KVM Switch Vs. Docking Station

Are you in a situation where you do not know if a KVM Switch or a Docking Station is the ideal solution for a project you are trying to carry out?

Not only non-techies face this issue. Even seasoned software-gurus may ponder on which of both hardware is the best fit.

In this article, we will carefully define KVM Switches and Docking Stations, how they work, the operations they are perfect for, and their benefits. Then we let you decide which one is the most suitable for your project.

KVM Switch

KVM switch is an acronym for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse switch. As the name implies, the device allows you to switch between more than one computer system with one Keyboard, Mouse, and Monitor.

Depending on the type of switch you are using, you can control multiple computers with a single KVM device. Simply connect the computer to a switch and then connecting it to a keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

How does KVM Switch Work?

When you power up a computer, its operating system routinely checks for signals from external devices like Keyboard, Mouse, and Monitors. Once it detects this, it will connect automatically.

Since computers are programmed to work with these devices, a KVM switch tries to emulate the keyboard, mouse, and monitor signals for each of the synch computers. It does this with the help of signal emulation technology.

A KVM switch also works so that it does not affect the computer’s processor during the switching, so a KVM switch must be able to guarantee the following:

  • Constant video resolution
  • Work with various CPU operating systems.
  • Seamless connection with various brands of monitors, mouse, and keyboards.

What are the Uses of A KVM Switch?

Various KVM switches can work with multiple computers depending on the number of ports available. But usually, a KVM Switch will have several ports ranging from 2 to 64. Therefore, anyone can control a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 64 computers with a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

However, users can expand some switches to connect with thousands of monitors. But the number of ports is still a significant hindrance to how big the expansion can be. Therefore, a KVM switch with four ports will not be the best fit for a server room.

Apart from the keyboard, monitor, and mouse, KVM switches are also designed for other external devices like audio and USB cables. But this depends on the type of outlets a KVM Switch has.

There are different types of KVM for specific uses and applications, such as:

  • Server controls.
  • Offices
  • Data hubs
  • Video editing.
  • Multi views for trading and financial activities
  • Control room uses
  • Military and government operations etc.

What are the Benefits of a KVM Switch?

The major benefits are:

  • You will be able to control two or more computers or servers from just a set of keyboards, mouse, and monitors.
  • A KVM switch will help you declutter your working space since you won’t be needing more than one keyboard, mouse, and monitor. This will also improve your productivity.
  • A KVM switch is also economical. It saves cost since you do not have to buy more devices than necessary.
  • If your KVM switch supports USB connections, it will eradicate the need for any other USB hub.
  • Using a KVM switch in a server room will make it easy to manage and give room for efficiency.

Docking Station

A docking station is designed to allow you to connect your laptop with other external devices. This means that with a docking station, you can equip your laptop with peripherals to make up a workstation. And when you are done, you retain the laptop’s portability.

A dock has numerous ports for various external devices you can not ordinarily connect with a laptop. Such devices include monitors, scanners, printers, keyboards, etc. You will connect these devices to the laptop via the dock that is already plugged into the laptop.

How Does a Docking Station Work?

Docking stations are separate hardware designed to enhance the number of ports that a laptop can take. Initially, independent manufacturers produce these devices for popular laptop brands. But since their demands increased, laptop brands started manufacturing docks themselves.

Docks operate in such a way that their drivers regulate how the connected devices will work. They also receive electrical power via a laptop or the power source they are connected to.

What are the Uses of A Docking Station?

A docking station is mostly used to project laptops to larger screens or monitors in office settings. Gamers also make use of it a lot. They connect their laptops to a monitor that offers more resolution and display qualities.

A docking station is also perfect for laptops with only two USB outlets because they are limited to just two external devices at a time. But since you have a docking station, you only need one of the ports to connect with as many external devices as the dock can take.

A docking station’s primary usefulness is to incorporate external devices’ proficiency with a laptop’s portability. As soon as you do not have to use these external devices anymore, you can unplug your laptop from the dock to ease the transition between home and office.

What are the Benefits of a Docking Station?

Some of the benefits of using a docking station include the following:

  • The dock allows universal compatibility with various devices. They are also compatible with some major operating systems like Linux, Chrome, Android, and macOS.
  • A docking station allows you to connect your laptop to display units with high resolution. Depending on the brand you buy, you can connect with as many as four displays.
  • Docking stations are incorporated with essential ports such as HDMI, USB 3.0, USB-C, etc. These help with the various connections that you need.
  • A docking station will make your workspace tidy. The single connection hub will also help you free up a decongested work area.
  • If you are a gamer, you do not have to bother with connecting your consoles and other game devices every time you play because they will be connected to the dock, and all you have to do is disconnect It from your laptop.
  • Some devices like cameras are usually not compatible with laptops. But with a dock, you can connect them without hassle.

When Should I Use a KVM Switch Instead of a Docking Station and Vice-Versa?

