If you wish to connect a gaming device to your television but have only one HDMI port, you’ll want to get an HDMI splitter. Splitters allow you to switch back and forth between devices without having to constantly swap cables. We chose the products in our buying guide because they are plug and play. These are great for both home and professional use and are an extremely affordable piece of equipment that does a lot of heavy lifting. If you’re in the market for a new HDMI splitter we’ve got you covered. Our experts have found the best products that are available for online purchase. Check out our buying guide below.
Frequently Asked Questions?
What is the difference between an HDMI splitter and an HDMI switch?
An HDMI splitter is used to split the signal from a single source device to facilitate simultaneous connection to multiple displays. Think “paying one subscription fee but enjoying the content on several displays.” A spitter accepts an HDMI input and then duplicates it before sending it to multiple outputs. An HDMI switch accepts multiple HDMI inputs and allows you to select which signal is sent to a single output. An HDMI splitter can be active or passive. Active splitters are great for when you have long cables or are outputting the signal to multiple devices. Passive splitters take a signal and divide it into multiple copies of itself before sending it through multiple outputs. An HDMI switch is a device that allows multiple devices to receive the signal from the tv’s one input and then send those signals out to different channels. The most popular varieties are those that switch between three devices.
When do I use a splitter or a switch?
Use an HDMI splitter if you only want to connect a couple of devices or you need to use longer cables (which can result in interference). When you have connected everything, you can easily switch the HDMI source that matches the device. Splitters work well for sending a signal to several tvs. Use an HDMI switch if you want to connect multiple devices to one TV. This might include a gaming console, a soundbar, a DVD player or CD player. Switches can keep up with changing technology, help everything to work seamlessly and are better at blocking interference.
Buying Guide
Choosing an HDMI splitter can be confusing, but we’ve got some tips for you to keep in mind while you are shopping for one:
- Quality: If you want to stream a 4K video source to your tv, your tv must have a 4K panel and the HDMI cable must be able to accommodate this.
- Lag and Latency: HDMI splitters can add significant lag, and the way to reduce the chances of this is to get a splitter that connects to a power source. This means that it will be able to duplicate the signal without any extra processing that might cause it to slow down.
- Price: Fortunately, all of the options in our buying guide are very affordable. If you happen to choose one that isn’t completely meeting your needs, you won’t have made a very large investment.
OREI HDMI Splitter
Best Overall
Great for Homes and Businesses
Measuring 4 inches by 3 inches by 1 inch, this splitter is 1 in 2 out and has the ability to distribute audio and video signals from a single source to 2 HDMI displays simultaneously. This will allow you to screen the same video in two different rooms. All audio options are supported and it is plug and play. Included in the package is 1 HDMI splitter, 1×2 splitter, 5V AC adaptor and a user manual. Reimagine the way you enjoy your entertainment and gaming with this easy to install splitter.
Pros:
- 4K@30 Hz
- Power adaptor is included
Cons:
- Does not extend monitor or extract audio from the source
This will automatically match the lowest resolution supported by both displays. It supports cameras, laptops, PC, gaming consoles and more. This is a great option for streaming and offers terrific sound and picture quality.
Gana HDMI Switch 4K@60Hz Splitter
Most Compatible
Offers You and Immersive Experience
This works as an HDMI switch to avoid damage to the HDMI display caused by plugging and unplugging the HDMI cable and as an HDMI splitter to connect 1 source to 2 displays. This device offers broad compatibility in a compact design. Possible inputs include laptops, HD players, DVD players, tv boxes, tv sticks, and various gaming consoles. Possible outputs include monitors, tvs and projectors. Offering fast and stable transmission, this supports high bandwidth and ensures stable and high definition display of video and audio.
Pros:
- Crisp image
- No external power needed
Cons:
- Does not support 2 televisions at the same time
This plug and play device is easy to use, has a one button switch and supports Dolby sound. This has 3 HDMI ports, a high quality aluminum alloy case, will support 3D devices and supports compressed audio such as DTS, Digital and Dolby Digital.
Meofia HDMI Splitter
Coolest Design
Three Video Sources, One Display
The 3 in 1 out HDMI switcher is suitable for various devices and can easily transfer video and audio for 3 HDMI devices to an HDMI display. Easily switch between sources without having to manually plug or remove devices. Fast and stable transmission is guaranteed with 24K gold plated corrosion resistant connectors that ensure superior signal transfer. There is no delay or loss of picture or sound quality. You can just sit back and enjoy.
Pros:
- Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux and Chrome OS
- Stunning 4K video
Cons:
- Needs to have at least 2 devices connected and powered to work
This device is widely compatible with PCs, laptops, computers, XBox 360, XBox One, S3, PS4, PS5, Roku Express, Amazon Fire TV stick, Blu-Ray, DVD players and more. It’s plug and play and easy to install. Simply connect your HDMI devices and press the switch button to change the signal within a second.
Keliiyo HDMI Splitter
Simplest to Use
Great Picture & Sound Synchronization
Duplicate 1 HDMI input signal to 4 identical HDMI output signals and transmit video and audio simultaneously without losing any quality. This device is made of sturdy metal, supports full ultra HD, and can be used to create a digital entertainment center. This is a terrific tool to have for conference room presentations, school classrooms and corporate training sessions. It can be used with a desktop PC, a laptop, PS3/4 and tv boxes.
Pros:
- Supports 3D
- Excellent heat dissipation
Cons:
- HDMI cable is not included
The package contains 4 output ports, an HDMI splitter box, an 5V/2A adapter and a user manual. This is easy to use: just connect your HDMI devices and the AC adapter to share your content.
JSAUX HDMI Switch
Best Refresh Rate
Functional, Ergonomic & Aesthetic Value
This HDMI switch has a 1.3 foot HDMI cable. You can connect 2 HDMI sources to 1 HDMI display. Switching with a button will avoid damage to the display interface caused by frequent plugging and unplugging of the HDMI cable. The durable high quality aluminum alloy shell can dissipate heat quickly and an anti-interference nickel-plated interface reduces data transmission loss and improves signal transmission efficiency.
Pros:
- No extra power supply is required
- Wide compatibility
Cons:
- 2 displays cannot work simultaneously
A blue LED indicator light shows when the HDMI channel is in use. This device is compact and portable. It is easy to set up and won’t take up very much space. This will allow you to enjoy 4K@60Hz while maintaining great quality video and audio.
