Updated at: 08-06-2022 - By: Leo Hall

Do you get tired of having to switch your HDMI cables all the time?

A game console, TV box, and computer may all be connected to the same television.’

Fortunately, an HDMI switch can be used to avoid this annoyance from occuring (or a splitter, or even a combination of the two).

Low-quality knock-offs of HDMI switches flood the market since they are relatively inexpensive.

In order to save you money, we’ve compiled a list of the best HDMI switches currently available. To make things a little bit clearer, we’ve organized our thoughts into budget-specific categories in the table below.

Best Budget HDMI Switches

A simple HDMI switch will suffice for the vast majority of users. It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money if you are simply connecting a few gadgets to the TV.

Listed below are some of the most inexpensive HDMI switches, although they’re not of poor quality.

1st Choice HDMI Switch

Inputs:

To begin, let’s have a look at the 1st Choice HDMI Switch in detail. There are three input ports on this $9 product. Built-in HDMI output eliminates the need for a separate cable. On the top of the device, there is a toggle switch that allows you to switch between different sources. So why did you settle on this particular model?

Honestly, it’s as straightforward as it gets. The plastic housing provides sufficient shock resistance, and there are no digital components to fail. It’s easy to see why this switch is so popular when corrosion-resistant plating and the ability to draw power directly from your devices are included.

Olycism HDMI Switch

2 data points have been provided.

In the next section, we’ll look at the Olycism HDMI switch, a small and basic product that even a toddler could understand. In order to switch between the two inputs, there is a single toggle button on top. LED lights up to indicate which source is currently being used.

HDMI Switch Bi-Directional Switch Olycism Bi-direction Sw... I got this for my nephew because his parents gave him a TV … | Hdmi, Electronic computer, Electronics

How about now? The good news doesn’t stop there, though.

If you’re on a tight budget, this switch is a great option. This HDMI switch is so little that it scarcely registers on the eye. It’s also a good idea to keep in mind that the LED can be taped over if you find it annoying.

Voygon HDMI Switch

Inputs:

What sets the Voygon HDMI switch apart from the competition? Consider the reasonable price of $11 and the fact that it comes with three input ports. Do you think that isn’t enough? If that wasn’t enough, it has an infrared remote control, supports all common audio formats, and is extremely easy to use.

You read that correctly.

Voygon even includes the batteries at no additional cost! Even though HDMI switches are convenient, manually using them can be a hassle, especially if they’re located across the room. Let’s be honest. For less than the cost of a movie ticket, this switch solves that problem for good. Not an awful experience.

Jabor HDMI Switch

2 data points have been provided.

There’s a good chance you’re thinking, “Wow, this Jabor switch costs a lot for just two ports!” There’s a 12-month limited warranty, 24/7 customer assistance, and a 30-day guarantee, which are all things that very few other devices offer.

Because it’s backwards compatible with HDMI 1.0, you’re free to use whichever cords you want with this switch. Bidirectional means you can change the input and output devices if you like. Isn’t the pricing acceptable now that you consider all these applications?

Best Mid-Range HDMI Switches

In the event that you’re seeking for a bit more functionality, you may want to consider increasing your budget. We’ve compiled a list of four of the best midrange HDMI switches for your consideration. You should wait till you’ve viewed them all before making a decision on which one to go with.

Univivi HDMI Splitter

Number of inputs: 5

At roughly $30, Univivi HDMI splitter has more input ports than most of its competitors (five). So that’s fantastic, but isn’t there more to it than simply the price? Absolutely! When a new source is activated, the Univivi splitter will automatically switch to display that source.

There is a remote control included in this product. So there’s no guesswork, no need for a remote pairing, and no hassles at all. The Univivi HDMI switch is the best option if you’re seeking for a long-lasting HDMI switch.

Kinivo 301BN HDMI Switch

Inputs:

The Kinivo 301BN is our second mid-range pick. With this switch, you may use up to three input devices at once, and it costs less than $30. The accompanying infrared remote control can also be used to manually switch between sources.

