If you want a DIY IP KVM on a Raspberry Pi that you can build from documented steps, PiKVM is the better-supported route today. Its official V2 guide names a specific board, a specific HDMI capture bridge, and a specific power and USB wiring arrangement. BeaconKVM offers a Raspberry Pi option that its maker describes as quicker to add to a machine that already runs other software, with remote access built in. That claim comes from a comparison BeaconKVM wrote about its own product, and it concedes that BeaconKVM has fewer features.
What an IP KVM does and when it earns its place
An IP KVM sits between a computer and the network. It captures the target’s video output and presents it in a browser, and it sends keyboard and mouse input back by emulating USB peripherals on the target. Because the target sees ordinary keyboard and mouse hardware, you can reach its BIOS or UEFI setup, a boot menu, a disk-recovery screen, or a login prompt when the operating system is not running. Ordinary remote desktop software cannot do that, because it depends on the operating system already being up.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
That recovery use is the reason to build one. A home lab server, a remote office machine, or a mini PC in a rack often fails in exactly the moments when you most need to see its screen.
PiKVM or BeaconKVM at a glance
The two projects approach the same job differently. The table below separates what each source states from what the sources leave open. The BeaconKVM column reflects claims in a DEV Community article written by BeaconKVM, not an independent test.
#1 Best Overall
- 【HDMI KVM Switch 4 Port】KVM Switch HDMI supports 4 computers to share 1 monitor and is controlled by 1 set of keyboard and mouse. You can enjoy free and fast switching between 4 computers, greatly improving your office efficiency.
- 【KVM Support 4K@60Hz】The maximum resolution supported by 4 Port KVM Switch is 3840x2160@60Hz , compatible with lower resolutions such as 3840x2160@30Hz , 1080p, etc. Adaptive EDID can identify multiple display devices.
- 【with 3 USB3.0 Ports】KVM Switch with 3 USB 3.0 ports and 1 USB-C ports，supports 4 computers to share USB devices, such as keyboard, mouse, USB flash disk, camera, etc. It is more convenient to use.
- 【2 Switching Methods】This KVM switch supports two convenient switching methods. You can switch easily via the white buttons on the front panel, or use the included wired remote keypad. The remote controller is clearly labeled with numbers 1/2/3/4, corresponding to different computers for one-touch direct switching, making operation more intuitive and efficient. With LED indicators, you can clearly see which computer is active. 4-port setup is plug-and-play for quick and hassle-free installation (hotkey switching is not supported).
- 【Good After-sales Service & Upgraded Kit】 This 4 computer KVM switch package comes with 1x HDMI cable, 4x USB3.0 cables, 1x power cable, and 1x USB controller cable and 1x wire-desktop controller, We offer reliable after-sales support. If you have any questions about the product, please contact us via Amazon email, and we will provide you with a reasonable solution promptly.
| Factor | PiKVM (DIY V2 build) | BeaconKVM (as described by BeaconKVM) |
|---|---|---|
| Role of the Raspberry Pi | Dedicated to the KVM; you flash a DIY OS image onto it | Installed with a one-command setup and described as able to coexist with an existing system |
| Core remote screen and keyboard/mouse | Yes; this is the project’s core function | Yes; the article says both products do LAN KVM |
| Remote access over the internet | Not stated in the handbook sections covered for this article | Described as built in, with an account-bound web console |
| ATX power control, clipboard, CD-ROM and virtual media | Named as features PiKVM has; BeaconKVM’s article says PiKVM has more features in these areas | Not claimed as present; the article acknowledges fewer features overall |
| Video capture on the recommended V2 build | TC358743 HDMI-to-CSI bridge; an HDMI-to-USB dongle is an alternative | Not stated in the comparison |
| Documentation | Official DIY V2 quickstart, flashing guide, and FAQ with troubleshooting | Install and feature details should be confirmed in BeaconKVM’s current first-party documentation |
| Project maturity | Documented DIY image matrix organised by board and capture platform | Described by BeaconKVM itself as relatively new |
Building a PiKVM V2: the parts list
The PiKVM V2 quickstart guide recommends the following configuration. Treat it as a checklist to confirm before buying, since board support and image lists change.
- Raspberry Pi 4, 2GB, the model the V2 guide recommends.
- A TC358743 HDMI-to-CSI capture board. The chip is the part to check. Do not substitute an unspecified capture dongle and assume it behaves the same.
- A microSD card. The V2 guide specifies at least 16GB, Class 10. The general flashing instructions recommend 32GB.
