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KVM switch stands for “Keyboard, Video, Mouse,” which is essentially hardware that allows users to switch between multiple PCs or servers from one keyboard and mouse. Unlike docking stations (used for one monitor and computer), top-of-the-line KVM switches can handle up to four computers and monitors simultaneously.
If you’re an IT manager dealing with:
- Switching between multiple computers daily
- Managing multiple screens and monitors
- Controlling multiple servers simultaneously
- Cluttered desk space that needs to be freed up
Then, investing in a KVM switch can make sense. The challenge is, the KVM switch market is filled with knock-off options, so finding the best one for your IT team can be challenging.
Fortunately, we’ve done the work and listed the best KVM switches based on user reviews, key features, pricing, security, and brand reliability. Keep on reading to learn more.
Why should you trust our reviews? 💡
Most sites writing product reviews are driven by affiliate sales, which directly influence the equipment they recommend. Atera writes reviews independently and does not receive any compensation from companies. This ensures our recommendations are unbiased and solely based on the product’s performance, quality, and value.
3 key considerations when selecting a KVM switch
The following are the three key considerations when selecting a KVM switch.
1. Number of users (Multi vs. single-user KVM switches)
KVM switches are generally multi- or single-user. Multi-user switches are used to build enterprise-level setups with hundreds of users, while single-user switches allow one person to manage up to four computers and monitors.
The right choice ultimately depends on what you’re trying to achieve:
- Multi-user IP-based KVM switch: Ideal choice if you manage a large IT environment where multiple users need easy access to several computers or systems.
- Single-user KVM switch: If you’re an individual IT manager who needs to manage up to four computers or monitors, a single-user KVM switch is a more cost-effective option.
2. Available features (Monitor support, resolution, etc.)
Based on your requirements and how many computers and monitors you need to support, consider these features:
- Number of sources: The number of KVM ports determines how many computers, servers, and other sources you can connect to and access through a KVM Switch.
- Resolution and performance: Most KVM switches offer support for 4K 60hz display screens, while some even offer up to 8K 30hz.
- Extra USB: If you need to connect additional devices (e.g. printers or storage devices), make sure the KVM switch has additional USB ports.
- Support for audio: Many KVM switches offer audio switching, allowing you to share speakers or microphones between systems.
3. Brand reliability, support, & warranty
Like any technology, knockoffs vs. high-quality products have a huge quality difference. And this is especially true for KVM switches.
When you search on Amazon, you can find hundreds of KVM switches priced at $20-$100. While these may be suitable for home use, IT managers looking for reliable KVM switches need to prioritize brand reputation, build quality, and long-term support.
Choosing a KVM switch from a reputable provider, like Adder, Level1Techs, or TESmart, helps keep your devices running at all times and minimize downtime.
Also, look for the warranty for the KVM switch. This is often available on the provider’s website. For example, TRENDnet displays it on their product pages:
The best KVM Switches to run successful IT operations in 2025
After doing our research on the best KVM switches, we found that the five best options are:
- Level1Techs Dual Monitor KVM Switch – Best overall KVM switch
- Adder INFINITY 4000 4K – Best enterprise KVM switch
- TRENDnet TK-441DP – Best single-monitor KVM switch
- TESmart HCK402-P – Best dual-monitor KVM switch
- Level1Techs Quad Monitor KVM Switch – Best heavy-duty KVM switch
As you can see, we’ve divided the top KVM switches into five categories so you can more easily choose the best one for your situation.
Level1Techs Dual Monitor KVM Switch – Best overall KVM switch
Level1Tech’s Dual Monitor KVM Switch is our choice for the best overall KVM switch for three key reasons: its impressive features, durability, and excellent customer reviews. The KVM switch is equipped with dual-monitor support, 10Gbps USB-c interface, and reliable DisplayPort 1.4 connections, supporting up to 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 30Hz.
No matter where you look, users praise Level 1Techs’ KVM switches. One Reddit user said, “The Level1Techs KVM is by far the best option. After playing with different KVMs from different vendors (white box, Monoprice, L1T), you truly get what you pay for when it comes to DisplayPort KVMs.”
(Specifications) Level1Techs Dual Monitor KVM Switch | Price: $449.00Dimensions: 15.9 x 10.2 x 5.7 cm (6.25 x 4 x 2.25 inches)Cables: Sold separatelyMonitor support: Up to two monitorsComputer support: Up to two computersResolution: Up to 4k/120hz or 8k/30hzUSB ports: Two additional USB portsAudio support: YesWarranty: One year free parts and labour service warranty |
Reasons to choose this KVM switch | A strong warranty with up to one year of free parts, which indicates that the product is made to last. A number of user reviews support this claim. |
Reasons to not choose this KVM switch | The price is higher than other dual monitor KVM switches, which may be a turnoff for IT managers. |
Adder INFINITY 4000 4K – Best enterprise KVM switch
Enterprises looking for multi-user KVM switches, can benefit most from the Adder INFINITY 4000 4K. It is an IP-based KVM switch with a dual-monitor, Multigihabit Ethernet, and 4K and 5K support.
