Who else still remembers the days when Wendell wouldn't show his face on Tech Syndicate? And now, he's so good in front of the camera and really seems to enjoy it. Absolute legend!
One of those things that just takes time. Some people are naturally charismatic and some have to build up to it. You're audience matters a lot also. Wendell knowss LTT fans adore him so he likely is comfortable talking to us. Same with anthony. He comes out of his shell on camera because literally no one dislikes him in this community
This is a great colab that the LTT team should be really proud of. Highlighting this great product and bringing it to a bigger audience is a great use of the LTT platform. Well done team.
seriously, we need more A+ and passionate engineers like Wendell. This man gets literally everything right, and as a microelectronics engineer, I back everything he said 110%.
Thank you LTT for making this video about Wendell and showcasing his next-level work! Not many people like Wendell left are so passionate and put hundreds of hours in, indeed a fantastic person.
@@DanielFerreira-ez8qdThere are over 8,045,311,447+ people in the world right now there is a lot of people who do but don't have funding or the ability to pursue it a lot of those people also aren't even in the Americas
Wendell is good people. This day and age, I'm not needing a KVM like even his lowest end choice but the fact that he has good options that can go the distance gives me a peace of mind.
I had an idea for a kvm/Switch dock combo to do switching with dedicated ports for each Nintendo console, including potentially GB and DS. Maybe I'll slide the drawings his way royalty free.
He didn't make it, Rextron in Taiwan were already making it. He seemingly modified the firmware a bit, his description of 'his team' etc is misleading.
@@DoubleMonoLRyou don’t know that for certain, just saying. It’s pretty common for eastern companies to sell products under their own brand name that they’ve done custom alongside another company for who handles sales in the western market
@@Amaltator489 It's about as close to certain as it could reasonably be, certainly far closer than assuming it was custom made due to a small customers(with no manufacturing history) request. Rextron is a manufacturer that has been making products for 25 years, which are often *rebadged* for other companies, because they design and make products. They also have numerous other KVMs with very similar features, which doesn't add up with it being a custom design, other than perhaps very minor elements such as HDMI sockets instead of Displayport. If there's been any "customisation" it would most likely be that Wendell asked for a feature in the firmware, which they did themselves. There's nothing to suggest any hardware is different, and indeed a buyer who had the Rextron branded model couldn't find any different features(such as the signal passthrough) despite the apparent modifications for the level1 kvm. Albeit they may not have had suitable equipment to test every feature. When a customer enquired about buying a Rextron kvm(which wasn't sold under that brand where they lived) they recommended level1 as a "distributor". This is the problem with this kind of marketing, it is almost certainly heavily misleading through implying far more involvement from their end than actually happened. It would also be quite a coincidence that the wording heavily implies his & his "team"s involvement, but doesn't specifically say anything they designed or made. As with all youtuber products, people also *want* to believe it, because they like them, and likewise have no problems dismissing the work by the manufacturer(as is rampant in other comments). Likewise they had no exposure to or interest in the original products until they were "made"(to whatever level) by a youtuber. The products, and perhaps even the pricing, may be entirely fair, as apparently the support is when buying through him. My issue is only with the marketing.
KVMs are awesome when you're running a repair shop. I used an 8-port one connected to USB/HDMI/VGA wall plates and would just plug in my customers computers to those ports and boom. One monitor, keyboard and mouse for all of the customer PCs. Made life a lot easier.
Exactly one of my thoughts of use cases. It saves a TON of headaches regarding grabbing a 5th or 6th keyboard and mouse for troubleshooting yet another PC while waiting on another computer to finish whatever you were doing before.
@@kingzach74 or, like I saw in a shop, forgeting the dongle in a client pc and never seeing it again... Well I don't have a use for it but I know some youtuber prefer having 2 PCs, (sometime 3), one for playing and one for recording and/or a 3rd one for editing the video in the background, they are the perfect people to need one of those
@@DeadsTBDim a linux enthusiast, unfortunately for me some things just refuse to work on anything but windows. Two PC linux+windows setup would be perfect for me, all the cool stuff being on linux and all of the gaming stuff on windows
@@DeadsTBD Not a youtuber myself, but as someone that runs multiple systems, remote management software(tightvnc in my case) is a bit easier to implement and requires no additional cables. It's also far cheaper(FREE!!!). The over head on the main system isn't too bad, even when i have 6-8 sessions open. The only problem is when the cpu is running full tilt, on the monitored system, it gets stupid laggy, and the input lag in some software is just bonkers. Always fun to have something go flying out in to space when working in 3d software. I just use a fourth monitor and toss all of them up there, and move them to the main when needed. Not for everybody, but definitely an option.
My condolences. USB is a *scary* thing. Sometimes it feels like the whole thing just works much like the orc tech in wh40k - just because enough people believe in it.
I used to use Synergy as well, but now I use a cheap UGreen KVM Switcher and its solid. Of course it only switches USB and I use my keyboard/mouse and 2 other usbs in it, but works great with both PC and Mac and it has a button that switches and its super fast. I use monitor inputs for multiple PCs, I can do up to 3.
@@helloukw Yeah, i do the same, after i was disappointed trying different KVM switches. Just use multiple monitor inputs and switch peripherals with an USB switcher.
I bought one during the pandemic so I can use my gaming monitors with my personal and work PC without changing things around every day. Works excellently. When I needed support, Wendell emailed me personally when I had a problem with my setup.
@@whdgk95because you have all the messing about and liability of remote desktop It's better to just have the computer so you can personally ensure security and that the thing actually works
Same here! He is amazing! I couldn’t solve my issue and ended up returning it and that process was seamless. Will definitely be purchasing in the future (my current work laptop has limitations and can’t get a different device)
First off, wow Wendell is looking great! Second off, back when I first started working from home due to the pandemic, I ended up swapping back and forth between my personal and work computer by just plugging everything into a USB dock, and then swapping the dock between my work and personal computers as I needed them. Now each computer occupies own space in my house for mental health reasons, but a KVM back then would of been so much better!
This isn't useful to me right now, but I can see myself wanting something like this in the future. Maybe as a part of desktop dock for a thin and light laptop + Steam Deck type handheld to make it a unified system? Definitely cool and glad it exists, and really cool to hear Wendell talk about how it came to be!
I will definitely support Wendell and these KVM's when I build my home studio in the future. This looks PERFECT for someone juggling render units and home servers along their workstation.
I've used so many so many different KVM in my work and none of them were bug free. Seems like finally somebody decided to dive into the hell of KVM ! Thank you Wendell
I was looking for quite a while - trying to find a KVM that handled 4K (or greater) monitors plus a USB3 webcam is actually pretty difficult - for some reason the industry really hasn't made this product for PC enthusiasts. It's nice to see someone is finally taking care of us.
@@Hubris2 I don't think wendell's would do that. It doesn't quite apply to the KVM part of the USB spec, most input at the sampling rate they use, would flood the bus before you could have a webcam. Storage is different, but even then iffy... You then get into drivers needed for each device and listening for when its active... I vaguely remember there being a logitech device that sort of worked, but I think that was a two port USB pass through... and it was iffy. You basically were using two windows PCs and a KVM with a USB passthrough, nothing this elegant.
bcs he engineers the KVMs to actually work around those bugs that the machines produce, like he said in his segment. That's what separates his KVMs form the rest @@Nickorab
@@philincaundoI wonder if he partnered with them? The lack of immediate pricing info is kinda sketchy on the manufacturer site but him being so up front about it being manufactured in Taiwan makes me think he's got some sort of partnership going on.
@@Day100 Its almost definitely manufactured in Taiwan, but probably a custom pcb maker. Or its repurposed chips, daisy-chained and with a shit ton of hard and soft changes.
