There is an HDMI 1.4 version that was released in 2009 but there are few products that support the new version. This HDMI switcher is the second on our list of best HDMI switch and the best premium. One of the benefits to this device from Fosmon is that it needs no power adapter to make it work. Automatic control is more convenient. An HDMI switch doesn't have to break the bank. As mentioned above, you can use an HDMI switcher with two HDMI outputs, but if you don't need a switcher, you can use an HDMI splitter. The Kinivo 5-Port 4K HDMI switch is a fantastic and reliable (and switcher that includes five high-speed HDMI ports and one output, all in one convenient little package. With all of the HDMI switch choices on the market, it is beneficial to you to know exactly how many devices you want to plug in and what those devices are so the HDMI you choose supports what you need it to. If you only need three or four inputs, however, it is worth looking at the competition, which is often cheaper and in some cases more fully-featured. Input lag is minimal, and you get an IR remote so you can control it from the couch. If you don't have many media devices or game consoles to connect to your TV and you don't want to spend a fortune for a great HDMI switch, check out the Techole 4K HDMI Splitter. The TeckNet 3 Port is a rather interesting model. It works by receiving HDMI signals from different sources that send them to your TV. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. If you have a variety of devices at home like multiple game consoles, Blu-ray players, media servers, and streaming boxes, getting enough HDMI ports might be a challenge since the ports on most TVs are fairly limited. The JTD4KSP0301 also needs a power outlet in order to work. The number of HDMI inputs on a switcher may range from 2 to 8. That makes it ideal for both video game consoles and physical media players, especially if you’re looking for something to use for a Blu-ray player that supports 4K discs. Unlike other switchers, these switchers do not require human interface. Choose anything from a half-and-half screen with two widescreen images displayed side-by-side to a small image that can be tucked into any corner. Easy to hook up and operate. ", "Cable Matters is one of the better known brands among HDMI switches, and for good reason. But if you have already tried the HDMI switches in past and looking for an upgrade then go for advanced features like advanced 2.0 version, 4K TRUE HD, 3D, higher number of ports, auto-switching HDMI switches. What sets this particular switch apart from the others is in its audio capabilities. A manual switch means pressing the actual switch button on your HDMI switch boxes. — Emily Ramirez, Product Tester. There is a bit of confusion among the average consumer about the differences between an HDMI switch and an HDMI splitter. At less than an inch thick and less than five inches wide, it's small enough to tuck away out of sight and its design is restrained enough to blend into predominantly dark entertainment hubs. HDMI cables can transfer power from all of the connected sources. The slim design reduces the cable footprint without adding bulk and that makes it blend into the surroundings much easier. The way an HDMI switcher works is that it consolidates all the devices you are plugging in to you just one port on the TV instead of all of them. Many people incorrectly assume the two are the same thing, but this is not true. ", Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day, Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. The top of the unit features a single, large selector button to make choosing the correct input a breeze. There are several things you want to look for when it comes to choosing the right HDMI switch for your needs. Splitters can be powered or passive (no power needed). It’s just a matter of time before there are HDMI switches that adopt the HDMI 1.4 version. Kinivo High Speed HDMI Switch scored high above the rest we tested in all categories and is our top pick. The Newcare HDMI Switch 3-in-1 is highly affordable, with a price that typically ranges from $15-20. She has also worked in e-commerce product management, so she has the knowledge of what makes a solid HDMI switch box for home entertainment. The Orei HD-201P 2 x1 High-Speed HDMI Switcher delivers professional quality picture and sound with no signal loss. There are several things you want to consider before you purchase an HDMI switch. There's also a remote, so you don't have to get up to switch inputs. Take a little time to do some research, list out your own device needs and don’t over purchase and you will end up with an HDMI switch that performs well, has all the features you’re looking for and that makes your entertainment area much neater and the process of switching from one device to another much simpler. The same brand also sells a 4K 8-port model with a similar set of features, though that'll run you twice as much. Insignia 3-Port HDMI Switch, Best for 1080p: Unlike similarly priced options like the Techole 4K Splitter, it supports three input sources, all at 4K/60Hz. HDMI switches can be used in one of three ways: manual, automatic and remote control operated. If you have two active devices plugged in at once, the input will switch to the secondary device when the primary one is turned off. GANA HDMI Switch/Splitter can be used in two combinations: as an HDMI splitter (with one input and two outputs), or as an HDMI switch (with two inputs and one output), which makes it highly versatile. 