Best way to flip between personal and work PC

[-]

HotepHatt@reddit

I use the same keyboard and monitors for work and play, keyboard is wired for gaming and Bluetooth for work. The monitors have DisplayPort and HDMI so gaming system had the DP and work gets the HDMI. Three button presses and I am from one to the other…my mice are separate since I don’t need a gaming mouse for work…but it has bluetooth as well so I could use it like that.

[-]

alforque@reddit

Similar keyboard setup, except 2.4ghz for work/usb-c for personal PC. Additionally, can switch to Bluetooth for tablet.

[-]

LeeTheUke@reddit

I used to do this w/ a cheap USB Switch, plugging both PCs video out directly into the monitor and switching the video separately on the monitor. It wasn't perfect, but worked well enough.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPLR3JRY

[-]

sublym0nal@reddit

I have a similar setup, and just wanted to mention that monitor inputs can also be controlled via software that can send VCP codes to your monitor.

Since I'm switching between Windows and macOS machines, I put together a PowerShell cmdlet that detects the current operating system, uses either ControlMyMonitor or betterdisplaycli to send the appropriate codes, then locks the device.

Then it's simply a matter of running the script, pushing the USB switch's button, then waking up the other device with mouse/keyboard input.

[-]

LazzeB@reddit

May want to look at https://github.com/haimgel/display-switch. It automates all of this, works really well for me.

[-]

twinpop@reddit

Saving this, thanks for the info.

[-]

identifytarget@reddit

I have a similar setup, and just wanted to mention that monitor inputs can also be controlled via software that can send VCP codes to your monitor.

wait...I can control my monitor via API....then you just put the script on both machines and flip flip back and forth....

[-]

shadfc@reddit

I didn’t know this was a thing. That’ll be a nice change to my multi-pc single-monitor setup, just like you and op. Thanks!

[-]

identifytarget@reddit

Yup. Had to figure this out twice. For whatever reason, Both times I needed a 100% reliable WFH solution, I couldn't find a KVM that worked reliably, then between occaisionally troubleshooting a docked laptop that wouldn't wake up, it was better to remove the KVM as a possible variable.

Both times I have a dumb USB switch hooked to a small hub for KB,Mouse, webcam, etc. (anything you want hooked up to both computers).

Then I have one PC wired directly to monitors via HDMI and the other wired directly to monitors via DP.

It's a little clunky, But it only takes 10seconds, a few clicks on each monitor to flip the source, a button push on the USB switch and done.

[-]

b0wzy@reddit

I’ve been doing this for about 2 years. USB-C KVM for switching my mouse, keyboard, and speakers and I manually switch the input of my monitor - the only annoying thing is sometimes one of my pcs is a little fussy to wake up so I have to press the button to toggle them back-and-forth again, but it always ends up working.

[-]

Beriadan@reddit

I do the same, especially since my main rig is 2k/144hz gaming, I don't want the KVM switch to be the bottleneck (or cost an arm and a leg).

[-]

JZMoose@reddit

Yeah that’s like a $500 switch. Just get another cable and switch it manually

[-]

GerdinBB@reddit

Yup that's the exact solution I've been using since March of 2020. USB switcher for mouse, keyboard, and other peripherals, then change the monitor source separately.

Only thing that doesn't work for me is my keyboard backlight. I have a Corsair K68, and when I switch devices from personal to work laptop/dock the keyboard works but doesn't light up. If I unplug it and plug it back in, then the Corsair software recognizes it and I get the full lighting suite.

[-]

red_jesus1315@reddit

I do this everyday, but I keep a mouse for each PC separately so that I can monitor chats and emails, and also keep the other PC from going to sleep

[-]

illram@reddit

Came here to say this. Most inexpensive solution, only issue is sorting the wire mess.

[-]

clonefriendly@reddit

Remote Desktop into your work PC, or vice versa.

[-]

dubyakay@reddit

I can't believe this is so far down.

[-]

kingk1teman@reddit

It should be at the bottom. This is not allowed in many many organisations.

[-]

snippsville@reddit

because that’s usually locked down by it lol

[-]

goldnboy@reddit

This is how you get fired

[-]

StarterRabbit@reddit

Do you have more than keyboard and mouse? If not then you can get Logitech’s MX series and just switch devices with a button push.

