The Top HDMI Switches for 2023
Expand your connectivity options effortlessly with top-notch HDMI switches Discover the finest options for 4K setups, multiple displays, and budget-friendly choices Find the perfect switch for your needs and enjoy high-quality image transmission Learn more with our FAQs
HDMI switches address the issue of insufficient HDMI ports on certain TVs. By using an HDMI switch, you can expand the total number of HDMI ports available on your TV without compromising the quality. Additionally, an HDMI switch can be a convenient addition to your computer setup or media room.
SGEYRSGEYR 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch
Best HDMI Switch Overall $40 at Amazon
avedio linksAvedio Links 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch
Best Budget HDMI Switch $18 at Amazon
KinivoKinivo 4K@120Hz HDMI Switch
Best HDMI Switch for 4K $85 at Amazon
FERRISAFERRISA 4x2 4K@60Hz HDMI Matrix
Best HDMI Switch for Multiple Displays $54 at Amazon
OREIOREI 4K 1x4 HDMI Splitter
Best HDMI Splitter $35 at Amazon
What to Look For in an HDMI Switch
When looking to buy an HDMI switch, it is important to take into account the number of HDMI connections you require. Assess the existing HDMI input ports of your TV, determine the number of HDMI input devices you possess, and consider the provision of additional ports for future devices that you may acquire.
Generally, a 4x1 HDMI switch (with four inputs and one output) suits the needs of most people. This configuration enables you to connect a streaming stick, a gaming console, a Blu-ray player, and an additional device simultaneously to your TV using the switch.
If you require a device that can display one input on multiple outputs, an HDMI splitter is what you need, not an HDMI switch. Alternatively, if you require a device with multiple input and output ports, an HDMI Matrix combines the functionalities of an HDMI switch and an HDMI splitter.
Once you have determined that an HDMI switch is necessary and have specified the number of input ports required, it is important to consider your desired resolution, frame rate, and any special features.
We do not have any HDMI switches on our list that only support 1080p resolution. This is because the 4K options available are equally affordable and most modern TVs support 4K. However, if you have an 8K TV, there are switches that can support this high resolution.
In terms of frame rate, the majority of HDMI switches offer either a 30Hz or 60Hz refresh rate for 4K. If your intention is solely to stream media, a 30Hz refresh rate will suffice. However, if you plan on playing games, it is recommended to opt for a smoother 60Hz refresh rate. All the options on our list support a 60Hz refresh rate, as the price difference from those supporting 30Hz is minimal. Additionally, there is an option on our list, the Kinivo HDMI switch, which supports 4K at a refreshing rate of 120Hz if you want to invest more.
All your devices must support the same resolution and frame rate for optimal performance. For example, if you want to play games and stream media on your TV at a 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rate using an HDMI switch, ensure that your console, streaming device, HDMI switch and cable, and TV are all capable of supporting 4K@60Hz.
If your TV only supports 1080p, purchasing an HDMI switch that supports 4K will not enable your TV to display a 4K resolution. Similarly, using an HDMI switch that supports 1080p with your 4K TV will result in a lowered resolution, displaying only a 1080p picture on your TV.
For refresh rate and any desired special features such as Dolby Atmos, HDR, and Dolby Vision, it is advisable to check the capabilities of your current TV, console, and/or streaming stick. If those features are significant to you, look for HDMI switches that support them as well.
Additionally, it is worth noting that while many HDMI switches are accompanied by a remote for convenient device switching, not all options include one. In budget-friendly choices, a manual input switch button may be required.
|
How Did We Research | ||
|
Models Evaluated |
Hours Researched |
Reviews Analyzed |
|
15 |
5 |
20 |
The product recommendations provided by How-To Geek come from a team of experts with a track record of assisting individuals in fixing their gadgets more than a billion times. Our recommendations are solely based on extensive research and our knowledgeable insights. We do not accept any form of payment in exchange for endorsing or reviewing products. For additional information, please visit our website.
Best HDMI Switch Overall: SGEYR 5x1 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch
SGEYR
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Five HDMI 2.0 inputs (4K@60Hz supported) | ✗ Doesn’t come with an AC power adapter (which is required) |
✓ Can switch manually or via included remote | |
✓ Compact, durable metal body | |
✓ Supports auto-switching |
The SGEYR HDMI switch is a great option for many due to its affordable price and ample input options. It boasts five HDMI 2.0 inputs and a single HDMI 2.0 output, all supporting impressive features such as 4K resolution at 60Hz, HDCP 2.2, HDR, and Dolby Vision. Switching between connected devices is made easy with the option to manually press a button on the device, utilize the included remote control from the comfort of your couch, or even enable auto switching.