@@philincaundo How new/old are the Rextron ones? Rextron seems to be based in Taiwan, my guess would be Wendell worked with them, and part of the deal was they get to sell their own on their site. or maybe they're even going behind his back and doing it?
I have the 4x single monitor version and it is great. I use it to share my G9 Odyssey between my gaming PC, a Mac Studio, a work PC, and my MacBook. It's awesome.
Honestly. I didn't think I'd buy one of these, but after hearing how difficult the build process for this was, I think I'm gonna buy one just to support this guy.
same here. I don't really need one, but this is too awesome to not get and especially support the continued dev and debug efforts of this awesome guy. Well, I actually could use one that switches a single Thunderbolt/USB4 from the Macbook and two DP links from my PC to two 4K DP monitors.. with a Logitech wireless mouse and an Apple BT keyboard. Already typing out these individual use cases should give us an idea of how horribly difficult his job is.
@RandomUser2401 Fr. I can't imagine actually reading the USB specs and trying to develop this thing. It's super cool, but it looks like a nightmare to build.
I once worked on a project that included reading (parts of) the Bluetooth 4/LE spec. My freakin god, how anyone doing this for a living won't go insane is beyong me.@@ItsJustEthan1
I'm so glad you did a video on this KVM as it goes under so many radars. I found myself in Wendell's position where I needed a KVM that supported 1440p/144hz multi monitor and after searching there just wasn't any that supported that. Finally I found Wendell's KVM. I love Wendell and his determination and "If you want it doing well, then do it yourself" attitude. Can't wait to see what other products he makes.
He didn't do it himself, it's a Rextron kvm. He modified the firmware. I expect "his" more basic kvms are unchanged from the manufacturer. There's nothing at all wrong with either of those things, but clearly people are getting misled en masse by the way he describes it.
Also hilarious that corsair is the sponsor. On the forums corsair is the keyboard mouse combo that takes some configuring and putting into bios mode in order to work. Never got the wireless to work but the wired keyboard and Logitech wireless mouse work great.
I know this is an old video, but THANK YOU for showing me what I needed! Docking Stations weren't what I was looking for, it was a KVM switch! THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES!
20:45 I used to intern for the IT dept of a hospital way back 2012, and it is true. Not only for what Wendell said, but also for imaging multiple pre-builts when old units are about to be replaced. IIRC. Back then, we were installing a set of applications from the servers to 40 units at the same time. We're using 4 KVMs which are capable of handling 10 units each.
I have been fighting with KVMs for over ten years! So hardcore nerd force and testiculare fortitude to say "Well if you guys are going to keep on making crappy KVMs, then I am going to make the God-Level-KVM!!" Thank you Wendell, and Thank you LTT for featuring such an awsome product.
@@kaldo_kaldo If i didnt already build out my render farm pipeline to run off of Chrome Remot desktop...then I definitely would. I have 10 render slaves + 3 servers + my workstation + Laptop....so my needs have grown past what a 4 pot KVM can give me.
Wait there's a good KVM? I have a KVM in my Gigabyte M27Q monitor but it freaks out all the time and just decides to disconnect my sound or keyboard randomly, and it drives me bonkers.
My m27q is working allright, but it has too few usb ports. Two is only good for mouse and keyboard. Headset and webcam? Probably a edge case use case. And no power delivery for single cable laptop docking :/ still, it does the job a long way
I have actually read or seen in a few places that you can get a usb 3.0 powered hub and use that to get more usb slots while plugged into the KVM on the M27Q, so if you do need more usb slots for a laptop this is an avenue to try going down. I have not tried it personally but if you manage to find a good powered usb hub that will work, send me a message since I've been wondering if this could fix some of the weird glitches I've experienced. Strangely enough this past week I have had no issues, while a few weeks ago I was having problems constantly. So who knows maybe it fixed itself, I tried updating the monitors firmware but gigabytes software almost bricked the monitor and lost its version at one point, so yeah lol.@@sigv81
This unironically was one of the best LTT videos I've seen in recent years... As much as I love watching tge crazy things you do, this is a practical and useful product! I love the functionality, and it's on full display with the testing and first-hand (collab) accounts with Level One.
I knew Wendell as linus has mentioned him many times but I didnt knew that he would be such a precious existance thank you my respect for him went through the roof
When I was working as an IT for a city municipal transport company, they had KVM switches with buttons the size of Oreo cookies. But they weren't this compact; they were basically size of those old 90's power switches grandparents had under their computer monitor. This product being so compact is not only a plus, but the updated hardware to support modern input rates is a massive plus.
@@franspai7415 Except none of those have the same capabilities this has, not to mention the fact that their USB ports are only USB 2.0 compliant. At least this is from what I can see from the stuff that properly support DisplayPort 1.4, though they do have a model that supports some USB 3.0(directly from what they stated). That said, the model doesn't properly support some stuff Wendel's one does, so your point is moot.
I can't tell you how long I've been looking for a KVM switch that will switch dual monitors, keyboard, mouse + peripherals, at 1.4 Display Port specs, and coming up short on just about EVERY product I look at. And, while the prices are a little high, they're acutely a bargain compared to what else is out there, how little they offer and how much they charge for it! Thank you Wendell! And thank you Linus and crew for pointing me their way. 😊😊😊
I was already in the market for a KVM and couldn't choose because I had no in-depth detail about if they would work with my peripherals and have been burnt so many times in the past. I can't believe my savior was always out there and his name is Wendell. Props on the attention to detail and dedication to fully solving the problem. As a software engineer your dedication to your craft is recognized and you got a customer for life out of me, placing my order right now!
A while back, I was considering a KVM solution for my desk at home. I wanted a two-system, two-monitor KVM with decent reviews. I couldn't understand why it was so hard to find a multi-monitor KVM. This helps put some context into why feature-rich KVMs aren't a thing. And of course, I love the spotlight for L1T
Back in 2020 I when I was working from home, I needed a KVM to deal with work and personal PCs taking the same space. I ended up with a 2xDP1.2 setup that works pretty well. I've got all my stuff plugged into USB 2.0 ports, including a USB audio interface and a basic webcam.
I have a similar setup. Work has forced me to use their laptop, but I already own dual QHD monitors so I needed a solution. Ended up with a 2x2 HDMI KVM. Oh boy, there were multiple occasions where I wanted to punch it to pieces but at least I'm getting high refresh QHD at 144Hz (monitors can do 170Hz on DP though). It is definitely not bug-free. I have to plug-unplug a connection to get it working right on a weekly basis. I'm dying for something that just works, but seeing the prices just now I think I'll deal with it for a bit longer.
I got the four port DP 1.2 KVM from L1T and had some really really weird issues. Wendell was AMAZING tech support and eventually replaced the whole unit. I’ve been working with it for over a few years now and it’s dang incredible! 11/10 would recommend!
These kinds of KVMs have been a round for a lot longer than you realize. I was working in a computer rental shop 20 years ago and had multiple of these on my bench. Beige, metal, red Compaq logo (before they merged with HP). Could even do the scroll lock + scroll lock + 4 shortcut to switch to computer 4. Later on (read: 5 years ago) when i worked for a government contractor, I sought this out again and bought a IOGear Dual Link Dual DVI KVM that has all the features these have (dual display, audio, usb device, headphone and microphone ports), and supported my 3D Vision setup, sadly it didn't properly support my Corsair K95, so this might be a better upgrade. Yes, cable management is a PITA! But manage it right (and label it right! often I'm like "well what monitor does this cable go to?") and you never have to worry. Would have been a great merch blast for those LTT cable ties! WHICH YOU NEED TO MAKE MORE OF!
I upgraded from quad-display DVI IOGear KVMs to these, and they're much better. Less cable spaghetti, less compatibility issues when adapting to DP or HDMI, full resolution and refresh rate, and more USB ports. I tried IOGear's quad-display DP KVM as well, and it works except for when it doesn't. With Wendell's KVMs, they've seemingly been working just fine so far (knock on wood).
