IOGEAR 2-Port 4K KVM Switch With HDMI (GCS92HU)2022 REVIEW — MacSources
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KVM Switch provides enhanced productivity when using multiple computers with a single workstation.
Over the years I’ve fought bouncing back and forth between computers throughout the day. I currently toggle between my personal 2020 M1 MacBook Air (13-inch) and a 2019 MacBook Pro (16-inch) for work. In the past though, I’ve switched between macOS and PC systems on a daily basis. Personally, I’ve never had an issue with switching between systems, but the mechanics of it can get a little cumbersome.
In my home office, I have an external monitor, speakers, Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, and a USB camera for video conferences. All of these peripherals are connected through a single Thunderbolt 3 docking station. I will then connect a single Thunderbolt cable to whichever laptop I am using at the time. Since both Mac notebooks will operate in closed clamshell mode, I can keep things pretty tidy by storing them in a vertical laptop stand.
This type of setup works pretty well except when I end up having to switch systems on a whim. If I could be 100% dedicated to my work laptop between 9 am-5 pm and then switch the cable to my other computer, I wouldn’t have any issues. But that doesn’t always work out that way. Inevitably throughout the day, I end up checking my email or working on smaller projects during breaks and the flip-flopping is endless.
This scenario is exactly why KVM switches are useful. A KVM (an abbreviation for “keyboard, video, and mouse”) switch is designed for the specific purpose of being able to use one set of external accessories for multiple computers.
I’ve had different KVM switches throughout my life, but in the past few years, I’ve not had one suitable for my precise needs. Fortunately, one of my favorite companies, IOGEAR, has a wonderful variety of KVM switches and I’ve been able to try out their 2-Port 4K KVM Switch with HDMI, USB, and Audio Connections.