As long as you’re using the 301BN in 1080p mode, you’ll be covered for one year under the manufacturer’s guarantee. Due to the advent of HDCP 2.2 protection, this may not work properly on your 4K TV. No matter what, this switch is simple to operate and versatile enough to get our endorsement.

Orei HDMI Matrix Switch

2 data points have been provided.

Known as a matrix switch, it is a switch and splitter all in one. It’s made by Orei and retails for less than $35. There are just two inputs available, however there are also two outputs available. Although this is a quite specialized situation, it may prove useful to a small number of people.

HDCP 2.2 protection has no effect on this product. It’s capable of just about everything, including 3D, 4K, 60Hz, and more. Additionally, it comes equipped with a remote control, which enables a variety of audio formats from one device to the next.

Best Premium HDMI Switches

With so many ports accessible, you’re probably looking for a device with additional features. You’ll need professional-level gear if they don’t suffice. The products listed below are among the best on the market. Take a peek at our top picks in the next section.

Zettaguard HDMI Switch

Inputs:

The Zettaguard switch will serve as the opening salvo in this subcategory. This device supports 4K and 3DTV signals, has four inputs, and costs about $40. What if you lose track of which wire is plugged into which port? Using the picture-in-picture mode, you can see a clear, labeled preview of each without a difficulty.

Most high-end switches come with a remote control. Most of the time it does it for you, because it can immediately switch to the active input source. The Zettaguard is the best option if you want to eliminate the hassle of source control.

Novete HDMI Matrix Switch

a total of 6

The Novete is a big matrix switch, so why would you use it? For the price (about $65), it is the most versatile product in its class. With six inputs and two outputs, the Novete provides a lot of options. If you’re a frequent screen hopper, this is a must-have. If that’s the case, what else is it capable of providing?

With a fully functional remote control, you’ll be able to modify settings from a distance. You can feed it any signal you want, whether it’s HD, UHD, or even 3D, and it’ll handle it just fine. As a professional or someone who has a lot of technology at home, the Novete is ideal.

IOGEAR HDMI Switch

The number of inputs is 8.

The IOGEAR HD switch is clearly designed for professional, or at the very least, semi-professional, use. It addresses a need that most households will never experience, because it has eight inputs. If you do, you’ll find it to be an essential but pricy piece of equipment (about $140).

Editor’s Pick

Our editor’s pick is the final chapter of this piece, so let’s get started.

DotStone HDMI Hub

2 data points have been provided.

Our focus this time is on the DotStone HDMI hub from D-Link. A simple switch like this is entirely fine for the vast majority of users. It’s inexpensive (about $10), simple, and effective.

Amazon.com: DotStone HDMI Switch Bi-Direction 4K HDMI Splitter 2 x 1/1 x 2 No External Power Required 2 Ports HDMI Switcher Supports Ultra HD 4K 3D 1080P for PS4 Xbox Fire Stick

It’s true that it’s not the biggest model around because it just has two input ports. It’s true that it doesn’t come with a remote control or the ability to switch between streams automatically. DotStone, on the other hand, may be all you need if you’re seeking for a simple way to switch between inputs.

Favorite Things

  • There are five inputs and one output in this system.
  • 4K resolution is supported
  • There is a remote control included.

What We Hate About It

  • Non-PIP
  • The location of a ship’s port

An HDMI switch’s main selling point is its ability to connect numerous devices to a single display, and the Kinivo 550BN delivers on this promise with ease. It’s made for heavy users, and it can handle up to five HDMI inputs and one HDMI output. For weeks, our tester Emily Ramirez put it through its paces with a BenQ HT3550 4K projector.

Cable management is a concern with the Kinivo. It’s difficult to neatly arrange the wires due to the fact that all of the ports are arranged in a single row. Despite this, it’s easy to use and reasonably priced.

The Kinivio 550BN is a feature-rich device despite its ugly design. A Dolby Digital encoder may be used to encode 4K at 60 Hz, and it has automated switching. A two-year warranty is included. If your sound system is separate from your monitor, you’ll need to utilize a third-party HDMI splitter, which isn’t included. It’s safe to say that the Kinivo 550BN lives up to its billing. Even though it takes nine seconds to swap between inputs, the films worked flawlessly. No lag was evident between the controller input and the display when playing games. — Product tester Emily Ramirez

Favorite Things

  • PiP, but this is simply a sneak peek
  • 4k video playback is supported.
  • This is a fantastic construction.
  • All of the ports are located in the back.