So, you need to run a couple of PCs and Laptops with just a set of keyboards, monitors, and mice. Yet, due to some reasons, you do not want to use software or drivers on the systems. At the same time, you have many USB, HDMI, VGA, and thunderbolt connectors, and you need a central hub for them.

A KVM Switch is the most appropriate device for this setup because its primary purpose is to switch and share peripherals between two or more computers.

On the other hand, a dock is designed to improve a system’s functionality, primarily a laptop majorly. However, if you insist on using a dock for the operation above, it must have a USB C port, and you will need to upload some drivers or install the software. This could be a problem if you are not an expert.

But a KVM Switch is plug and play, no software or drivers needed, and you are good to go with just the push of a button.

Top 10 KVM Switches

Top 10 KVM Switches

You’ve probably read one of the articles on working remotely or an article on suggestions to keep a neat work area in your home office. Now you are trying to decide which KVM switch is best for you? To be fair, it can be quite confusing to choose a simple yet complex piece of equipment. This is even more difficult because there are a lot of great KVM switch manufacturers.

Don’t stress.  We have reviewed for you the top 10 KVM Switches you can find today.

What are The Top 10 KVM Switches?

  • CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM
  • IOGEAR GCS5DP
  • Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch
  • Rosewill RKV-2UC
  • ULBRE Soho
  • UGREEN USB Switch Selector
  • JideTech VGA KVM Switch
  • ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box
  • TESmart HDMI KVM Switch
  • Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM switch

CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM

If you are more concerned about your KVM switch’s display properties, you should look to this option. CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM works well with 4k display units, and you can also share between 4 systems.

Developers choose this KVM because it works with a wide range of operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, etc. It is one of the most high-end KVM Switches, perfect for AI models, multitasking, and other activities.

It works well with apple keyboards. This is a standout functionality because not many KVM Switches are capable of this.

Its features include:

  • 4 HDMI ports
  • A push switch and remote
  • USB 2.0 ports
  • Touch displays

Pros

  • Products users love the fact that it has an excellent cost to performance percentage.
  • Also, they love the fact that it supports both 4k and 2k displays.
  • Its compatibility with conventional OS makes it an excellent option for techies.

Cons

  • There are complaints about the product’s basic design.

IOGEAR GCS5DP

IOGEAR GCS5DP is one of the best-designed KVM Switches. Its aesthetics is one of the features that will first attract you before its functionalities. It also works well with all operating systems and is perfect for programmers.

Being a plug and play device, you do not need any particular expertise to operate IOGEAR GCS5DP. Hence, it is a great choice for novices who can control with a remote and seamlessly work within devices.

IOGEAR GCS5DP is not limited to home or office uses. Its size also means that you will not have to bother about space for it.

Other features it has included:

  • Incorporated cables to connect with more than one system
  • An accommodating HDCP DisplayPort
  • Multiple USB for keyboard and mouse connections
  • Multiple audio jacks that make it easy to connect with various computers

Pros

  • A lot of product users love the fact that IOGEAR GCS5DP is compatible with various OS.
  • There are reports of free technical support and a warranty of 3 years for IOGEAR GCS5DP.
  • It is a plug and play KVM switch

Cons

  • Products users complain about the fact that customer support on this product is not good enough.
  • There are a number of reports about the freezing up of the Mouse and keyboard when trying to switch from one device to another.

Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch

As the name implies, this KVM Switch will allow you to switch between as many as eight computers at a time. So, if you have been looking for a product with a large number of ports, this switch is an option for you.

The Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch fits into all types of office settings. Its design is also very simple and basic, nothing extraordinary.

It is built to deal with high voltage, and it does not require any external power supply.

Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch features include:

  • A remote switch and Button press
  • A safeguard feature to protect from lightning

Pros

  • There are reports of its nickel-plated connectors, and in most online reviews, users like this.
  • Product users also like Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch design’s simplicity, mainly because it allows the product to fit office settings.
  • The cable positioning is another thing that users enjoy.

Cons

  • A lot of people are discouraged by its high price.
  • Even though it is a pricey product, there are reports of it not having a manufacturer warranty.

Rosewill RKV-2UC

Rosewill RKV-2UC is another great KVM Switch option you can buy. It comes with all the necessary features expected of a KVM Switch.

If you need a KVM Switch for Windows and iOS operating systems, then Rosewill RKV-2UC is not a bad idea. But for Linux, you have to accept it at a reduced resolution of 1024x768p.

However, if you are in search of high-end products you might want to look beyond Rosewill RKV-2UC. It is a perfect choice for those with a tight budget.

As a KVM Switch, it does not have any feature that will blow your mind. But, you get what you pay for, and that is perfectly fine.

