Why a KVM Switch Should Be a Must-Have Feature in Your Next Monitor
In the quest for the perfect monitor, we often find ourselves fixated on image quality, resolution, and refresh rates. However, there is one feature that has quietly been gaining popularity and revolutionizing the way we use our displays – the KVM switch. Over the past several years, more and more monitors have been incorporating this game-changing feature, and it’s time we take notice.
So, what exactly is a KVM switch? KVM stands for keyboard, video, and mouse. In the past, it was an external unit that allowed you to connect multiple PCs to the same screen and toggle between them using the same peripherals. These little boxes were quite handy, but now, you can find KVM switches built directly into your monitor.
The reason why we are seeing KVM switches more frequently in monitors these days is thanks to USB-C. With older KVM boxes, you needed separate display and USB connections for each source. This meant a cluttered desk with multiple cables. However, with a KVM switch built into your monitor, you can simplify your setup by using a single USB-C cable to carry data and power to your devices.
Here’s how it works: You plug your keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your monitor. Then, you connect your PC using either the HDMI or DisplayPort connection and run the USB-B cable from your monitor to the PC. Finally, you can hook up another device, such as a laptop or second PC, over USB-C. It’s that simple.
Depending on your monitor, you may need to manually toggle between your sources. However, some monitors can automatically switch your peripherals over. The best part is that a KVM switch works across devices, whether it’s a game console, MacBook, gaming PC, or any other device that supports the peripherals you’re using.
The usefulness of a KVM switch becomes apparent when you start using it with devices like the Steam Deck. For example, you can connect your Steam Deck to your monitor using a single USB-C cable and use your keyboard and mouse across your main PC and the handheld device. This is especially handy when setting up emulation for classic games on the Steam Deck, as it eliminates the need for cable swapping.
A KVM switch is also beneficial for those who use both Windows and macOS. With a KVM switch, you can easily switch between a desktop PC and a MacBook Pro without the hassle of switching cables. It simplifies what would otherwise be a complicated mess of cables, allowing you to use the same display and peripherals across different operating systems.
Everyone’s setup may be different, but a KVM switch opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you work remotely and want to use your gaming keyboard and mouse across a work laptop and desktop, or you want to use your peripherals on a gaming console, a KVM switch enables seamless switching without the need for cable swapping.
When shopping for your next monitor, don’t overlook the importance of a KVM switch. While it may not be a budget feature at the moment, it is becoming increasingly common in midrange to high-end options. However, it’s always a good idea to check the feature list of the display you’re interested in to ensure it includes a KVM switch.
In conclusion, a KVM switch is a must-have feature that simplifies your setup and allows you to use the same display and peripherals across multiple devices. As USB-C becomes more prevalent, we can expect to see KVM switches become a bedrock feature of monitors in the coming years. So, keep an eye out for this game-changing feature when you’re in the market for your next monitor.