@@SlavolkoThanks! I'll give him a whirl if I ever find the need to upgrade! Just need to make sure it can fit in the little nook where I have it. I have an Ikea Alex desk topper for that space that it fits very snugly in.
It's frustrating to know that a lot of the problems that I've encountered myself in tech support and in everyday use have been the result of copyright, But it's also very refreshing to finally hear solutions and discussion on the matter, I've already obtained a large collection of KVM's over the years so I have no need for this product at this stage, but I might treat myself to one in my next upgrade.
this honestly would be fantastic for a Streamer setup also, of course "Anti-piracy" measures that don't work would be part as to why Wendell even needed to make his own
Wendell - Making and selling the products he needed at some point and knew he couldn't buy. Just one totally understated tech guy solving the worlds problems one KVM at a time.
Knowing even just a little bit about implementing hardware and software interface, I can definitely feel a faint impression of all the pain and "whyyyy?!" that building this must have. Hats off to Wendell, bro really did went "fine, I'll do it myself," and went and did it.
I don’t think I can afford this kvm right now. But this is now a dream product I want to own! As someone who switches regularly between 3 devices and would love to add a 4th I love the “it’s fun and it’s cool” mentality!
I am CONSTANTLY having monitor issues, this was such a stealth lesson in why I HATE MULTIPLE MONITORS. Hearing Wendell talking about it was so refreshing. And also I’m PISSED because it really shouldn’t be this hard.
I haven't heard of him until I needed a good KVM, and there were only like two options that could work with a Samsung neo G9. Once I saw his videos I was sold. The KVM has been working great for over half a year now. Certainly beats fiddling around with the monitor controls then dealing with a shitty USB switch.
I would still love to see a European version of LTT Store so I can actually buy merch without having to empty my bank account on shipping and import costs. I just can't get any of their products solely because of that reason. I can't see myself paying over 50-60 euros (or more) on these shipping and import costs.
@@nextInsidersthe same is true in most of the world, it’s a tax write off. They could always base it somewhere like Ireland for a low base business tax
More videos on stuff like this would be really cool! Like switchers and splitters and if they interfere with other devices or solutions for that, like switchers interfering with capture cards and similar stuff
Love it when baby Jake gets excited about finding keyboard shortcuts that have existed in server spaces for literal decades. KVM switching is the first practical use I ever found for the scroll-lock key
I had to make a setup to build the perfect setup at my home office station using about 8 different peripherical, because I wanted to have all connected in the same keyboard/mouse/video but keeping everything on high res. It works perfect but this one can definitely change all these dongles I have with only ONE box. It's amazing and in 8k.. This is definitely what I needed!!! I was anxiously waiting Wendell to finish it since he mentioned it on one of your videos when you were with some problems at your house.
@@nicomuller3125 I don't use 4 pcs, but I use 2 pcs and I have 1 NAS and one Raspberry all together. Technically the NAS and the Raspberry I could access through console but it is way easier to just switch among them if I need. In my case though the 2 pcs - > 3 monitors was the minimal needed. There is no option on the market though that would make all them able to connect to 3 monitors at 4k120fps, which Wendell also have as an option and cheaper than the one Linus used.
this is absolutely something i will buy once the DP 2.0 version comes out. finally a KVM that can fully support my gaming setup and also allow me to plug in my work laptop. personally i will use it with my USB C dock and then run the cables to the KVM and i cant wait for this to be on the market.
This is awesome! Maybe it's because I work in AV, but when you said the price at the beginning I immediately thought "well thats a very moderate price, for the functionality". I was just looking for one of these a few weeks ago and kept finding ones that were well over a grand USD. Good video guys, Thank you!
These look absolutely amazing and super useful, but for that price point, I think I'm gonna stick with just swapping the USB cable to my dock between computers manually 😅 But for somebody with more advanced use cases, can totally see the price being worth it!
Feedback (Sound guys) : Sound on the set right after sponsor spot (Pink backdrop) is awfully different than the whole video. I have never seen differences in sound been across different ltt videos and channels so it was noticeable within the same video (prolly editor might have too). or maybe it's an editing thing where shots from one set maybe didn't go through all sound modulation processes. either way, love the video :)
This is great, i have 2 computers stacked vertically so each time i have to switch other display source i just click an HDMi TV remote button. One computer for Gamming, and another for encoding 4orn.
Wendall is "just" a level 100 Wizard that used some of his spare time to help us mere mortals out. I wish I could even just think of one single thing that Wendall would think, "That's kinda cool"
Every since the LTT philosophy was revisited the videos seem such better quality and well put together. As a viewer I am here for it and they are so much more enjoyable!
I picked up a 2 monitor, 4 computer USB-C 10G KVM a couple months back, and it’s made my desk so much cleaner and switching between computers so much easier. Awesome product, and Wendell’s support in troubleshooting some issues was fantastic. He’s definitely not lying when he talks about solving problems and being able to work with people. I’ve got a pair of speakers, a Logitech PowerPlay mat, a Mountain Everest, and a Logitech webcam connected. In my case, I found that my devices were a little too demanding, so I have everything hooked up to a USB hub, but it’s worked great for me. Just can’t recommend ‘em enough.
Really impressive stuff, I don't think its expensive given that you don't have to double, triple or even quadruple up your monitors / human interface devices!
LTT you are late by 27 days, I needed that solution at the start of this month. Thankfully, I found it on my own. best product ever, I don't even have both computers (work & fun) on at the same time, but I'm free from the hassle of switching cables. went for the budget option on amazon, two computers one monitor(34' UW), DP1.4, HDCP, 4x USB-A 3.0, and it only costed 58€. so very good deal for sure. Keep up the good work, love you videos and content.
I ordered the Switch last summer because I work from home and needed a solution for managing two computers in a limited space. The Switch stood out as the only KVM switch that supports 1440p with high refresh rates, I think even 8k@30 and 4k@120 which is more than enough for my use. It's a bit expensive, but I have no regrets so far.
This was a great video. I really love it when enthusiasts make a difference by going out and making the industry better. because even if this is a small time expensive solution. It takes the exuses away from the manufacturers who havent put in the effort.
The manufacturer DID put in the effort, they(Rextron in Taiwan) already made the hardware. He modified the firmware, seemingly mostly or entirely to remove the EDIDs. Rextron even referred a US customer(who wanted a Rextron kvm) to them as a US 'distributor'.
@DoubleMonoLR it would be awfully nice if the manufacturers made firmware that makes the products operate as expected. I've seen so many shit KVMs that don't do what they say they can on the tin.
I love seeing usage of the scroll lock button. The most mysterious button on the keyboard. Scroll lock is basically a vestigial feature of bygone eras.
It would be awesome to see modular KVM, with small user-changable blades, adding/reamoving functions. This way you could make like 4x DP or 4x USB 3, or even mix them :D
Note to the (sound) editors: a low cut filter on their mics will get rid of that sub-bass rumble (probably HVAC noise) without touching the timbre of their voices. No need for the gate/expander when the noise is in that low a band.
I'm still looking forward to a DP1.4 version of their splitter. Apparently one is coming, but...Wendell said that a while back, and I've not seen anything about it since then 😔 I want it to be able to run full 1440p240 through it to my monitor while sending the HDMI to my capture gear... Edit: Oh, he mentioned it at the end; yay; hopefully that means it's coming soonTM
So cute seeing Jake getting all excited about scrlck - scrlck-number to change PCs. I was using KVMs 20 years ago that had the same functionality. Sure, they were for VGA monitors, but hey...
