7 Best HDMI Switches: Swap Displays Like a PRO

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Penned by Kody Wirth

Kody is our expert Destiny 2 and shooter genre writer. He lives in Oregon.

Reviewed by Benjamin Barr

Don’t you hate it when you have to switch between display devices? There’s always one that’s never connected to an HDMI port, and it always seems to be the one you need. And then (like all cords) it takes about four to five attempts to actually connect it. 

You’ve wasted time, you’re frustrated, and eventually, when you want to use your other device, you’ll have to reconnect all over again. There’s got to be a better way, right? Luckily for you, there is — and it just takes purchasing the best HDMI switch.

HDMI switches are perfect for managing multi-device setups and are typically compatible with consoles, PCs, streaming boxes, TVs, and projectors. It helps you minimize cord management by taking in multiple sources through a single device that can be manually, automatically, or remotely switched. To put it simply, HDMI switches make device management a breeze.

Zoom In: The 7 Best HDMI Switches

You may be asking: what is the best HDMI switch box? And, for that matter, what makes a good HDMI switch to begin with? Luckily, we here at High Ground have done that research for you and compiled the top 7 HDMI switches available to you today.

1. Kinivo 550BN

The best HDMI switch overall

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Manufacturer: Kinivo | Ports: 5 | Resolution: 4K 60Hz | Data Throughput: 18 Gbps | Price: 💰

It’s easy to shell out a bunch of money for an HDMI switch. You may see some additional features, an extended number of ports, or even a respectable warranty. But for the best HDMI switch that hits that sweet spot of high quality at a reasonable price, you’ll want to go with the Kinivo.

An upgrade from previous models, the 550BN features crisp 4K output at 30 to 60 fps. Thanks to the five HDMI ports and one output, you should be able to easily change between all of your devices (if you need more than five ports, don’t worry — we have another option coming up). And out of all the switches on this list, based on reviews, the Kinivo is one of the more capable switches for actively producing 4K resolution. Which makes it ideal for streaming, gaming, and even watching Blu Ray discs.

Throw in the useful infrared remote and intuitive automatic switching, and you have yourself an easy to use and intuitive machine. It even utilizes an LED display to let you know which input you’re working with, which can be useful during setup. The only drawback is reports of the inputs degrading after heavy use. But as long as you carefully connect your cords, this should be a non-issue.

2. EZCOOTECH MX42PRO

The best HDMI switch for gaming

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Manufacturer: EZCOOTECH | Ports: 4 | Resolution: 4K 60Hz | Data Throughput: 18 Gbps | Price: 💰💰

For a well-rounded and intuitive 4K switching experience, the EZCOOTECH HDMI Matrix switch is worth investing in. It’s a bit more expensive than most models you find, but the incredible support and feature-rich quality are well worth it.

Like our best option on this list, the Matrix Switch supports 4K resolution and matches our top two choices’ higher data output. It also provides excellent HDR support, but that’s where the similarities end. The rest of the features on this device feel like they were built with gaming in mind.

First, and possibly most important, is the second HDMI out port. Seemingly a rarity on these devices, this means you can connect multiple displays or different devices simultaneously. You’ll also have the ability to scale your resolution down, separately for each screen, to 1080p. Meaning you can run a stream setup in 4K while optimizing your game to display a more competitive resolution.

There’s also the excellent Dolby Atmos audio output, an IR remote that actually works, and an intuitive input display. Specifically for PC players and streamers, this is an excellent choice that is well worth the investment. That said, if you’re planning on using this for your TV, you might want to go with a less expensive device.

3. IOGEAR GHSW8481

The best HDMI switch 4K 60Hz HDR option

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Manufacturer: IOGEAR | Ports: 8 | Resolution: 4K 60Hz | Data Throughput: 18 Gbps | Price: 💰💰💰

Remember how we mentioned there’d be an option with more than five ports? Well, you don’t need to go any further because here it is, the IOGEAR GHSW8481. This beast of a machine is meant for power users that need to switch back and forth between more devices than your average user. Unfortunately, its top-tier functionality results in a top-tier price tag.

It’s an expensive HDMI switch, but it also provides incredible 4K 60Hz HDR support. And thanks to the relatively high data transfer speed, you’ll have no trouble maintaining stable visual fidelity even when eight devices are connected. That alone is quite impressive, as lesser switches will often buckle due to data management issues. But IOGEAR seemingly avoids this issue.

The only unfortunate thing about this device is that the switching quality doesn’t extend to, well, switching between inputs. The remote and its sensor are spotty (at best). Rather than having automatic switching, you need to change it manually on the front of the device if your remote is acting up. It’s a strange oversight for such a spendy switch that otherwise is worth the cost based on performance alone.

4. Zettaguard ZW410

The best 4K HDMI switch

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Manufacturer: Zettaguard Inc | Ports: 4 | Resolution: 4K 30Hz | Data Throughput: 2.97 Gbps | Price: 💰

While switches often look like small cable boxes, the folks at Zettaguard opted for a more subtle approach. Sometimes you just want something that works and blends into the background. And this device does just that.

Featuring four HDMI ports and one output, the Zettaguard works as a standard 4K HDMI switch. But, it does this within an incredibly small package that still features enough bells and whistles to make it stand out. In this case, we’re talking specifically about the picture in picture mode (PIP).

While not an obvious need for everyone, PIP allows you to view another active input that pops up as a tiny box in the corner of your screen. But the Zettaguard takes things a step further and actually lets you switch back and forth between these active inputs without any input lag. Again, not for everyone, but an impressive feature nonetheless.