99 Emily Ramirez has been writing for Lifewire since 2019. Kinivo offers users a high speed HDMI switch with 5 ports which means it switches 5 high speed inputs into one. By using Lifewire, you accept our, Zettaguard Upgraded 4K 60Hz 4x1 HDMI Switcher Review, Best for 4K: ", "The Newcare HDMI Switch 3-in-1 is highly affordable, with a price that typically ranges from $15-20. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. An HDMI switch is very convenient as it offers lots of HDMI input ports to connect to your display. There is an integrated ‘smart’ switching feature that automatically switches to the active HDMI port. Insignia backs this model with a one year warranty to cover manufacturing defects and DOA units. These auto-sensing HDMI switchers have the latest audio video technology built in to auto detect active input source signals and automatically switch the active input to the output. Cable Matters 4K HDMI Switch, Best Picture-in-Picture: The splitter also has to be compatible with the video and audio signals you may need to pass-through. 5 Best HDMI Switch­es With Remote to Buy in 2020. Constantly plugging and unplugging a device can weaken the plug and cause issues at the connection point. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. For practiced multitaskers, this comes in handy. The compact design lets you tuck the switch box out of sight to keep your set-up looking neat. Once a signal goes away the switcher will automatically change to the other input. A great HDMI switcher with quality components. It is where a lot of family entertainment happens as well as get together and holiday events as well. It comes with a 1 year warranty and includes the Main HDMI switch, an AC adapter, and an IR remote control with a battery. Namrata Gogoi ... Like the Techole switch, this device also auto switches to the active port when all the other connected devices are powered off. After testing lots of options with 4K feeds we found that the J-Tech Digital JTD4KSP0301 is the best HDMI switcher we tested because it supports resolutions up to 4K, the auto-switching works well, and it switches quickly between sources in under three seconds. This is particularly useful for gamers who might be running a dual PC streaming setup. gtag('js', new Date()); This is problematic for many reasons. This includes blue ray players, gaming consoles and some HD DVD players. When switching automatically, it bases its decision on active input from the user’s habits. 1. This is a great switch for laptops, computers, cable boxes, video game consoles, blue-ray players and much more. Compatibility with popular audio formats is also on board, as is the ability to easily switch between inputs with an included remote control. These cookies do not store any personal information. Baby Travel System Buying Guide What is a Baby Travel System? He's a self-proclaimed music geek who loves laying down tracks in his spare time. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. It has many features that make it a very popular choice including supporting a variety of things like 4k resolutions, HDCP pass through, 12-bit Deep color per channel, compressed and uncompressed audio, 3D devices and more. Most TVs have s very small number of ports which can make it impossible to plug in everything that you want to have plugged in and ready to go. Known as a "pigtail cable," it has an HDMI connection for your TV on one end and three HDMI ports on the other end. On top of that, the HDMI 2.0 standard means you get 4K at 60Hz, resulting and smooth and satisfying games and media. Darius is our Electronics, Tools and Music writer. review process here. Plus, it serves up 4K video at 60Hz or 30Hz resolutions with support for both 3D and 1080p output, depending on your needs. The Newcare HDMI Switch 3-in-1 is highly affordable, with a price that typically ranges from $15-20. There will also be some things to consider as well that will have an effect on the model you choose. A bonus is that the auto switch mode can be turned off. With 4K, 2K, and 3D video output support, this particular hub is a cheap, utilitarian HDMI switcher that can handle just about anything you throw at it. The Best Mid-Range Home Theater Receivers of 2020, How to Fix the Xbox One 'No Signal' Error, Home Theater Receiver Connections Explained, How to Use a Blu-ray Disc Player With a 720p TV, Video Upscaling In Home Theater – The Basics, HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection), reduce HDMI cable clutter over a longer distance, HDMI switchers currently available for consumers are at least 1080p and. Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Taylor Clemons has been reviewing and writing about consumer electronics for over three years. There were 5 ports available for use and can be switched automatically or manually. It has full support for both 1080p HD and 4K UHD resolution movies and shows; it even supports 3D movies for a more immersive viewing experience. Yes, that's the actual company name. Just as with a switcher, if one video display device is a lower resolution than the other, the output for both may default to the lower resolution. However, TVs may have as few as one or two, or at most, three or four HDMI inputs. Even if your TV only has one or two ports, an HDMI switch allows the capability of more devices connected without needing the actual port space. ", "The EZCOOTECH is one of the best fully-featured 4K HDMI switchers you can get. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. and sends one cable to your TV or other device When you are aware of what your specific needs are then it’s just a matter of checking reviews to see what customers are saying about using the HDMI switch you are interested in and making sure you get a switch that will handle all that you want to plug in. IOGEAR 8-Port HDMI Switch, Use a Home Theater Receiver as an HDMI Switcher or Splitter. On the back, you'll see four separate inputs, as well as one output; on the front, lighting above each port indicates which one is currently in use. It supports 3D and HD resolutions up to 1080 dpi. Unlike similarly priced options like the Techole 4K Splitter, it supports three input sources, all at 4K/60Hz. If you need to pass HDR-encoded and/or 3D video signals, your HDMI switcher needs to have those capabilities. It can support up to 2K and 4K resolutions as well as 3D features. Another smartly-priced option, the Zettaguard True 4K 4x1 is best for those craving an easy swap between devices. HDMI switchers without an auto-switch function will require manual switching via a button on the device or a remote. Before the invention of HDMI switches, users had the option of buying an expensive AV receiver or having the hassle of unplugging and plugging in the devices as they were needed. The automatic switching function works by detecting the HDMI signals that are sent from the devices to the HDMI switch. The HDMI Matrix supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and HDR10 to cover all its bases for best image quality. Thanks to its wide array of features, excellent visual fidelity, and auto-switching abilities, the 550BN is one of the best options for power users and beginners alike. The1080p HDMI switchers will tend to be quite a bit cheaper than 4K ones, making them a good option for a dorm room setup where multiple people might be sharing devices on an HDTV. The switcher allows users to have access to all their devices without having to constantly pug and unplug them. If you have a home theater or entertainment setup with multiple sources and display devices like game consoles, streaming boxes, and projectors, it can be hard to manage in terms of cables and switching devices. With 5 input ports, one cannot ask for more convenience and the automatic switching feature makes this automatic HDMI switch one of the best 4K HDMI switch in the market. Automatic switching and a manual switch button helps users use the devices they want to use without having to take time unplugging and plugging them back in. The splitter features a pair of HDMI … To swap between inputs, you can use the included wireless infrared remote, which also lets you alter PIP options on the fly, all from the comfort of your sofa. Darius worked for a well-known tool company for 7 years before joining the ThoroughlyReviewed.com team. An HDMI switcher may also be referred to as an HDMI hub. For those that do prize the five inputs, the Kinivo switch performs cleanly and reliably, but it may cause some cable management headaches. They have the flexibility and features you need including remote controls, 3D compatibility, picture in picture and many other features. function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} It offers simple set up with the convenient plug and play capability and supports 3D as well as HD resolutions as high as 1080 dpi. gtag('config', 'UA-55815760-1'); Take a look inside most living rooms and you’re likely to find a large TV as the centerpiece of the room. Can handle Dolby Digital, DTS, 5.1, and 7.1. It is definitely a convenient and relaxing way of reducing cable clutter and having all of the devices hooked up that you regularly use. On HDMI switchers with two HDMI outputs that send the same video signal to two video displays, if one of the displays has a lower resolution (e.g. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. It features 3 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output and a built in HDMI pigtail cable that is 1.8ft. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Our reviewer especially liked that there was no need to memorize arbitrary HDMI numbers with the 550BN. The inputs are made of an aluminum alloy for durability and to support data transfer speeds up to 10.2Gbps so you get a great picture and sound time after time. Zettaguard’s HDMI switch can be operated via remote control so you can go from one device to another without having to leave your chair or the sofa. The switcher allows the user to switch between all of the devices as needed and very simply. To fix this problem, many people invest in an HDMI switcher. Below, you’ll find four exceptional, mid-range HDMI switches to choose from. ", "This switcher is praised for its ease of setup and use. ThoroughlyReviewed is reader-supported. 