Well it was about time ... as often we heard Wendel over the phone explaining stuff 🤣. I also loved the anti copyright part. That makes me to want to burn the entire world down with my outrage until the industry who created this technology dies a really long and painful death. Does somebody have matches? 🔥
@@chrisbaker8533 I think there has to be another explanation. I know that some companies get revenue from sending out mass legal notices to pirates, and sometimes totally innocent people, and they threaten to take them to court if they don't pay up, which they then do not follow through on. It's obviously just extortion. They also like to pretend that every download is a lost sale or 2, so they make the downloader and the uploader both pay full price in damages. This is another revenue source for them, but they have to keep up the appearance that they don't want it to happen in order to keep making money from it. Point is, I think DRM is more for some kind of social or legal manipulation rather than something that's supposed to work technologically.
I've been using one of level 1's KVMs [a much bigger one than the one in this]. I use it to handle 3 displays at 4k 144hz between multiple machines, coupled with a usb hub that holds a dac, mic, webcam, keyboard, mouse [the keyboard has usb ports so I want it on the data port, not the kvm's port]. For the most part, it works great. Does everything it says it does. The biggest issue I run into is the lack of EDID emulation, which a lot of commercial DP 1.2 KVMs have. That said, there are ways around that in software, and Wendell explained the details of the problem in the video. On top of that, if you need DP1.4, there is literally nothing in the KVM space that better, or even as good as what level 1 is pushing, right now. Also, I can run my 3 4k monitors at 60hz over thunderbolt 4 laptop docks. 60 is not quite 144, but ... I'm using the laptop for work, and it works with my larger universe, where I have machines that can run 144 per port. Also, I know there's DP1.4 docks in the works that can run several high refresh rate 4K screens over thunderbolt 4 [3 just doesn't have the bandwidth for it, no matter what, and doubly so when considering that the dock line is carrying other signals at the same time].
Yes, tested the DP KVM switches from L1T, none of them supported EDID emulation and EDID feeding to full-bus DP link trains. That is the biggest issue of L1T DP1.2 and DP 1.4 KVM switches - caused the interrupted workflows for users. The video DDM-class advanced DP 1.4 KVM switches will be the pick, if the EDID emulation is an important requirement for your workflows.
@@rexwu168 I was actually looking at Connect Pro. They make all the right claims, but there have been issues reported on the edge cases. I was spoiled by Aten systems for dp1.2, which are as close to flawless as anything I've ever used, but they never added 1.4 support. I'm unsurprised, as kvm tech largely lags the market, but it still sucks. That's how I ended up at L1. I did also look at connect pro, and a few others, but I just didn't have confidence. For example, I run 3 monitors at 4k 144hz, which are HDR capable, and need to split them between /at least/ 2 computers. Connect Pro's site indicates it may have problems with certain color modes. I may end up giving it a try, anyway, but we will have to see. It's also mildly disappointing that ConnectPro only support single or 2 screens. That means that I'd be buying a second set to sync, in order to run all my kit. Also, they're running USB at a speed of 5Gbps. The L1 stuff does give me 10. I have had hardware issues with some stuff over kvms before, so I run keyboard, mouse, webcam, mic, dac, and other stuff over a hub on the kvm. This means that I need the bandwidth. Frankly, I'd love to see some bleeding edge thing running 20 or more, but again, kvms lag the market.
@@RadicalEdwardStudios I found that the L1T Store also have the EDID emulation KVM, and no need to look at the Connect Pro KVM, many forums say that the compatibility is not very good.
@@orton12321 I've certainly heard questions about the ConnectPro stuff, but I'm entirely confident that the L1 KVMs don't have emulators. I have one on my desk, right now.
Who else still remembers the days when Wendell wouldn't show his face on Tech Syndicate? And now, he's so good in front of the camera and really seems to enjoy it.
Absolute legend!
You mean the pair of eyes hidden between 4 monitors?
those were the days
One of those things that just takes time. Some people are naturally charismatic and some have to build up to it. You're audience matters a lot also. Wendell knowss LTT fans adore him so he likely is comfortable talking to us. Same with anthony. He comes out of his shell on camera because literally no one dislikes him in this community
Yeeepp. Only good part of that show
Not to be annoying, but Anthony goes by the name Emily now. Just in case you weren't up to date on their transition. @@requiemdylon9136
Wendell is a blessing and a saint. Absolute legend.
his personality, is also a blessing to the tech community
More like a spell and a wizard?
OK Startech designed a higher end kvm never sold because so niche and Wendell sells it. Nice
Ever since I saw him as the guy behind the monitors on TekSyndicate I knew he was a high caliber dude!
I can respect the dedication. I wouldn't have the patience to put up with all that shitty spec
This is a great colab that the LTT team should be really proud of. Highlighting this great product and bringing it to a bigger audience is a great use of the LTT platform. Well done team.
seriously, we need more A+ and passionate engineers like Wendell. This man gets literally everything right, and as a microelectronics engineer, I back everything he said 110%.
Wendell is the best. ❤
Wendell? ..... LEGEND!!!!
Can confirm.
The guy is so wide tho with square face
@@thomasbjrkenes8483
He did tho lol
So happy that Wendell is around.
Thank you LTT for making this video about Wendell and showcasing his next-level work! Not many people like Wendell left are so passionate and put hundreds of hours in, indeed a fantastic person.
@dakrawnik4208 what do you mean, "source"? Just try and think of more than 5 people who do the kind of work Wendell does.
anyone that would be looking for the product would find it chill.
@@DanielFerreira-ez8qdThere are over 8,045,311,447+ people in the world right now there is a lot of people who do but don't have funding or the ability to pursue it a lot of those people also aren't even in the Americas
I will NEVER get tired of Wendell poking his head out and saying "Hey!"
Now we just need Michael from Vsauce
@@Ryzza5 Good one!
Thank Steve, ow my knees
Yep. And it's a throwback to the TV show Home Improvement. Yes, I'm 40.
@@guiorgy Another classic
Wendell is good people. This day and age, I'm not needing a KVM like even his lowest end choice but the fact that he has good options that can go the distance gives me a peace of mind.
I had an idea for a kvm/Switch dock combo to do switching with dedicated ports for each Nintendo console, including potentially GB and DS. Maybe I'll slide the drawings his way royalty free.
If every person making a product had that level of passion for what they do, this world would be a better place.
Then you have people who throw their controllers at walls and screens.....
@@Alcoholic_Nerdwhat are you a mother? 🗿
@@Alcoholic_Nerd "ahh shit i died in this game and now im gonna throw this 60€ controller into my 1500€ TV because im mad."
Broker place*
@@Tumadregabrielif everything is made with equal high quality then price wouldn’t be an issue
I had no idea making KVMs would be so complicated, that is an incredibly impressive level of dedication
He didn't make it, Rextron in Taiwan were already making it. He seemingly modified the firmware a bit, his description of 'his team' etc is misleading.
@@DoubleMonoLRyou don’t know that for certain, just saying. It’s pretty common for eastern companies to sell products under their own brand name that they’ve done custom alongside another company for who handles sales in the western market
@@DoubleMonoLR
Unfortunately, you're wrong there.
@@DoubleMonoLR You sir, Are correct.
@@Amaltator489 It's about as close to certain as it could reasonably be, certainly far closer than assuming it was custom made due to a small customers(with no manufacturing history) request. Rextron is a manufacturer that has been making products for 25 years, which are often *rebadged* for other companies, because they design and make products. They also have numerous other KVMs with very similar features, which doesn't add up with it being a custom design, other than perhaps very minor elements such as HDMI sockets instead of Displayport.
If there's been any "customisation" it would most likely be that Wendell asked for a feature in the firmware, which they did themselves. There's nothing to suggest any hardware is different, and indeed a buyer who had the Rextron branded model couldn't find any different features(such as the signal passthrough) despite the apparent modifications for the level1 kvm. Albeit they may not have had suitable equipment to test every feature.
