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763 Review
39 Karma

Review on πŸ”€ USB Switch KVM Splitter HDMI 2 Port Box for Effortless Computer Sharing with One Keyboard, Mouse, and HD Monitor across Multiple Operating Systems by Aries Boyce

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Function over form, it works great but doesn't fit into a minimalist setup

I recently upgraded the computer components and of course got an additional fully functional computer. While waiting to figure out what to do with it long-term, I temporarily installed it next to a new computer running Folding@home in the background to help in some way improve society. I ordered this KVM switch because my needs were pretty simple, I needed to switch between two computers from time to time without pulling out a second keyboard and mouse. Functionally it is perfect. I didn't use the HDMI capabilities because we have enough monitors with enough input jacks, but it's very easy to switch between peripherals without losing functionality. Every time I switch, the mouse and keyboard are instantly ready with no lag. I also like the concept of being able to boot from an external drive and then instantly switch, copy and paste all of those items to a new computer as a backup in case my network goes down. It comes with two USB cables for connection. any computer, and there's no cumbersome external power adapter, so it's quick to set up and ready to go. There were two things that bothered me about using this device: - Connections for computers and monitors are on the back of the device, but connections for cables going to peripherals are on the front, next to the power button. It's not aesthetically pleasing, especially in a minimalist setting. The cables protruding from the front make it a bit difficult to flick the power button, but they're not a huge issue with minimal use. In short, it's ugly when everything is set up. The second thing I notice is that the power button doesn't click as easily as I would like. Firm pressure is required to ensure switching between devices. Again, not for display, but definitely something eye-catching. I appreciate that it's small, and the fact that it's metal rather than plastic is a big plus for the shape, but those wires sticking out the front just make it a small eyesore that I want to hide .

Pros
  • External components
Cons
  • poorly thought out