If you have two computers one monitor, how to connect them correctly. MiniTool provides you some options. With the given methods, you can even connect two or multiple computers to one monitor.
It is very common that some families have two or more computers. Though having multiple computers is useful, getting a separate monitor for each computer takes up a lot of space. Actually, it is unnecessary to do that. You can use one monitor two computers or more.
How to connect two computers to one monitor? The answer depends on the configuration of your computers. Are they side-by-side on the same desk? Are they in the same room? The following are some methods for you.
Use a Monitor with Multiple Ports
As most good monitors have multiple inputs, the first method to connect two or more computers to one monitor is to use the modern computer monitor. For instance, a typical monitor has two HDMI or DisplayPort sockets. Some monitors have VGA, DVI, and HDMI ports.
To switch between the 2 computers 1 monitor, you need to access the internal menu of the monitor and change the input. Besides, you have to plug and unplug the input devices every time you access an individual computer. Importantly, an ultrawide monitor is needed to display the complete view of two computers.
The advantage of this method is that it is simple and effective. If your current monitor is compatible, you can directly use it.
Remote Desktop Programs
A free way to connect two computers to one monitor is to use a remote desktop client and server application. This method allows you to remotely control one or more computers from your main device. You don’t even have to be in the same country as the second computer.
However, it has downsides as well. The major pro is the connection quality. Some connections are so bad that keystrokes or mouse movement are delayed. Another drawback is the screen clarity.
To use the remote desktop client & sever application, you can apply these steps.
Step 1: Run the client app on the system.
Step 2: Run the server app on another computer.
Step 3: Then the client system will show the screen of the second system as a window. You can maximize or minimize it at any time.
Also read: [Full Guide] Unlock Windows 11 with Your Face in Windows Hello
Hardware KVM Switches
KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse. A KVM switch is a device that can control multiple computers through a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor. If you connect two computers one monitor with it, you don’t have to unplug and re-plug constantly.
The price of the KVM switch varies according to its functionality. For instance, a basic 2-port VGA model costs you about twenty dollars, while a high-end 4K 4-port unit costs hundreds of dollars.
The KVM switch is easy to use. You just need to plug everything in and use each computer with no performance penalty or software glitches. This item also has downsides. All of the computer should be physically connected to the KVM switch. Additionally, all display and USB cables have length limits.
Also read: Keyboard and Mouse for Nintendo Switch [How to Choose and Use]
How to connect two computers to one monitor? Here are 3 methods for doing that. Pick one according to your need.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Having writing articles about computer tech for a long time, I am rather experienced especially on the aspect of computer optimization, PC enhancement, as well as tech terms explanation. The habit of looking through tech forums makes me a great computer issues collector. And then, many articles related to these issues are released, which benefit plenty of users. Professional, effective, and innovative are always the pursuit of an editing worker.