When a customer enquired about buying a Rextron kvm(which wasn't sold under that brand where they lived) they recommended level1 as a "distributor".
This is the problem with this kind of marketing, it is almost certainly heavily misleading through implying far more involvement from their end than actually happened. It would also be quite a coincidence that the wording heavily implies his & his "team"s involvement, but doesn't specifically say anything they designed or made.
As with all youtuber products, people also *want* to believe it, because they like them, and likewise have no problems dismissing the work by the manufacturer(as is rampant in other comments). Likewise they had no exposure to or interest in the original products until they were "made"(to whatever level) by a youtuber.
The products, and perhaps even the pricing, may be entirely fair, as apparently the support is when buying through him. My issue is only with the marketing.
Wendel and the whole Level1Techs crew rock! The Level1Techs Show is one of my favorite things to watch on YT!
engagement challenges be damm
KVMs are awesome when you're running a repair shop. I used an 8-port one connected to USB/HDMI/VGA wall plates and would just plug in my customers computers to those ports and boom. One monitor, keyboard and mouse for all of the customer PCs. Made life a lot easier.
Exactly one of my thoughts of use cases. It saves a TON of headaches regarding grabbing a 5th or 6th keyboard and mouse for troubleshooting yet another PC while waiting on another computer to finish whatever you were doing before.
@@kingzach74 or, like I saw in a shop, forgeting the dongle in a client pc and never seeing it again...
Well I don't have a use for it but I know some youtuber prefer having 2 PCs, (sometime 3), one for playing and one for recording and/or a 3rd one for editing the video in the background, they are the perfect people to need one of those
@@DeadsTBDim a linux enthusiast, unfortunately for me some things just refuse to work on anything but windows. Two PC linux+windows setup would be perfect for me, all the cool stuff being on linux and all of the gaming stuff on windows
@@DeadsTBD Not a youtuber myself, but as someone that runs multiple systems, remote management software(tightvnc in my case) is a bit easier to implement and requires no additional cables. It's also far cheaper(FREE!!!).
The over head on the main system isn't too bad, even when i have 6-8 sessions open.
The only problem is when the cpu is running full tilt, on the monitored system, it gets stupid laggy, and the input lag in some software is just bonkers.
Always fun to have something go flying out in to space when working in 3d software.
I just use a fourth monitor and toss all of them up there, and move them to the main when needed.
Not for everybody, but definitely an option.
As somebody who has had the misfortune to open the USB spec and has listened to succesful implementers' stories, WOW THIS IS INCREDIBLE.
My condolences.
USB is a *scary* thing. Sometimes it feels like the whole thing just works much like the orc tech in wh40k - just because enough people believe in it.
Cool, you just know Wendal will deliver top notch devices! Now I just need 3 more computers and I can justify a purchase 😂
DO NOT PUT STORAGE ON A KVM... Sorry, I've seen waaaay too much corrupt data from switching while data is still being written in the background.
The Wendell segment is pure gold! The hardware mouse roaming seems pretty rad after spending years using Syngery.
I used to use Synergy as well, but now I use a cheap UGreen KVM Switcher and its solid. Of course it only switches USB and I use my keyboard/mouse and 2 other usbs in it, but works great with both PC and Mac and it has a button that switches and its super fast. I use monitor inputs for multiple PCs, I can do up to 3.
@@helloukw Yeah, i do the same, after i was disappointed trying different KVM switches. Just use multiple monitor inputs and switch peripherals with an USB switcher.
I bought one during the pandemic so I can use my gaming monitors with my personal and work PC without changing things around every day. Works excellently. When I needed support, Wendell emailed me personally when I had a problem with my setup.
Thinking to do the same ...
Why don't you just remote into your work computer from your personal one? It's a completely SW contained solution that I've never had issues with.
@@whdgk95because you have all the messing about and liability of remote desktop
It's better to just have the computer so you can personally ensure security and that the thing actually works
Same here! He is amazing! I couldn’t solve my issue and ended up returning it and that process was seamless. Will definitely be purchasing in the future (my current work laptop has limitations and can’t get a different device)
@@whdgk95 My company's vpn breaks LAN connections so it's not always possible
Really nice to see some love sent over Wendell's direction. Keep up the positivity, it's a breath of fresh air in today's UA-cam climate.
Cringe
@@Heinz-bx8sd that's an excellent one word description of yourself 😂
🌟
First off, wow Wendell is looking great!
Second off, back when I first started working from home due to the pandemic, I ended up swapping back and forth between my personal and work computer by just plugging everything into a USB dock, and then swapping the dock between my work and personal computers as I needed them. Now each computer occupies own space in my house for mental health reasons, but a KVM back then would of been so much better!
Ive noticed he has lost a bunch of weight
I do this
@@rysterstech For sure, I noticed it too, but just in general, he is looking great!
This isn't useful to me right now, but I can see myself wanting something like this in the future. Maybe as a part of desktop dock for a thin and light laptop + Steam Deck type handheld to make it a unified system? Definitely cool and glad it exists, and really cool to hear Wendell talk about how it came to be!
I will definitely support Wendell and these KVM's when I build my home studio in the future. This looks PERFECT for someone juggling render units and home servers along their workstation.
I've used so many so many different KVM in my work and none of them were bug free. Seems like finally somebody decided to dive into the hell of KVM ! Thank you Wendell
+1 It always left me wanting to punch something.
Wendell's gear looks impressive, but what makes you believe his KVMs are bug free? Half of the KVM glitches come from machines behind them
I was looking for quite a while - trying to find a KVM that handled 4K (or greater) monitors plus a USB3 webcam is actually pretty difficult - for some reason the industry really hasn't made this product for PC enthusiasts. It's nice to see someone is finally taking care of us.
@@Hubris2 I don't think wendell's would do that.
It doesn't quite apply to the KVM part of the USB spec, most input at the sampling rate they use, would flood the bus before you could have a webcam. Storage is different, but even then iffy...
You then get into drivers needed for each device and listening for when its active...
I vaguely remember there being a logitech device that sort of worked, but I think that was a two port USB pass through... and it was iffy.
You basically were using two windows PCs and a KVM with a USB passthrough, nothing this elegant.
bcs he engineers the KVMs to actually work around those bugs that the machines produce, like he said in his segment. That's what separates his KVMs form the rest @@Nickorab
Wendell has truly been the hero we do not deserve over the last 10 odd years
No clue they existed until this video so I guess it did what it set out to do.
Also eevee prism has been my fb cover for over a decade. ;)
Alright so Wendell is the equivalent of 6 engineering teams just by himself.
He didnt engineer anything though. Its just a Rextron PAAG-E3124B with his logo on it lol
@@philincaundoI wonder if he partnered with them? The lack of immediate pricing info is kinda sketchy on the manufacturer site but him being so up front about it being manufactured in Taiwan makes me think he's got some sort of partnership going on.
@@Day100 Its almost definitely manufactured in Taiwan, but probably a custom pcb maker. Or its repurposed chips, daisy-chained and with a shit ton of hard and soft changes.
@@philincaundo How new/old are the Rextron ones? Rextron seems to be based in Taiwan, my guess would be Wendell worked with them, and part of the deal was they get to sell their own on their site. or maybe they're even going behind his back and doing it?
@@philincaundo it seems to me that rextron are the oem that l1 works with, wendell doing the firmware bits, i however could be wrong
I have the 4x single monitor version and it is great. I use it to share my G9 Odyssey between my gaming PC, a Mac Studio, a work PC, and my MacBook. It's awesome.
Love Wendell, great of you guys to make this video calling out all the work he's done and passion he has.
