Choose the Right TESmart KVM for Your Setup

TESmart KVM switches let you control multiple computers with a single set of monitors, keyboard, and mouse — supporting a wide range of use cases, connection types, and display needs.

To choose the right model, start with these three points:

  • Number of computers
  • Number of monitors
  • Port type on your devices

 

Ⅰ. Quick Guide

For most users, start with the Category Comparison and Series Comparison tables below, then check the setup table that matches your application.

Table 1 — Category Comparison

Category Input Port Type Typical Scenario Recommended Users Example Models
HKS HDMI Basic HDMI-only setups Office desks workstations HKS202-P23 / HKS1601-EB23
HDK HDMI + DP Mixed HDMI and DP environments Tech enthusiasts / Graphic designers HDK202-P23 / HDK202-M24
DKS DP High-performance DP setups Video professionals / Gamers DKS202-M24 / DKS203-M24
HDC HDMI + DP + USB-C Desktop + Laptop hybrid setups Hybrid workers / Content creators HDC202-P23 / HDC203-PM24
CKS USB-C Laptop-only setups Mobile workers / Lightweight setups CKS202-P23-N / CKS201-M23
THK Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) + HDMI Apple Studio Display and mixed Thunderbolt 4 / HDMI setups Mac users / Studio Display users / creators THK401-X4

Table 2 — Series Comparison

Series Name Abbreviation Positioning Resolution Support Shared USB Transmission
Lite L Entry-level essentials 4K30Hz USB2.0
Elite E Stable everyday use 4K60Hz / 2K120Hz USB2.0
Prime P Most popular mainstream choice 4K60Hz / 2K120Hz USB3.0
Master M High-performance professional series 8K60Hz / 4K144Hz USB3.0
Xtreme X Advanced interface-focused models, including Thunderbolt-based configurations on either the input side or the output side, depending on the model Varies by model USB3.0

Ⅱ. Quick Selection by Setup

Select the table that matches your required number of computers, monitors, and interface type, then compare the recommended product options for that scenario.

Table 3 — For 2 PCs

Number of Monitors HKS (HDMI) HDK (HDMI+DP) DKS (DP) HDC (HDMI + DP + USB-C) CKS (USB-C)
1 HKS201-P23
HKS201-M24
CKS201-M23
2 HKS202-E23
HKS202-P23
HKS202-M24
HDK202-E23 HDK202-P23 HDK202-M24 DKS202-M24 HDC202-P23
HDC202-X24
CKS202-P23-N
3 HKS203-P24 HDK203-M24 DKS203-M24 HDC203-P24          HDC203-PM24
4 —                    HDK204-P24   —   —  —                        

Table 4 — For 4 PCs

Number of Monitors HKS (HDMI) HDK (HDMI+DP) DKS (DP) HDC (HDMI + DP + USB-C) Thunderbolt (USB-C)
1 HKS401-P23
HKS401-M23
THK401-X4
2 HKS402-P23 HDK402-M24 DKS402-P23 DKS402-M24 HDC402-P23
3 HKS403-P23 HDK403-P23 DKS403-M24 HDC403-P23
4 HDK404-P23

Table 5 — For 8 / 16 PCs

Number of Monitors HKS (HDMI) HDK (HDMI+DP) DKS (DP) HDC (HDMI + DP + USB-C) CKS (USB-C)
1 HKS801-EB23
HKS801-P23 HKS801-M24
1 HKS1601-EB23
HKS1601-P23 HKS1601-M24


Ⅲ. Explore TESmart Collections by Scenario

If you’re still comparing options, you can explore TESmart’s product collections by setup scenario to to narrow down the right KVM more efficiently based on monitor count, interface type, and performance needs.

Gaming Solutions — High Performance, Low Latency

Official Solutions — Dual PC, Dual Monitor

Hybrid Solutions — USB-C & Multi-Interface Workstations

 

Ⅳ. FAQs

Review this section for answers to common selection, compatibility, and usage questions.
It is designed to help clarify typical concerns before purchase and make the selection process more straightforward.

🧩 Ports & Compatibility

Q: My laptop only has a Type-C port. Can I still use your KVM?

A: Yes. Choose CKS or HDC series, which support USB-C input and HDMI output.

Q: My PC uses DP, but my monitor uses HDMI. Which model should I choose?

A: Choose a mixed-input model such as the HDK series, with HDMI+DP inputs and HDMI output.

Q: Can I use extended mode on dual or triple monitors?

A: Yes. If your system and GPU support extended displays. Almost all our models support EDID emulation, helping maintain stable recognition during switching.

🖥️ Display & Performance

Q: Do your KVMs support 8K resolution or high refresh rates?

A: Yes. The Master series support up to 8K@60Hz / 4K@144Hz, with VRR, G-Sync, and FreeSync compatibility.

Q: Do your KVMs support HDR, 4:4:4 chroma, and independent audio channels?

A: Yes. Many models do, but support varies by model. Please check the product specifications.

⚙️ Usage & Features

Q: Can I switch channels using keyboard hotkeys?

A: Yes. All models support hotkeys, front-panel switching and IR remote; some support OSD or mouse switching, whilst a few models support RS232 & LAN control.

Q: Can I share USB devices like printers or webcams?

A: Yes. All models include USB hub ports, with USB 2.0 models featuring USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) ports and USB 3.0 models featuring USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) ports, along with dedicated USB ports for keyboard and mouse to ensure stable HID operation.

Q: Can I leave the KVM running 24/7?

A: Yes. The KVM is designed for continuous enterprise-level operation and has been tested for long-term stability in both aging tests and real-world deployments. However, for optimal longevity, it is recommended to power off the device when it is not in use for extended periods.

 

Ⅴ. Need Confirmation?

If you are not fully sure which KVM fits your setup, please provide your equipment list, requirements, and application summary, then submit a ticket or email service@tesmart.com for confirmation. 

Our technical support team will review your requirements and provide a suitable recommendation.

Was this article helpful?
5 out of 43 found this helpful

Comments

0 comments

Please sign in to leave a comment.

Have more questions?
Submit a request
Share it, if you like it.