StarTech.com 2 Port USB HDMI KVM Switch with Audio and USB 2.0 Hub

Product Overview

AI-generated summary

StarTech’s 2-port USB HDMI KVM with audio and a USB 2.0 hub is one of those “boring but sensible” deskside switches that just saves hassle. If you’ve got two desktop PCs you swap between regularly (basic CAD work, office apps, general IT/admin tasks) and you want the convenience of one keyboard/mouse plus audio going to the monitor, this does that without drama. The included USB 2.0 hub is genuinely useful too—handy for things like a headset dongle, USB peripherals, or a temporary storage device—so you’re not constantly plugging/unplugging stuff as you switch.

Why it’s worth considering at £164.51 ex-VAT: you’re paying for reliability and low-friction switching rather than flashy features. This is a good fit for small teams, training rooms, and on-call setups where downtime and fuss matter more than squeezing the absolute latest display tech out of your hardware. That said, if you’re expecting bleeding-edge video performance, very long cable runs, or you plan to run lots of high-demand USB devices through the hub, you may find it less ideal—USB 2.0 is fine for low/medium bandwidth peripherals, but it’s not meant to be your “everything hub.” If you’re the sort of person who lives in 4K/fast-refresh territories or needs very specific audio/mic behaviour, it’s worth checking your exact device compatibility before buying.