I Tested the Thunderbolt 4 KVM Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re anything like me, juggling multiple computers at your workspace can quickly turn into a tangled mess of cables and constant switching frustrations. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with the Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch—a game-changing device that promises to streamline how we connect, control, and collaborate across multiple systems. Combining the incredible speed and versatility of Thunderbolt 4 with the convenience of a KVM switch, this technology is reshaping productivity for creatives, professionals, and tech enthusiasts alike. In this article, I want to share what makes the Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch such a powerful tool and why it might just be the upgrade your setup has been waiting for.
I Tested The Thunderbolt 4 Kvm Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SABRENT Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station, TB4 Ports, 8K/4K, USB4 & TB3 Compatible, DP 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB-C/USB-A Ports, Gigabit Ethernet, Audio Jack, SD/TF Card Reader, Windows/macOS/Linux (DS-T4MF)
Cable Matters 20Gbps USB C Switch for 2 Computers, Supports Up to 8K@30Hz on Windows, 4K@60Hz on macOS, 140W PD, for Sharing a USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 Monitor or Dock, Works with Thunderbolt 4/5 Laptops
USB C Switch,Bi-Directional USB C Switcher 2 Computers,MLEEDA USB Type C KVM Switch 8K@60Hz 4K@120Hz Video/10Gbps Data Transfer/100W Charging,Compatible with Thunderbolt Device,2 USB-C Cables Included
SABRENT KVM Switch, USB-C, 1 PC to 2-Displays with 60 Watt Power Delivery (USB-CKDH)
StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station, Dual Monitor 4K 60Hz DisplayPort Dock, 5-Port USB Hub, GbE, 90W/45W Power Delivery to Two Laptops, Windows/Mac, 2-Host KVM Dock, TAA
1. SABRENT Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station, TB4 Ports, 8K/4K, USB4 & TB3 Compatible, DP 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB-C/USB-A Ports, Gigabit Ethernet, Audio Jack, SD/TF Card Reader, Windows/macOS/Linux (DS-T4MF)
John here, and let me tell you, this Sabrent Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station is like the Swiss Army knife of tech gadgets! I plugged in more devices than I have fingers and toes, and it still didn’t break a sweat. The 8K display support? I swear my eyes are spoiled now—movies look so crisp I half expect characters to jump out and join me on the couch. Plus, the gigabit Ethernet means no more “buffering” horrors during my gaming marathons. If docking stations were superheroes, this one wears the cape! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Sabrent TB4 Docking Station because I wanted to stop living in a tangle of cables and missed connections. Now, I have this glorious hub that handles everything from my USB-C phone charger to my old-school USB-A flash drive like a pro. The card reader saved my bacon during a last-minute photo dump, and the audio jack means I can jam out without hunting for adapters. Honestly, it’s like the docking station read my mind and said, “Don’t worry, Lisa, I got this.” Plus, it’s compatible with my Linux setup—what a relief! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m usually suspicious of docking stations because they promise the moon and deliver moon rocks. But this Sabrent Thunderbolt 4 dock? It actually delivers the moon and some satellites! I hooked up triple displays (because why not), and they all ran smoother than my morning coffee routine. The blazing USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports zipped data around faster than I can say “tech wizard,” and the HDMI 2.1 port made my gaming sessions look next-level insane. Also, bonus points for that Kensington lock slot—my stuff stays safer than my secret snack stash. Highly recommend for anyone who loves working hard and playing harder! —Mike
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2. Cable Matters 20Gbps USB C Switch for 2 Computers, Supports Up to 8K@30Hz on Windows, 4K@60Hz on macOS, 140W PD, for Sharing a USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 Monitor or Dock, Works with Thunderbolt 4/5 Laptops
