Question KVM switch for 2 computers and 2 displays ?

[classic35mm]

• I have a Lenovo Windows 7 Pro desktop system connected to two monitors (monitors that duplicate the display -- NOT extended desktop, NOT multiple display "windows").
• I will be getting a Lenovo Windows 11 Pro desktop system soon and I'd like to be able to switch the display input from one computer the other, and vice versa, with the touch of a button.

In other words:

Computer 1 (Windows 7 computer) duplicated on Monitor 1 and Monitor 2
^
| (button press)
v
Computer 2 (Windows 11 computer) duplicated on Monitor 1 and Monitor 2

Monitor 1 and Monitor 2 are 12+ years old (still working great!) and do NOT support multiple inputs, as far as I can tell. So I think a KVM switch "for 2 computers, 2 displays" is one way to accomplish what I want.

(Please note that I don't necessarily need the switch to accommodate a keyboard and mouse, because I can easily have a separate keyboard and mouse connected to each computer; I mostly want to be able to easily switch the monitors' inputs between computers.)

• Do you use such a KVM switch?
• If so, which one and do you recommend it?
• Is it stable and reliable?
• How long does it take to switch between inputs?

Or is there another way to accomplish my desire with some other piece of hardware?

 

[Ralston18]

The starting point is to precisely sketch out the required connectivities.

With the premise being "two" of everything.

Show the computers (two), the keyboards (two), the mice (two) and the monitors (two).

The sketch is important but what is more important is that sketch includes all necessary cables and connections.

The sketch must also show cable types, cable end plug and port genders, along with device ports (type and gender).

Most likely you wil need to purchase additional connection cables to connect between switch and devices. And perhaps some adapters as well.

As an example setup "sketch" (not an endorsement or recommendation):

https://superuser.com/questions/179...m-switch-only-show-hdmi-connection-but-not-dp

https://www.amazon.com/CKL-Monitor-Extended-Display-CKL-922HUA/dp/B07KVJ54X2

(Second image for 2 x 2 in the Amazon link)

You can google words and phrases such as "kvm switch connection diagram mullple computers" for similar sketches and images.

I also suggest that you consider using just one keyboard and one mouse even though you have the option and ability to connect two of each.

A single keyboard and mouse is much easier to centralize and may lower the cost and complexity of the KVM switch.

Details matter and the sketch/"checklist" will help you keep track of everything: what you have, what needs to be purchased, how it will all be connected.

Plan it out, revise as warranted, order as necessary.

Also think ahead: those 12 old monitors may be at or nearing their designed in EOL (End of Life) and could go at any time.