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch 5x1 Awakelion Premium 5 in 1 Out 4K HDMI Switch with IR Remote Support Auto-Switch, HDCP 2.2,UHD,HDR,Full HD,3D,1080P If you are using the HDMI switches for the first time then you should try the basic HDMI switches that cost you from $10 to $30. If your living room is like a lot of people’s, you may find that you have a lot of different devices to plug into your TV. The manual button is located on the box and is a built in feature for those times you manually need to switch to a specific device. Unlike many other HDMI switchers, this 2.8 x 5.5 x 1-inch model gives you the option to choose from four different screen sizes for the second picture. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. It is also just very inconvenient. ", "A cheap, utilitarian HDMI switcher that can handle just about anything you throw at it. The Univivi 4K Switcher with 5 Ports might be one of the best HDMI switches because it is incredibly affordable and contains valuable features that users find convenient. Set up is simple, just plug it in and go. The HDMI switch supports HDR, can handle 4K and 1080p content, and supports most popular audio formations like Dolby Digital, DTS, 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound, and has a 3.5mm jack and optical port to connect to a soundbar or receiver. This device is pretty inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of an AV receiver. There are several that will accept two or more HDMI sources, but on the output side, may include both a physical HDMI output, as well as wireless transmission to one, or more wireless receivers than use an HDMI output to connect to a video display. As the name indicates, it supports 8 HDMI ports, letting you switch between 8 devices connected to one TV. For $45, the Kinivo five input 4K/60Hz switch is a solid purchase. With five high-speed HDMI ports, one output, and a compact, utilitarian design, it's easy to see why it's so attractive. There's also Dolby Digital 7.1, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X for audio. We’ve listed these considerations below: Most of the devices that are available are compliant with HDMI 1.3b or earlier. So read on to find the best HDMI switcher for you. The picture in picture feature allows users to easily make transitions from one device to another and provides 3 sub screens and one main screen; all you need to do is push a button. This device supports 3d, HD audio and is HDCP compliant as well. It looks sleek and stylish, unlike the black plastic boxes that make up most other switchers. Fortunately, an HDMI switcher can help you add more inputs to your TV or AV receiver if you have too many devices to manage. It reduces cord clutter and has a 1 year warranty. However, just as with wired switchers, the wireless transmission feature needs to support the video and audio capabilities (resolution, formats) that you require. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and HDR 10, Supports Dolby Digital 7.1, Atmos, and DTS:X. The three HDMI switches featured above are all excellent examples of what a good quality HDMI switch can do for you. He has written and managed content for companies like T-Mobile, Sprint, and TracFone Wireless. But, the real advantage of this HDMI switcher is its advanced picture-in-picture (PIP) feature that allows you to output two sources on a single screen. Orei HD-201P 2 X 1 High Speed, Best For Gamers: She's very family with games, TV, and audio devices, and particularly liked the Knivo 550BN for its five high-speed HDMI ports and reliability. HDMI Switches Versus HDMI Splitters. ", "If you have a lot of HDMI output devices you need to switch between, this 8-port switcher gives you all the connections you need. But you may have specific needs. The HDMI switch comes in a durable metal box with gold-plated HDMI ports. It … Some are rated for 1080p, while others can support 4K content along with features like HDR, Dolby Vision, Atmos, DTS:X and other video and audio formats. This guide is designed to help you understand the different features an HDMI can have so you can easily sort through the choices available and make the right selection for your needs. All the other features you could hope for are here too. Its simplistic and straightforward design make it a great choice for people that aren't as acquainted with technology, while the auto … Low-priced home theater receivers usually provide four HDMI inputs, but as you go up in price, you will find receivers with up to six or eight HDMI inputs along with two or three outputs which allow you to connect to more than one TV or a TV and video projector similar to a splitter. Switching is easy thanks to the plug n play design that has automatic sensors that will switch from one device to another when it detects a signal. They're identified by an LED indicator so you know which one is in use. Though there's an included infrared (IR) remote to swap between HDMI inputs, the 550BN can also switch automatically to an active input, which removes one potentially confusing element from the equation: Which input refers to what? ", "If you're an audiophile, this unit has both support for Dolby DTS audio and passthrough for Dolby Atmos-enabled devices", "This unit has a price tag that sits under $10, so it fits all but the absolute tightest of budgets. The Gana HDMI switch is audio compatible with Dolby, HD, LPCM, and others — without audio signal distortion or similar problems. The resolutions supported are 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p, so this isn't the best solution if you primarily have 4K content, but it does support Dolby True HD, 12-bit Deep color, and DTS HD Master Audio. Using it is simple, with a button on top of the HDMI box to let you switch input sources. 