1423]

Great video but I still need help. My current setup is that I have 2 4K monitors and my tv connected to my desktop computer. I'd like to move the computer to a closet and still have it connected to my 2 monitors and tv. The max refresh rate I'd need is 60 Hz. I'd need audio out and to connect a keyboard and mouse. I'd either like it connected by an ethernet cable or over my network. Any recommendations would be appreciated.

[@laurenclarke7689]

Hello Kok, Can you help me determine how to best connect two laptops and three monitors? One is a Lenovo with a docking station and the other is an HP. The Lenovo is my work laptop and the HP is my personal laptop. I have two Dell P2422-H monitors in addition to an Acer ET322QU I bought a KVM off Amazon but it is not working as I expected. What am I missing? Here is what I purchased: 2 HDMI + 1 Displayport KVM Switch 3 Monitor 2 Computers, 4K@60Hz Triple Monitor KVM Switch with Audio and 3 USB 3.0 Ports, 2 Computers Share 3 Monitors Keyboard Mouse Switcher

Man, I bought the Rybozen KVM HDMI 4K @60Hz, but after some minutes using it the monitor starts to show random dancing green dots all over the place. It is NOT showing those artifacts when pugged directly, so I know for sure it is something the KVM device is doing. I'm returning it to Amazon damn it

[@gevondov]

Hi, I already have a dock and I need just a usb-c switcher for two mackbooks with power delivery. Could you please suggest anything?

[@abdulmohsenalbrahim3570]

Hi can you please do a review on StarTech 129N-USBC-KVM-DOCK

[@tehcarnage]

Hey great video I've got a personal PC used for gaming and a work laptop. Single LG 34" monitor with display port plugged directly into my personal PC. My work laptop does not have any display port support so have been using HDMI instead. It also only has USB-C input as the USB-A input seems quite buggy. If I get a KVM switch, which one would you recommend?

[@TechCritter]

Difficult to tell. The KVM should be dependent on your monitor's resolution.

[@tehcarnage]

@@TechCritter 3440X1440 21:9 if I want to use display port for my personal PC for gaming and then HDMI for work laptop, not sure which KVM to go for

[@lobbyskids2]

Im having a really bad time finding the right KVM/KVM monitor. My gaming PC doesnt support thunderbolt 4 or usbc so im forced to use a usb tybe b upsteam cable. I just want a monitor with usb type b for my pc and usbc for my laptop and 65w power delivery. Preferably a 1440p monitor.

[@TechCritter]

Dell does have some monitors with that spec, I think. I believe it's not a high refresh rate monitor either

[@lobbyskids2]

@@TechCritter thank for the reply I have decided to spread the functions I need the kvm to perform over different devices. Have decided to use a usb sharing hub for the peripherals and my laptops docking station for charging. I will just plug video cables into my monitor. Much cheaper and simpler and doesn't sacrifice refresh rate.

[@NicosCheat]

Hi if I understood well the RJ45 port is not part of the KVM ? so it can't be use on the 2 computers ?

[@Ezinma88]

Basic question here @Tech Critter... It always looks a bit awkward when you have to reach behind your monitor to access the KVM switch. Don't you wish you had a separate KVM switch button that's right in front of your keyboard? That is the main reason I am unsure about when it comes to KVM monitors.

[@TechCritter]

I do think it is awkward lmao. I think if there is a remote control, then it'll be perfect. But I think this is an okay compromise - I can keep my desk tidy enough.

[@NoferTrunions]

Nice video, but I need KVM that also does PS2/VGA computers along with my Win10 stuff. Monitor only for business and surfing, HDTV direct to HTPC so KVM video requirements are basically resolutions and not frame rate.

[@Niko-gy2vd]

I just found out that I don’t need the dongle for my Xbox Wireless Controller. Simply hold the pair button on the controller and add a new Bluetooth device on the PC...

[@TechCritter]

I don't like Bluetooth because of its unreliability. It's always better to use the dongle.

[@rans0101]

Please help me. I am going to buy the gigabyte fi32u. The monitor has a built-in KVM, but I want to use a second 24 inch monitor that doesn't have built-in KVM. How can solve this problem? Can the gigabyte KVM monitor be extended to a second monitor?

[@lemon94]

in China's AliExpress, there're have a KVM with 2 type-c in, DP/HDMI output, and it support 3 usb2 port, just $30

[@Ezinma88]

link please

[@markbifferos2765]

NEVER buy a monitor with integrated KVM unless you're prepared to try it for a few weeks first. I made this mistake with my Lenovo and can't send it back now. Slow switching, a massive delay before the mouse and keyboard start to work after a switch. Strange graphics problems on my Macbook that I didn't see before running this setup. I'm going to get a dedicated KVM, and the $$$ premium spent on the KVM element in the monitor will be wasted.