Honestly. I didn't think I'd buy one of these, but after hearing how difficult the build process for this was, I think I'm gonna buy one just to support this guy.
same here. I don't really need one, but this is too awesome to not get and especially support the continued dev and debug efforts of this awesome guy.
Well, I actually could use one that switches a single Thunderbolt/USB4 from the Macbook and two DP links from my PC to two 4K DP monitors.. with a Logitech wireless mouse and an Apple BT keyboard. Already typing out these individual use cases should give us an idea of how horribly difficult his job is.
@RandomUser2401 Fr. I can't imagine actually reading the USB specs and trying to develop this thing. It's super cool, but it looks like a nightmare to build.
Pics or it didn't happen.
I once worked on a project that included reading (parts of) the Bluetooth 4/LE spec. My freakin god, how anyone doing this for a living won't go insane is beyong me.@@ItsJustEthan1
@@jessiejames1681 i cant see you but the mistake still occured
I'm so glad you did a video on this KVM as it goes under so many radars. I found myself in Wendell's position where I needed a KVM that supported 1440p/144hz multi monitor and after searching there just wasn't any that supported that. Finally I found Wendell's KVM. I love Wendell and his determination and "If you want it doing well, then do it yourself" attitude. Can't wait to see what other products he makes.
He didn't do it himself, it's a Rextron kvm. He modified the firmware. I expect "his" more basic kvms are unchanged from the manufacturer. There's nothing at all wrong with either of those things, but clearly people are getting misled en masse by the way he describes it.
I use my LV1 KVM for 3x 4k monitors at 120hz. One system for work and the other for gaming. Was on backorder for a few months but worth the wait.
So you got the $1200 one?
Also hilarious that corsair is the sponsor. On the forums corsair is the keyboard mouse combo that takes some configuring and putting into bios mode in order to work. Never got the wireless to work but the wired keyboard and Logitech wireless mouse work great.
@@Skyfalcon12345 Its the $750 with 10Gb USB
@@Skyfalcon12345 the 2 computers with 3 monitors KVM is $650 (or $700 with USB C 10Gb). The $1200 KVM is for 4 computers with 4 monitors
I know this is an old video, but THANK YOU for showing me what I needed! Docking Stations weren't what I was looking for, it was a KVM switch! THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES!
20:45 I used to intern for the IT dept of a hospital way back 2012, and it is true. Not only for what Wendell said, but also for imaging multiple pre-builts when old units are about to be replaced. IIRC. Back then, we were installing a set of applications from the servers to 40 units at the same time. We're using 4 KVMs which are capable of handling 10 units each.
I have been fighting with KVMs for over ten years! So hardcore nerd force and testiculare fortitude to say "Well if you guys are going to keep on making crappy KVMs, then I am going to make the God-Level-KVM!!"
Thank you Wendell, and Thank you LTT for featuring such an awsome product.
The real question is if you're going to buy one!
@@kaldo_kaldo If i didnt already build out my render farm pipeline to run off of Chrome Remot desktop...then I definitely would.
I have 10 render slaves + 3 servers + my workstation + Laptop....so my needs have grown past what a 4 pot KVM can give me.
Wait there's a good KVM? I have a KVM in my Gigabyte M27Q monitor but it freaks out all the time and just decides to disconnect my sound or keyboard randomly, and it drives me bonkers.
My m27q is working allright, but it has too few usb ports. Two is only good for mouse and keyboard. Headset and webcam? Probably a edge case use case. And no power delivery for single cable laptop docking :/ still, it does the job a long way
I have actually read or seen in a few places that you can get a usb 3.0 powered hub and use that to get more usb slots while plugged into the KVM on the M27Q, so if you do need more usb slots for a laptop this is an avenue to try going down.
I have not tried it personally but if you manage to find a good powered usb hub that will work, send me a message since I've been wondering if this could fix some of the weird glitches I've experienced.
Strangely enough this past week I have had no issues, while a few weeks ago I was having problems constantly. So who knows maybe it fixed itself, I tried updating the monitors firmware but gigabytes software almost bricked the monitor and lost its version at one point, so yeah lol.@@sigv81
This unironically was one of the best LTT videos I've seen in recent years...
As much as I love watching tge crazy things you do, this is a practical and useful product! I love the functionality, and it's on full display with the testing and first-hand (collab) accounts with Level One.
I knew Wendell as linus has mentioned him many times but I didnt knew that he would be such a precious existance thank you my respect for him went through the roof
Wendell is freakin amazing! Such a brilliant man of our time!
Anyone else really impressed by those tracked/stabilized boxes around the different groups of ports? Small thing, but really neat.
When I was working as an IT for a city municipal transport company, they had KVM switches with buttons the size of Oreo cookies. But they weren't this compact; they were basically size of those old 90's power switches grandparents had under their computer monitor. This product being so compact is not only a plus, but the updated hardware to support modern input rates is a massive plus.
Literally just a Startech KVM with slightly better specs
It is a rebranded Rextron KVM by the looks, specs and prize@@franspai7415
@@franspai7415 Except none of those have the same capabilities this has, not to mention the fact that their USB ports are only USB 2.0 compliant. At least this is from what I can see from the stuff that properly support DisplayPort 1.4, though they do have a model that supports some USB 3.0(directly from what they stated).
That said, the model doesn't properly support some stuff Wendel's one does, so your point is moot.
Wendell is a humble genius.
yep. his brain is a modern marvel and treasure.
I can't tell you how long I've been looking for a KVM switch that will switch dual monitors, keyboard, mouse + peripherals, at 1.4 Display Port specs, and coming up short on just about EVERY product I look at. And, while the prices are a little high, they're acutely a bargain compared to what else is out there, how little they offer and how much they charge for it! Thank you Wendell! And thank you Linus and crew for pointing me their way. 😊😊😊
Yeah - just do it. That's the one I have and I haven't regretted it.
Why hasn't this shown up in my normal feed? Glad i eventually found this gem of a video!
We love Wendell!
I was already in the market for a KVM and couldn't choose because I had no in-depth detail about if they would work with my peripherals and have been burnt so many times in the past. I can't believe my savior was always out there and his name is Wendell. Props on the attention to detail and dedication to fully solving the problem. As a software engineer your dedication to your craft is recognized and you got a customer for life out of me, placing my order right now!
A while back, I was considering a KVM solution for my desk at home. I wanted a two-system, two-monitor KVM with decent reviews. I couldn't understand why it was so hard to find a multi-monitor KVM. This helps put some context into why feature-rich KVMs aren't a thing. And of course, I love the spotlight for L1T
Back in 2020 I when I was working from home, I needed a KVM to deal with work and personal PCs taking the same space. I ended up with a 2xDP1.2 setup that works pretty well. I've got all my stuff plugged into USB 2.0 ports, including a USB audio interface and a basic webcam.
I have a similar setup. Work has forced me to use their laptop, but I already own dual QHD monitors so I needed a solution. Ended up with a 2x2 HDMI KVM. Oh boy, there were multiple occasions where I wanted to punch it to pieces but at least I'm getting high refresh QHD at 144Hz (monitors can do 170Hz on DP though). It is definitely not bug-free. I have to plug-unplug a connection to get it working right on a weekly basis.
I'm dying for something that just works, but seeing the prices just now I think I'll deal with it for a bit longer.
I got the four port DP 1.2 KVM from L1T and had some really really weird issues. Wendell was AMAZING tech support and eventually replaced the whole unit. I’ve been working with it for over a few years now and it’s dang incredible! 11/10 would recommend!
I don't need one but I can appreciate how much work went into these amazing KVM sets, this man is a gem.
