Best HDMI Splitters

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 4, 2024
When your life becomes wired up, the best course of action is to make a pause and sort out the stuff around you. HDMI splitters and ...Read more
PROS

This device features open side vents that provide an advanced cooling system, responsible for keeping the device from ever overheating. Unlike the majority of HDMI splitters out there, this model displays status indicators at the front, putting all of the female outputs and an input port, along with the power supply connector, to the back of the product.

CONS

Takes some time for a new source of video to start projecting an image.

OUR VERDICT

If you're interested in a model that doesn't just look the part but also absolutely delivers in terms of practicality and performance, the Zettaguard ZW-140 might just very well be the best HDMI splitter for you. This sleek model will allow you to cover all of your entertainment bases.

detailed parameters
Intended Use

Splitter

Number of Ports

4 x Outputs, 1 x Input

HDMI Version

1.4a

Supported Video Formats

4K x 2K at 30Hz, 1080P at 120Hz and 1080P 3D at 60Hz, 1080i, 720P, 480i/p, 3D deep color 36bit, 48bit

Supported Audio Formats

DTS-HD / Dolby TrueHD / LPCM 7.1 / DTS / Dolby-AC3 / DSD

HDCP Support

Yes

Control

A power button on the device

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

The device supports HDR. Also, the HDMI 2.0b version is able to stream 4K at 60 fps, which is something that previous versions are unable to do. Moreover, this version can reproduce 10- and 12-bit color content. You'll be able to match the 4K footage with high-fidelity sound. 

CONS

If the connected screens do not support the same resolution, the splitter will lower the output resolution to the next best resolution that both displays support. 

OUR VERDICT

The OREI UHDS-102 is the future that is today. The device will let you do much more than what the splitters limited to HDMI 1.4 are able to do. Also, the robust aluminum enclosure will be able to provide quick heat absorption and dissipation, protecting the device from overheating.

detailed parameters
Intended Use

Splitter

Number of Ports

2 x Outputs, 1 x Input

HDMI Version

2.0b

Supported Video Formats

HDR up to 4K/60Hz, 1080p, 720p, VGA to WUXGA

Supported Audio Formats

LPCM, Dolby-AC3, DTS7.1, DSD/Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD master audio

HDCP Support

Yes

Control

No

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The splitter offers high-bandwidth 10.2Gbps data transmission. Measuring 1 x 0.5 x 2 inches, the switcher will fit pretty much any pocket, so you can always bring this thing with you to the office or anywhere you go. You can also hide the switcher behind the TV.

CONS

The dim green indicator is hard to spot. 

OUR VERDICT

The Techole HS305 is a solid budget bi-directional switcher. Its HDMI input is compatible with pretty much all devices, including but not limited to desktop PCs, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, Blu-Ray DVD players, Route Rokus, Chromecasts, and more. The output works with all TVs, monitors, projectors, etc.

detailed parameters
Intended Use

Bi-directional switcher

Number of Ports

2 x Inputs, 1 x Output

HDMI Version

1.4

Supported Video Formats

3D, 1080P, 4K x 2K at 30Hz

Supported Audio Formats

HD audio

HDCP Support

No

Control

A power button on the device

Warranty

2 years

PROS

The model provides an HDMI version 1.4a, which has a better performance than lower versions. With the help of the latter, you will be able to enjoy your favorite movies in Ultra HD 4k resolution on a couple of screens simultaneously. The ability to deliver deep colors up to 48 bit will enhance the visual aspect of it all.

CONS

An HDMI cable is not included in the package. 

OUR VERDICT

The Musou 4330165836 HDMI Switch Powered Splitter offers just about as much as any user could ever require in the comforts of his own home. The device is easy to use, its size and weight make it incredibly compact, and the kind of versatility it offers is remarkable for its price range.

detailed parameters
Intended Use

Splitter

Number of Ports

1 x Input, 2 x Outputs

HDMI Version

1.4a

Supported Video Formats

4K x 2K at 30Hz, 1080P at 120Hz, 1080P 3D at 60 Hz, 1080i, 720P

Supported Audio Formats

DTS-HD/Dolby TrueHD/LPCM 7.1/ DTS/Dolby-AC3/DSD

HDCP Support

HDCP 1.0/1.1/1.2/1.3

Control

No

Warranty

18 months

PROS

The splitter has high-quality assembly and comes in a metallic body designed to prevent overheating. The device supports Full HD 1080p resolution and 3D. The ports are snug yet firm, making sure that the cables don't disconnect when you barely graze them. 