[@TechCritter]

I know KVMs are very niche, but reviews are VERY important for KVMs

[@markbifferos2765]

@@TechCritterIn this case your video didn't help me, because I think the KVM switch I'd like doesn't exist...yet, however I'm impressed with the style and the level of detail. KVM has become incredibly complicated in comparison with the days of the old SVGA KVM switches, and it's good to know someone is reviewing what's going on. My Lenovo monitor with built-in USB ethernet managed to supply a phantom IP address to my Ubuntu machine which I believe could only have come from my Macbook wifi. Screwed me up in a very subtle way and wasted an evening until I blacklisted the device from Ubuntu (my ubuntu box had it's own NIC). So really, you need complete control over all these peripherals if you share USB, probably an app to manage it all and the built-in software in the monitor just can't cut it. Don't get me started on PIP/PBP which I thought would be handy in Zoom calls but it's just too frustrating to manage all this stuff by the 4-button menu on the monitor!

[@Omenyte]

Thank you for your video. It has been months and I couldn’t decide on which KVM should I purchase. Could you recommend me a product? I am rocking a Alienware AW3423DW with LG dual up. 175hz. I play competitive fps games and also lots of presentation, excel work etc.

[@TechCritter]

Hopefully I'm not too late. Unfortunately, there's still no KVM that supports so high refresh rate and resolution (especially 21:9 monitors)

[@Shahzada]

😢 me who has cables open cables . Just behind the monitors so i cant see them

[@TechCritter]

That's what I do too!

[@MovingToUSSA]

I like your video. Can you explain difference between KVM and Dock, please. As I understand all those are Docks with KVM function.

[@TechCritter]

Thanks for watching - and sure, I can explain them in a short way. Docks are those typical MacBook USB-C dongles for example - they plug into your USB-C port and gives you ports like HDMI, some USB-A and maybe Ethernet and SD card reader. That's about it. Some dongles have built-in chargers and and also some other functionality, hence becoming a "dock" in a sense. KVMs does what docks do, but comes with a switcher too. That same dock can be used by two (or more) computers. Everything connected to that dock can just be switched and everything jumps to the other computer.

[@MrRedstonefreedom]

Worth saying that, although people fail to make a useful distinction, the best distinction worth making here is that HUBs are for extending & consolidating connectivity (multiplexing), whereas DOCKs are (strict sense) a purpose-built connection for something. So, a twin-plug USB-C hub whose dimensions perfectly fit the left side's dimensions on the MBP would be a legitimate DOCK for the MBP. Then switcher is something with, well, a switch (either by *:1, unique selection, or SET:n, set-routing). Then if you've got a *:* switch, you've got yourself a MATRIX. (Industry standard term). These typically aren't set-configurable, but to be honest I really have no idea how you'd even do the UI for that. They are (?always) configurable to do output/input-set switching, but just implicitly (there is no EXPLICIT concept of a set of peripherals for matrix-switches, but you can manually switch-over sets using your brain each time). Lastly we have KVMs. KVMs are (typically) *:n switches + hubs. Now of course, "hubs" isn't really a necessary label here since the * part of *:n obviously indicates multiplexing. So, in summary, one could say it's (KVM is) a (two-way) sets-switch of multiple connectivity types, with the concept of switches & sets cohesively designed into the UI. One last possible technicality I could see worth making is that a KVM is only a "hub" of it provides multiplexing of one or more of the connectivity types. Ok so, eg it offers 4 USBa, or 2 USBc. Multiple HDMI could theoretically qualify it as a "hub" imo (although in spirit this would more closely be a "splitter" if it mirrors, or a "matrix" if it routes), but then it really starts to erode its original purpose of being a set-switch. I can't see this being a product as it would be way too convoluted to design, and confusing to use. So we can safely say that a KVM is *necessarily* a device-set-switch (input & output for USB + single HDMI output), and a hub if it uses USB-C to multiplex the two sets of computer connections into a single connection each. The more "exclusive" definition of the "hub"-characteristic would be if it offered "more USB ports than necessary", though after two it's kind of hard to tell if that third port is "necessary" for eg a camera, and even the second one isn't entirely necessary if you use a keyboard that happens to have a pointing device integrated into the firmware. So yea, probably better to just say: KVM is a (hub + switch), and leave it at that, avoiding your trip to the asylum 😂. BTW, would love it if you did a video more in depth about KVM workflows. There's a lot to the topic & your knowledge & expertise would be much appreciated! Cool topics like daisy-chaining limitations, USB-C cordage requirements, direction of the field, RS-232 network-based programmable control for the switching, stuff like that.