These kinds of KVMs have been a round for a lot longer than you realize. I was working in a computer rental shop 20 years ago and had multiple of these on my bench. Beige, metal, red Compaq logo (before they merged with HP). Could even do the scroll lock + scroll lock + 4 shortcut to switch to computer 4. Later on (read: 5 years ago) when i worked for a government contractor, I sought this out again and bought a IOGear Dual Link Dual DVI KVM that has all the features these have (dual display, audio, usb device, headphone and microphone ports), and supported my 3D Vision setup, sadly it didn't properly support my Corsair K95, so this might be a better upgrade.
Yes, cable management is a PITA! But manage it right (and label it right! often I'm like "well what monitor does this cable go to?") and you never have to worry. Would have been a great merch blast for those LTT cable ties! WHICH YOU NEED TO MAKE MORE OF!
I upgraded from quad-display DVI IOGear KVMs to these, and they're much better. Less cable spaghetti, less compatibility issues when adapting to DP or HDMI, full resolution and refresh rate, and more USB ports. I tried IOGear's quad-display DP KVM as well, and it works except for when it doesn't. With Wendell's KVMs, they've seemingly been working just fine so far (knock on wood).
@@SlavolkoThanks! I'll give him a whirl if I ever find the need to upgrade! Just need to make sure it can fit in the little nook where I have it. I have an Ikea Alex desk topper for that space that it fits very snugly in.
It's frustrating to know that a lot of the problems that I've encountered myself in tech support and in everyday use have been the result of copyright, But it's also very refreshing to finally hear solutions and discussion on the matter, I've already obtained a large collection of KVM's over the years so I have no need for this product at this stage, but I might treat myself to one in my next upgrade.
Yet again copyright and DRM only hinders fair consumers while doing nothing to stop those that want to break it... It's such a bullshit
I'm tearing up a bit seeing the passion Wendell is displaying.
I too cry when some guy builds some shit that nobody needs
@@Heinz-bx8sdI'm gonna let this snarky comment slide because Heinz is indeed based
this honestly would be fantastic for a Streamer setup
also, of course "Anti-piracy" measures that don't work would be part as to why Wendell even needed to make his own
Please delete this comment before somebody in relevant position to make it happen reads it and tasks Wendel with antipiracy development :) /s
you're correct@@NickVu1 how utterly irresponsibly of me :p /s
Wendell - Making and selling the products he needed at some point and knew he couldn't buy.
Just one totally understated tech guy solving the worlds problems one KVM at a time.
I literally thought this would just be a roundup of what Linus/LTT liked from other merch stores.
Turns out it was just a Wendell appreciation video
Knowing even just a little bit about implementing hardware and software interface, I can definitely feel a faint impression of all the pain and "whyyyy?!" that building this must have. Hats off to Wendell, bro really did went "fine, I'll do it myself," and went and did it.
I don’t think I can afford this kvm right now. But this is now a dream product I want to own! As someone who switches regularly between 3 devices and would love to add a 4th I love the “it’s fun and it’s cool” mentality!
We have several of those at work, 8 of them on one unit. It’s fantastic for test pc setups and conserving space
I am CONSTANTLY having monitor issues, this was such a stealth lesson in why I HATE MULTIPLE MONITORS. Hearing Wendell talking about it was so refreshing. And also I’m PISSED because it really shouldn’t be this hard.
I haven't heard of him until I needed a good KVM, and there were only like two options that could work with a Samsung neo G9. Once I saw his videos I was sold.
The KVM has been working great for over half a year now. Certainly beats fiddling around with the monitor controls then dealing with a shitty USB switch.
I would still love to see a European version of LTT Store so I can actually buy merch without having to empty my bank account on shipping and import costs. I just can't get any of their products solely because of that reason. I can't see myself paying over 50-60 euros (or more) on these shipping and import costs.
They could do it in Estonia. All the reinvested profits are free here for companys :P
I thought that their Amazon listings were supposed to help with that..?
@@m4a44only if they list on a eu Amazon website
@@nextInsidersthe same is true in most of the world, it’s a tax write off. They could always base it somewhere like Ireland for a low base business tax
Some products on the German Amazon, but they won't ship it to Denmark 😅🤷
Mad man Wendell making things not only good, but beyond what I even knew was possible ❤
More videos on stuff like this would be really cool! Like switchers and splitters and if they interfere with other devices or solutions for that, like switchers interfering with capture cards and similar stuff
Love it when baby Jake gets excited about finding keyboard shortcuts that have existed in server spaces for literal decades. KVM switching is the first practical use I ever found for the scroll-lock key
This is so cool, I use a KVM at work to switch between 8 computers in a factory. Seeing this tech for enthusiast use cases is awesome
I had to make a setup to build the perfect setup at my home office station using about 8 different peripherical, because I wanted to have all connected in the same keyboard/mouse/video but keeping everything on high res. It works perfect but this one can definitely change all these dongles I have with only ONE box. It's amazing and in 8k.. This is definitely what I needed!!! I was anxiously waiting Wendell to finish it since he mentioned it on one of your videos when you were with some problems at your house.
genuine question, why would you need 4 pcs? I understand at most 2, for work and for private use, but any more?
@@nicomuller3125 I don't use 4 pcs, but I use 2 pcs and I have 1 NAS and one Raspberry all together. Technically the NAS and the Raspberry I could access through console but it is way easier to just switch among them if I need. In my case though the 2 pcs - > 3 monitors was the minimal needed. There is no option on the market though that would make all them able to connect to 3 monitors at 4k120fps, which Wendell also have as an option and cheaper than the one Linus used.
@@nicomuller3125 also add to this that I am lazy hahah so having the option to change it through keyboard commands is even more appealing haha
L1 Wendell is amazing!
I am impressed at his love for product delivery.
this is absolutely something i will buy once the DP 2.0 version comes out.
finally a KVM that can fully support my gaming setup and also allow me to plug in my work laptop.
personally i will use it with my USB C dock and then run the cables to the KVM and i cant wait for this to be on the market.
Super cool use case idea! I hope it works well for you!
This is awesome! Maybe it's because I work in AV, but when you said the price at the beginning I immediately thought "well thats a very moderate price, for the functionality". I was just looking for one of these a few weeks ago and kept finding ones that were well over a grand USD.
Good video guys, Thank you!
Guy deserves a subscribe. Bro's doing gods work
These look absolutely amazing and super useful, but for that price point, I think I'm gonna stick with just swapping the USB cable to my dock between computers manually 😅 But for somebody with more advanced use cases, can totally see the price being worth it!
i use a cheap USB 3.0 switcher. desktop peripherals -> usb hub -> switcher -> work laptop dock + gaming PC. my monitors have 2 inputs i can switch.
You have much cheaper KVMs, it depends on your use case.
Feedback (Sound guys) : Sound on the set right after sponsor spot (Pink backdrop) is awfully different than the whole video. I have never seen differences in sound been across different ltt videos and channels so it was noticeable within the same video (prolly editor might have too). or maybe it's an editing thing where shots from one set maybe didn't go through all sound modulation processes. either way, love the video :)
Probably the mic wasn't working so they used and tried to correct the sound from one of the camera
this is all the motivation i needed to actually build my own product! thanks Linus, you inspire us beyond measure
This is great, i have 2 computers stacked vertically so each time i have to switch other display source i just click an HDMi TV remote button. One computer for Gamming, and another for encoding 4orn.
20:00 Ah yes, this man summarizes software development so well :-)
I only see Wendell when he's on LTT but DAMN. He's looking real trim these days. Good for you mate.
Wendall is "just" a level 100 Wizard that used some of his spare time to help us mere mortals out. I wish I could even just think of one single thing that Wendall would think, "That's kinda cool"
Every since the LTT philosophy was revisited the videos seem such better quality and well put together. As a viewer I am here for it and they are so much more enjoyable!
One of the most interesting videos I have watched from LTT.., and I've been religiously watching every single upload since 2017.