What We Hate About It

  • It is not possible to divide the audio.

When looking for an HDMI switcher that looks and feels quality, the Zettaguard 4K is worth a look. We put it through its paces for weeks, and our reviewer couldn’t be happier with the quality of the 4K movies she was able to watch on her PC thanks to HDR.

Our top pick may have been the Zettaguard 4K. There are only four HDMI inputs and no HDMI audio splitter, but the switcher’s picture-in-picture preview mode almost won us over. There is a specific PiP button on the provided remote that allows you to see all active inputs at once, as well as a button for each HDMI input.

4 input/output ports, 1 HDMI 2.0 output port Operation by Voice/Remote:

In the HDMI switcher market, the Zettaguard Upgraded 4K 60Hz 41 HDMI Switcher is a solid entry. Installing and configuring the chassis is a breeze, and the strategically arranged ports make wire management a breeze. When it came to switching between inputs, the switcher took nine seconds, which places it in the middle of the pack. With an 18Gbps download rate, video games operated smoothly with minimal lag. — Product tester Emily Ramirez

Favorite Things

  • Video resolutions up to 4K are supported.
  • HDMI cable is included in the package.

What We Hate About It

  • the reverse of what it is supposed to be
  • Three variables

There are some people who don’t have a lot of equipment that they need to connect to the internet. In some cases, three inputs are all that is necessary. There are certain limitations to the Newcare HDMI switch, but it’s a good product. Although the price is lower, this switch is best suited for systems with fewer inputs and a smaller budget (again, on opposing sides, grrr). There is no problem if that’s the case for you.

Ports: 3/1 | HDMI 2.0 Standard | No Remote or Voice Control

Favorite Things

  • 4 Inputs and 2 Outputs are available.
  • A headphone jack and an optical audio input are both available.

What We Hate About It

  • A remote included in the package is a horrible idea.

There aren’t many options if you require four inputs and two outputs for a multi-monitor configuration. Cable Matters’ 4K 60 Hz Matrix Switch, on the other hand, is the one we recommend. It has all the necessary protocols and features, including audio switching. That said, we appreciate the fact that it’s out there.

HDMI 2.0 | 4/2 Input/Output Ports Operation by Voice/Remote:

Favorite Things

  • In-depth remote control
  • The PiP comes in four different sizes.

What We Hate About It

  • There is no automatic shut down.
  • Confusing at times
  • Can’t playback in 4K

Picture-in-picture, which allows you to simultaneously view two video streams, is a typical application for an HDMI switcher. For those who need PiP but not 4K, we recommend the Orei HD-201P.

If you’ve got a home theater setup, you’ll be able to enjoy this switcher’s superior PiP capabilities, as well as support for PCM2, 5.1, and 7.1 surround sound, Dolby 5.1, and DTS 5.1 audio codecs, so you’ll be able to enjoy this switcher’s capabilities. Despite its specialized nature, we’re happy to see this product on the market.

HDMI 2.0 | Input/Output Ports: 2/1 | Operation by Voice/Remote:

Favorite Things

  • There are eight possible inputs.
  • Remoting is included.

What We Hate About It

  • Pricey
  • Can’t playback in 4K

More inputs are needed in some home and commercial theater setups. In order to accommodate the most complex systems, this box features eight inputs and a single output.

1080p/1080i output is the only option if you need many inputs. In this day and age, it would be nice to have 4K support for the price. However, it is the only game in town with eight inputs (and the only one we recommend).

Ports: 8/1 | HDMI 1.4 | Remote/Voice Operation: Remote.

A decision has been reached.

We are huge fans of the Kinivo 550BN as a whole. It has a single output and five inputs, so it can handle just about any format you throw at it. If you want to keep the unit hidden, you can use the included remote control to make switching between inputs a breeze. Zettaguard 4K HDMI switcher is a good alternative if Kinivo is unavailable. It has one less port than the Kinivo, but it is just as reliable (and thanks to its rear ports, an overall neater product). In addition, it is less expensive.

