Which KVM Switch for a Desktop PC, a Work Laptop and a Surface Pro 9

gasman70 on 09/12/2023 - 14:19

Hi all.

I currently have a desktop setup with two monitors. The desktop has two HDMI and two DP ports; each monitor has a HDMI and a DP port.

I want to plug in my work laptop and my wife's MS Surface Pro 9 into the same monitors and use the same mouse and keyboard.
My work laptop is HP, and I have a dock with multiple outputs, including USB-C, HDMI, USB-A and DP ports.
The Surface Pro has the Surface Dock 2, with video-enabled (?) USB-C ports.

A KVM switch for 3 PCs and two monitors is what's required, but I am not sure of what one to get. The one below is more than I am prepared to pay, so does anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks

https://www.amazon.com.au/TESmart-Switches-Monitor-Monitors-…

Computing

Comments

  • Nutrino on 09/12/2023 - 15:49

    input director.

    • gasman70 on 09/12/2023 - 15:53

      I was only now looking at software KVMs. I'm not sure how well they work, but I think I'd prefer a wired setup.

      • Nutrino on 09/12/2023 - 16:35
        +1

        its free, works flawlessly, but you do you.

        • gasman70 on 09/12/2023 - 17:37

          OK, I'll have a look tonight. Thanks.

  • simplystu on 09/12/2023 - 20:36

    Sadly OP … think won't work how you intend to … but trial/error.

    IMO think you can get HP VIA dock to use BOTH monitors … but Surface Pro to only use 1 … when ALL connected together.
    Atleast that is what I found when trying to setup my GF's setup … which was similar to yours.

    we got around this … by having to physically plug/unplug a cable … meh as it is … but atleast she could utilise BOTH screens for both devices.

    • gasman70 on 09/12/2023 - 21:11

      I have found a few devices that look like they'll work, put it's definitely trial and error.

      I might just try and get the surface working with the desktop and just live with the standalone laptop. I have a portable screen for it anyway.

    • gasman70 on 09/12/2023 - 22:21

      I've managed to get the Surface and Desktop working perfectly on both screens using the HP Thunderbold hub and a USB switch (for the keyboard and mouse). I suppose it will do but the changing of monitor inputs is a real pain. I think I may have to resort to getting a 2/2 KVM switch so that I can flick between both PCs easily. It should also negate the need for the USB switch.

      Maybe this one?

      https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0BX2HG6L4?th=1

    • kiitos on 14/12/2023 - 02:22

      Can the monitors be daisy chained?

  • tc423 on 19/12/2023 - 09:43

    you need thunderbolt 4 solution for your desktop..

    • gasman70 on 19/12/2023 - 10:57

      All sorted. I have a Microsoft Surface Dock 2 for the Surface Pro 9, an HP Thunderbolt Dock for my work HP Laptop and a Dual Monitor - three in, two out, KVM Switch USB 3.0 (3 (x2) HDMI inputs and USB).

      So, I can flick between all the laptops and desktop at the press of a button, using the same keyboard, mouse, etc.

      • megaalc on 23/09/2024 - 09:48

        what kvm switch are you using ?

        • gasman70 on 23/09/2024 - 10:19

          In the end I bought this one:

          https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CJLP455B?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_f…

          I have three PCs (one desktop, a work laptop and a Surface Pro 9) going to two monitors, and they all share the same mouse, keyboard, webcam and other peripherals. Works a treat.

          • megaalc on 16/10/2024 - 18:21

            @gasman70: Cheers, have you experienced any glitches/lagging with this device while switching between , pcs, any mouse/kb tlrandom disconnrcts etc?

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