Question Switching Monitors Between Work and Personal Machines

[jebb0]

Hi there

I am looking for some help with finding a solution to this hopefully simple problem - Switching monitors from one computer to another without unplugging cables etc.

I have a work laptop and a personal desktop.

The work laptop has 2 x 27 inch monitors connected to it. One via HDMI, one via USB-C.

The desktop has 1 x 32 inch monitor connected to it. via HDMI.

The desktop has several HDMI ports and 1 DisplayPort. No USB-C.

What I'd like to do is utilise the 2 x 27 inch monitors on the desktop when I am not working and when I use them, for the current 1 x 32 inch to be inactive. Then when I switch back to work, for the 27 inch monitors to go back to my work laptop and for the 32 inch to kick back in on the desktop.

I do not need mouse or keyboards to switch over or anything - Just the monitors.

My searches have come up with KVM Switches but I am not sure if this would do what I want and they are a few hundred dollars - I'm hoping to do this as cheaply as possibly but if its not possible to do it on a low budget that's fine.

Would someone be able to assist me with this?

Thank you.

 

[Ralston18]

The starting point is to draw a simple sketch that shows all computer and monitors connections as you desire./require.

The sketch should show all ports, plugs, adapters, and connecting cables.

In the center put a "KVM" with a switch that toggles the desired display configurations between work(laptop) and desktop.

No need for a fancy sketch. You can easily find online examples by googling "KVM switch diagrams".

Clarity and completeness matter.

Then revise the search criteria as necessary to narrow down possible switches and configurations.
Does the laptop have a docking station? Do you have sufficient power connections?

Include as well.

Being able to see or have some sense of the big picture will help you keep track of it all.

Your basic requirement (as I understand your post) is a cross over where you not only switch computers (laptop and desktop) but displays as well (the 32" monitor and the 2 x 27" monitors.)

A search using "KVM switch diagrams 2 x 3" will result in any number possible options. Then you can revise the search using criteria narrowed to the specifics of your sketch.