KVM
What KVM means on a monitor
KVM stands for Keyboard, Video and Mouse. A monitor with a built-in KVM switch can share a connected keyboard and mouse between two or more computers, while the monitor displays the selected computer’s video signal.
This can reduce desktop clutter when one setup is used with multiple computers, such as a work machine and a personal computer. The exact arrangement depends on the monitor’s video inputs, USB connections and switching controls.
Why it matters on MonitorFit
On MonitorFit, Built-in KVM switch is listed as a product capability. The observed catalog includes products marked both “Yes” and “No”, so KVM is a feature to filter for when shared peripherals are important to you.
A product page may also list a KVM switch ports quantity. That field can help indicate the cataloged switching capacity, but the number alone does not explain which computers, video connections or USB devices are supported.
When KVM is useful
KVM is relevant when you want to use one monitor, keyboard and mouse with multiple computers without maintaining a separate peripheral set for each one. It may be less important if you use only one computer, already have a separate KVM device, or do not need to share USB peripherals.
The feature is about switching control and connections. It is not a rating of image quality, switching speed, reliability or overall monitor quality.
What the KVM label does not tell you
A “KVM: Yes” flag does not, by itself, confirm:
- How many computers can be switched
- Which video inputs are involved
- Which USB ports connect to the computers or peripherals
- Whether switching is performed with a button, on-screen menu or another control
- What video resolution or refresh-rate combinations remain available
- Whether every keyboard, mouse or USB accessory will work as expected
The MonitorFit catalog also shows products with user controls that include KVM, alongside controls such as Input, Menu and Power On/Off. This identifies available control functions, but it is not a complete description of the KVM implementation.
What to check on a product page
Check the complete connection and control details rather than relying on the capability flag alone. In particular, look for:
- The number of computers or KVM ports supported
- The listed video inputs and outputs
- USB upstream and peripheral connections
- How KVM switching is controlled
- Any stated limitations for display modes or connected accessories
Nearby concepts include USB hub, USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort. These describe related connections or functions, but they do not automatically mean that a monitor has a built-in KVM switch.