What to Look for in an HDMI Switcher

Two to four ports are typically sufficient for home users.” It is possible to use an 8-port switch if you intend to link more than one display source to it.” — Christian Young, ATEN Technology, Inc.’s Pro AV Product Manager

The 7 Best HDMI Switches

Output Resolution

At least 1080p and Dolby Digital/DTS-compatible HDMI switchers are available to consumers.

For 4K Ultra HD TVs and 4K source components, you’ll need a 4K switcher. ‘ This means that your HDMI switcher must be capable of passing HDR-encoded and/or 3D video streams.

Due to the digital nature of the source, HDMI switchers should not have an effect on the image quality. A bad connection, damaged wires, or a poor quality switcher can all be responsible for a drop in image quality.” — Christian Young, ATEN Technology, Inc.’s Pro AV Product Manager

HDMI switchers are powered by an AC adapter and typically include a remote control for ease of use. In addition to HDMI-CEC functionality, some HDMI switchers provide this feature, which allows the switcher to immediately go to the input of the most recently triggered device.

Key Features

The standard audio formats supported by HDMI switchers include DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS:X, but if you want to route the switcher’s output through a home theater receiver (instead of directly to the TV), you’ll need to make sure your HDMI switcher is compatible with the advanced audio formats.

HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection) or HDCP 2.2 for 4K devices protocols must be supported by the switcher in order to meet HDMI handshake requirements between source devices and the TV or video projector. This is critical when switching between devices, as the handshake is interrupted until the newly selected device is able to establish a new handshake with the previous device.

HDMI Splitters

Have two TVs or a video projector and a TV in mind, but don’t require an HDMI switcher? As previously noted, an HDMI switcher with two HDMI outputs can be used; however, an HDMI splitter can be used instead if a switcher is not required.

It’s possible to get HDMI splitters that can transfer several signals from a single HDMI source, although most people only need two. More outputs are typically used for business and commercial applications where a single source must be transmitted to several televisions or projection systems.

A splitter can either be powered or unpowered (no power needed). The use of powered splitters will help you avoid signal loss or handshake problems. The splitter must also be compatible with the video and audio signals that you plan to use. Like a switcher, the output for both devices can be set by default to use a lower resolution if one has a lower resolution.

Using A Home Theater Receiver As An HDMI Switcher Or Splitter

A home theater receiver can provide additional HDMI inputs for TV viewing sources. Many home theater receivers come standard with four HDMI ports, but higher-priced receivers can include six or eight HDMI ports in addition to two or three HDMI outputs, allowing you to connect to more than one television, a television plus projector, or even two televisions.

TOTU HDMI 4-in-1 Switch

SPECIFICATIONS

There are four input ports and one output port.

4K@60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision are supported.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

+Sturdy build.

REASONS TO AVOID

–Dreadful remote control

TOTU’s 4×1 switcher is a great option for those looking for a switcher that is both inexpensive and capable of handling the latest devices. It accepts HDR or Dolby Vision inputs up to 4K at 60Hz. HDMI 2.0 and older features will be supported, as it has a bandwidth of up to 18 Gbps.

There is no way to disable the TOTU’s automatic switching. This isn’t as unpleasant as it can be on some models, because it only activates when one input is active at a time. In some cases, devices switch inputs even though they didn’t receive a legal HDMI-CEC power-on signal. This eliminates this issue.

The remote is terrible, despite the fact that the item itself is quite sturdy for its price. Despite its modest size, it begs to be damaged or lost. If you get the TOTU, you’ll be better off utilizing a universal remote controller to manage it.

Fosmon 5-port HDMI switcher (HD8205)

SPECIFICATIONS

There are five input ports and one output port on this device.

4K@60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision are supported.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

+Very compact.

+IR blaster enables remote control of the switch without the need for direct line of sight.

REASONS TO AVOID

–It has a cheap feel to it because of the plastic casing.