[-]

Withinmyrange@reddit

I use an usb-c docking station

afaik, kvm switches limit the performance of your monitor. So for my main monitor which can hit 4k, 240hz, I have a DP plugged from monitor to gpu. Then I have a hdmi from my monitor to docking station. All my peripherals are plugged into my docking station. So it's an easy unplug from pc to work laptop and vice versa and I still get the full performance of all my gear

[-]

RAF2018336@reddit

How can you tell if a kvm switch will limit a pc’s performance?

[-]

dubyakay@reddit

A KVM will not limit a PC's performance. It will have a set transfer rate for hdmi, which is usually capped at 60Hz. So if you have a 120Hz or higher refresh rate monitor, well, you don't have one with a KVM.

I used to use a fairly cheap, $250 TESmart KVM, and it was the pits.

[-]

RAF2018336@reddit

Damn $250 isn’t even cheap lmao

[-]

Withinmyrange@reddit

I am not sure, its been a while since I researched in depth. afaik, a kvm switch will not blatantly tell you.

[-]

KarIPilkington@reddit

I have a simple usb KVM just for keyboard and mouse and manually flip the input on my monitor. Works well for me.

[-]

Different_Drummer_88@reddit

Synergy....I control 5 computers with one mouse and keyboard.

[-]

lordrakim@reddit

Barriers is an open source version

[-]

thebigbread42@reddit (OP)

Can't install any software on the work PC.

[-]

alienangel2@reddit

Damn. My work was fine with installing Synergy since lots of people had multiple work machines too (eg laptop + desktop).

I think it wouldn't really help you though since you want to switch the display between machines, while Synergy is just for switching inputs, not outputs.

[-]

MK6er@reddit

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=35460

Mouse without borders it's free. If you do per user install option it saves in your appdata you won't need admin pw on work PC. I use this at work and am the IT manager 😎.

[-]

MK6er@reddit

It's seamless if you have two monitors one for each PC. Otherwise you'd need to flip the input on the monitor and have both PCs connected to it.

If you just have just the one monitor then a hardware kvm is probably the way to go. Buy one that supports your monitor.

Other option is just to plug everything into your personal PC and RDP into your work PC. Submit a tkt to ur IT and just say you'd like RDP to be enabled for your user so you can remote into your workstation.

[-]

dragon_0n4@reddit

I love synergy! However, I don't think OP's config would allow this as he only has one screen....unless I missed it...since the screen he's using supports multiple inputs, sounds like that + a fast USB KVM should do it....I used that type of setup at work when imaging multiple PCs at once with limited desk space. Not the fastest, but much better than manually reconnecting everything IMHO.

[-]

lordrakim@reddit

If u got extra monitors use barrier.. its free and u can seemlessly move your mouse (& keyboard) to another pc... I have them setup side by side

[-]

4rch1t3ct@reddit

kvm switch

[-]

Dyrosis@reddit

A lot of fancy monitors have a built in KVM switch these days, check the manual

[-]

AutoModerator@reddit

LMGTFY links / telling people to "google it" is not allowed in this subreddit, as they are not useful answers. Please resubmit your comment with an actual link to the answer.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

[-]

UserCheckNamesOut@reddit

I use Microsoft Powertoys to share mouse & keyboard. Both PCs need to be running it. The feature you want is mouse without borders

[-]

thegurujim@reddit

If the OP uses a VPN or something like an SDWAN at home, then it's not likely they'll be able to use this.

[-]

DV8_MKD@reddit

My company runs their own VPN and they allow this. It's godsend.

[-]

MaxHubert@reddit

This is the way.

[-]

reallynotnick@reddit

As if I’m installing software on my locked down work machine.

[-]

MaxHubert@reddit

Its from microsoft, my laptop is also lockdown but this one is allowed.

[-]

UserCheckNamesOut@reddit

It is until you use one for gaming

[-]

MaxHubert@reddit

Its fine if you use your main PC as your gaming PC.

[-]

CaptainofFTST@reddit

Yup! Day One of Working From Home for Covid & starting Red Dead Redemption 2 until now using the same solution.

