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Review on πŸ” CKLau 2 Port HDMI + VGA Dual Monitor KVM Switch - 4Kx2K@30Hz, Audio, Mic, USB 2.0 Hub Included by Tony Kingdom

Revainrating 3 out of 5

Great for video, good for extended keyboards, bad for audio

I've had a few KVMs over the years. 2-port, 4-port, 8-port, etc. In terms of what we expect from them, this one does a pretty good job, with a few caveats. First video switching. It was literally the only inexpensive device that could switch 3 HDMI monitors between 2 computers. So I was pretty excited to even find it. And he's doing a great job with that part of his job. I really like that they include a wired remote control so you can hide the KVM yourself behind your rigs and switch with a single button. Very pretty. Now to the keyboard. Don't get me wrong - KVM does an excellent job of switching input devices (wired) between systems. My problem isn't so much that this box doesn't work as that it's just frustrating. I have a Razer Ornata keyboard and the Razer software that manages the LED colors and realizes the keyboard no longer sees them. KVM provides systems with a "virtual keyboard". While this isn't a performance issue (the keyboard responds the same as when plugged in directly), it's a little disappointing. But you can not have it all. Finally, the really annoying part. Audio. I'll go further and say: DO NOT use this KVM to switch audio. Get a splitter (about $5) and connect your computers directly to speakers or headphones. The soundproofing inside the KVM is terrible and you will hear a constant squeaking sound coming from the speakers which is like a thorn in your side. It will literally drive you crazy. I've tried moving cables, changing cables, etc. with no fun. So I just turned off the sound switch and I'm sane again. All in all, for what you're asking from KVM, a pretty good box. Just make other plans for the sound!

Pros
  • Good build
Cons
  • Cable is shorter than other options