Its features include:

  • An incorporated connector
  • Multiple USB ports
  • Resolution of about 2048 X 1536 with compatible operating systems
  • A switch ON feature to detect any operational issue

Pros

  • Rosewill RKV-2UC is reportedly cheap
  • Product users love it because of the ease in handling and operating

Cons

  • Users complain about the fact that Rosewill RKV-2UC is not audio compatible
  • There are also complaints about the general aesthetics of the product

ULBRE Soho

Another KVM Switch you can put your money on is the ULBRE Soho. It has features that make it very easy to use for non-techies. ULBRE Soho is one of the best office KVM Switches because of its simplicity.

It is relatively compact and perfect if you do not have a lot of space to spare. It also allows the seamless transition between computers. One exciting feature that makes this product fanciable is the power unit. It has enough capacity for other office devices such as scanners, fax machines, printers, and Digital cameras.

Other features you can expect from this product include the following:

  • Four USB 3.0 ports.
  • A Micro USB port.
  • A selector box.

Pros

  • Users enjoy the fact that this product is straightforward to operate, especially during the initial set-up.
  • They also love its USB 3.0 features that help to save time during the transfer of extensive data.

Cons

  • There have been complaints of disturbing sounds when using this product with a mechanical keyboard.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector

The UGREEN USB Switch is another KVM Switch you want to consider if you have a tight budget to work with. However, it can still rival even the most expensive products.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector is more compact than a lot of KVM Switches. Apart from connection to multiple computers, it is also compatible with devices like printers and scanners through its USB Ports.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector works well with almost all operating systems. 

Its features include the following:

  • A switch button for seamless transitions
  • Four various ports for USB 2.0
  • LED pointers
  • A Micro USB for an additional supply of power

Pros

  • UGREEN USB Switch Selector is reported to be versatile and perfect for a lot of settings
  • Product users love the fact that it is relatively inexpensive compared to other products
  • They also appreciate that it is windows, Linux, Mac, and chrome compatible.

Cons

  • There are a lot of complaints about the UGREEN USB Switch Selector’s lack of power supply.

JideTech VGA KVM Switch

JideTech VGA KVM Switch allows you to share with as many as four computer systems at a go. It is also compatible with other devices like game consoles, speakers, and microphones.

JideTech VGA KVM Switch does not need any drivers or software to operate; simply plug it in, and it works. The KVM box is also compact enough to fit into offices. It also has a rigid design. Although this is not very appealing, it helps keep the box safe with the metal designs.

Other interesting features are:

  • USB 2.0 HUB ports.
  • An upgraded chipset that helps with issues concerning crash or freezing
  • Four ports for connection with various devices

Pros

  • The fact that JideTech VGA KVM Switch does not need an additional power supply makes many users love it
  • There are reports of JideTech VGA KVM Switch supporting high resolutions, as much as 2048 x 1536p for 2k displays

Cons

Product users complain about the fact that this KVM Switch is not compatible with MultiMedia keyboards.

ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box

For tech-savvy people that need a KVM Switch for as many as four systems rather than the usual 2, this is another great option.

Like others on the list, ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box is plug and play and designed to look aesthetically pleasing. It is perfect for many operating systems, but the most surprising thing is that it works well with even the older versions of window OS.

It is probably the best versatile KVM Switch. You can use it for online meetings, office operations, and gamers love it too!

Its features include:

  • Integrated USB ports for USB compatible devices
  • LED pointers
  • 4x VGA cables

Pros

  • Many Users love the fact that ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box does not need external power.
  • There are reports that it is perfect for display resolutions as much as 1920 X 1440.

Cons

  • There are a lot of online complaints about the incorporation of the buttons.
  • Product users do not like the cable arrangement.

TESmart HDMI KVM Switch

This is another great option for a 4k display. TESmart HDMI KVM Switch allows the transition between computers and devices to be as easy as possible.

Sharing for this product is between 4 devices, and it also allows hot switching. It comes in many colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your home or office.

Some of its most important features are:

  • USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports
  • A remote switch.
  • 4K display features

Pros

  • Its image sensor makes it a favorite for tech lovers.
  • There are reports of an incorporated cooling system to prevent heating.
  • A lot of users also like its lightweight and aluminum makeup.

Cons

  • Its price is a major constraint for most people who want to buy
  • Product users do not like its basic design
  • There are also complaints about its lack of compatibility with some keyboards.

Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM switch

Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM switch is very effective, easy to operate, and is simply plug and play. It is also compatible with all operating systems, either old or new.

Its design is easy on the eyes, and this makes it a great choice for office use. It allows seamless sharing for two computers and supports the usage of power with its MicroUSB feature. It is one of the best KVM Switch for high-end gaming.

Other features include:

  • USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports
  • LED pointers
  • A single-button switch
  • Multiport connectivity

Pros

  • Users fancy its USB 3.0 ports because of the fast transfer of data.
  • A lot of people choose them over other products because they can operate with many OS.

Cons

  • Some users do not like the fact that its design is average.
  • There are also complaints about short cables.