[-]

rooster_butt@reddit

Lots of work pcs are locked down and this won't work. I know because my work laptop is locked down. :)

[-]

CaptainofFTST@reddit

Ask the IT team for it to be installed. Lord knows they are probably using it. I should know because if you worked with me I'd be the one you'd ask.

[-]

LlaughingLlama@reddit

Your IT team is more likely to install a Microsoft branded utility for you than if it was from some random company. Ask.

[-]

Olue@reddit

IT will install something for you to easily switch back and forth with your personal PC? Fat chance lol

[-]

Placenta_Polenta@reddit

Yeah this is frowned upon with our security team

[-]

clamchowderz@reddit

I have a Samsung 49 wide and there is a setting where you can Mac and PC shown on the screen at the same time. I'm sure you can figure out keyboard and mouse part.

[-]

Mike_R_NYC@reddit

I know I am old, but do they not make KVM switches any more?

[-]

dubyakay@reddit

OP, it's been mentioned before but I firmly stand by RDPing in to your work laptop over local network from your home PC. It will give you the most seamless experience, while also allowing you to just put the RDP app into the background if you want to procrastinate.

[-]

binary-idiot@reddit

You might not be able to, depending on your works policies, but I just remote into my work PC so I can use all the same monitors, keyboard, mouse, ect. The only hickup is I used to get delays on my audio so I got a USB switch for that and my webcam.

[-]

dubyakay@reddit

I solved this by calling into meetings via companion mode or similar from my phone instead.

[-]

gimmicked@reddit

Mouse without borders.

[-]

changen@reddit

I used to use a 20$ USB switch, but Ugreen has a 8k60hz kvm for like 70$. That works with well with my 4k240hz display.

[-]

definitlyitsbutter@reddit

A 2 usb kvm for mouse and keyboard (cheaper then a highend kvm with video), monitor gets plugged in directly into pc and laptop. For the laptop you maybe get a usb c dock for just one plug connect.

If you have both directly connected to your monitor, maybe you can use stuff like picture in picture, so game in boring meetings and stuff...

[-]

thebigbread42@reddit (OP)

Yeah I think that's the way to go. Every KVM with video I can find that supports this is the price of a low end gaming pc..

Not concerned about features like PIP though.

[-]

skimson@reddit

I got a ugreen two monitor KVM. My main monitor is 3840x1600 @144hz so I needed a lot of bandwidth for it, which didn't seem commonly available unless you go with something like startech, but those KVMs cost an arm. I am not sure if I can share links here, but the Asin was B0DXF5Z23S - you should be able to find it. It cost me £70 and been faultless so far

[-]

skimson@reddit

Nvm, I think links are fine - here it is on Amazon https://amzn.eu/d/0cGHhQex

[-]

theindomitablefred@reddit

You can get KVM switches for a clean setup but they’re a little expensive. I use individual HDMI splitters to switch the displays between computers and just have two sets of mouse/keyboard.

[-]

-Anordil-@reddit

Been doing this for a few years, KVM has all the peripherals connected to both my work laptop and personal desktop, and I just manually switch the monitor to a different input. KVM was maybe $60 on Amazon back then

[-]

RabidTurtl@reddit

When you are looking at a KVM don't look at the listed resolution/refresh rate, look at what type of HDMI/DP it is. They are just going to list the "maximum" for whatever HDMI/DP version it has not the range of resolutions that port supports, which normally will be something like 8k 60hz for DP 2.1 or 4k 144hz for DP 1.4. Your monitor has DP 2.1, so get a KVM and DP cables that are DP 2.1. Haven't read reviews (some kvms suck, so read reviews) but this one is $50 and has DP 2.1.

[-]

Brutl@reddit

I run an odyssey G9 at home. It supports dual input, basically making it 2 standard 1440p monitors. I run my work laptop on one side and my personal PC on the other. After work, I turn off the dual input and it's back to ultrawide for the personal PC. I just use a standard USB switching hub to swap control of my keyboard and mouse between the two.

[-]

Grenoa@reddit

This is good. Picture by picture mode so splits your wide monitor into 2 then use something like a deskhop (https://github.com/hrvach/deskhop) to seamlessly switch between your computers. There are sellers on Etsy for it if you are not comfortable building it yourself.

[-]

thebigbread42@reddit (OP)

Sounds like the way to go, I think I can just add some kind of USB based DAC and I'll be golden.

