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Usually, this meant having two sets of keyboards, mice, and monitors.

That changed through the rise of KVM which stands for Keyboard, Video, Mouse.

Dell’s Ultrasharp 27 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor

Instead of using multiple inputs and monitors, only one is needed.

Most importantly, its an amazing way to save set-up space and money on extra input devices.

Hardware

The past few years have seen the rise of gaming monitors with integrated KVM switches.

HP Omen 27K KVM switch

For many, this begins with displays like the Gigabyte M27F.

Mid-to-high-level displays ranging from theMSI MPG 271QRtoBenQ Mobiuz EX321UXalongside other ofour favorite gaming monitorshave now standardized the capabilities.

As a matter of fact, KVM works on gaming consoles likeXbox Series X|SorPS5as well depending on the monitor.

woman using large monitor

Its also great for console gamers who want to stream as well.

Just understand that not all games offer keyboard and mouse support on consoles.

With that said, we’re here to help readers interested in KVM understand its usage.

Man using microphone and audio editing software in home studio

How does it work?

Most monitors with KVM switches have a USB-B port that upstreams to one computer.

This allows the other downstream USB-A ports on the monitor to be utilized for mouse and keyboard.

3. Who else can use KVM?

For good audio quality on the stream, most professionals utilize a quality microphone for the other rig.

Some monitors may have a hotkey, KVM button or may take some menu prompts.

Its really that simple.

We suggest you check with the manufacturers instruction manual depending on the actual monitor.

Its ability to bridge multiple devices with minimal effort underscores its appeal across usage.