Please note that certain devices, such as Apple TV, Xbox One, PS5, and Roku, do not have auto switching capabilities by default. If your device supports auto switching, the SGEYR switch will automatically detect its activation and switch to the corresponding input immediately.
The SGEYR HDMI switch is remarkably compact, measuring just 5.8 x 2.4 x 0.8 inches, and boasts a sturdy metal body. Additionally, its ports are equipped with 24K gold-plated HDMI connectors, which enhance the longevity of these interfaces.
Some reviews on Amazon from 2020 to early 2022 note that the HDMI switch manufactured by
SGEYR
does not include an AC power adapter. However, recent reviews no longer mention this issue, and the Amazon listing clarifies that the product now comes with a DC 5V power adapter. Therefore, the absence of an AC adapter should no longer pose a problem. It is still advisable to verify this information before making a purchase.
The SGEYR HDMI switch is the top choice for most individuals due to its affordability, five HDMI 2.0 inputs, and ability to support a 4K@60Hz output. Available for $40 on Amazon.
Best Budget HDMI Switch: avedio links 3x1 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch
avedio links
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Supports HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz) | ✗ Three inputs may not be enough for some |
✓ Affordable 4K option | ✗ No remote; can only switch inputs manually |
✓ No external power supply needed | ✗ No auto-switching support |
If you're seeking cost savings and only have three or fewer devices to connect to your TV or monitor, consider the avedio links HDMI Switch. The three HDMI ports are compatible with 2.0 technology, enabling a 4K resolution output at 60Hz, provided that your device supports 4K@60Hz.
The avedio links HDMI switch offers support for HDCP 2.2, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos technologies. Unfortunately, it does not include a remote control for long-distance input switching, nor does it support auto switching. However, you can easily switch inputs manually on the device itself. Made from durable aluminum alloy, this compact square device measures 7.7 x 7.3 x 1 inches and efficiently dissipates heat. Additionally, it eliminates the need for a wall adapter as it draws power directly from your input devices.
Introducing the avedio links 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch
Get the best bang for your buck with the budget-friendly avedio links HDMI switch. Priced at just $18, it offers a remarkable $8 savings. While it may have only three HDMI inputs and manual switching, it doesn't compromise on delivering a stunning 4K@60Hz output.
$18 at Amazon
Best HDMI Switch for 4K: Kinivo 4x1 4K@120Hz HDMI Switch
Kinivo
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Four HDMI 2.1 inputs that support 4K@120Hz (or 8K@60Hz) | ✗ More expensive than 4K@60Hz options |
✓ Can switch inputs manually or via remote | ✗ Included remote’s signal can be finicky |
✓ Supports auto switching (and disabling auto switching) | |
✓ Durable build with excellent heat dissipation |
For optimal performance with your 4K setup, invest in Kinivo's 8K HDMI switch. With support for four HDMI 2.1 inputs, this switch can handle an 8K resolution signal at 60Hz, perfect for future-proofing your setup. If you are displaying a 4K resolution signal, this HDMI switch allows you to do so at 120Hz, as long as your input devices support 4K@120Hz.
Not only does this HDMI switch deliver a seamless 4K picture, it also supports HDR 10+, Dolby Vision, and HDCP 2.3 technologies. The HDMI connectors are 24K gold-plated for durability, and the switch device itself is housed in an aluminum alloy shell that effectively dissipates heat. Remarkably compact, measuring only 5.8 x 4 x 3.2 inches, this device packs a lot of power.
You have the option to switch between the four inputs by pressing a button on the device, using the provided remote control, or making use of the convenient built-in auto-switching support. If you are unfamiliar with the term 'auto switching,' it simply refers to the capability of the switch to automatically detect the input device that has been turned on and switch to it accordingly. However, please note that certain devices such as Roku, Apple TV, PS5, and Xbox One do not natively support auto switching.
Kinivo
Introducing the Kinivo 4K@120Hz HDMI Switch.
Best HDMI Switch for 4KIf you want to future-proof your setup, go with this HDMI switch from Kinivo. There are four HDMI 2.1 inputs and one output supporting 4K@120Hz or 8K@60Hz.