As a result, the Fosmon 5-1 HDMI 2.0 Switch is a standout among its peers. Small, black plastic squares instead of a long, rectangular metal body. A micro-USB cable is required for operation; otherwise, it’s just like most unpowered switches.

Users must use a wire to attach an IR sensor to this switch because it is so small. Although the installation is more difficult, you can hide the switch behind your TV or entertainment center and make it stand out from the crowd.

In comparison to other 4K switches on our list, this one’s plastic casing makes it less sturdy, but its small size more than makes up for it. As with the other switches on this list, you can upgrade the remote to something more reliable.

Univivi 7-port HDMI switch (QPThg-246)

SPECIFICATIONS

Ports: seven input, one output

4K@60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision are supported.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

Ports galore

REASONS TO AVOID

–There will be no automatic switchovers in the future

There are more affordable choices available, but this Univivi seven-input Switch costs more than most of the others. Even so, if you plan on hooking up a slew of gadgets to your TV, it’s well worth the extra money. It’s a long device, measuring 9 inches broad, because of the many inputs. Because of its small size, it can easily fit on top of another component without drawing attention to itself.

This HDMI 2.0 compatible device supports HDR, Dolby Vision, and 4K at 60 Hz. Automatic switching is the only drawback of the Univivi switch. If your device has troubles with auto-switching, this is perfect for you. Some may find it inconvenient, given the device’s seven accessible ports, to constantly have to swap inputs.

SkycropHD HD0501 HDMI Switch 5-Port (Upgraded)

SPECIFICATIONS

There are five input ports and one output port on this device.

4K@60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision are supported.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

+It’s very simple to disable automatic switching.

REASONS TO AVOID

–The design is a little over the top.

SkycropHD’s 41 HDMI 2.0 switcher is a true HDMI 2.0 compliant device. In addition to HDMI 2.0’s full 18Gbps bandwidth requirement, it supports HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.

(Newest Version) 4K@60Hz HDMI Switch, SkycropHD 5 Port HDMI 2.0 Switcher with Remote Support Auto Switch, HDR10, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, 18Gbps, CEC : Electronics - Amazon.com

The word “upgraded” in the product name is a mystery to us, but this switch worked flawlessly and was one of the best ones we tested. Automatic switching can be activated or deactivated by holding the switch button on the device for five seconds. Some of the switchers on this list do not allow you to disable this feature, which can be a major source of annoyance.

The remote, like many of the other switches, is the weakest link. However, it’s still recommended to use a universal remote because its structure is a little more solid.

FERRISA 4×2 HDMI Matrix Switch

SPECIFICATIONS

Ports: four input, two output

Maximum resolution is 4K@30Hz.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

A splitter and matrix are included for added flexibility.

REASONS TO AVOID

-Maxes out at 4K@30 Hz –

Other goods on this list, such as the Ferrisa 4xw HDMI Matrix, are easier to understand. Four inputs and two outputs allow the device to be used as a switch, a splitter, or both at the same time. It also has optical and 3.5mm audio outputs, making it more versatile than a normal splitter.

There are limitations to each of these choices. Because it’s more expensive than a basic switch, only individuals who frequently need to transmit video to two separate monitors will find a use for the additional functions. If you have two screens with different specifications, you can only utilize the splitter feature on screens with the same resolution and framerate. You’ll also have to shell out extra cash if you want 4K at 60 frames per second, high dynamic range, Dolby Vision, or Atmos sound. This Ferisa HDMI Matrix supports just HDMI 1.4b and can only deliver 4K at 30 Hz at full resolution.

SPECIFICATIONS

3 input ports and 1 output port

4K@60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision are supported.

No, there is no need for external power.

REASONS TO BUY

+Unobtrusive

REASONS TO AVOID

-There will be no automatic switching.

The Avedio Links switch is one of the few unpowered HDMI 2.0 4K at 60Hz variants that can be used. As a result, it has a smaller footprint than the competition, which is its key benefit.

