Keyboard Video Mouse (KVM) Switch Boxes Pricing and Costs

Find out how much to spend on a keyboard video mouse switch

Keyboard video mouse (KVM) switch boxes pricing and costs vary widely, depending on the KVM's design and technology. KVMs connect multiple computers or servers to a single keyboard and mouse to save space in server rooms and on desks. While the standard two-port PS/2 KVM computer switch boxes are still useful and low-cost devices, KVM technology has evolved to technology that eases the burden of IT staff and saves space.

Modern KVMs include USB and Cat 5 technology. Networked KVMs allow hundreds of servers, computers and other devices to share a single keyboard, mouse and monitor over a network. These products are priced significantly higher than standard PS2 keyboard switcher devices. To get an idea of pricing and costs of keyboard video mouse switch boxes:

1. Browse prices of standard multiple port KVM switch providers;

2. Check out the costs of networked KVMs;

3. Find prices for KVM switches that handle USB devices;

4. Remember to include the costs of cabling.

 

Check the prices of basic devices from keyboard video mouse switch vendors

Basic KVMs connect to multiple computers and allow them to share a serial keyboard, PS2 mouse and VGA monitor. They vary in price from lower-end two-port units to more durable KVMs with multiple connections.
Try: Find a basic two-port KVM with integrated cables at vendors like CDW for $18.99. MonitorMart carries metal KVM boxes with 8-to-16 ports for $150.

Browse prices of networked KVM switch vendors

Networked KVMs connect to multiple servers or computers over network cables, allowing for remote access. Many have a built-in monitor for on-screen display. The monitor is on sliding rails so it can be folded into a rack. Up to 256 servers can be connected to some units.
Try: Tripp Lite remote KVMs handle connections from 64 to 256 servers. Prices range from $1,200 to $4,000. KVM Switches Online carries remote KVMs from several manufacturers. Prices start at $500 for a KVM that controls a single server remotely. KVMs that control 32 servers range in price from $3,500 to $5,000. They allow access for one local user plus multiple remote users, with the ability to control serial devices in addition to servers.

Find the price of a USB KVM switch

As USB ports become standard on computers, it's more difficult to use basic PS2 KVMs to control multiple computers. USB KVMs solve this problem by sharing USB ports for keyboards and mice along with VGA connections.
Try: USBGear provides several types of KVMs and USB sharing devices. Devices that allow a user to share USB devices among multiple computers cost less than $20. KVMs to control two computers cost approximately $50. Four-port units are just under $100. The MiniView from IOGear. shares audio, monitors, USB mice and keyboards on two computers and costs $49.95.

Include the cost of cables for a KVM switch box

Cables for KVMs are generally low priced, but some heavy duty specialty cables can cost more than $100. Universal KVM cables for PS/2 and USB range in price based on length, video resolution and design.
Try: Cables from Tiger Direct range in price from less than $10 to $25 for two-port PS2 cable kits. USB cables from StarTech USA range in price from $15 to $30 depending on length. The company also carries specialty Cat 5 dongles to connect a PS/2 server to an IP KVM for approximately $130.

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