[@bruush5278]

Great video but what was the name you said in 07:26????

[@TechCritter]

Dell UltraSharp U4021QW

[@tobiasprice5378]

can you review the Leve1 Tech KVM? i feel like they have what you need. :)

[@TechCritter]

Not going to buy one just to review - already got everything I need in this monitor. AFAIK Level1 Tech's KVM only has up to 4K, nothing beyond that resolution.

[@Renee.Dominique1]

**Question 101** I’m looking for a USB-C switcher that allows me to connect my USB-C EarPods to both my Mac Mini (for WhatsApp/Zoom calls) and my Pixel 7 Pro (for cellular calls). Here are the specifics of my setup: **Mac Mini:** Running macOS Ventura, primarily used for WhatsApp and Zoom calls. Pixel 7 Pro: Running Android 13, used for regular cellular phone calls. **USB-C EarPods:** Standard USB-C EarPods with built-in microphone. **Requirements:** The switcher should support seamless switching between devices without needing to unplug and replug the EarPods. It should also maintain audio quality and microphone functionality across both devices. Does anyone know of a USB-C switcher that can handle this setup?

[@TechCritter]

I think any of those USB hub switches will work? Going out on a whim here - this might be the one you're looking for amzn.to/46Pnb7m

[@Renee.Dominique1]

@@TechCritter iDsonix USB 3.0 works as desired. switching earpods like a champ between pixel 7 pro and mac mini

[@geraldomagellajunior]

Did you found any KVM that supports more than 60hz?

[@TechCritter]

There are a few but 4K resolution only, not ultrawide. So this monitor still remains as a unique KVM

[@zk_6312]

I have used a 4-port kvm switch for years. For the most part I really like them. What I don't like and I don't know if this is still is that they don't or did not used to work with AMD motherboards. Do ypu know if this is still the case.

[@danielsterchi3088]

what kvm did you use?

[@ItzMorphinTime22]

I have a 2 pc and 3 monitor setup. Can i daisy chain 2 of those monitors and use a single dp port on the kvm switch?

[@TechCritter]

Not with this monitor, unfortunately. I'm not sure if KVM daisy-chaining monitor exists now 🤔

[@shrpdrts]

There only needs to be one kvm to rule them all and it does not exist. Simply thunderbolt 4 kvm with tb ins and outs in configurations like 2x1 up to 4x4 or something. This would make it everything sooooo simple and oh obviously independent switching of ins to outs and a usb hub with individually addressable ports plus an app to setup favourite combinations and a little oled touch screen or remote or something to switch quickly through favourite setups. I would pay so much money for that…

[@TechCritter]

I agree, honestly. KVMs have a lot of different permutations and I just wish it's more customizable or modular - that would really be so much better for consumers

[@nicklesseos]

The new Xbox one controllers are Bluetooth and work on Mac and Linux

[@TechCritter]

Not the dongle. I don't want to use Bluetooth

[@il5165]

hi whats the best kvm brand for gaming and productivity?

[@TechCritter]

Honestly, depends on how much "gaming" you want. The Gigabyte's KVM series of gaming monitors are the best of both worlds - but as far as I've heard from my colleague who's actually using that monitor, he said it's buggy. The conventional off-the-shelf KVMs have 4K 60fps at most, so if you're okay with that then I guess that's your best bet. We're talking about PC with DisplayPort btw. HDMI versions on KVMs is another issue on its own.

[@il5165]

@@TechCritter thanks so much for this response. Yes 4K 60hz would be perfect, with dual DP monitors. Most brands have really inconsistent reviews, so was wondering if you had a particular one you’d recommend?

[@tswdev]

Hey mate. What would you suggest for me? My use case is simple but ... not so simple. Basically, I got a Samsung G9 Neo, which is 5120x1440. I got it connected to my 4090 on my main computer. I also got a MacBook Pro (intel, from 2021) that only has USB-C connections. Now, my "simple" want is to be able to connect the laptop to the monitor and have audio+mouse+keyboard (I dont even need any extra usb or anything). What can I use? I could potentially connect both the laptop and the computer to the monitor and use the built-in switcher for video. I think that should be fine, but it doesnt connect the mouse and keyboard or audio. This probably fixes the video bandwidth problem. This could also allow me to use picture in picture, so its probably even a better idea now that I am thinking and writing this. Ideally I'd like to also have ethernet connected to the laptop, but it doesnt need to share the same ethernet cable as the computer. I can just put a simple dedicated ethernet switch under the table to split the ethernet.