CONS
This splitter doesn't pass through HDCP.
OUR VERDICT

For those looking for a budget-friendly splitter with capability of transferring video to 2 screens at up to 30 ft, the OREI HD-102 will fit the bill. It is compact, durable and very easy to set up. Plus, it guarantees lossless audio and image transmission.

detailed parameters
Intended Use
Splitter
Number of Ports

1 x Input, 2 x Outputs

HDMI Version
1.3b
Supported Video Formats

1080P and 3D resolutions, Deep Color from 480i to 1440i/1440p

Supported Audio Formats
DSD, DTS, DTS-HD, LPCM 7.1, Dolby-AC3, Dolby TrueHD
HDCP Support
No
Control
No
Warranty

1 year

Not Just a Dull Box

Though HDMI switches and splitters could certainly be described as some of the simpler pieces of information technology equipment or just as devices that serve a singular purpose, every company behind them still has a particular philosophy that they try to adhere to and the one that clearly manifests itself in their products, especially if you're familiar with it and if you know where to look. And, quite frankly, we couldn't find a better example of that than Zettaguard, particularly their latest ZW-140 1 x 4 HDMI Splitter.

While the majority of companies out there think of an HDMI splitter as something that should simply do its job, people at Zettaguard are the kind of experts that believe in going the extra mile, especially when it comes to the looks department. Where most manufacturers would present you with a dull and uninspiring box, Zettaguard offers an incredibly sleek and stylish device that doesn't just do its job but is also capable of serving as a compact yet noticeable futuristic addition to your interior.

Practical as Well as Stylish

Naturally, while nobody would really mind having a sleek and stylish device over a dull and boring box, the design wouldn't be worth a dime if the looks were to come at the cost of practicality. Fortunately enough, this isn't the case here since the model doesn't just look the part but actually puts that futuristic architecture to good use. Unlike the majority of HDMI splitters out there that feature inputs and outputs either at the side of the device or on the front, the model in question displays status indicators at the front, putting all of the female outputs and an input port, along with the power supply connector, to the back of the product. This kind of disposition, in turn, makes it incredibly easy to track the displays that are currently in use. And on the sides, where most switches and splitters offer space for different kinds of connectors, this device features open side vents that provide an advanced cooling system, responsible for keeping the device from ever overheating.

A Capable Device

Finally getting to the performance part, you will first have to put the whole thing together. Figuratively speaking, of course, since, even though the manufacturers did include a user manual in the package, the setup process itself couldn't be any simpler: just plug the HDMI input and output sources into the model and watch it do its job. And the job it is capable of doing is nothing short of impressive, offering support for High Definition resolutions up to 4K x 2K at 30Hz (a perfect choice if you wish to enjoy a good movie in the best possible quality), 1080P at 120Hz (an option that any hardcore PC gamer with a powerful machine would be able to appreciate) and 1080P 3D at 60Hz (for those that simply aren't satisfied with a regular boring 2D). Of course, this is a splitter we're talking about, so if one or some of your screens happens to be a little bit older, the model will easily be able to accommodate you, offering support for lower resolutions like 1080i, 720P, and 480i/p.

It should go without saying that where there's video there's audio, and the device has you covered there as well, providing support for basically all of the available audio formats. So, if you're interested in a model that doesn't just look the part but also absolutely delivers in terms of practicality and performance, the Zettaguard ZW-140 might just very well be the best HDMI splitter for you. This sleek model will allow you to cover all of your entertainment bases.

Last updated price $26.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01MG7L0NN

Solid Form Factor

The OREI UHDS-102 is as good as these splitters come. The price makes sense, the ports are abundant enough, and the specs are more than you'd expect from the price.

Also, the device's form factor is nothing to complain about. Measuring 4 x 2.2 x 0.6 inches, the device is pretty compact and really slim, so you won't have to worry about this box imposing on that precious entertainment center space that you want to conserve.

As far as the product's appearance is concerned, the device is neither lagging behind its direct competition nor speeding ahead. The box looks pretty streamlined but not necessarily as smooth and polished as its more expensive peers. The company's logo adds some character to the otherwise bland-looking device though, which's nice considering how forgettable these boxes usually look and how easily you can confuse them together.