$85 at Amazon
Best HDMI Switch for Multiple Displays: FERRISA 4x2 4K@60Hz HDMI Matrix
FERRISA
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Four HDMI 2.0 inputs that support 4K@60Hz | ✗ Not suitable for more than two displays |
✓ Two HDMI 2.0 outputs with audio extraction | ✗ Auto switching can be slow |
✓ Supports auto-switching and downscaling | |
✓ Can be switched manually or via included remote | |
✓ Has an optical audio output and a headphone jack |
The FERRISA HDMI matrix is an ideal solution for handling multiple inputs simultaneously and distributing them to two displays one at a time. It features four HDMI 2.0 inputs that support a 4K@60Hz signal, and two HDMI 2.0 outputs that also support the same resolution and frame rate. Additionally, it offers audio extraction capabilities, allowing you to connect headphones through the 3.5mm jack or the optical audio output.
You can easily switch between your input and output devices using the buttons on the matrix, the remote included, or with the help of the auto-switching feature. The FERRISA matrix is also compatible with HDR 10, HDCP 2.2, Dolby Atmos, and Dolby Digital technologies. Measuring only 7.5 x 2.7 x 1 inches, it won't occupy much space on your TV stand.
Most importantly, the HDMI matrix by FERRISA supports downscaling. This means that if you have one display with a maximum resolution of 1080p and another with a maximum resolution of 4K, this matrix device will not automatically lower the resolution of both screens to 1080p like many other matrix devices do. Instead, each screen will display its maximum resolution while receiving the same input signal.
Introducing the FERRISA
FERRISA 4x2 4K@60Hz HDMI Matrix
Experience the Ultimate HDMI Switch for Multiple Displays. The FERRISA HDMI Matrix offers the perfect combination of switch and splitter functionalities. With its exceptional performance, it allows you to effortlessly connect four inputs to two displays, all with stunning 4K@60Hz resolution.
$54 at Amazon
Best HDMI Splitter: OREI 1x4 4K@60Hz HDMI Splitter
OREI
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Supports four HDMI 2.0 outputs (4K@60Hz) | ✗ Not suitable for those needing multiple inputs for one output |
✓ Equipped with downscaling | ✗ Some users report finicky signal issues |
✓ Most users report minimal signal lag and solid 4K performance | |
✓ Easy to set up and use |
Need to send a signal from one input device to multiple displays? Look no further than the OREI splitter. With its HDMI 2.0 input and four HDMI 2.0 outputs, this is the ideal choice for most people. Whether you want to distribute your cable signal to multiple TVs in your home or showcase a digital menu at various locations in your restaurant, OREI's 1x4 splitter is perfect. Supporting a 4K resolution at 60 Hz, it is compatible with all HDMI devices and offers support for HDCP 2.2, Dolby-AC3, and Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD master audio. In addition, its compact and lightweight design, measuring only 5.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 inches, makes it highly convenient.
This OREI 4K 1x4 HDMI Splitter also supports downscaling, so if you have one 4K display and three 1080p displays, you’ll get the maximum resolution on your 4K display and it will automatically scale the video down to 1080p on your other three displays. Some splitters recognize the lowest possible resolution among all outputs and match that resolution to all displays, regardless of their individual capabilities.
Best HDMI Splitter$35 $38 Save $3 This HDMI splitter from OREI can take a single input and display it on up to four different devices with 4K resolution at 60Hz.
$35 at Amazon See at OREI
FAQ
What's the difference between an HDMI switch and an HDMI splitter?
An HDMI switch allows you to connect multiple input devices and display them on a single output. On the other hand, an HDMI splitter enables you to connect a single input device and display it on multiple outputs. To gain a better understanding of the differences between HDMI switches and HDMI splitters, please refer to our comprehensive guide.
Will using an HDMI switch reduce image quality?
When should I use an HDMI switch?
The overall image quality depends on the capabilities of all your devices. HDMI, being a digital signal, does not suffer from degradation like analog signals. However, the clarity of your image will be limited by the device with the lowest image quality. For instance, if your TV supports 4K resolution but you use an HDMI switch that only supports 1080p, your TV will only be able to present a lower-quality 1080p picture.
An HDMI switch is a useful tool for connecting multiple input devices (such as consoles, streaming sticks, Blu-ray/DVD players) to TVs, computers, or other displays when the output device lacks sufficient HDMI ports.
Editor's P/S
As a hard fan of HDMI switches, I am excited to see the latest models that are available in 2023. There are so many great options to choose from, and I am sure that there is a perfect switch for everyone's needs.
I am particularly impressed with the SGEYRSGEYR 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch. This switch is packed with features, including support for 4K resolution, HDR, and Dolby Atmos. It also has a sleek design and a compact size, making it perfect for any home theater setup.
Overall, I am very excited about the HDMI switches that are available in 2023. These switches offer a great way to expand the connectivity options of your TV and improve your home theater experience.