I picked up a 2 monitor, 4 computer USB-C 10G KVM a couple months back, and it’s made my desk so much cleaner and switching between computers so much easier. Awesome product, and Wendell’s support in troubleshooting some issues was fantastic. He’s definitely not lying when he talks about solving problems and being able to work with people.
I’ve got a pair of speakers, a Logitech PowerPlay mat, a Mountain Everest, and a Logitech webcam connected. In my case, I found that my devices were a little too demanding, so I have everything hooked up to a USB hub, but it’s worked great for me. Just can’t recommend ‘em enough.
Wendell is the type of person that give is more faith in Americans. He is world class. Love from Australia.
Really impressive stuff, I don't think its expensive given that you don't have to double, triple or even quadruple up your monitors / human interface devices!
Ngl the Ltt backpack has served me better than similarly priced bags
LTT you are late by 27 days, I needed that solution at the start of this month. Thankfully, I found it on my own. best product ever, I don't even have both computers (work & fun) on at the same time, but I'm free from the hassle of switching cables. went for the budget option on amazon, two computers one monitor(34' UW), DP1.4, HDCP, 4x USB-A 3.0, and it only costed 58€. so very good deal for sure.
Keep up the good work, love you videos and content.
Can I have the link? That one is way too expensive for me.
I ordered the Switch last summer because I work from home and needed a solution for managing two computers in a limited space. The Switch stood out as the only KVM switch that supports 1440p with high refresh rates, I think even 8k@30 and 4k@120 which is more than enough for my use.
It's a bit expensive, but I have no regrets so far.
We witnessed the fastest ltt store plug in history!
This was a great video. I really love it when enthusiasts make a difference by going out and making the industry better. because even if this is a small time expensive solution. It takes the exuses away from the manufacturers who havent put in the effort.
The manufacturer DID put in the effort, they(Rextron in Taiwan) already made the hardware. He modified the firmware, seemingly mostly or entirely to remove the EDIDs.
Rextron even referred a US customer(who wanted a Rextron kvm) to them as a US 'distributor'.
@DoubleMonoLR it would be awfully nice if the manufacturers made firmware that makes the products operate as expected. I've seen so many shit KVMs that don't do what they say they can on the tin.
Wendell for president 💪
I love seeing usage of the scroll lock button. The most mysterious button on the keyboard. Scroll lock is basically a vestigial feature of bygone eras.
its been a while since ive seen level one techs videos and damn Wendell has gotten into shape. Good for him.
It would be awesome to see modular KVM, with small user-changable blades, adding/reamoving functions. This way you could make like 4x DP or 4x USB 3, or even mix them :D
20 seconds in,, ah this is about Wendell's wonderous devices. All Hail Level 1 Techs :)
Note to the (sound) editors: a low cut filter on their mics will get rid of that sub-bass rumble (probably HVAC noise) without touching the timbre of their voices. No need for the gate/expander when the noise is in that low a band.
the last few videos i've seen that feature jake are just him adding to the chaos of cables and devices plugged in, and i love that FIWB energy lol
at first, I wasn't interested, but by the end I was blown away.
Nice video LTT!
There's an editing mistake at 14:26 where Wendell's video (Building Megadesk) is credited as a LTT video (both the channel name and logo).
nothing beats LTT's merch
bro has a stubby screwdriver in his pants thinking about LTT merch
I'm still looking forward to a DP1.4 version of their splitter. Apparently one is coming, but...Wendell said that a while back, and I've not seen anything about it since then 😔 I want it to be able to run full 1440p240 through it to my monitor while sending the HDMI to my capture gear...
Edit: Oh, he mentioned it at the end; yay; hopefully that means it's coming soonTM
23:24 Missed an opportunity there - should've asked Wendell to do the sponsor ad read for the end of the video, would've been funny :P
So cute seeing Jake getting all excited about scrlck - scrlck-number to change PCs. I was using KVMs 20 years ago that had the same functionality. Sure, they were for VGA monitors, but hey...
Use my LTT bottle at work every day bro
"Just always listen to wendel and your life will be good"
top quote of 2023
jake is going to buy 3 of these now lol
Well it was about time ... as often we heard Wendel over the phone explaining stuff 🤣. I also loved the anti copyright part. That makes me to want to burn the entire world down with my outrage until the industry who created this technology dies a really long and painful death. Does somebody have matches? 🔥
I just find it hilarious that these companies still believe that drm does anything.
@@chrisbaker8533 I think there has to be another explanation. I know that some companies get revenue from sending out mass legal notices to pirates, and sometimes totally innocent people, and they threaten to take them to court if they don't pay up, which they then do not follow through on. It's obviously just extortion. They also like to pretend that every download is a lost sale or 2, so they make the downloader and the uploader both pay full price in damages. This is another revenue source for them, but they have to keep up the appearance that they don't want it to happen in order to keep making money from it. Point is, I think DRM is more for some kind of social or legal manipulation rather than something that's supposed to work technologically.
just ordered one of these so I can finally do 1440p at high refresh between 2 PCs. can't wait.
I've been using one of level 1's KVMs [a much bigger one than the one in this]. I use it to handle 3 displays at 4k 144hz between multiple machines, coupled with a usb hub that holds a dac, mic, webcam, keyboard, mouse [the keyboard has usb ports so I want it on the data port, not the kvm's port]. For the most part, it works great. Does everything it says it does. The biggest issue I run into is the lack of EDID emulation, which a lot of commercial DP 1.2 KVMs have. That said, there are ways around that in software, and Wendell explained the details of the problem in the video. On top of that, if you need DP1.4, there is literally nothing in the KVM space that better, or even as good as what level 1 is pushing, right now.
Also, I can run my 3 4k monitors at 60hz over thunderbolt 4 laptop docks. 60 is not quite 144, but ... I'm using the laptop for work, and it works with my larger universe, where I have machines that can run 144 per port. Also, I know there's DP1.4 docks in the works that can run several high refresh rate 4K screens over thunderbolt 4 [3 just doesn't have the bandwidth for it, no matter what, and doubly so when considering that the dock line is carrying other signals at the same time].
Yes, tested the DP KVM switches from L1T, none of them supported EDID emulation and EDID feeding to full-bus DP link trains. That is the biggest issue of L1T DP1.2 and DP 1.4 KVM switches - caused the interrupted workflows for users. The video DDM-class advanced DP 1.4 KVM switches will be the pick, if the EDID emulation is an important requirement for your workflows.
@@rexwu168 I was actually looking at Connect Pro. They make all the right claims, but there have been issues reported on the edge cases. I was spoiled by Aten systems for dp1.2, which are as close to flawless as anything I've ever used, but they never added 1.4 support. I'm unsurprised, as kvm tech largely lags the market, but it still sucks. That's how I ended up at L1. I did also look at connect pro, and a few others, but I just didn't have confidence. For example, I run 3 monitors at 4k 144hz, which are HDR capable, and need to split them between /at least/ 2 computers. Connect Pro's site indicates it may have problems with certain color modes. I may end up giving it a try, anyway, but we will have to see. It's also mildly disappointing that ConnectPro only support single or 2 screens. That means that I'd be buying a second set to sync, in order to run all my kit. Also, they're running USB at a speed of 5Gbps. The L1 stuff does give me 10. I have had hardware issues with some stuff over kvms before, so I run keyboard, mouse, webcam, mic, dac, and other stuff over a hub on the kvm. This means that I need the bandwidth. Frankly, I'd love to see some bleeding edge thing running 20 or more, but again, kvms lag the market.
@@RadicalEdwardStudios I found that the L1T Store also have the EDID emulation KVM, and no need to look at the Connect Pro KVM, many forums say that the compatibility is not very good.
@@orton12321 I've certainly heard questions about the ConnectPro stuff, but I'm entirely confident that the L1 KVMs don't have emulators. I have one on my desk, right now.