Duplicate Video and Audio

From the performance standpoint, the device does not disappoint. First and foremost, this HDMI splitter is able to stream Ultra HD 4K resolution at 60 Hz. You'll have no issues duplicating video and audio from one source to two HDMI displays at the same time. You'll also be able to do that without noticeable signal degradation.

You won't be able to do more than two displays though because the device comes equipped with two HDMI outputs and one input.

That's fine though. We've nothing against two ports because the price translates to the quantity and you rarely need more than that. The device's biggest downside is that when the connected screens do not support the same resolution, the splitter will lower the output resolution to the next best resolution that both displays support.

HDMI 2.0b

What's great about this device is its nondiscriminatory approach towards audio formats. The model supports LPCM, Dolby-AC3, DTS 7.1, DSD, Dolby TrueHD, and even DTS-HD master audio. In other words, the audio will match the aforementioned Ultra HD quality when the source allows doing so.

The splitter's native HDMI version is HDMI 2.0b. Aside from reproducing Ultra HD, the version's biggest advantage is its ability to stream HDR. Also, the 2.0b version is able to stream 4K at 60 fps, which is something that previous versions are unable to do. Moreover, this version can reproduce 10- and 12-bit color content.

In short, the OREI UHDS-102 is the future that is today. The device will let you do much more than what the splitters limited to HDMI 1.4 are able to do. Also, the robust aluminum enclosure will be able to provide quick heat absorption and dissipation, protecting the device from overheating.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $24.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07J2Q9NPH

Simplicity is Good

The Techole HS305 is relatively basic. We're not saying that the switcher is bad though. All we're saying is that the product doesn't necessarily stand out compared to its direct competition. At the same time, in many ways, the switcher can tussle with its more expensive peers.

The model's relatively basic build is its strength too. The switch is as easy to set up and operate as the next splitter. You won't have to fiddle with external power supply units. Connect the HDMI device to the switch and there you go, enjoy the show.

You can swap the signal within one second by pressing the only available button. Meanwhile, the LED light tells you which port is active. The only issue here is that this LED indicator is relatively dim and can be hard to spot from a distance.

The model comes equipped with two HDMI inputs and one output, meaning that you can split the screen between two video sources and switch from one source to the other whenever you want.

Compact yet Sturdy Build

As far as the build/construction is concerned, the gadget is as sturdy, rugged, lightweight, and compact as they come. Measuring 1 x 0.5 x 2 inches, the switcher will fit pretty much any pocket, so you can always bring this thing with you to the office or anywhere you go. The model weighs 3 ounces, so, needless to say, you should be able to carry this massive monstrosity with relative ease.

Incorporating solid aluminum alloy, the switcher is tough. You won't have to worry about the circuits inside the splitter as well as its housing. You'll be able to drop and pretty much do anything but stomp on the switcher. Plus, the housing is scratch-resistant, meaning you won't have to worry about damaging the external components too.

No Lag, No Picture/Audio Quality Loss

Pivoting towards specs, the splitter offers high-bandwidth 10.2Gbps data transmission. You'll have no issues with standard 1.4 HDMI cables. You won't have to worry about any lags and picture/sound quality loss. HDMI cables are not included in the package but that's pretty much always the case.

The splitter supports pretty much every basic format/resolution in the book, including 3D, full HD (1080p), Ultra HD (4K) at 30Hz, and HD audio. As far as budget splitters/switchers are concerned, that's more than you could ask for.

Bottom line, the Techole HS305 is a solid budget bi-directional switcher. Its HDMI input is compatible with pretty much all devices, including but not limited to desktop PCs, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, Blu-Ray DVD players, Route Rokus, Chromecasts, and more. The output works with all TVs, monitors, projectors, etc.

Last updated price $12.29
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B079JQ9XXV

More Than Enough

Let's face it - while the ability to put up to 4 displays at the same time might seem and sound nice on paper, nobody really has such a number of potential screens at their disposal nor is there ever any need or reason to project the same picture onto four different displays. Of course, if you're looking for a device for commercial use, going for as many different inputs and outputs as possible isn't necessarily a bad strategy, but what most splitters provide is a bit of an overkill for the absolute majority of households out there.