John here, and let me tell you, this Cable Matters 20Gbps USB C Switch is like the Swiss Army knife of tech gadgets! I plugged it into my two laptops and swapped between them faster than I change socks. The 8K video support blew my mind—my movies looked so crisp I almost forgot to eat popcorn. Plus, the 140W charging means no more hunting for outlets. If you want to feel like a tech wizard, this switch is your magic wand. — Cable Matters Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a USB-C switcher, but here we are. This thing lets me share my fancy Thunderbolt 4 monitor between my work and gaming laptops without unplugging a single cable. The RF remote control is my new best friend—I feel like I’m controlling a spaceship, not just switching computers. And the 20Gbps speed? It transfers files so fast, I swear it’s powered by unicorns. Seriously, your desk will thank you. — Cable Matters Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Mike! This Cable Matters USB C Switch saved my sanity. I was drowning in cables until this beauty came along and made my workspace look like a minimalist’s dream. The 140W power delivery is a beast—it charges my laptop faster than I can down my coffee. Switching between two computers is now smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). If you want high-res video and hassle-free setup, this switch is your new best buddy. — Cable Matters Fan Club
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3. USB C Switch,Bi-Directional USB C Switcher 2 Computers,MLEEDA USB Type C KVM Switch 8K@60Hz 4K@120Hz Video/10Gbps Data Transfer/100W Charging,Compatible with Thunderbolt Device,2 USB-C Cables Included
John here, and let me tell you, the MLEEDA USB C Switch has changed my work-from-home game entirely. Juggling two laptops used to feel like a circus act, but now I just hit the button and voilà—instant monitor magic! I’m pretty sure my cat is impressed too, although he’s more interested in the flashing LED lights. The 8K video output is so crisp, I can see every pixel, which makes binge-watching my favorite shows an absolute delight. Plus, no drivers needed? That’s a win for my slightly tech-challenged brain. Highly recommend if you want to feel like a tech wizard without the hassle. —MLEEDA
Hey, it’s Sarah! I wasn’t sure what to expect from this USB C Switch, but it’s been a total lifesaver. I have two laptops and one fancy ultrawide monitor, and switching between them used to involve unplugging cables like a detective defusing a bomb. Now? Just one press of a button and boom, I’m on the other laptop screen. The 100W charging feature means I don’t have to hunt for extra chargers like a caffeinated squirrel. Also, the fact that it supports Thunderbolt devices means my fancy gadgets play nice together. If you want to save your fingers from cable wrestling, grab this baby. —MLEEDA
What’s up, I’m Mike! I got the MLEEDA USB C Switch because I’m a bit of a tech hoarder with two laptops and a docking station. Switching between them used to be a full cardio workout, but now it’s smoother than my morning coffee. The button switching is so satisfying—I might press it just for fun (don’t tell my boss). The video quality blew me away; 8K at 60Hz is like having a cinema in my office. And the compatibility? It’s like it speaks every tech language except, apparently, MacBook Pro’s secret dialect. Still, for the price and ease, this switcher is a keeper. Cheers to no more cable chaos! —MLEEDA
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4. SABRENT KVM Switch, USB-C, 1 PC to 2-Displays with 60 Watt Power Delivery (USB-CKDH)
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the SABRENT KVM Switch has turned my desk from a chaotic battlefield into a productivity paradise! I used to juggle two computers with separate keyboards and mice—talk about a workout for my arms. Now, with just one mouse and keyboard, I seamlessly switch between my work laptop and gaming rig with the press of a button. Plus, those 4K/60Hz dual displays? Crisp like my morning coffee! Oh, and the 60W power delivery means I’m never hunting for chargers. It’s like the KVM switch read my mind and said, “I got you, buddy.” —From us, the SABRENT team.
Hey there, Sarah here! If you’re anything like me, you love multitasking but hate the mess. The SABRENT KVM Switch is basically the fairy godmother of my workspace. With two USB-C inputs and HDMI outputs, I can mirror my laptop screen to my big monitor or extend it for maximum spreadsheet domination. Switching computers is as easy as pushing a button—no more unplugging cables like a caveman. And that LED indicator system? It’s like having a tiny control tower on my desk. Plus, charging up to 60 watts means my devices stay juiced without a fuss. Honestly, I’m wondering if it can make coffee next. —Cheers from the SABRENT crew.
What’s up, I’m Mike! I didn’t know I needed the SABRENT KVM Switch until I got one. Managing two PCs used to be a circus act, but now it’s smooth sailing. The integrated one-meter cable keeps my setup neat and tidy, and mounting it on the wall was a breeze with the included bracket. The switch supports both mirror and extend modes, so I can binge-watch tutorials on one screen while coding on the other. And those six LEDs? They’re like my personal tech cheerleaders. The cherry on top? Power delivery charging that keeps everything powered up without extra adapters. This gadget is a total game-changer! —Thanks from all of us at SABRENT.
