Applies to: A desk with two monitors, one active laptop at a time, and shared keyboard/mouse. This is an architecture comparison, not a tested KVM product recommendation.

Choose how you want to switch

ApproachWhat you changeMain trade-off
Swap one dock host cableMove the compatible dock connection to the active laptop.Simple when both laptops support the same setup; connected USB storage needs careful handling.
Use monitor inputs + a USB switchChange each monitor input and switch approved USB peripherals.More actions, but video can remain directly connected to each computer.
Use a suitable dual-monitor KVMSwitch video and USB together.More compatibility requirements and usually more cables or cost.

KVM means keyboard, video and mouse. Confirm exactly what a particular device switches. Some USB switches do not carry video, and a KVM does not necessarily charge either laptop.

Build the two working desks first

  1. Connect laptop A directly or through its planned dock. Confirm both monitors at the desired modes.
  2. Repeat for laptop B, recording its own cables, ports and output arrangement.
  3. Check whether both arrangements can share the same dock topology. A Mac may require a different path from the Windows MST arrangement.
  4. Only then compare a switch against the two proven requirements. Include keyboard, mouse, webcam and charging if they matter.

Example: a supported two-display Mac and a ThinkPad

A MacBook Air M4 and a T14 Gen 5 make a useful planning example, but the shared configuration still needs its own verification. Consult the M4 Air setup and the ThinkPad guide separately; the latter covers WD19S, not a certification of the shared WD22TB4 arrangement.

For an M2 Air, the native one-display limit changes the plan. Check its options before selecting a switch. The Mac’s specification remains relevant even if the Windows laptop can drive more screens. Apple: MacBook Air M2 (2022) specifications

Questions for a KVM seller

  • Does it support both specified laptops and the actual signal types from their docks?
  • What resolution and refresh rate work on both displays simultaneously?
  • Which cables and adapters are required for each laptop?
  • Does it retain display identity while switching, or might windows rearrange?
  • Does it provide laptop charging? If so, what power is available per active host?
  • Are webcam, audio, keyboard shortcuts and any required USB speeds supported?

Ask for the exact product manual and a diagram for your equipment. Treat an unanswered requirement as unresolved rather than assuming “Mac compatible” covers it.

Switch without losing work

Save files and eject attached storage before moving a dock or USB connection between laptops. Keep company and personal devices subject to your employer’s peripheral policy. Test switching and waking during the return period, including the apps and peripherals that matter to you. A basic desktop picture is an incomplete evaluation of a shared desk.

Keep a small handover record at the desk

ItemRecord for each computer
Display modeExact output arrangement, screen count and lid condition.
PowerDock delivery or separate charger needed.
SoftwareRequired approved display application, if any.
SwitchingWhat must be ejected and which host cable changes.

Test both computers after a normal work session, not just immediately after boot. If the shared dock gives independent Windows displays but cloned Mac content, compare the Anker 575 or Lenovo 40AS architecture notes before buying a switch. A switch cannot create a display path that the dock and host do not provide.

Sources & scope

These instructions combine published references with our proposed diagnostic sequence. This setup has not been physically tested by Connect Your Dock. Manufacturer documents can change; use the exact model and scope linked below.

How we assess evidence