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KVM Switch Monitors: One Switch to Control Your PC and Mac® System

BenQ

2024/07/31

Monitor for Mac Connectivity KVM switch Professional Monitor Gaming Monitor Photographer Monitor Designer Monitor Programming Monitor Mac compatibility Windows compatibility

Are you tired of constantly plugging and unplugging cables when switching between your MacBook^®, another laptop, and a PC? In today's digital world, having an efficient and productive setup is crucial for designers, photographers, programmers, and gamers. One solution to this problem is a KVM (Keyboard, Video, and Mouse) switch monitor. BenQ offers a range of KVM monitors that are designed to streamline your workflow and boost productivity.

Table of Contents

What Is a KVM Switch?

What Is a KVM Monitor?

What Are the Benefits of KVM Monitors?

Are KVM Monitors Worth It?

For Designers and Photographers

For Programmers

For Gamers

How to Use the KVM Switch [Step-by-step]

Why Use BenQ KVM Monitors?

What Is a KVM Switch?

A KVM switch is a hardware device that lets users control multiple computers with one or more sets of peripherals, keyboards, monitors, and mice. This technology offers different methods of connecting to computers and reduces the need for multiple keyboards and mice on a desk.

What Is a KVM Monitor?

A KVM switch on a monitor directly integrates the KVM switch into the monitor itself for convenience. This means you can connect several computers to a single monitor and switch between them using the monitor's built-in KVM features. BenQ’s KVM monitors also have features such as USB-C connectivity, making system swapping even smoother.

What Are the Benefits of KVM Monitors?

KVM monitors bring several advantages to the table in comparison to regular monitors. A few examples of these benefits are:

Space Saving: Reduces the need for additional peripherals, decluttering your workspace.
Cost-Efficient: Eliminates the need to purchase extra keyboards, mice, and monitors.
Convenience: Simplifies switching between different systems with a single control setup.
Efficiency: Enhances productivity by allowing seamless transitions between tasks on different devices.

Are KVM Monitors Worth It?

KVM monitors are a great investment overall and offer specific benefits for different fields of focus.

For Designers and Photographers

Working across multiple devices for creating, editing, and previewing creative works can be tiring. Switching from a MacBook to a desktop PC and then to another device for final previews often disrupts the workflow and wastes time. KVM monitors streamline these transitions, enabling you to move seamlessly between devices with a single control setup, helping you maintain focus on your creative tasks without interruption.

Learn more about KVM monitors for designers and photographers.

KVM Switch Monitors for Designers and Photographers

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For Programmers

Testing code on different operating systems can be a hassle, involving starting Virtual Machines (VMs) or physically switching cables between a MacBook and Windows PC. These interruptions break concentration and waste time. KVM monitors eliminate these disruptions, allowing you to switch quickly and seamlessly between systems to reduce hassle, enhancing multitasking and coding efficiency. Ultimately, it can help you enter a state of flow and boost your productivity.

For Gamers

Switching between a gaming console and a PC can be tedious, involving unplugging and reconnecting cables, which disrupts gaming. Moving from a PC to a console might require adjusting the monitor and peripherals. KVM monitors simplify this process, enabling easy transitions between devices with one control setup, reducing desk clutter, and maintaining a smooth gaming experience.

How to Use the KVM Switch

To make the most of the KVM switch, let’s look at how to set it up and use it.

Before you start, prepare:

Two source devices (desktops/laptops/consoles)
One keyboard and mouse set
Video cable (HDMI/DisplayPort/USB-C/Thunderbolt)
Upstream USB cable (if you are using USB-C/Thunderbolt, then you don’t need this)

Let’s get started:

Turn on your devices and monitor
Connect your monitor to two source devices using either
- USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 or 4
- HDMI/DisplayPort cable + USB upstream cable
  
  *Plug the ports in order following what’s on the instruction label (The form of the instructions may vary by model). The cables and ports will go into pairing mode automatically.
Go to the OSD menu > KVM switch
Switch the keyboard and mouse control over different inputs
If you select “Auto” or “Auto Switch,” then the USB ports are switched automatically when the input signals switch.
(Or click on the HotKey Puck G2 if you are using a DesignVue Monitor)

Why Use BenQ KVM Monitors?

Adding a KVM switch monitor to your setup can revolutionize your workflow, boost productivity, and tidy up your workspace. BenQ’s range of KVM monitors stand out with their superior features, making them an excellent choice for designers, programmers, gamers, and photographers. Explore BenQ’s KVM monitor options today and experience a new level of convenience and efficiency in your daily tasks.

Mac^® and MacBook^® are trademarks of Apple Inc.

KVM Switch Monitors: One Switch to Control Your PC and Mac® System

What Is a KVM Switch?

What Is a KVM Monitor?

What Are the Benefits of KVM Monitors?