Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K: 30-second overview
The very best KVM switches are very important for anybody utilizing multiple machine, significantly in case you use each a desktop and a laptop computer every day. The fundamental premise is that, like a hub, you could have all the mandatory ports and connections for a fast setup as quickly as you are again within the workplace. Furthermore, these gadgets take it a step additional by permitting you to modify from one machine to a different.
The Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K is an exemplary superior KVM docking station, providing a plethora of connection choices that help as much as two machines and three shows. Its perform and value are easy, with plug-and-play performance enabling fast setup.
Not like some light-weight KVMs which can be bus-powered, the Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K makes use of an AC energy provide. This design contains two 100W PD energy USB Sort-C ports, ample for charging two MacBook Execs and a super answer for any workplace.
What units this KVM aside is its stage of management. Plug in two computer systems and three screens, and you may break up the show throughout them – all three screens for one machine or a mixture thereof. That is superb, then, when paired with any of the perfect screens for a dual-set-up (after which some). This flexibility is enhanced additional by permitting using a single keyboard and mouse throughout each machines, eliminating the necessity to swap inputs.
The Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K is streamlined and clever, enhancing the performance and utility of an workplace important.
Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K: Value and availability
- How a lot does it price? Ranging from $499
- When is it out? Obtainable now
- The place are you able to get it? You may get it instantly from https://us.targus.com or different on-line resellers.
The Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K is on sale now. Though the worth might sound costly at a contact underneath $500, contemplating the Apple 96W charger is $79, and this basically affords two models together with a KVM and multi-port hub, it is glorious worth for cash.
Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K: Specs
| Mannequin: | Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K |
| Connection Expertise: | Hybrid (Common & DP Alt Mode) |
| Host Port Compatibility: | USB-C |
| Compatibility: | Works with Home windows, macOS |
| Most Host Energy | 100W (Twin) |
| Output Voltages: | 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V |
| Show Ports: | HDMI: 1, DisplayPort: 2, |
| USB Ports: | Whole USB-A Ports: 3, USB-C Ports / 3.2 Gen 2: 1 |
| Dimensions: | 22.38 x 8.89 x 3.33 cm (8.81 x 3.5 x 1.31 inches) |
| PSU: | Not specified |
| Dimensions: | 34 x 23 x 2.5cm |
| Weight: | 0.44kg (0.96 lbs). |
Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K: Design
- Twin 100W charging
- Sensible Lengthy-Bar Model
- Safe Locking Connections
The general design of the Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K is decidedly desktop, adopting the all-too-familiar lengthy bar model widespread in switchers and hubs. This design is sensible because it sits neatly on a monitor stand, permitting fast and easy accessibility to the ports for each screens and computer systems.
Behind the unit is the primary energy socket, connecting to a normal AC energy adapter and wall socket. There are additionally two USB Sort-C ports for the machines, every providing a full 100W of energy concurrently, which is a notable characteristic.
One other characteristic of those ports is that the provided USB cables have locking screw threads, just like conventional cables, permitting them to be screwed into and locked into the again of the KVM. This design prevents unintentional disconnections. The provided cables are high-quality examples that help each energy supply and information switch.
Subsequent to the 2 USB Sort-C ports are an HDMI and two DisplayPorts, supporting as much as three 4K shows, adopted by a Gigabit Ethernet port.
On the facet is a T-Bar lock slot for safety, with an influence button on high that illuminates a purple LED when on. On the entrance proper, there is a USB Sort-C and two USB Sort-A ports, then 3.5mm audio out and in, and two extra Sort-A ports. These two ports are labeled for the keyboard and mouse and must be used for this objective as they allow auto-switching. Beside these is the swap that permits you to cycle via monitor configuration modes.
Performance-wise, it is all there: a normal design however properly laid out. Concerning construct high quality, two rubber pads on the bottom forestall slipping off the monitor stand, and the highest has a textured end for an ergonomic look of high quality. The plastic itself feels and appears a bit low-cost however is balanced by the metal-effect base.
Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K: Efficiency
- Multi-Gadget Switching
- Fast Setup Course of
- Easy, Intuitive Management
Even with the wire discount {that a} respectable KVM or hub allows, there isn’t any getting round the truth that a bit of cable administration is initially wanted when establishing and putting the Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K.