4K and 3D display resolutions are also supported. A baby travel system may sound like something to do with traveling with…, About Us Contact Resources Scholarship Privacy Policy Terms of Use. The metallic alloy plug is corrosion resistant and reduces the chances of tarnish so they last a good long time. The top of the unit features a single push button to let you quickly and easily select the input you'd like to use. "Though there's an included infrared (IR) remote to swap between HDMI inputs, the 501BN can switch automatically. The front has LED indicator lights to let you know which port is in use. You’ll be able to connect gaming consoles, laptops, desk tops and other HDMI compatible devices to your TV easily with this convenient device. Instead of buying a new TV just to get more HDMI inputs, consider getting an external HDMI switcher to fill the gap. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch 5x1 FiveHome 5 Port HDMI Switcher Support Auto Switch with IR Wireless Remote, HDCP 2.2,Full HD/3D 4.4 out of 5 stars 837 £36.99 £ 36 . Below is a list of 8 best HDMI switches that you can choose from according to your needs. She's previously written for the Massachusetts Digital Games Institute and MIT Game Lab, and has a background in narrative design and media. Just connect your source(s) to the switcher's HDMI inputs and connect the switcher's HDMI output to your TV or video projector. It transfers Full HD images without loss of quality and can link a console, a PC, and … If you’re looking for the best HDMI switch for gaming and home use, we’ve got you covered. As mentioned above, all HDMI switchers pass standard Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround audio signals, but if you are routing the output of the switcher through a, The switcher also has to support HDMI handshake requirements that are implemented via either the. The IOGEAR 8-Port HDMiIswitch offers a good solution. It can either switch automatically or manually as needed. You'll be hard pressed to find a similar set of features for the price, though be aware that features like HDR, Dolby Vision, and Atmos aren't supported. When you turn on a video game console, for example, a signal will be sent and the switcher will automatically switch to that console. Some models with an auto-switch function also have a manual switch … With no lag or delay in the PIP output, the HDMI switcher allows you to keep up with two games at once or follow exciting political races while still watching your favorite show. Some HDMI switchers also incorporate HDMI-CEC support, which allows the switcher to automatically go to the correct input of the most recently activated device. You can plug in four HDMI sources to two displays, letting you connect multiples consoles, streaming devices, and other hardware to two displays. ThoroughlyReviewed.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. If you are willing to spend a bit more, you can certainly opt for this HDMI switcher box. For anyone who has the basics of a home theater set-up, the Insignia three-port HDMI switch box is the ideal choice. The best HDMI splitter for my TiVo, DVD player, and the fire TV stick. This switch box supports 3D picture, 4K UHD resolution, 2K resolution, and HD audio so you can be sure it will work with almost all of your favorite devices and game consoles. The Kinivo 501BN is our favorite switch for its practical design, application, and smart automatic switching ability. Ports on the back of expensive equipment don’t appreciate continuous plugging and unplugging, so a switch may also extend the lifespan of your equipment as well. When searching for an ideal HDMI cable splitter to use, it is advised that you opt for models which are extremely user-friendly and easy to set up. We spent over 42 hours researching and testing 10 different HDMI switches and found that number of ports available, compatibility with HDMI devices, and resolutions supported were most important. one is 720p and the other is 1080p, or one is 1080p and the other is 4K), the output from the switcher may default the lower of the two resolutions for both displays. Like the other HDMI switches on this list, the iArkPower switch supports 1080p, 4K and 3D video. DotStone HDMI Switch. There are many things that you can connect to an HDMI device. Best Mid-Range HDMI Switches. HDMI splitters that send two, three, four, or more signals from a single HDMI source are available, but for consumers, two is usually enough. Don't need an HDMI switcher, but want to send the same HDMI signal to two TVs or a video projector and TV? With plug-and-play functionality, you won't have to worry about software updates or downloading any extra drivers to use the switch box. It automatically detects and switches to the active signal making it convenient to use, and it supports multiple video types including 1080i, 1080p, 720p, 1024x768, 1360x768, Audio format PCM2, 5.1, 7.1 CH, Dolby 5.1 and DTS 5.1.