- A power supply suitable for the Pi, plus the USB power and data split described below.
- A USB power and data splitter, or the equivalent arrangement the guide documents.
- HDMI cabling from the target to the capture board, and network cabling for the Pi.
Why the USB split matters on a Pi 4
On a Raspberry Pi 4, the USB-C power port also carries the USB device connection that emulates a keyboard and mouse to the target. Plugged in carelessly, that link can push power back into the target computer. PiKVM’s FAQ explains that the documented splitter arrangement prevents this backpowering. Follow the wiring in the guide exactly rather than improvising with a generic adapter.
Rank #2
- 【USB KVM HDMI Switch】This HDMI KVM Switch allows you to control 2 computers with only one set of controls (Monitor, Mouse, Keyboard). You can easily switch between two displays. Makes your work and life much more simple and efficient. LED light color(Green or Blue) indicating the active computer.
- 【Ultra HD 4K@60Hz Visual Enjoyment】This HDMI USB KVM switch supporting resolution 4K@60Hz, makes the image display more exquisite and realistic, color is more bright and moving, really giving a feast for your eyes. Of course, Jancane KVM switches also supports 4K@30Hz, 3D and 1080P or lower resolution.
- 【Support Multi Devices & Widely applied】KVM switch supports many kinds of input devices or signal sources switch, such as PS4, PS4 Pro, PS3, Xbox One, TV Box, PC, laptop, Nintendo Switch, and most HDMI capable devices. It is widely applied for Enterprise, Office, Multimedia Teaching, Meeting Room Gaming Room, Home Theater, Research Tests, etc.
- 【Great Compatibility & One Button Switch】This KVM switch works with great compatibility, driver-free for Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP and Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS, simply plug and play, No external power required. Easily switch between 2 displays by a single click on the button.
- 【What you will Get】Jancane provides lifetime technical support for this KVM switcher. Package includes 1*kvm switcher, 2*1.2m*USB 2.0 Cable, 2*1.2m*HDMI cables, 1*User Manual. Any problem, pls contact us to solve it.
Alternative builds
- Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W. The V2 guide documents this board as an option.
- HDMI-to-USB capture dongle. The handbook describes this path as using heavier MJPEG encoding, with higher latency, no automatic resolution detection, and possible unreliability. Use it only if the TC358743 board is unavailable to you.
Compatibility limits to check before you buy
These limits decide whether a build will work with your target, so check them against your hardware first.
Recommended Free Tools
- Resolution and refresh rate. The V2 CSI configuration tops out at 1920×1080 at 50Hz according to the handbook. The handbook does not support 60Hz with that hardware configuration. If your target outputs 60Hz, this build is outside its stated limit. Check the current handbook before ordering.
- Raspberry Pi 5. The Pi 5 lacks the hardware encoder that the HDMI-CSI H.264 route needs. Confirm the current image list and device compatibility before buying a Pi 5.
- BIOS and UEFI screens. Not every HDMI capture device works equally well on firmware screens, which often use unusual timings. A board that works in the operating system may not work at boot.
Flashing the PiKVM image
- Open PiKVM’s “Flashing PiKVM OS image” page and select the DIY image that matches your Pi model and capture platform. Images written for branded PiKVM devices are not suitable for DIY builds.
- Write the image to a microSD card. Use 32GB, as the flashing instructions recommend, even though the V2 guide sets a 16GB minimum.
- Insert the card into the Pi. Connect the capture board to the Pi’s CSI port, the target’s HDMI output to the capture board, and the USB split to the target.
- Power the Pi and connect it to your network.
- Open the web console from a browser on your local network and follow the first-login steps in the PiKVM handbook.
- Confirm the target’s display is detected and that its output sits within 1920×1080 at 50Hz. Then test the BIOS or UEFI screen, because that is the case the build exists for.
BeaconKVM: what the vendor says
BeaconKVM’s DEV Community article describes its Raspberry Pi setup as a one-command installation that can coexist with an existing system. It describes an account-bound web console and built-in remote access. It contrasts this with PiKVM’s dedicated flashed image, and it says PiKVM has more features, naming ATX control, clipboard, and CD-ROM and virtual media support. The article’s sentence on hardware is the clearest statement of its position: “The hardware requirements are identical on both sides and both do LAN KVM, so we haven’t listed those separately.”