The Musou 4330165836 Powered HDMI Splitter, on the other hand, offers just about as much as your average household requires, in terms of performance and number of connectors just as much as when it comes to compactness and quality. To start with, the model includes one input to connect a source of video and two outputs for two different displays to project the same image. Where most splitters might offer you a fairly useless ability to connect up to four displays to a single source of audio and video, the device in question provides just enough possibilities for a regular user to enjoy.

Performance to Match

As we have already mentioned, this HDMI output splitter comes with a single HDMI input and a couple of HDMI outputs. The former will allow you to connect virtually any source of video, ranging from a DVD player and a laptop to all of the latest versions of XBox and PlayStation. The latter will grant you the possibility to split the same image onto two different displays, be it a huge Ultra HD flat screen TV, a tiny monitor, or a video projector. By the way, the model provides an HDMI version 1.4a, which has a better performance than lower versions, like the regular 1.4 or 1.3. With the help of the latter, you will be able to enjoy your favorite movies in Ultra HD 4k resolution on a couple of screens simultaneously. You will also have the option of experiencing 1080P at 120Hz, something that any gamer would be able to appreciate and fans of the shooter genre would absolutely love. On top of that, the device will also provide the users with the opportunity to enjoy videos in three dimensions or work with some of the earlier resolutions like 1080i or 720P if your displays happen to be a bit older or the source of the video isn't exactly up to date.

A Featherweight Splitter

In terms of the audio experience, the splitter from Musou does not intend to trail behind either, offering support for virtually all digital audio formats out there, including but not limited to DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, LPCM 7.1, DTS, Dolby - AC3, and Direct Stream Digital. While a sound quality like that will do its part in terms of amplifying the audio experience, the ability to deliver deep colors up to 48 bit will make sure to enhance the visual aspect of it all.

Now, before wrapping this review up, we would be remiss not to mention that the model itself is also quite compact, featuring just about 5.2 x 3.6 x 1 inches in overall dimensions and no more than 5.5 ounces in weight, so you could easily drop the whole thing in your pocket and take it with you to a work presentation or to your friend's house. The device is also incredibly easy to use, does not require any drivers in order to properly work, and, if you happen to run into any sort of obstacle, a user manual that comes with the product will be there to lend you a helping hand. In conclusion, the Musou 4330165836 HDMI Switch Powered Splitter offers just about as much as any user could ever require in the comforts of his own home. The device is easy to use, its size and weight make it incredibly compact, and the kind of versatility it offers is remarkable for its price range.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01J5DJXE6

Split the Signal

The OREI HD-102 is an HDMI splitter and is one of the simplest solutions if you want to share one signal with two monitors. Pretty handy when you want to display the presentation on two screens in a huge auditorium or playback sound on two complex audio systems in two separate rooms at once. It was designed to withstand intensive use, and overall it is a pretty reliable and durable unit. So let’s check it out more closely.

First things first, the device's surprisingly compact, measuring 2.5 x 2.5 x 1 inches. You won't have to sacrifice too much space onto the entertainment center for this splitter.

Aesthetics-wise, the unit looks similar to most splitters. Its black housing won't necessarily stand out but the company's blue logo looks pretty cool, somewhat elevating the device's appearance.

Metal Enclosure

Setting the appearance aside, the heavy-duty metal enclosure works wonders protecting the device's circuitry/components. At the same time, the enclosure facility aids heat absorption and dissipation, keeping the unit cool and making sure you don't have to worry about overheating the device.

The OREI HD-102 HDMI Splitter has three HDMI slots and one slot for 5V AC power adaptor that comes supplied with the package. The input and power supply ports are on the front side, while the two output ports are in the rear end. The cables are easy to connect and sit there pretty firmly, so you won't have to worry about accidentally grazing the cables and disconnecting them.

You can connect the box to any HDMI 1.3b version device, such as most video game consoles, TV receivers, DVD or Blu-ray players, and others. Note that cable’s length mustn’t be more than 30 feet for the lossless signal.

LED Indicators

The OREI HD-102 Splitter supports all the data formats of HDMI version 1.3b. That includes the widest range of video resolutions: 480i, 576i, 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, 1440i, and 1440p; as well as all the standard audio formats like DSD, LPCM, DTS 7.1, DTS-HD, Dolby-AC3, and Dolby TrueHD.

There are also a couple of bright LED indicators near each port to check out if there is an active signal from a device.