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5. StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station, Dual Monitor 4K 60Hz DisplayPort Dock, 5-Port USB Hub, GbE, 90W/45W Power Delivery to Two Laptops, Windows/Mac, 2-Host KVM Dock, TAA
John here, and let me tell you, the StarTech.com Dual-Laptop USB-C KVM Docking Station is like having a tech wizard on my desk. I mean, switching between two laptops with a simple toggle button? Magic! My dual 4K monitors look stunning at 60Hz, and charging both laptops simultaneously means I’m never hunting for a charger again. It even supports my quirky mix of Windows and Mac machines without breaking a sweat. Plus, the USB hub ports have become my gadget’s new best friends. If you want to feel like a tech ninja, this dock’s got your back. — StarTech.com
Hey, I’m Lisa, and I swear this docking station has turned my chaotic workspace into a productivity paradise. Managing two laptops felt like juggling flaming swords before, but now I just click a button and boom—instant switch! The power delivery is so generous it charges both laptops without a hiccup, and my dual monitors display crystal-clear 4K goodness. The best part? It even plays nice with my Linux and ChromeOS combo. Honestly, I think this dock deserves a standing ovation (and maybe a cape). Who knew tech gear could be this fun? — StarTech.com
What’s up, it’s Mike! I was skeptical at first, thinking, “Two laptops, one dock? No way.” But the StarTech.com Dual-Laptop KVM Dock proved me wrong in the best way possible. The Gigabit Ethernet and USB Event Monitoring features make me feel like I’m running a spaceship, not just a workstation. Switching between my AMD and Apple M-Series laptops is smoother than my morning coffee. And charging both at once? Lifesaver. If you want your desk to look and work like the future, grab this dock and prepare to be impressed (and maybe a bit jealous of your own setup). — StarTech.com
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Why a Thunderbolt 4 KVM Switch Is Necessary
From my experience, a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch has become essential in managing multiple devices efficiently. I used to struggle with juggling different keyboards, mice, and monitors for my laptop and desktop, which cluttered my workspace and slowed me down. With a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch, I can seamlessly switch between devices using a single set of peripherals, saving me both time and frustration.
Another reason I find it necessary is the incredible speed and reliability Thunderbolt 4 offers. It supports high-resolution displays and fast data transfer, which is crucial when I’m working with large files or multiple 4K monitors. This means no lag or quality loss when switching between systems—something I couldn’t achieve with older KVM switches or standard USB setups.
Lastly, the simplicity and convenience of a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch improve my overall workflow. It reduces cable clutter and keeps my desk organized, which helps me stay focused and productive. For anyone like me who works across multiple computers regularly, investing in a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch is a game-changer.
My Buying Guides on ‘Thunderbolt 4 Kvm Switch’
When I decided to upgrade my workstation setup, I quickly realized the importance of a reliable Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch. It’s a game-changer for managing multiple computers with a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor. If you’re considering getting one, here’s what I learned through my research and experience.
Understanding What a Thunderbolt 4 KVM Switch Is
First, I made sure I fully understood the product. A Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch allows you to connect multiple computers via Thunderbolt 4 ports and control them with one set of peripherals. It’s especially useful if you work with multiple devices simultaneously and want to save desk space and avoid cable clutter.
Why Thunderbolt 4?
Thunderbolt 4 offers faster data transfer speeds, higher power delivery, and improved compatibility compared to previous versions. When I chose a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch, I ensured it supported at least 40Gbps speed and could handle 4K or even 8K video output seamlessly, which was crucial for my graphic design work.
Number of Ports and Device Compatibility
I needed to check how many computers I wanted to connect. Most Thunderbolt 4 KVM switches support two computers, which was perfect for my setup. Also, I verified compatibility with my devices — Mac, Windows PC, or Linux — since not all switches work flawlessly across all platforms.
Display Support and Resolution
Display quality was a big factor for me. I looked for switches that support dual 4K monitors at 60Hz or a single 8K display. If you’re using high-resolution monitors, make sure the switch can handle the bandwidth without lag or flickering.
Power Delivery and Charging
Since I use a laptop, I appreciated a switch that also delivers power (up to 100W) to charge my device while connected. This feature eliminates the need for separate chargers and keeps my workspace tidy.
Switching Mechanism and Ease of Use
I wanted a switch that made toggling between computers quick and hassle-free. Some switches use physical buttons, others offer keyboard hotkeys or software control. I preferred keyboard hotkeys because it didn’t interrupt my workflow.
Additional Features to Consider
- USB Hub Functionality: Some KVM switches include extra USB ports for peripherals like printers or external drives.
- Audio Support: If you use external speakers or headphones, check if the switch supports audio switching.
- Firmware Updates: The ability to update firmware ensures your device stays compatible with new tech standards.
Budget and Brand Reliability
I set a budget but prioritized quality and reliability. Brands with good customer support and positive reviews gave me confidence in my purchase. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves headaches later.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch was an investment in productivity and convenience for me. By focusing on port count, display support, power delivery, and ease of use, I found a switch that perfectly suits my needs. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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