KVM switches let you control several computers or servers from one monitor, keyboard and mouse. Our range includes desktop models for a home office, rack-mounted switches for server rooms and KVM over IP units for remote access. The largest selections come from ATEN, StarTech.com, DIGITUS and INLINE.
How to choose a KVM switch
Number of ports. Count the computers you need to control today and add at least one spare. A desk usually needs 2 or 4 ports, while server cabinets call for 8 or 16 ports, and many of these switches can be daisy-chained.
Video connections and resolution. The switch must match the outputs of your computers and monitors: HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI or VGA. If you use a 4K monitor, check that the switch supports that resolution and at what refresh rate, as some models only show 4K at 30 Hz.
Control method. A desktop switch is operated with a button, hotkeys or the mouse. A KVM over IP unit connects to a server over the network, so it makes sense when the server sits in another room or building.
USB and shared devices. Some switches include a USB hub or audio connections, so several computers can share a printer, headset or external drive. Reliable keyboard and mouse emulation also matters, because it stops devices dropping out when you switch computers.
Operating conditions. If the switch will sit in a server room or an industrial cabinet, look at its temperature and humidity limits. In our range the operating temperature is most often listed as 0 to 40 °C or 0 to 50 °C, some models go up to 60 °C, and relative humidity is commonly up to 80%.
Brands we carry
- ATEN: specialises in KVM and is known for desktop switches, rack consoles and KVM over IP solutions for server rooms.
- StarTech.com: makes connectivity accessories and cables, and its KVM switches are often chosen for offices and small workstations.
- DIGITUS: a brand of ASSMANN Electronic, best known for network and cabling equipment for racks, with KVM switches alongside.
- LINDY: a long-established maker of cables and audio-video connectivity, offering KVM switches and extenders.
- ROLINE and VALUE: house brands of Secomp, focused on cables and IT accessories.
- ADDER TECHNOLOGY: a UK manufacturer known for KVM over IP and extension solutions for control rooms.
- DELOCK: a German supplier of cables and adapters that also lists KVM switches.
- TRENDNET: a network equipment maker that offers KVM switches alongside its switches and other networking products.
Also in our range: INLINE, INTER-TECH and LEVELONE.
Frequently asked questions
What is a KVM switch and what is it for?
A KVM switch is a device that lets you control several computers with one monitor, keyboard and mouse. It helps when a desk cannot hold multiple screens and keyboards, or when you need one console for a rack of servers.
Does a KVM switch reduce picture quality?
If the switch supports your monitor's resolution and refresh rate, you will usually see no difference. Picture quality can suffer from cables that are too long or poor, or from a model that does not support 4K or high refresh rates.
What is the difference between a KVM switch and KVM over IP?
A standard KVM switch connects computers by cable and works in one location. KVM over IP sends the video and control over the network, so you can manage a server remotely, even when it is in another room or city.
Can one KVM switch control two monitors?
Yes, but you need a dual-monitor model with two video outputs for each connected computer. A single-monitor switch only handles one video signal, so check the number of video connections before buying.