Potential purchasers should be warned, however, of a few flaws in this transition. In order to utilize it, users must physically walk to the device and press a button, which negates most of the ease this type of technology provides. Unless all four HDMI plugs are filled, it may not work as expected. It also takes power from HDMI, which is not supported by the standard.

Without automated switching or remote control, it’s more of a specialist product than a mainstream one. If you don’t plan on changing inputs frequently, this is a nice option, however it falls short of the other powered 4K switches on the list.

SGEYR HDMI 2.0 Switch Splitter 3 Port 4K HDMI

SPECIFICATIONS

3 input ports and 1 output port

4K@60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision are supported.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

+It’s worth the money.

REASONS TO AVOID

This feature cannot be disabled.

Even though it costs only a few dollars, the SGEYR HDMI 2.0 switch performs admirably. Micro USB power and HDR, Dolby Vision, and Atmos are the only drawbacks of this 4K at 60Hz swap. Even yet, it lacks a few features that may dissuade some tech enthusiasts from purchasing it.

Depending on the product, this switch may or may not provide automated input selection. Unfortunately, this functionality cannot be disabled (per port or otherwise). With PCs and laptops, which regularly use the auto-switch function, this renders it nearly unusable.. In addition, there are no EDID toggles to assist in resolving device compatibility issues.

On the bright side, the structure is solid. If I had to guess, the chassis is made of some sort of pot metal, but it’s sturdy enough to withstand the normal stresses of sitting in an entertainment center. There are some reports that the remote is keyed to the same frequency as some TV remotes, which may cause problems for some people.

Amazon Basics 4K HDMI 3 Port Switcz

SPECIFICATIONS

3 input ports and 1 output port

Maximum resolution is 4K@30Hz.

Do you need a source of power?

REASONS TO BUY

+A solid foundation for a project.

REASONS TO AVOID

-Expensive for what you get.

With Amazon Basics, you may expect to pay a reasonable amount for a generic product. There isn’t much for your money in the Amazon Basics 4K HDMI 3 Port Switch, but it does the job. This device can only handle 4K transmissions at 30Hz, which is too low for most recent consoles. HDR and Dolby Vision signals cannot be processed by this device; instead, SDR content is all that can be outputted.

When it comes to the price, you might as well buy a switch that can handle 4K at 60Hz for future-proofing. Despite its great build quality (apart from the remote), this is an old device that will limit the capabilities of many 4K TVs. Only if it’s on sale should you buy this switch above others. Otherwise, one of the more capable goods on our list is your best bet.

GANA Gold Plated 3-Port HDMI Switcher

SPECIFICATIONS

3 input ports and 1 output port

At 60 Hz, the maximum resolution is 1080p.

No, there is no need for external power.

REASONS TO BUY

Affordably priced

REASONS TO AVOID

Only 1080p@60Hz is supported.

-There isn’t a remote control

The GANA 3-port HDMI switcher is the cheapest and most functional switcher on the market. The fact that it’s an unpowered switcher may be appealing to some, but it’s also unreliable. HDMI does not provide a capability for power delivery. These cheap, unpowered switchers employ EDID transmission instead of an external adaptor because HDMI devices produce +5V over pin 18.

CHOETECH 4K x 2K 3D HDMI Switcher Selector Mini 3 Port HDMI Switch 1.4b 4K Switcher HDMI Splitter 1080P 3 in 1 out Port Hub Cable for DVD HDTV Xbox PS3 PS4 | Lazada.vn

With the GANA switcher, you get what you paid for. Streaming at 60 fps at 1080p is possible, however HDR is not. The manufacturer didn’t specify which HDMI version this switcher supports, but because it promises to enable 3D TV, I’d guess it’s probably 1.3.

Manual input selection is the final feature of the GANA, and it is accessed by a button on the device’s top. However, since it didn’t claim to have this feature, I wasn’t too upset about my failure to get it to work.

Unpowered HDMI switchers like the GANA 3-port unpowered HDMI switcher should only be used in situations where saving money is the most important consideration. Compared to other options, this is an unsightly, limiting piece of technology.

