The best way to broaden your horizons (and your screens) is with an HDMI splitter, which allows you to stream from a single source to a number of TVs or other devices. When it comes to sharing from one source to multiple screens, an HDMI splitter is one of the simplest and most economical options. Once you have an HDMI splitter, setting it up and using it should be fairly simple. But actually shopping for an HDMI splitter can be surprisingly complicated. That’s because it’s easy to get a splitter confused with a switch, which is an entirely different product. In fact, while they have similar names and looks, they perform opposite functions.
What to Consider Before Buying an HDMI Splitter
A splitter takes in one source and sends it to different devices. The most obvious setting for an HDMI splitter would be a place like a sports bar. If you’re trying to stream the same game on multiple TVs, an HDMI splitter is a cost-effective way to do that. You can do the same thing if you live in a larger home and want to have the same thing playing in the living room and game room, for example.
A switch, on the other hand, allows you to plug multiple devices into your TV, eliminating the need to constantly adjust a tangle of cables. Between soundbars, video game consoles and streaming sticks, it’s not unlikely that you have more devices than you do ports. With an HDMI switch, multiple devices can be plugged in at one time, giving users the option to switch between units without having to plug, unplug, and repeat.
The easiest way to tell a switch and splitter apart is by looking at the ports. If it has multiple ports and most of them are labeled “input,” then you have a switch on your hands. If most of the ports are outputs, it’s a splitter. The name also offers a good clue. A splitter splits one signal between multiple screens, whereas a switch allows you to switch between different devices.
How We Chose the Best HDMI Splitters
You might have come to this article looking for an HDMI splitter, before realizing what you actually want is a switch. The reverse might also be true. In fact, you might just realize that you need both a switch and splitter. That’s why even though we’ve primarily focused on HDMI splitters, we’ve included some HDMI switches for convenience. Check out some of the best options below.
1. OREI Splitter 1 in 4 Out
If you’re looking for a splitter (and not a switch) then consider this option from OREI. It has four outputs and one input, so you can share one image between multiple TVs or computers. It’s also HDCP compliant. The splitter also supports 4K signals, so you can stream high-quality audio between different TVs. It also supports different audio formats like Dolby TrueHD. You can also choose two outputs and eight outputs.
Pros: Supports 4K and high-quality audio. Easy set-up. Built-in safety features to prevent overheating.
Cons: More expensive than some other options.
2. KELIIYO Hdmi Splitter 1 in 4 Out
This simple HDMI splitter has one input and four outputs, and the LED display indicates power and the status of each port. It’s widely compatible and can support resolution up to 1080P. It’s also designed to be easy to use, and the compact size means you can set it up just about anywhere.
Pros: Wide compatibility, easy to set up, affordable price. Four HDMI outputs.
Cons: No 4K compatibility.
3. SGEYR HDMI Switcher 5 in 1 Out
If you’re looking for a switcher for your media stand, this option from SGEYR allows you to plug in up to five devices. That means that it’s great if you have several consoles and media players. A convenient remote is included that allows you to toggle between sources. It can support 4K devices as well.
Pros: 4K performance. Supports five sources. Includes a remote control.
Cons: Automatic switching to powered on devices can be annoying.
4. J-Tech Digital 8-Way HDMI Splitter
Optimize your home theater and entertainment setup with this premium HDMI splitter from J-Tech equipped with 4K and ultra HD capabilities. It’s compliant with HDMI 2.0 specifications meaning it’s got updated technology so you can view everything from your Blu-ray player to HDTV in uninterrupted high definition. It supports hot plug-and-play so you can get up and go as soon as you get it and it’s got LED lights that signal functionality and power mode.
Pros: High-resolution capabilities, easy to set up, eight different HDMI ports.
Cons: Higher price point than other options. The average user likely doesn’t need more than four HDMI ports at once.
5. Vention HDMI Switch 5×1 Ports
This option confusingly lists itself as both a switch and as a splitter, but it’s actually a switch. You can plug in multiple devices such as media players and consoles and connect them all to your TV. There are a total of five inputs, making it a great option for anyone with a lot of devices. A remote control is included so you can toggle between different devices.
Pros: Includes remote control. Has five inputs, making it a good option for anyone with a lot of devices.
Cons: IR remote, so it requires a line of sight.
6. HDMI Splitter by OREI 1×8
If you have a lot of devices to broadcast to, this splitter from OREI allows you to split from one source to up to eight outputs. That makes it a great option for events, sports bars or other business uses. The lighting panel on the back of the unit lets you know which ports are active.
Pros: Eight outputs, making it a good option for business use.
Cons: No remote, so splitter will need to be placed within reach during setup.
7. Avedio links HDMI Splitter 1 in 2 Out
This option is a good pick for small-scale uses, such as desktops with dual monitors. It duplicates the image, so it’s best for anyone who wants a mirrored image on two monitors or TVs. There are two outputs and one input, and the small unit is space-saving.
Pros: Good option for monitors. Small size.
Cons: Not ideal if you want two different images.
8. Selore&S-Global USB C to Dual HDMI Adapter
If you’re looking for an option for your computer, this adapter allows you to connect your laptop to HDMI devices such as TVs and computer monitors. It features a USB connector that’s compatible with Apple’s Thunderbolt ports, and, with two outputs, you can display your content onto two different screens. It supports 4K as well.
Pros: Good option for laptops and monitors. Supports 4K.
Cons: Doesn’t work with all USB-C devices. Check compatibility on the listing.
9. BENFEI 4K HDMI Switcher
This affordable HDMI switch is a good option if you only have a few media devices that you want to connect to your TV. It has one output that plugs into the TV or monitor, and two inputs for devices such as media players and gaming consoles. It has a button on top to switch between different sources.
Pros: Affordable and compact. Easy to set up.
Cons: No remote included.
10. Gana HDMI Switch
This HDMI splitter from GANA is equipped to handle three different HDMI devices seamlessly and easily through its convenient ports and built-in key-press-switching function. This kit includes one 1/8ft HDMI cable so you’re ready to plug and play as soon as you get it. For a fraction of the price of the best HDMI splitters, you can have all of this functionality and more money left to spend on games, DVDs and other gadgets.
Pros: This HDMI splitter from GANA sports a lower price point than other options along with three different ports for supporting your devices.
Cons: Only supports three devices at once.