Rank #3
- 【KVM Switch 2 In 1 Out】This KVM switch 1 monitors 2 computers supports sharing a set of mouse and keyboard; simply press the switch button to quickly switch between 2 PCs without having to plug and unplug HDMI and USB cables back and forth, keeping your desktop neat and tidy while increasing your productivity. It also saves you money and reduces the need for duplicate equipment. Note: Each computer and monitor must be equipped with an HDMI port for proper operation. The use of conversion cables or adapters may result in unstable/flickering transmission or failure to transmit images（The device will disconnect intermittently）
- 【Ultra HD 4k】The HDMI KVM switch supports resolutions up to 4K@60Hz, allowing images to be displayed more beautifully and realistically, and colours will be more vivid and dynamic, and backward compatible with 3840*2160@30Hz, 1920*1080P@60Hz, 1920*1080P@30Hz, etc. Note: KVM requires a high-quality HDMI 2.0 standard cable no longer than 3.3 feet in length, and ensure that your computer and monitor support 4K to ensure the transmission of video signals!
- 【Desktop Remote Wired Control】The monitor switch for two computers has two switching modes.1) You can switch directly by clicking the button on the body of the KVM switch.2) You can hide the KVM switch and use the desktop controller to switch between the two computers, which makes your desktop cleaner, saves a lot of space and is more convenient to use. Note: This KVM switch does not support hotkey switching
- 【Mouse Keyboard KVM Switch 】This USB KVM switch has 2 USB 2.0 ports with data transfer speed up to 480Mbps, which can recognise a wired keyboard and mouse or other USB 2.0 devices to move files and photos easily. Different LEDs (green PC1 / blue PC2) clearly show which computer is active. KVM switch is also hot-swappable, allowing you to connect devices without rebooting, ensuring flexibility and portability
- 【Stable Use & After-sales】Our KVM switches are made of high quality materials, lightweight and compact, low power consumption, excellent compatibility, no driver required; plug and play, no external power supply required. Note: For compatibility reasons this small KVM switch is not recommended for use with Mac devices. If you encounter any problems during use, you can send us an email via the order number. Within 24 months, we will replace the switch at no charge
What the article does not establish
- It is a vendor’s own comparison. It is not an independent test, and this article does not report hands-on testing of either product.
- It does not state the capture method used by BeaconKVM, its supported display limits, or the exact install steps for your platform.
- Its remote-access claim does not say what the remote-access model requires, or how the privacy and security of that path are handled.
- Pricing and current feature availability are not stated in the article. Check BeaconKVM’s own documentation before you plan around either.
What a build costs
No current total is established for either build. Component prices vary by region and retailer and change over time, so price each line item in the parts list yourself before ordering.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which route fits your situation
- Choose PiKVM V2 if you want a documented DIY build on a dedicated Pi, you can handle the USB wiring and image flashing, and your target’s display fits the 1920×1080 at 50Hz limit.
- Consider BeaconKVM if you want the Pi to share duties with a system you already run, and the install and remote-access model suits you after you confirm it in BeaconKVM’s current documentation.
- Stop and verify first if your target outputs 60Hz, you plan to use a Pi 5, or you need firmware-screen access. Those are the cases where the documented limits matter most.
The PiKVM route gives you the clearest documented path, with the most stated detail. The BeaconKVM route is easier to describe but harder to verify from the sources available here.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The next generation of Raspberry Pi based KVM over IP. Manage your servers or PC remotely! PiKVM is a feature-rich, production grade, open-source, Raspberry Pi based KVM IP device.
- Transfer your mouse and keyboard actions to a remote PC using this remote kvm over ip. Take full control of a remote PC’s power: Pi KVM provides remote reset or reboot using the actual hardware reset & power buttons connector functions.
- Access to all configuration settings of a remote computer like tweaking UEFI/BIOS settings to do some overclocking! Boot a controlled PC using any OS you need using mass storage device emulation support. You can even reinstall the system remotely using this mini kvm!
- PiKVM Fanless design with a passive heatsink for quiet ipkvm operation
- Includes a locator led simplifying your device search.
Rank #4
- The next generation of Raspberry Pi based KVM over IP. Manage your servers or PC remotely! PiKVM is a feature-rich, production grade, open-source, Raspberry Pi based KVM over IP device.
- Turnkey solution equipped with all you need out of the box; a power supply, USB & Ethernet cables, and even PCI brackets.
- CE Certification - Industrial-grade level product thanks to the Raspberry Pi CM4.
- 1920x1080@60Hz & 1920x1200@60Hz resolution support for increased UEFI/BIOS compatibility & two extra HDMI output.
- Improved connectivity with three connectivity channels: WiFi (with optional external antenna, Ethernet, and Cellular.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
