Setting up a dual-monitor workstation can significantly boost productivity—especially for developers, designers, traders, or anyone juggling multiple workflows. But if you’re using a Mac with an M3 or M4 chip, you’ve probably realized that macOS doesn’t make this process easy. Unlike many Windows machines that support Multi-Stream Transport (MST) via a single USB-C/Thunderbolt port, Apple’s M-series Macs have distinct limitations.
The Challenge: Apple’s Display Output Limitations
Apple’s sleek design philosophy often comes with trade-offs—and one of them is external display support. Here’s the deal:
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M1 & M2 Macs (especially the base models like MacBook Air) famously only support one external display, even though the USB-C ports support DisplayPort.
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M3 & M4 Macs have made improvements, but they still don’t support MST, which means you can’t daisy-chain two monitors from one USB-C port—a feature common in many modern PCs.
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Even on models that support multiple displays, managing them across multiple machines (like a Mac + Windows PC or dual Macs) introduces complexity.
So, what can you do when you want two monitors, multiple devices, and zero hassle switching?
The Technical Catch: No MST on macOS
MST (Multi-Stream Transport) is a key technology that allows you to output multiple display signals over a single DisplayPort or USB-C port. This is how many Windows laptops connect to two or even three monitors using just one cable. But Apple has never supported MST in macOS. As a result:
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Even if you plug a docking station or MST hub into your Mac, only could show same scene on different monitors.
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To use two monitors, you need two physical video outputs, or you must rely on DisplayLink (which requires software, may affect performance, and isn't ideal for all workflows).
Smarter Setup: KVM Switches to the Rescue
KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse—but modern KVM switches do a lot more than their name suggests. They allow you to:
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Connect two devices (e.g., a Mac and a Windows PC, or two Macs)
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Share two monitors
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Seamlessly switch between the two setups with one button press or hotkey
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Share USB peripherals like your keyboard, mouse, webcam, and more
This setup is without question because each Mac connects to the KVM using two separate video outputs, one for each monitor. The KVM then handles switching and routing—no software needed, and no messy unplugging.
Use Case 1: Two Macs, Two Monitors
If you’re working with two Macs—say, an M3 MacBook Pro and an M4 Mac mini—and want to share two displays, the CKS202-P23 dual monitor KVM switch from TESmart is ideal.
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Two Macs in, two monitors out
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Seamless hotkey or button-based switching
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Supports resolutions up to 4K@60Hz
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Abundant USB 3.0 ports for shared peripherals
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EDID emulation for smoothly and stably switch
💡 No MST needed. Each Mac connects via two cables, and the switch handles everything else.
Use Case 2: One Mac, One PC (or Console), Two Monitors
Have a Mac for work and a Windows PC or gaming console for personal use? Want to share two monitors and one set of keyboard/mouse? The HDC202-P23 KVM switch is tailor-made for this hybrid setup.
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Works with Macs, PCs, consoles
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HDMI + USB-C/DP support
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Easy switching and broad device compatibility
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Keeps both systems connected and organized
Final Thoughts
Apple’s M3 and M4 Macs are powerful machines, but their approach to multi-display support still lags behind the competition. If you’re a multitasker juggling multiple devices and looking to get the most out of a two-monitor setup, investing in a smart KVM switch is the most elegant and practical solution.
Skip the dongles, ditch MST confusion, and let KVM do the switching.