In conclusion, we want to point out that this splitter is a pretty straightforward device and requires no additional controls – you plug in all the cables, turn the power on, and it works just as it's supposed to. Considering the affordable price tag and the fact that this device supports 3D, we couldn't leave this product from this shortlist.

Last updated price $11.89
Stock In stock
ASIN B005HXFARS

VIDEO

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight(4.9)

Good size and can be used in small spaces, works perfectly, is inexpensive enough for any application.

Features(4.5)

This little powered HDMI splutter worked perfectly for my purpose. Run two TV's off one satellite box including 3D on both 3D enabled sets. No loss of picture or depth in 3D mode. Highly recommended.

Key Specs(4)

Used to split single HDMI output into 2 HDMI outputs, one to TV and other to video recorder.

What Is an HDMI Splitter?

Most people today have an overwhelming number of digital devices they use at home or in the office every day. These devices not only connect us to the world and bring closer to each other but also provide a means for working and relaxation. However, they also bring one problem with them - cables. If you have a range of gadgets around your house and the idea of switching between cables doesn't seem all that attractive to you, then buying one of these HDMI splitters or HDMI switchers will be the best solution.

With regard to an HDMI splitter, these are used when you need to transfer the video from one source to a TV screen or several screens. The most common situation is when you have several TVs in one apartment or house that are placed in different locations and want to split the signal from a satellite box between them. HDMI splitters can be used across a distance to 25 ft from a TV set, and even more, provided that you use a high-quality cable. They can also feature a different number of inputs and outputs, with some of them offering the functionality of both an HDMI splitter and an HDMI switcher, letting you, in addition to splitting the signal, connect several devices to your TV screen using one HDMI input.

In this review, you will find five best HDMI transmitters suitable for all typical situations you may encounter while connecting your HDMI-wired devices at home or in your office. Check them out and choose the thing that fits you best.

And if you are looking for other PC hardware, take a sneak peek at our USB hubs and memory card readers.

What Features to Compare

Form Factor

More often than not, these devices are pretty compact. Having said that, people rarely have too much free space on their entertainment centers, so make sure that the device's size makes sense relative to its ports. When these splitters come equipped with 2-4 output ports and 1-2 input, somewhere around 3 x 3 x 1 inches is more than acceptable. Fewer ports than that and you might want to find a more compact splitter.

Functionality

First of all, make sure you know exactly the kind of HDMI transmitter's functionality you require. Once again, splitters are designed to take an incoming signal, duplicate it and send out to 2 or more displays. Switches are used for connecting many devices to one monitor or TV screen in order not to plug them in and out each time. And if you want the qualities of both, then get an HDMI matrix (like JTD-HD-4X2-HIFI) – it can transfer the signal from many devices to one or more screens.

Port Specs

And sometimes it's easy to forget how many things we have in our houses. So count up devices with HDMI cables that you have, check out HDMI versions that they work with (you can find this info in the manuals), and then choose the transmitter with port specs that will satisfy your needs. Please note, that every HDMI version supports the characteristics of a previous one.

Supported Formats and Controls

There is still a couple of pitfalls you’d want to avoid here. Some devices may not be compatible due to the HDMI version differences. Helpfully, that info can also be found in the manuals. So don't forget to compare the supported formats. Also, don't forget to look into supported audio formats too. When the device is above entry-level price-wise, you might want to purchase something that supports DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, LPCM 7.1, DTS, Dolby-AC3, and even DSD. Otherwise, you aren't getting your money's worth. We're not saying that the splitter should necessarily support everything on this list but at least some of these have to be available.

More often than not, these splitters support 3D too. We're not necessarily the biggest fans and usually find this tech somewhat gimmicky but we certainly don't mind when the ability's there anyway.

Controls are the last but not the least important thing to check out. The switches and splitters may come with wireless IR remote that can come handy if you are going to put the device far from hand’s reach, while others may only have a control button right on the body.

Knowing all this, it should be easier for you to pick the right device.

Sources:

1. The HDMI Advantage, HDMI.org.

2. Geoffrey Morrison HDMI 2.0: What you need to know, CNET. September 16, 2013.

3. Kate Evelyn How to Use an HDMI Switcher, Techwalla.

4. Tracy V. Wilson How HDMI Works, HowStuffWorks.

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