A key factor in making INFINITY 4000 4K enterprise-friendly is its scalability. One Reddit user commented, “I must have installed upwards of 400 of these units since they came out. They are a very good price point for what you get. Fully IP based and POE powered.”
Since the INFINITY 4000 4K is PoE-powered and IP-based, you can deploy it anywhere on your network and scale it across multiple locations.
(Specifications) Adder INFINITY 4000 4K | Price: Based on a custom quotationDimensions: Not disclosedCables: Not included in the pricingMonitor support: Up to two monitorsComputer support: Unlimited (IP-based)Resolution: Supports 4K & 5KUSB ports: USB 2.0, USB HIDAudio support: YesWarranty: Manufacturer warranty available |
Reasons to choose this KVM switch | Infinitely scalable IP-based KVM switch, which suits enterprises. |
Reasons to not choose this KVM switch | The high price makes it unsuitable for smaller companies |
TRENDnet TK-441DP – Best single-monitor KVM switch
The TRENDnet TK-441DP is the most budget-friendly KVM switch on our list. It allows you to control up to four DisplayPort computers with one set of console controls. It supports up to 4K 60hz resolution, has full audio support, and includes a wired remote switch for easy computer selection. In addition, it has two extra USB ports on the front side to connect printers and storage drivers.
If you need a dual monitor KVM switch, TRENDnet has other models, such as their TK-240DP version, although it comes at a higher price.
(Specifications) TRENDnet TK-441DP | Price: Approx. $300Dimensions: 253 x 101 x 44mm (9.9 x 3.9 x 1.7 in)Cables: Required cabling sold separatelyMonitor support: Up to one monitorComputer support: Up to four computersResolution: Up to 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz).USB ports: Two additional USB portsAudio support: YesWarranty: Two-year warranty |
Reasons to choose this KVM switch | It supports resolutions as high as 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz), which is more than what most people need. |
Reasons to not choose this KVM switch | According to a Reddit user, connecting desktop speakers to TK-240DP can cause a loud buzzing sound, which is the product’s downside. |
TESmart HCK402-P – Best dual-monitor KVM switch
TESmart HCK402-P is a dual-monitor KVM switch capable of connecting up to two computers and monitors at the same time. It supports resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz and offers multiple switching options, including hotkeys, an IR remote, and front-panel buttons.
One Reddit user commented on this model, “You’ll need to do a couple of power cycles and fidgeting, but once you get there, it works very well.”
Another model, HCK403 from TESmar, can be a good choice if you need a KVM switch with tripe monitor support.
(Specifications) TSmart HCK402-P | Price: $719.99Cables: Not included in the priceMonitor support: Up to two monitorsComputer support: Up to two computersResolution: Up to 4K@60HzUSB ports: 1 extra USB port at the frontAudio support: YesWarranty: 1-year limited warranty |
Reasons to choose this KVM switch | It’s easy to set up, as the box includes all the required cables, including HDMI, KVM, USB-C, and a power adapter. |
Reasons to not choose this KVM switch | Only available in the US and UK plugs. Relatively expensive KVM switch. |
Level1Techs Quad Monitor KVM Switch – Best heavy-duty KVM switch
Another model from Level1Techs, their Quad Monitor, Four Computer KVM switch, is currently arguably the most heavy-duty single-user KVM switch on the market. As the name implies, it supports four concurrent computers and four monitors running at the same time.
While other brands, like TESmart, Adder, and SmartAVI, offer quad monitor support, customer reviews indicate that Level1Techs is the most reliable, which is why it was our choice.
In addition, as one Reddit user says, “This KVM switch from Level1Techs is one of the few KVM switches that support 5120×1440 resolution with no issues.”
(Specifications) Level1Techs Quad Monitor KVM Switch | Price: $1,199.00Cables: Not included in the priceMonitor support: Up to four monitorsComputer support: Up to four computersResolution: Up to 4k/120hz or 8k/30hzUSB ports: Two additional ports at the frontAudio support: YesWarranty: One year free parts and labour service warranty |
Reasons to choose this KVM switch | Supports up to 4 concurrent monitors |
Reasons to not choose this KVM switch | While being the most powerful, this is the most expensive single-user KVM switch on our list |
Alternative solutions KVM switches
KVM switches don’t make sense in all situations. For example, a KVM switch may be overkill if you are working with a small number of systems or primarily using virtual machines.
Alternative solutions to KVM switches include:
- Docking stations – Ideal for connecting multiple display screens to one computer.
- USB hubs – Expand USB ports to manage peripherals without a KVM.
- Multi-device keyboard and mouse – As an IT manager shares in this Reddit thread, a keyboard and a mouse with multiple Bluetooth profiles offers a cable-free alternative to KVM switches.
Alternatively, you can use remote access software, like Atera, to remotely access any device within your IT environment for remote troubleshooting. This could solve what you’re trying to achieve with an IP-based KVM switch.
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