Hands-On Tech 231: KVM for MacBook Pros

Host: Micah Sargent
Date: August 31, 2025
Episode Theme:
Micah Sargent answers a listener's question about simplifying a dual MacBook Pro setup with a triple monitor display by using a KVM (Keyboard, Video, and Mouse) switch. He explores KVM pros and cons for Mac users, reviews several top product options (and their costs), and suggests alternative solutions for a more seamless, cost-effective workflow.

Episode Overview

Micah Sargent tackles a practical tech challenge submitted by listener Robert:
How can someone efficiently switch a multi-monitor setup between two MacBook Pros—work and personal—without the constant “NASCAR pit stop” of unplugging cables and re-pairing peripherals?
Micah walks through the benefits and pitfalls of using a KVM, evaluates specific models supporting multiple monitors, and ultimately recommends a smarter, less expensive USB switch alternative tailored to this scenario.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Listener's Scenario and KVM Background (00:20–03:24)

• Listener Robert’s issue:
  Has two MacBook Pros (work + personal), an Anker dock for triple monitors, and wants an easier way than physically swapping cables and re-pairing Bluetooth devices every time.

  “Switching between my laptops feels a bit like a NASCAR pit stop… Do you think I could add a KVM switch to make this process easier? It would be awesome to switch devices with just the push of a button.” (Robert’s email, 00:32)

• Micah’s initial take:
  KVM switches are enticing but have specific pros and cons for Mac setups.

2. Pros and Cons of KVMs for MacBook Pros (03:24–06:36)

Pros

• Easy switching:

  “Switching between devices with just the press of a button is very nice.” (Micah, 03:32)

• Reduced port wear:
  Decreases damage from repeated plugging/unplugging.
• Cleaner desk and reduced cable clutter.
• Consistent peripherals:
  Removes need to re-pair Bluetooth devices.

Cons

• Bandwidth/resolution limitations:
  High refresh or 4K+ multi-monitor support is rare and pricey.

  “KVMs often struggle with high refresh rates, 4K plus resolutions, especially if you’re working with multiple monitors.” (Micah, 04:41)

• macOS compatibility quirks:
  Wake-from-sleep, display arrangement resets, flaky behavior.

  “Some KVMs just don’t play nicely with macOS…nightmarish experiences…switching…everything not working properly.” (Micah, 05:17)

• Added complexity and potential for new points of failure.
• High price for quality models:

  “Good KVMs that support multiple 4K displays aren’t cheap… at least $200, often much more.” (Micah, 05:53)

• Lower quality KVMs:
  May cause input lag or display artifacts.

3. KVM Product Recommendations and Analysis (06:36–11:45)

a. Level 1. TXT KVM (06:47)

• Features:
  DisplayPort 1.4, supports up to 4K@144Hz or 8K@30Hz; well-reviewed for MacBook use.
• Price:
  $750
• Intended for:
  “Power users”

  “At $750, it better be a power user device.” (Micah, 07:11)

• Note:
  Should use USB dongle-based peripherals for best compatibility.

b. IOGear GCS 1944 (08:14)

• Features:
  Dual monitor support (not triple); requires direct connection for third monitor.
• Price:
  $300
• Suitability:
  Reliable for Macs but with display limitations.

c. Startech.com Dual Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station (09:31)

• Features:
  Designed for dual-laptop scenarios; uses DisplayPort for better multi-monitor support.

• Price:
  $300

• Limitations:
  Dual monitor only; triple monitor "option" is actually a docking station, not a KVM.

  “Don’t get confused there. This is the one that is a KVM.” (Micah, 10:24)

• General Note:
  Most robust, high-multi-monitor KVMs are expensive and may still have limitations with macOS quirks.

4. An Alternate Solution – USB Switches (11:45–14:25)

• Suggestion:
  Use a USB-C switch (e.g., Cable Matters brand, $60) instead of a pricey KVM. Keep your current Anker dock and switch between laptops with a button press on the USB switch.

  “At the very least give it a shot at… $60. That’s a much easier test investment… before you go for these much more expensive options…” (Micah, 13:29)

• Peripherals:
  To avoid “Bluetooth shuffle,” use a wired or dongle-based wireless mouse and keyboard.

• Summary of Steps:

  • Laptops connect to USB-C switch.
  • USB-C switch output connects to existing dock.
  • All your peripherals remain attached to the dock.

• Advantage:
  Cheaper, simpler, leverages your existing dock.

5. Final Thoughts and Invitation for Listener Feedback (14:25–15:45)

• Micah’s summary:
  KVMs for MacBook Pros, especially with triple monitors, are neither easy nor cheap, and macOS can be finicky.

  • USB switch is likely the best balance of affordability and functionality for most users.

  “I think that this USB-C switch might be your answer given that you’ve already got this expensive dock that provides the functionality that you were looking for otherwise.” (Micah, 13:57)

• Invite for updates:

  “Let’s hear how that goes. I would love to hear how that goes for you, Robert.” (Micah, 14:20)

• Reflection:

  “I’ve avoided KVMs like the plague because of the experiences I’ve heard for people having on macOS… so it was fun to have to dig back into this…” (Micah, 14:40)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On macOS KVM struggles:

  “Some KVM’s just don’t play nicely with macOS… Features like Wake from sleep or more importantly specific display arrangements, having it reset every single time could be very annoying.” (Micah, 05:17)

• On cost-value tradeoffs:

  “It really is a put your money where your mouth is situation… Good KVMs that support multiple 4K displays aren’t cheap.” (Micah, 05:53)

• Summing up KVMs for Mac:

  “This is the hard part, trying to find something that works well with the Mac that already is very picky, especially when it comes to displays…” (Micah, 08:36)

• The USB switch practicality:

  “At the very least give it a shot at… $60. That’s a much easier test investment… before you go for these much more expensive options…” (Micah, 13:29)

Useful Timestamps

• [00:20] – Listener’s scenario read out
• [03:24] – KVM pros and cons for Macs
• [06:36] – Micah’s KVM product recommendations begin
• [11:45] – Alternate solution: USB switch
• [14:25] – Closing thoughts and encouragement for feedback

Summary Table: Product Options

| Device | Monitor Support | Price | Notes | |-------------------------------------------|---------------------|-------|------------------------------------------| | Level 1. TXT KVM | Up to 3 @ 4K/144Hz | $750 | Power user, reliable, high cost | | IOGear GCS 1944 | 2 monitors | $300 | Direct connect for third monitor | | Startech.com Dual Laptop USB-C KVM | 2 monitors | $300 | Meant for dual laptop, DisplayPort only | | Cable Matters USB-C Switch (suggested) | Based on dock | $60 | Uses your dock for all monitors/peripherals|

Conclusion

If your MacBook Pro setup involves multiple monitors and rapid switching, KVMs are possible but expensive and often unreliable with macOS. For most, especially if you already own a multi-monitor dock, a USB-C switch offers a simpler, more cost-effective solution without recurring pairing headaches or cable swaps. Try the affordable USB option first, and give feedback on your experience to the show.

Have a tech question or want to follow up?
Send your queries to Micah and the Hands-On Tech team at HOT@twit.tv.