[-]

TreesLikeGodsFingers@reddit

Audio out of the monitor switches based on its input. You’ll need a cable and a speaker

[-]

MidshipLyric@reddit

This is what i do as well except rather than switch USB, i just have a drawer to hide a second keyboard and mouse.

[-]

DeadProfessor@reddit

i had KVM switch and just plugged pressed a button to switch but i didnt like the fps. So i just use remote desktop or something from my personal pc and leave the work laptop always on. Easier and faster.

[-]

fakeaccount572@reddit

I use the Logitech MX Keys and MX Master mouse. Each has three switches. Easy.

[-]

the_ib_trader@reddit

This. I switch between 3 easily using this. Work, my home workstation and personal laptop. Reliable setup.

[-]

windowpuncher@reddit

Windows mouse without borders

wireless usb hub switch

usb hub switch

[-]

DarkflowNZ@reddit

On the same network? I'm using mouse without borders for this and it works great

[-]

HeardsTheWord@reddit

I remote into my laptop from my personal PC. I have a wide screen monitor, which is plenty of space to do my coding. Makes it so I don't have to do anything to swap audio, keyboard, or mouse

[-]

ghjm@reddit

There are no KVMs out yet that support Displayport 2.1 UHBR. Does the work computer need to be 240Hz? If not, plug the gaming computer in by DP and the work computer by HDMI and use the monitor controls to switch imputs, and get a USB-only switch for your keyboard and mouse. You'll have to push two buttons instead of one, but at least you won't be plugging and unplugging cables.

If they both have to be 240Hz at full resolution then I don't think you have any option but to move the cable.

[-]

Able-Sandwich8411@reddit

I have a Logitech k860 keyboard and a Logitech Lift mouse and they both have buttons on them that lets you switch between 3 devices

[-]

greedybanker3@reddit

i used a usb switch. same desk and equipment for work and play. made life easy.

[-]

slowro@reddit

Before I learned about mouse without borders I got a USB hub that has a button to swap between computers. That's how I would swap my input devices. Now I can do this all in software pretty easy.

My monitor has Dell software that I can change the input from the desktop.

I still have a dock that I plug my work laptop into and whenever I need more monitor space I swap my monitor input.

[-]

IcarusV2@reddit

My setup: Work laptop and personal desktop both plugged into monitor - switch input via OSD. My G915X keyboard is connected via dongle to personal desktop, and via Bluetooth to work laptop. Easy switching of connectivity via the keyboard. Use G Pro X 2 mouse for personal, then just a second wireless mouse for work laptop.

[-]

Placenta_Polenta@reddit

Yep this is exactly what I do. My old workplace allowed mouse without borders, but I couldn’t do it at the new job so I just swap mice.

[-]

BrianKronberg@reddit

For work I have been provisioned a Windows 365 VDI. I keep that on one monitor and my home PC which is BYOD to a different company. Makes it really easy to share everything.

[-]

silvarium@reddit

If you have windows pro on both desktops, why not just use RDP?

[-]

drabgail@reddit

I have this exact same use case! I have been trying for ages to find something which will pass through the hdmi and usb and seamlessly switch with a button press but I really haven’t found anything reliable for the g9. Best I got was a cheap usb kvm which I have Velcro stuck under my desk and having to switch the input on the monitor between Displayport and hdmi. G9 firmware is god awful so you can’t use ‘auto switch input’ reliably. I really wanted to use the dual input mode for work so each side of the monitor is properly a monitor for work but hey.

[-]

thebigbread42@reddit (OP)

I think this is the way i am going to go: displayport to usb c for laptop, straight displayport for personal PC, with speakers connected to the Odyssey and the mouse/keyboard connected to the KVM. I tried using the built in USB ports but the wireless signal seems to be blocked from there.

[-]

Placenta_Polenta@reddit

I just use hdmi for each PC and flip inputs by pressing a number on my LG CX48 remote.

[-]

Pyrockk@reddit

These are not cheap but are bullet proof. Plenty of options in here to find exactly what you want

[-]

WizardMoose@reddit

This is the answer OP. These are the best KVM switches.

[-]

MaxHubert@reddit

You can also try Microsoft PowerToys, mouse without border, you can seemlessly use mouse and keyboard on multiple pc just by move your mouse across the screens like its a single PC.

