2 Computers 1 Monitor Setup - Most Viewed 2x1 KVM Guide

Key Takeaways

This is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to run two computers with one screen — without unplugging anything or dealing with software.

• Learn how to connect 2 laptops to 1 monitor using a KVM switch
• See which cables, adapters, and USB hubs you’ll need
• Enjoy fast, seamless switching between two computers with a single button press
• Watch a full step-by-step video for Mac + PC setups (applicable to other setups too)
• Get personalized help through our Intake Form

2 Laptops 1 Monitor Setup – Mac + PC Guide

A personal note from Justin: This 2x1 KVM setup is one of the most popular configurations we help customers with. It’s simple, reliable, and great for anyone working between two laptops. In our demo, each laptop uses the shared monitor as a second screen — giving you an instant dual-monitor experience with no cable swapping.

This step-by-step video shows how to connect two laptops — Mac, PC, or both — to one shared monitor using a KVM switch. It's perfect if you're searching for how to connect 2 laptops to 1 monitor, switch between 2 computers with one keyboard and mouse, or build a clean dual-laptop desk setup. It’s ideal for remote workers, students, or anyone switching between personal and work computers. Because the KVM acts as a hardware switch, each computer stays isolated and can share the same monitor and peripherals without needing software.

Real World Benefits

This setup is especially helpful if:

• Your work and personal laptops are separate
• You use Mac and Windows and want one clean workflow
• You need a clutter-free desk with one monitor and one set of peripherals

What You Need for a 2 Computer 1 Monitor Setup

Before getting started, here's what you'll need:

To build the setup shown in the video, you’ll need:

• 1x 2-Port KVM Switch

• • TESmart HDMI KVM – 4K@60Hz
  • TESmart DisplayPort KVM – 4K@60Hz

• 2x HDMI or DisplayPort cables (included with the KVM) – these carry video from each computer to the monitor through the KVM.
• 2x USB-A to USB-B cables (included with the KVM) – these connect each computer to the KVM so they can share your keyboard, mouse, webcam, and other USB devices.
• Adapters (if your laptop only has USB-C, Thunderbolt, or Mini DP)

• ⚠️ USB-C must support DisplayPort Alt Mode — this means your USB-C port can send video to an external monitor. Not all USB-C ports support this, so check your laptop specs or look for a display icon next to the port.
• Not all adapters are made equal. See our Approved Adapter List for options that we've tested & verified.

• Powered USB hub (optional, for webcam or headset sharing) – Powered hubs ensure that all your devices receive enough voltage to function reliably when switching between computers. See our Recommended Accessories for tested options.

HDMI or DisplayPort — Which KVM Should You Choose?

• Choose HDMI if your monitor and laptops already have HDMI ports or you’re using HDMI adapters.
• Choose DisplayPort if your monitor has DP input and your laptops support DP natively or through USB-C adapters.
• Both support 4K@60Hz, shared USB devices, and hotkey switching.

If you're unsure, send your laptop and monitor model to us via the Intake Form — we’ll help you pick the right setup.

Who Should Use a KVM Switch with 2 Laptops (Mac + PC)

This setup works with any combination of laptops or desktops, whether you're using Mac, Windows, or Linux. The KVM switch requires no drivers, so it’s fully compatible across all operating systems.

It's ideal if you want to:

• Share one monitor between two computers
• Use a single keyboard, mouse, webcam, and headset for both systems
• Mix laptops and desktops — any combo works (Mac + PC, Windows + Linux, etc.)
• Avoid constant plugging, unplugging, or switching input sources manually

If you're managing more than two computers, you can use a 4-port or 8-port KVM switch to scale up — but for this guide, we're keeping it simple with a 2-port model that covers the most common home and office setups.

Who This Setup Is Not For

This guide is not for users who want to run two external monitors across two systems. For that, check out our full Dual Monitor KVM Setup Guide.

Still unsure what you need? Submit your setup details through our Intake Form — we’ll send a custom recommendation.

How to Connect 2 PC's to 1 Monitor with a KVM Switch

This section walks through wiring everything together, just like in the video (see 2:33–4:43). Each computer connects to the KVM with two cables: one for video, one for USB control.