How to choose the best cheap HDMI switcher for you

For a low-cost HDMI switcher, the most important consideration is whether or not it does the job. Identifying your very minimal requirements for an HDMI switcher is essential if you’re on a budget. The framerate and resolution of each device you intend to connect to the switch will need to be determined. The switcher may be purchased for less than ten dollars if all you need is 1080p at 60Hz. A 4K switcher will set you back a little more money, but the cost is quickly decreasing.

Additionally, the switcher’s features are a crucial consideration. If you want to switch between inputs, you have to get up and press a button on the HDMI switch, which comes in the lowest price range. Some models come with remote controls or auto-switching features that make switching between your inputs easier. For a little more money, you can acquire a model with these features. We highly recommend obtaining a switch with a remote if you plan on switching between active inputs frequently. After all, if you have to get out of your chair and hit the button frequently, having the switcher is only a little benefit.

If you’re looking for a low-cost HDMI switcher, price is likely your primary consideration. However, keep in mind that, especially in the world of technology, you often get what you pay for. It’s best to acquire one with more connections and capabilities than you need because these devices are so inexpensive. A more adaptable switcher that you can use for many years to come is a result of this approach.

Even if you don’t intend to use the remote, a switcher with one is a good investment. You won’t have buyer’s regret if you ever find yourself in a position where you need to regulate the switching between inputs remotely. As a rule of thumb, it’s better to get one that’s easy to attach to a surface, either by gravity or with two-sided tape. Sadly, many of the lighter ones can fall off an entertainment cabinet and wind up dangling around the back of your television.

How we test the best cheap HDMI switchers

Using an LG CX OLED TV, one of our favorite 4K models, we tried each of these switches. We put them through their paces by utilizing them as both an input and an output for several devices, including a TV and a Marantz NR1711 A/V receiver directly. A PC with an RTX 3090 graphics card, as well as a PS5, Xbox One X, and an Nvidia Shield TV, were used in our tests.

Testing the switches’ capacity to handle games and HDCP-protected and unprotected content was accomplished by using the aforementioned devices and toolsets. Switches with poor EDID support and HDCP incompatibility have long since been a thing of the past. As none of these switches are compatible with HDMI 2.1, our devices were unable to display at their maximum resolution and frame rate possible. We didn’t get any duds, though, because all worked effectively within the constraints of each switcher.

For the most part, we examined each switcher’s usability under regular operating situations because the specifications are clearly specified. As a result, our tester put each one to the test in their own home entertainment center for a period of time and recorded their findings based on their observations.

FAQS:

What is a HDMI switcher?

HDMI is the most widely used audio/video connector. TVs, on the other hand, may only have one or two HDMI ports.

A lot of HDMI-equipped source devices, such as an upscaling DVD/Blu-ray player, cable box and media streamer, and a game console that all need to be connected to your TV may not have enough HDMI inputs. But if you don’t panic, there are ways to get around this.

You may want to investigate an external HDMI switcher instead of a new TV if you need more HDMI ports.

Will using a HDMI switcher reduce image quality?

Even with a switcher, HDMI is a digital transmission and will not degrade in the same manner as earlier analog connections. If you notice a significant drop in signal quality, you may have a malfunctioning switcher or a broken cable.

What’s the difference between an HDMI switch and an HDMI splitter?

In contrast to an HDMI splitter, an HDMI switch allows you to switch between numerous HDMI inputs on a single screen.

Can an HDMI switch transmit a 4K signal?

Yes, you can send a 4K signal without any quality loss using an HDMI cable and switcher that support HDMI 2.0.

Conclusion:

There’s a lot to consider in this situation. Despite our love for the picture-in-picture mode on the Orei, we really need it to support 4K in order to use it properly. However, it is likely that within the next several years your system will require some kind of maintenance or upgrade. Is it worth it to invest again and upgrade in the next few months in order to have a variety of Picture in Picture options? No, I doubt it.

The Smartoo’s Dolby Atmos support is nice, but again, the number of people who require it for PC setup is likely to be in the tens of thousands.

As a result, we’ve decided to honor the SEGYR with the title of Best Pick. HDR support elevates it to a new level of excellence. It’s well constructed, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it for a long time. It’s a no-brainer when you put it that way.