The only drawback is that the data throughput for this device is relatively limited. When trying to achieve stable 4K output, this can become an issue, especially when actively switching. But, if you’re looking for an inexpensive and high-quality option, the Zettaguard 4K is a great choice.

5. OREI HD-201P

The best HDMI switch with remote

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Manufacturer: OREI | Ports: 4 | Resolution: 1080p | Data Throughput: 2.8 Gbps | Price: 💰💰

If you’re one of those people that loves watching multiple Twitch streams or even football games simultaneously, then the OREI 4×1 is for you. While the resolution and data throughput aren’t exactly up to par with others on this list, this device’s claim to fame is the robust picture in picture capabilities. Just to sell it upfront, you have the option to display up to four inputs on a single screen without any complicated haggling.

And it doesn’t stop there. While some devices are all or nothing, you can change between a single, split, and multiple 4×1 variations. The key to this capability is the remote control. Unlike switches that throw in an IR remote as an afterthought, this device is built around total control at your fingertips.

Unfortunately, the sacrifice for easily splitting your screen without input lag is a lack of 4K support. Add onto that a handful of connectivity bugs, and the higher price point may have you scratching your head. But, if you like watching multiple screens and you’re willing to put up with some potential quirks (and don’t mind a 1080p output), this is a worthwhile option.

6. ROOFULL RFH2S51

The most compatible HDMI switch

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Manufacturer: ROOFULL | Ports: 5 | Resolution: 4K 60Hz | Data Throughput: 18 Gbps | Price: 💰

Compatibility is vital for an HDMI switch to be worth the cost. In favor of other features, you’ll often find that even the best switches have some strange connectivity issues. But that’s simply not the case with the ROOFULL RFH2S51.

This switch connects to anything and everything with HDMI output. It supports a wide range of resolutions that you can switch between, and it’s compatible with current HDCP2.2 standards as well as previous iterations down to 1.4. In many ways, this is a jack-of-all-trades HDMI switch built to handle anything you throw at it.

That said, the excellent compatibility does come at a quality cost. Since this device doesn’t really specialize in one format, you can expect strange bugs to occur. There’s not a single, consistent error that occurs; rather, it entirely depends on your setup and what you’re attempting to do. Throw in the less-than-helpful proprietary remote control, and you may find that the ROOFULL is more trouble than it’s worth. That is, unless you’re exclusively looking for a diverse range of connections.

7. Newcare CT-88205

The best budget HDMI switch

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Manufacturer: Newcare | Ports: 3 | Resolution: 4K 60Hz | Data Throughput: 18 Gbps | Price: 💰

If you’re on a budget and need something that gets the job done, the Newcare 3-in-1 can do just that. Often priced at $20 or less, this is a no-frills, 4K capable switch that thrives on function over fashion. It even looks like a streaming dongle extension, a broad departure from most of the boxes on this list.

Newcare kept things simple, making the act of switching between inputs a single button press. There’s no remote, no additional menu items or outputs to mess with, just three input ports and a single output. 

Now, as far as quality goes, you get what you pay for. There’s no Dolby Atmos support, the 4K resolution is inconsistent and fully depends on your connection, and the ports themselves have been known to break over time. But, if you want to test out using a switch (or can’t afford a more expensive option), the Newcare works incredibly well for the price.

Buyers Guide: Best HDMI Switches

On the surface, HDMI switches may all look the same. They all serve the same primary function, have relatively similar performance in most cases, and typically have at least two to three HDMI ports. But if you’re still struggling to decide, keep these categories in mind when reviewing your options.

1. Compatability

Since most HDMI switches look and sound virtually the same, compatibility is often overlooked. This can cause you significant problems if you purchase a switch that doesn’t connect with your devices. Be sure to check reviews and take a quick glimpse at the specs do determine what is compatible and what’s been left out.

2. Ports and Features 

Similar to compatibility, the number of ports on the best HDMI switch can make it or break it. If you opt for a switch that can’t manage all your devices, why even purchase it to begin with? And if you have multiple output options (i.e., a monitor, TV, and projector, for instance), you may also need more HDMI out ports, which can be a rare feature.

On top of the number, you also want to pay attention to the features of each device. Does it optimize audio and retain crystal clear output? Does it have performance options? Know what you want from the device and determine if your choice can do all or most of what you want. 

3. Performance

Most HDMI switches are 4K-capable. But that doesn’t mean it can maintain a consistently high frame rate. Again, do a bit of digging and be sure that you understand each device’s visual output and if current customers find the marketing claims legit.

Additionally, if you like to switch between performance modes, you’ll need to see if that’s possible. Some switches have preset options to switch between various fidelity levels, while others are locked in place. Consider the games and entertainment you plan on using and the type of performance you want to see. That should help you narrow down your options and discover the best HDMI switch for you!

Our Process 

For this guide on the best HDMI switches, our writers spent 3 hours researching over 40 of the most popular options from brands big and small. After comparing this data, we then read over 130 user reviews and narrowed our list down to the top 7 HDMI switches on the market. All of this research adds up to recommendations you can trust.

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We hope you’ve found the most versatile HDMI switch to manage your favorite devices. If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to our email list to stay in the know. If you know of others struggling to keep their consoles, PC, or other devices connected to a TV or monitor, feel free to share this article on your favorite social platform.

Happy Gaming!

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