[-]

asha1985@reddit

I'm going this exact setup. My work laptop, my custom desktop, and an Odyssey G9.

https://www.store.level1techs.com/products/p/14-kvm-switch-single-monitor-2computer-64pfg-7l6da?utm_medium=email&utm_source=customer_notification

Its currently OOS, but it is working very well after several months.

[-]

mr_silent_s@reddit

Nice bit of software that I used to use which can switch keyboard and mouse between computers. There's a bit of a setup but from what remember it wasn't too complicated

https://github.com/debauchee/barrier

[-]

Joe_Snuffy@reddit

IMO the easiest, cheapest, most reliable method is simply two sets of keyboards & mice, if your desk allows for it.

I have a triple monitor mount with my personal Samsung monitor in the middle surrounded by two Dell monitors from work. The Dell monitors are connected to my work docking station. My Samsung monitor is connected to my desktop via DP, and connects to my work laptop directly via HDMI.

My desk has a pull out mouse/kb tray, so I have my work kb/m there with my desktops kb/m on the top of the desk.

So all I need to do to switch between my work laptop and my desktop is simply toggle my monitors input between DP and HDMI.

My coworker uses a KVM and it's an absolute mess and he's always having issues. Can't tell you how many times he joins a Teams meeting and his mic isn't working until he messes with the KVM

[-]

mandrewbot3k@reddit

I have a tri mode keyboard (usb/BT/2.4ghz). USB-C to persona desktop and BT mode to my work laptop. BT mouse has multi connections between devices. Standard dell usb-c dock for power/monitor (hdmi)

Home desktop: Usb-c keyboard Bluetooth mouse (connection 1) Monitor DP

Work laptop: Keyboard Bluetooth mode Bluetooth mouse (conn2) Monitor HDMI from dell dock USB-c/TB dock connection

Requires a three manual switches but isn’t bit plugging/unplugging stuff at least.

[-]

techmattr@reddit

I use UGREEN KVMs with multiple 5k2k 120hz and 165hz monitors just fine.

[-]

altnation17@reddit

I use this. It works well and all I have to do is press the switch on the device itself to switch between my PC and work laptop. It also comes with a plugin switch if you want to hide the device but still have the switch on your desk. I run the cables to a dock for my work laptop.

[-]

misterchi@reddit

i use an app called sharemouse. allows me to use either mouse/keyboard between 2 laptops

[-]

kamaro_@reddit

GL.iNet Comet Pro might be overboard but its nice you just remote into it from your main computer

[-]

cognitiveglitch@reddit

I have an ultrawide with multiple inputs. During the day I used the ultrawide for work and RDP to my home machine for the odd non-work thing, then in the evenings switch it to my PC directly.

I have a cheap USB switcher that moves my mouse and keyboard between the two at the press of a button.

Easy, cheap, works well.

[-]

Rust_Cohle-@reddit

I have my devices inc my screen connected into hub that has a switch which swaps between the host inputs. Probably one of the cheaper ways of doing it.

I then have a MacBook dock/stand which is similar, just no button so I just swap the host cable and everything is then connected to either the MacBook or the pc.

[-]

Bison_True@reddit

Ckl kvm

[-]

jisuo@reddit

Well I don’t need to switch until work day is over but..

Work: MacBook + apple keyboard + trackpad + hdmi to monitor

Gaming pc: wireless Logitech keyboard + mouse + DisplayPort to same monitor.

If I lock my Mac and start the pc it just switches to the DP cable auto. No switch needed

[-]

gokartninja@reddit

Well I have a second m&k for work and home PCs, but even at work, I have a keyboard with BT, USB, and 2.4G connectivity. I BT to one, and keep the 2.4 dongle on the other, so I can switch from one to the other by simply sliding the switch to a different position. I do still use a second mouse for it, but you can get a mouse that has BT and 2.4G if you want.

[-]

george-alexander2k@reddit

Just use Barrier

[-]

thebigbread42@reddit (OP)

I need a hardware option because it's very strict on what software can be installed on the work PC.

[-]

RevolutionaryAct4194@reddit

What about parsec?

[-]

selectsyntax@reddit

What you want is a KVM switch.