[@DevArt59]

if video isn't a problem, why not use a keyboard and mouse only kvm ? Youd connect this kvm to the computer + mac, and have about 4 ports to utilize, and be able to switch between the two via the kvm? allowing the video to auto pick up by what is on or manually adjusting via the screen menus themselves ? Jelly on your G9, im looking at getting the new 57 inch ... but i dont think theres a kvm that supports that resolution ..

[@tswdev]

@@DevArt59 I actually bought a KVM for mouse and keyboard, but it only worked for about a day then stopped working. I think I might have gotten a lemon.

[@rans0101]

Nice

[@mik14ulic]

Can I use 2Pc 1 Monitor KVM with 2 monitors if they are daisy chained?

[@TechCritter]

I'm not sure if KVM switches support daisy chaining monitors. Can't find any obvious documentation about this

[@petekaiser]

what physical KVM would you recommend if the use case will only be for one monitor, keyboard and mouse? i just really need to switch from laptop to PC freely? any product recommendation would work for me just for my use case. btw my monitor is at max refresh rate of 144z to 165hz, not sure that it will help with the recommendations

[@TechCritter]

I think any KVM switches will work for your case. However, the refresh rate will probably be locked at 60Hz only.

[@petekaiser]

@@TechCritter so my only choice here is a switcher that switches the mouse and keyboard to one device to another. Cause honestly i need that full refresh rate while gaming

[@petekaiser]

@@TechCritter also mmy only option in this case right here is probably getting the gigabyte m27q due to the built in kvm. At least no problems in getting that hugh refresh rate for the monitor

[@kabalu]

kernel virtualization manager

[@BlarinDragon]

is that a 8bitdo controller being used to control ur video?

[@TechCritter]

Not the video but the teleprompter. I'm using the GuliKit Elves Pro controller.

[@gavarniwinter6045]

tbh not many good high end kvm around these days.

[@ryan-smith]

So KVM means Key voard monitors? What the heck V stands for?

[@animepersonthing]

Keyboard video mouse

[@fronix5060]

In other words, a kvm for my 3 monitor setup with support for 1440p@144hz is just not going to happen :(

[@TechCritter]

Possible, if we have the KVM module that supports those requirements. Probably needs DisplayPort.

[@CurlyCross]

I found what you're looking for, I googled 3 monitor displayport kvm and found an iDock D23, supports 3 monitors up to 8k 60hz, 4k and below up to 165 hz.

[@aceclarksatx]

Kvm switch. A module is not what that is. Terminology is everything Jack.

[@ce5834]

the video is not that long... great...

[@imjustdoingmybest6236]

You can change the playback speed in the settings. It’s helped me so much.

[@DamTheFam]

KVMs are a waste of time these days. All i've tried, that are priced within a reasonable range can't even go above 125 hz polling rate on the mouse.

[@TechCritter]

And...??? They're not meant for gaming

[@DamTheFam]

@@TechCritter Ok, then tell me how a KVM is better than switching the monitors via software and buying an USB Switch. You‘re literally limiting your setup with a KVM for potential upgrades. The only reasonable argument for a KVM these days would be if your monitor doesn‘t have any way of controlling it via DDC / CI and you absolutely have to use this one monitor for some reason. Even then you can just buy new monitors, if you don‘t already have a setup which is in need for a KVM it literally just means you can spend your money more wisely. A KVM for 150$+ is just wasted. Expecially with 1440p and 4K with wide aspect ratios are getting popular. It‘s just an outdated solution to something which got fixed on other ends.

[@TechCritter]

Different users have different needs. I for one don't have the space for multi-monitors so a KVM is great. And no, KVMs can use DDC/CI. More and more new monitors are having a KVM integrated inside, by the way.

[@DamTheFam]

@@TechCritter I'm was not saying that KVM's can not use DDC/CI commands. I was saying you can use the DDC/CI interface without a KVM and just skip it entirely. Therefore, if your monitors supports it or has the inteface implemented to have DDC/CI commands processed you could just skip the KVM entirely and just switch via software. DDC/CI commands are also accepted if the monitor is not switched to this particular output, effectively switching the monitor as i would be controlling it by the OSD from the monitor - just via software from the computer. Doing so and buying a USB HUB that can switch between 2 or more computers as desired is effectively a much better and cheaper solution to a KVM.

[@Yordanov1990]

@@DamTheFammy employer doesnt allow me to install drivers

[@kimjexziel]

Very long video but didn’t even show how you connect your cables. Which cable goes to where? Waste of time.

[@TechCritter]

Your answer is found here kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4OXmniZZ8l1oM0

[@Ukepa]

good stuff... i'm trying to switch usb audio adapter on unpowered kvm and can't seem to do it.