Many people now work on two computers: a company laptop and a personal or gaming desktop, two laptops from two employers, or a workstation alongside a test machine. A KVM switch lets both share one set of monitors, one keyboard and mouse, and the same webcam and headset. Press one button and the whole desk moves to the other computer. A KVM docking station adds laptop charging, Ethernet and extra USB ports to the same box.
Start with your computers
| Your setup | Monitors | Good fit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 laptop + 1 desktop | 2 | iDock C10, iDock P10, KD-E10 |
| 1 MacBook + 1 PC | 2 | iDock M10 |
| 1 laptop + 1 desktop | 3 | iDock B23 |
| 2 laptops | 2 | iDock C20, KD-E20 |
| 2 desktops | 2 | 4KSW21-DM (HDMI), 8KSW21DP-DM (DisplayPort) |
| 2 desktops | 3 | iDock D23, iDock D23i |
| 2 desktops + 1 laptop | 2 | KD-E30 |
| 4 computers | 1 | 4KSW41C-KVM |
KVM switch or KVM docking station?
- A KVM switch (such as 4KSW21-DM or 8KSW21DP-DM) switches video and USB between desktops. It suits desktops that don't need charging.
- A KVM docking station (the iDock and KD series) connects a laptop with a single USB-C cable that carries video, data, Ethernet and charging. It suits any setup that includes a laptop.
Five things to check before you buy
- Laptop video over USB-C. The laptop's USB-C port must support DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. Look for a DP or Thunderbolt logo next to the port, or check the laptop's specification sheet.
- Charging power. Office laptops usually need 60–65W, and larger performance laptops 90–100W. KD-E10 and iDock B23 deliver up to 100W. iDock C20 gives 60W to each laptop.
- Mac limitations. macOS does not support MST over USB-C, so a single-cable dual-monitor dock will mirror the two screens on many Macs. iDock M10 avoids this by using two USB-C video connections on the Mac side. Check how many external displays your Mac model supports.
- Refresh rate. Gamers should match the switch to their monitor. 4KSW21-DM and 8KSW21DP-DM support high refresh rates such as 144, 165 and 240Hz at the resolutions listed on each product page.
- EDID emulation. Without it, windows jump around and resize each time you switch. Most iDock and KD models emulate EDID, so each computer keeps its layout.
Example desks
- Work laptop by day, gaming PC by night: iDock C10 or iDock P10 with two 4K or high-refresh monitors.
- Two employers, two laptops: iDock C20. Both laptops charge, and each keeps its own network connection through the dock.
- Trader or editor with three screens: iDock D23 for two desktops, or iDock B23 for a desktop plus a laptop.
- Lab bench with four test machines: 4KSW41C-KVM, with USB-C plus three HDMI inputs and a USB 3.0 hub.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch with a hotkey instead of the button?
Many models support keyboard hotkeys. The EXB01 remote button lets you put the switch control within reach while the dock sits out of sight.
Will my webcam and headset switch too?
Yes. Everything plugged into the dock's USB ports moves with the active computer.
See the full iDock KVM docking stations and KVM switches. Every order ships from Bengaluru with a GST invoice and a 1-year warranty.