Question Dual Monitors - How to Optimize for Three Computers

[a_online_]

I have three computers:

1. 2022 M2 Macbook Air; for personal use
2. windows desktop with DP and HDMI video out via graphics card; for personal use. This is my primary at-home computer and occasional gaming computer
3. windows surface laptop with a surface dock (usb-c and DP video out); for work and is used all day when I work from home.

For peripherals, I have a keychron K10 (bluetooth wireless up to three devices across windows and mac), and a wireless mouse that connects via usb.

I currently have one 32 inch dell monitor and I manually shift between the computer connected to it.

I want to move to a two monitor setup and minimize manual switching and plugging/unplugging. The move to the two monitor setup is because I am often multitasking at work and prefer having the ability to have two screens vs. one larger screen when multitasking.

I am considering these monitor models:

• Dell S2722QC
• Asus ProArt PA278CGV

Looking for advice on most cost-effective solution to be able to have all three devices connected and be able to cycle through them across monitors and peripherals as easily as possible.

Thanks!

 

[Ralston18]

You will need some sort of KVM switch.

KVM switches allow multiple computers to share peripheral devices.

You need the switch plus all of the necessary cables to connect computers/docking stations to the KVM switch and shared peripherals.

There are many KVM switch combinations options available: off the shelf plus custom builds if necessary.

Some are manually switched. Other can sense and auto switch.

Google KVM switches. Do some reading, look at the diagrams, sketch out your own diagram, then modify the search to meet your specific connectivity requirements.

Pay attention to ports, plugs, genders,etc..

Be prepared to buy cables and/or adapters.

Likely you will need to revise your sketch a few times before it all gets worked out.