Step 1: Connect Laptop 1 (Lenovo C940)

• Use a USB-C to HDMI adapter (or DP, depending on your KVM model) — this model uses USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode for external video
• Plug HDMI into the KVM’s PC1 video input
• Connect the USB-A to USB-B cable from the laptop to the KVM’s PC1 USB input

Step 2: Connect Laptop 2 (2019 MacBook Pro)

• Use a multi-port adapter with HDMI and USB-A — this lets you connect both video and USB to the KVM from laptops that only have USB-C or Thunderbolt ports. The 2019 MacBook Pro supports DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C.
• Plug HDMI into the KVM’s PC2 video input
• Connect USB-A to USB-B from the Mac to the KVM’s PC2 USB input

Step 3: Connect Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse

• Plug your monitor into the KVM’s output port (HDMI or DP Out)
• Plug your keyboard and mouse into the dedicated USB ports on the KVM
• (Optional) Plug a powered USB hub into the USB 2.0 port if you're sharing a webcam or headset

Step 4: Power Everything On

• Connect the KVM’s power adapter
• Power on your laptops
• The KVM should show “Online 1” and “Online 2” if both USB cables are connected properly

Once wired, you’re ready to switch between laptops with a single button press, hotkey, or remote. Once you've confirmed the base environment is working correctly, you can move onto setting up additional peripherals if desired.

Step 5: Set Up Teleconferencing Devices (Optional)

(see 4:49–5:57 in the video)

If you plan to share a webcam, headset, or other USB accessories between both laptops, plug them into a powered USB hub, then connect that hub to the USB 2.0 port on the KVM.

This allows devices like webcams and mics to follow whichever laptop is currently selected.

• Plug your powered USB hub into the KVM’s USB 2.0 port
• Connect your webcam and headset to the hub
• Open your video conferencing app (Zoom, Teams, etc.) on each laptop
• Check video and audio settings to confirm both are working

We recommend testing both laptops to make sure your mic and webcam follow the active system correctly.

Everyday Benefits of a KVM Switch for 2 Computers

Fast & Seamless Computer Switching

Once everything is set up, switching between computers is instant. You can toggle between laptops using:

• The front button on the KVM
• The included remote control
• A keyboard hotkey
  • Scroll Lock + Scroll Lock + 1 switches to Computer A
  • Scroll Lock + Scroll Lock + 2 switches to Computer B

No more unplugging cables, changing monitor inputs, or juggling USB devices. Switching is fast, seamless, and works regardless of your operating system.

EDID Monitor Memory

EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) allows the KVM to remember your monitor's layout and resolution settings for each computer. This means your windows and icons stay in the same place when switching between systems — no need to rearrange your desktop every time.

Shared Peripherals and Cleaner Desk

Because both laptops share a single monitor, keyboard, mouse, webcam, and headset, your desk stays clean and organized. No more cable clutter or duplicate devices — just one smooth workflow, no matter which computer you're using.

KVM Switch Troubleshooting (2 Laptop Setup)

Most users get up and running without any problems. But if something isn’t working, here are the most common issues and how to solve them:

No Video on One Computer

• If you're using an adapter, make sure it's one of our Approved Adapters.
• Some USB-C ports don’t support video — look for a display icon next to the port or check your specs for “DisplayPort Alt Mode.”
• For more steps see this Video Troubleshooting Article

Mouse or Keyboard Not Working

• Make sure the USB cable is connected between the laptop and the KVM. This is the most common missed step in the entire setup process.
• Don’t use the USB 2.0 peripheral port for your keyboard or mouse — use the dedicated USB inputs on the KVM.
• For more steps see this Mouse & Keyboard Troubleshooting Article

Webcam or Mic Not Detected

• Plug them into a powered USB hub, then connect the hub to the KVM’s USB 2.0 port.
• Make sure that you connect power to the USB hub first before plugging the hub into the KVM.
• Confirm Zoom/Teams/Meet is set to use the correct input/output device after switching.

No Audio Output

• Open your system sound settings and verify the correct output device is selected.
• On macOS, go to System Settings > Sound. On Windows, go to Control Panel > Sound or right-click the sound icon in the taskbar.
• Some headsets may take a second or two to switch after you change computers — give it a moment, then retest.
• For more steps see this Audio Output Troubleshooting Article

Not Sure Which KVM Is Right for You?

If you're still not sure which KVM or adapters you need, we can help. Just tell us what laptops, desktops, or monitors you're using, and we'll send back a personalized recommendation.

Fill out the Intake Form — it only takes a minute.

We'll help you:

• Pick the right KVM for your laptop, desktop, or monitor setup
• Identify which cables, adapters, or docks you'll need
• Avoid compatibility problems with USB-C, Alt Mode, or docking stations

We’ve helped thousands of customers get this right the first time—without headaches.

FAQ: 2 Laptops 1 Monitor Setup Using a KVM Switch