The slim block design, with two rubber pads on the bottom, holds the unit properly on the bottom of the BenQ monitor. Because of area, I normally use a twin 27-inch monitor setup, however to check the total functionality of the KVM, I’ve added a smaller Dell monitor into the combo. The 2 BenQ screens are linked via DisplayPort, whereas the smaller monitor makes use of the HDMI socket.
With the screens linked, there’s little to report; all is straightforward, and with a little bit of cable tidying, all of it seems to be good. The following step is connecting the 2 computer systems, on this case, a MacBook Professional M1 16-inch and MacBook Air M2, each utilizing the 2 USB Sort-C ports on the again of the KVM. Immediately, the facility image illuminates to point out that the whole lot is working and energy is being delivered to the laptops.
Subsequent, the keyboard and mouse are linked to the icon-labeled ports on the entrance of the KVM. With the three shows at present displaying the output from the primary laptop computer, the keyboard immediate has appeared, and I can click on via the setup course of within the typical manner.
Then, a single press of the swap button on the entrance of the KVM switches to the display screen of the second laptop computer. I can affirm the collection of the keyboard and mouse on the primary display screen whereas the second and third screens nonetheless show from the primary monitor. Then, I can drag the mouse from the primary monitor and machine to the second after which to the third.
The machine to which the mouse and keyboard are hooked up robotically switches with the motion of the mouse. The swap is fast however noticeable. Nonetheless, the transfer from the second to the third monitor, each displaying from the identical machine, is swift.
With one other click on of the KVM swap, the primary two screens present the show from the second machine, whereas the final exhibits the primary machine. Click on once more, and all screens present the second pc’s show – it is all very fast and easy. The one situation is that the button works on a carousel rotation, so it is advisable to cycle via the modes to achieve the specified one.
Likewise, if you wish to use an Ethernet connection or have a NAS, this may be hooked up to the Ethernet port on the again. Nonetheless, you possibly can’t join a tough drive and swap from the machine it is mounted on to the opposite with out the laborious drive disconnecting. It might be helpful if there have been a solution to both allow a single drive to remain linked to a single machine or, ideally, be networked throughout each machines.
Nonetheless, what this KVM allows does make issues very simple and fast.
Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K: Verdict
Priced at $499, it is a important funding for any pc accent, particularly one which’s neither a pc nor a tough drive. Nonetheless, in case you work with the perfect enterprise screens or the perfect enterprise laptops, you may admire the need of a KVM like this.
Whereas there are options that might additional improve its usability, this KVM affords performance that simplifies the method of utilizing two machines. The auto-switching characteristic is likely one of the greatest workflow enhancements I’ve encountered.
It could be costly, however for these utilizing a number of machines, this gadget turns into indispensable. The pace of the swap is commendable, however it’s the auto-switching and integration of machines and screens that set the Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K aside from different KVMs in the marketplace. Because of this, in knowledgeable atmosphere, it justifies its price ticket.
| Worth | Inexpensive, multifunctional answer for multi-device administration wants. | 4 / 5 |
| Design | Modern, sensible design; handy for desktop placement. | 4 / 5 |
| Options | Versatile connectivity, twin charging, helps a number of screens. | 4 / 5 |
| Efficiency | Dependable, environment friendly switching; enhances multi-device usability. | 4 / 5 |
| General | An indispensable, versatile KVM for multi-device environments. | 4 / 5 |
Do you have to purchase a Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K?
Purchase it if…
Do not buy it if…
How did I check
KVM switches vary from easy to feature-packed, and the Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K falls within the center. It has sufficient options to fulfill most customers, although it might lack the high-end construct high quality that superior customers count on. Nonetheless, within the studio and workplace, this KVM delivered what was required and extra. Through the check, these have been just a few of the elements I centered on:
I work between a school and college centre and a pictures studio, typically switching between Mac and PC methods. Whereas I largely stick to at least one machine, there are occasions after I want to make use of each Mac and PC methods.
On this check, I first used the KVM with two MacBooks: a smaller MacBook Air M2 and a bigger 16-inch M1. The bigger machine is primarily used at dwelling for extra demanding duties, whereas the impressively highly effective Air is appropriate for Photoshop work, writing, and basic admin.
The opposite atmosphere was within the studio, the place some gear requires a PC for software program compatibility. This atmosphere is normally a trouble, so integrating a KVM into the workflow was an excellent check of the Targus Twin Host USB-C KVM 4K’s capabilities. The testing environments included:
