If you love gaming and have invested in some top-of-the-line gaming consoles, gaming PC, and other types of equipment like a gaming mouse, you would definitely need a good HDMI cable that can deliver the best viewing experience. At the very first sight, all the HDMI cables may look similar, but they are all different. So, it’s very important to spot the best-quality HDMI cables to unleash the true potential of gaming on your PC, PS4, Xbox, the recently announced PlayStation5, or any other next-gen console.
Some people may tell you that the best HDMI cable is expensive, has gold plated connectors, and must be packed with high-speed bandwidth to deliver the best possible gaming experience. But, make sure you don’t get blown away by the hype. In reality, HDMI cables are far away from fancy and you do not require to shell out a lot of cash to buy a good quality HDMI cable that fits your TVs & gaming monitors. Having said that, it’s equally important to know which cable you must use with your gaming setup. Plus, you must know about the quality, durability, speed, resolution, cable protection, and installation type before adding that “recommended” HDMI cable to cart.
What is an HDMI Cable and its versions?
HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. It’s a standard for transmitting audio and video data from an HDMI-compliant source device like PS4, to a compatible TV or monitor (devices having an HDMI port) over a cable. HDMI can transfer a high bandwidth of data using a single cable. Moreover, the ability to connect multiple devices with a display, using just one cable makes it very easy to set up a complete home entertainment system as well as enjoy gaming on a larger screen.
TVs have evolved greatly from the Standard Definition to High-Definition to 4K resolutions, so have the HDMI cables. The 8K is the new super-buzzed, top-of-the-line resolution that’s in an early adopter stage right now. As advancements are being made to the TVs, HDMI cables are also evolving to match the performance standards. You may have seen many manufacturers labeling their HDMI cables as HDMI2.0. HDMI2.1, right? These versions actually denote the capabilities of your hardware, rather than the cable itself. Apart from the version number, you must look for the features supported by that version
We’ve mentioned some important factors that you must know and consider before buying an HDMI cable. They will help you make the right decision and choose the HDMI cable for 4K gaming on PC/PS4/PS5 or an Xbox.
Factors to consider before buying an HDMI Cable for Gaming
1. Speed/ Bandwidth
Speed is one of the most important factors that should be considered while buying a good HDMI cable. The speed or bandwidth of an HDMI cable is measured in Gbps (Gigabits per second). You should choose an HDMI cable that’s fast enough to support your specific hardware.
There are different versions of the HDMI cables available in the market, and to simplify the things, HDMI.org (the authority that maintains a specification for HDMI devices and cables) has grouped the HDMI cables into four main categories.
1. Standard HDMI
Speed: 4.95Gbps
Resolution: 720p and 1080i
The Standard HDMI cable supports HD video in 720p and 1080i resolutions. Basically, they are designed to handle earlier consumer hardware and applications. It has a bandwidth of 4.95Gbps, and it cannot handle 4K video at all. Although these cables are difficult to find, if you don’t have a 4K display or you’re anyway not going to buy a new one any time soon, you can go for Standard HDMI cable. Although, it’s recommended to just skip this category and move to the other faster cables.
2. High-Speed HDMI
Speed: 10.2Gbps
Resolution: 4K@30fps
These cables are designed to support all devices with content delivery all the way up to 4K at 30fps. They have a minimum bandwidth of 10.2Gbps and can handle 3D video, deep color, and HD resolutions. If your hardware (gaming setup) has support for such technologies, it’s recommended to use High-Speed HDMI cables. It also supports static High Dynamic Range, like HDR10, but you won’t be able to experience Dolby Vision’s Dynamic HDR. Therefore, if you want to experience dynamic HDR in 4K@30fps or above, you must look for faster cables.
3. Premium High-Speed HDMI
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Premium High-Speed HDMI cables offer a speed of up to 18Gbps. These cables can handle 4K resolutions at 60fps and can even support high-end 8K resolutions with certain frame rates and features. They also support High Dynamic Range, including Dolby Vision’s dynamic HDR and HDR10+. If you’re looking for an HDMI cable for your high-end gaming PC setup or PS4/Xbox, you must invest in a premium high-speed HDMI cable.
4. Ultra High-Speed HDMI
Speed: 48Gbps
Resolution: 8K@60fps, 4K@120fps
Here comes the top-of-the-line category for HDMI cables that offer an ultra-high-speed of up to 48Gbps and is also backward compatible with the existing HDMI devices. It supports uncompressed 8K@60fps and 4K@120fps resolutions and features exceptionally low EMI that helps to reduce interference with the other nearby wireless devices. These cables have support for all the advanced features listed in the HDMI 2.1 specification (the latest version of the HDMI standard), including 8K video, eARC, and variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies. It’s the perfect HDMI cable for 4K/6K/8K gaming on PC, next-gen gaming consoles with future proof specifications.
If you’re looking for an HDMI cable for your high-end gaming PC or planning to switch to the next-gen gaming consoles like PlayStation 5 or Microsoft Xbox X Series, it’s recommended to go for either the Premium or Ultra High-Speed HDMI cable. Hence, you won’t always need a new HDMI cable when you upgrade to a better gaming setup in the future.
2. Length
The distance between your gaming console or PC to your display really matters while you’re looking for the best HDMI cable for gaming. The quality of the signal can degrade over long distances because of signal interference. This usually leads to frame drops, screen blackouts.
If the distance between your gaming setup/console is up to 15 feet/ 4.5 meters
If your gaming setup or console is placed up to 15 feet away from your TV or monitor, you can go for the regular or Passive HDMI cables. For shorter distances, you don’t have to worry about signal degradation.
If the distance between your components is more than 25 feet/ 7.6 meters
If your gaming console or PC is placed more than 25 feet away from your TV, you must look for Active HDMI cables. These cables are integrated with small chips that borrow a tiny bit of power from the connected devices and boost signal strength over long distances. It’s worth knowing that Active cables are directional and will have a label or marker on each head to tell if that end goes to a source device or a display device. They WILL NOT work in reverse. There is no way to reverse their direction if installed incorrectly.
If you go for the regular (passive) longer cables, they cannot handle the full 4K60 HDR or above signal. Also, when you’re looking for a longer cable, you must look for the product reviews and manufacturer’s warranty. It will help you choose a good long HDMI cable.
3. Installation Type
If you need an HDMI cable for commercial or home installations and planning to run the cable through a wall or ceiling, you must ensure that the cable is certified and rated for that type of use. You must look for the cables with CL2 or CL3 rating and check your building codes for compliance before installing the cables. It’s worth mentioning that even if you run an in-wall rated HDMI cable through a wall or ceiling, it becomes very difficult or impossible to repair them.
Therefore, it’s recommended to go for an HDMI extender system using Cat5 or Cat6 cables that can send signals over long distances. They are easier to install and repair if the cable gets damaged.
4. Cable Protection
Undoubtedly, a good shielding makes the cable more durable. But, if a cable has many extra layers of protection, it will be thicker and therefore, less capable of bending, which is required in many cases. Therefore, while choosing a good HDMI cable, you must look for the cable that has ample layers of protection for its durability and is flexible enough to withstand bends as well.
List of the Best HDMI Cables for Gaming on PC, PS4, and XBOX
1. Monoprice Certified Premium High-Speed HDMI (Best HDMI Cable for 4K Gaming)
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 3 to 30ft
Recommended for: PC, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox
Here comes a certified Premium HDMI Cable from Monoprice that’s sure to deliver high performance on all 4K gaming setups. It’s one of the best HDMI cables for the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X. The cable has a great build quality with gold-plated connectors to boost performance and reduce interference. Each cable has been tested individually and certified to offer a full bandwidth of 18Gbps and high EMI resistance.
This HDMI cable comes in various length options and supports 4K@60Hz resolution along with HDR10 support. Moreover, the cable has support for the 3D video and dual video stream that allows the users to utilize the Multi-View function available on the latest Samsung and LG TVs. This gaming HDMI cable supports deep color and all the high-definition audio standards, including
DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD to provide great audio quality. The cable also has a built-in Ethernet and is backed with Monoprice’s lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Certified premium HDMI cable (supports 16-bits per channel, including Sony’s x.v.Color standard and HDR10)
- Dual video stream support
- High EMI resistance
- Available in lengths up to 30 feet
Cons
- None
2. AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI (Best budget HDMI cable for 4K Gaming)
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: Various length options (3ft to 100ft)
Recommended for: PS3, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC
For all the users, who’re looking for an affordable yet highly-usable cable, AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI cable is sure to become your front-runner. This cable offers one of the cheapest yet reliable options to connect your gaming console to a 4K TV. The cable has triple shielding and gold plated connectors that prevent interference and boost performance. It offers transfer speeds of up to 18Gbps and is able to handle 4K resolutions at 60fps.
This cable comes in various length options, from 3ft to 100ft, and the longest version is CL3-certified, which means the cable is designed for in-wall installation and can handle higher voltages without any issues. Moreover, this HDMI cable is backward compatible, has a built-in Ethernet to share internet connection between multiple devices, and supports 3D video and Audio Return Channel (ARC) to deliver buttery-smooth visuals. These cost-effective HDMI cables start at a price of less than $10 and are backed by Amazon’s lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Various length options
- Great performance at an affordable price, CL3 certified
- Built-in Ethernet, 4K@60fps, ARC & 3D video support
Cons
- No HDMI Premium certification
Also read: Best HDMI Cable for 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, ARC & eARC
3. Belkin HDMI 2.1 Ultra High Speed (Best Future-proof HDMI Cable)
Speed: 48Gbps
Resolution: 10K@30fps, 8K@60fps, 4K@120fps
Length: 6.5ft
Recommended for: PC, PS5, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One X, Apple TV 4K
If you’re looking for a reliable HDMI cable that offers blazingly fast performance on the latest streaming and gaming devices, such as Apple TV 4K, MacBooks, and other high-end devices, you must check out the Belkin HDMI 2.1 Ultra High-Speed cable. This HDMI cable is
Dolby Vision and HDR10 compatible, and supports wide color gamuts to deliver incredible levels of depth and realism. It offers a transfer speed of up to 48Gbps and is a future-proof HDMI cable that can handle resolutions up to 10K.
It’s worth mentioning that the Belkin HDMI cable has a length of only 2m. The cable provides a reliable connection between your gaming console and the display to offer a faster refresh rate, eliminate motion blur, and deliver the best possible gaming experience. It’s one of the best HDMI cables for a high-end gaming PC (4K/6K/8K) and the next-gen PlayStation 5/XBOX X series. All in all, this is the best high-end HDMI cable for 4K gaming, especially in higher frame rates.
Pros
- Dolby Vision and HDR10 support
- Durable build
- 48Gbps bandwidth
- Support for high refresh rate
- Future proof (can transfer up to 10K resolution)
Cons
- Only 6.5ft length
- Expensive
4. Cable Matters Active HDMI cable (Best HDMI cable for long-distance)
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 33 to 98ft
Recommended for: PC, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox
If you’re looking for the best long-distance HDMI cable for 4K gaming, you must check out the Cable Matters Active Optical HDMI cable. It’s the best deal for the wall-mounted 4K UHD TV, ceiling-mounted projector, and comes to rescue when your gaming setup and TV/monitor are placed at a far distance. The cable features a lightweight and flexible design with gold plated connectors that reduce interference and boost the signal over longer distances. Please note that this an active HDMI cable.
It’s a plenum-rated HDMI cable for in-wall installation, including air ducts, and exceeds most building code requirements for home and commercial spaces. This HDMI cable supports
4K@60fps resolution, HDR10, RGB 4:4:4, 10-bit color depth, and increased color spaces and brightness. In short, the cable supports HDMI2.0 specifications to deliver exceptionally smooth visuals with low latency on your 4K devices.
Pros
- Boosts signal over longer distances (Active HDMI Cable)
- Plenum-rated for in-wall installation
- HDR 10, Dolby Vision & HDCP 2.2 support
Cons
- Expensive
- Over-bending can damage the cable
5. Monoprice DynamicView Ultra 8K HDMI Cable
Speed: 48Gbps
Resolution: 8K@60fps, 4K@120Hz
Length: 1.5/3/6ft
Recommended for: High-end Gaming PC, PS5, PS4 Pro, Xbox One X
Although it’s very difficult to spot a reliable Ultra High-speed certified HDMI cables, the Monoprice DynamicView Ultra 8K is a non-certified cable that’s designed to meet the same specifications. It boasts a bandwidth of 48Gbps, which is fast enough to handle 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz resolutions. These cables fully support the high-bandwidth dependent features, including dynamic HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and DTS x to ensure a more immersive, true-to-life viewing, and gaming experience.
In terms of audio, you’ll get an immersive multidimensional sound experience based on your gameplay, thanks to the object-based audio formats. All in all, it will allow you to unleash the true potential of your gaming setup. It is one of the best HDMI cables for gaming on PC, PS4 Pro, PS5, and Xbox One X. In short, this future-proof HDMI cable will offer an incredible, top-of-the-line gaming performance on every latest and upcoming hardware.
Pros
- High-end specifications
- Durable build
- 48Gbps bandwidth
Cons
- Up to 6ft length only
6. BlueRigger HDMI Cable (Most affordable & suitable for 240Hz Gaming)
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 15 to 50ft
Recommended for: PC, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox
For all the gamers out there, who’re looking for a solid option to connect their gaming setups with a high refresh rate monitor, BlueRigger 4K HDMI cable is worth trying out. They feature a reliable and durable build with
triple shielding and 24K gold plated full metal jacket connectors. The cables can withstand the significant physical strain, reduces interference, and maximize signal strength & video quality. It’s the most affordable HDMI Cable for gaming in high refresh rates because of 240hz refresh rate support.
These cables are available in good length options and have a CL3 rating that makes them an ideal pick for in-wall installation as well. BlueRigger cables are supplied with HDMI2.0 specifications, therefore, they can handle 4K videos at 60Hz, 3D video, ARC, 48-bit Deep Color, has an in-built Ethernet, and are backward compatible with the earlier versions. Besides, these BlueRigger cables offer a multi-dimensional immersive audio experience with up to
32 discrete audio channels. It’s a must-have HDMI cable for all the PlayStation, Xbox owners.
Pros
- Supports 240hz refresh rate
- Up to 32 audio channels and HDCP 2.2supported
- Rated for in-wall installation
Cons
- Limited length options
7. Mediabridge HDMI
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 3 to 25ft
Recommended for: PC, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox
If you’re looking for a premium quality cable with great performance and an affordable price tag, the Mediabridge HDMI cable is sure to fit your bill. The cable features a premium build with pure copper conductors, triple shielding, and gold plated connectors that are sure to deliver an amazing sound and picture quality.
The cables are packed with support for all refresh rates from 30hz to 240Hz that reduces motion blur and ensures a smoother viewing experience on all HDMI devices which output 4K UHD resolution. Plus, it provides transfer speeds of up to 18Gps and supports 3D, ARC, HDR video, 48-bit deep color, and has an integrated Ethernet as well. All in all, it’s the best affordable 4K HDMI cable for gaming that delivers high refresh rate visuals, comes in various length options, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Great build quality
- Excellent performance
Cons
- None
8. Ivanky 4K HDMI Cable
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 3.3 to 25ft
Recommended for: PC, PS3, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox 360, Xbox One X/S
Here comes an HDMI cable that supports HDMI 2.0b standard, 18Gbps speed, and is compatible with a wide range of platforms. Ivanky 4K HDMI cable features an ultra-durable design with premium slim aluminum shell and nylon braided cable that can easily withstand over 10,000 bends. It has tinplate metal shielding and gold plated connectors to minimize signal loss, interference, and aims to deliver a stable signal transmission with no screen flicker or screen blackout issues.
The cable has backward compatibility, therefore, it can be used with previous versions of the HDMI standards as well. It supports Ethernet, 3D, 4K video and ARC, HDCP 2.2, 48-bit Deep Color, 32 audio channels, Dolby 7.1, and wide-angle 21:9 video image formats. It’s one of the best HDMI cables for Xbox One/PS4 and a must-have gaming accessory for users who’re looking for a reliable HDMI cable to experience gaming on their high-end gaming PCs.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Nylon braided cable
- Backward compatibility
Cons
- Only 54 months of warranty
Here’s the 8K variant of this HDMI cable. (Most affordable 8K HDMI cable)
9. Atevon HDMI 4K HDR Cable
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 3.3/6/10ft
Recommended for: PC, PS3, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Here comes another durable and flexible HDMI cable that can handle 4K Ultra HD resolutions and offers a bandwidth of 18Gbps. It allows you to do away with extra network and audio cables, thanks to the integrated Ethernet and Audio Return Channels. The cable features a solid build with pure copper and gold plated connectors that offers a smooth signal transmission when you connect your gaming console to a TV.
Moreover, the zinc-alloy casing and nylon braided jacket achieves more shielding and adds to the toughness. Some of the important characteristics of the ATEVON HDMI cable includes 4K HDR, 3D, ARC, Dolby TrueHD, Hot Plugging, and lifetime warranty. It’s one of the best affordable HDMI cables for gaming on a gaming PC, PS4 and Xbox. If you have to switch your devices every once in a while from a gaming console to streaming devices like Apple TV then this is the perfect cable.
Pros
- Durable
- Affordable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Hard to install in smaller spaces because it is too thick
10. SecurOmax HDMI Cable
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60fps
Length: 3.3/6/10ft
Recommended for: PC, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox X, Xbox One S
Looking for a heavy-duty HDMI cable for your gaming PC, PS4, or Xbox? Here we have the SecurOmax HDMI cable that claims to deliver high performance and low interference on the connected hardware. It features
Oxygen-free bare copper wiring, triple shielded, cotton-braided copper cables, gold plated connectors, and thick aluminum shell to ensure crisp audio and visual experience.
The cable is thicker than other cables, but at the same time, it doesn’t tangle and is super-flexible. It also has integrated Ethernet and ARC which means you have to deal with fewer cables and maintain an organized cable management box. Plus, the cable comes in either 3 or 6ft length options, which adds to the portability and makes them a must-have travel accessory for gamers.
Pros
- Heavy-duty build & flexible
- Low interference
- Supports 4K 60Hz, HDMI 2.0, HDCP 2.2, HDR, UHD 4K 2160p, QHD 1440p, HD 2K 1080p, 3D
Cons
- Only comes in 3 and 6 feet lengths
11. Zeskit 8K Ultra HD High-Speed HDMI Cable (Best Affordable Future-Proof HDMI 2.1 Cable for Gaming)
Speed: 48Gbps
Resolution: 10K, 8K@60fps, 4K@120Hz
Length: 3 to 16ft
Recommended for: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox
Looking for the best HDMI Cable for gaming that supports higher frame rates? Here comes an affordable Future-proof HDMI cable that offers a bandwidth of up to 48Gbps and is designed to handle up to 10K resolutions. Zeskit 8K Ultra HD High-Speed HDMI Cable is compatible with a wide range of high-end devices, including the PlayStation 5, Apple TV 4K, Roku, and many more. This HDMI cable is designed to work with higher video resolutions and refresh rates, including 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz. Plus, this feature-packed HDMI Cable can support 10K resolutions as well.
Zeskit HDMI cable is Dolby Vision, HDR 10, and eARC compatible, and can handle DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby TrueHD, as well as Dolby Atmos. Plus, it supports next-gen features of HDMI, including Auto Low-Latency Mode, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Quick Media Switching.
In short, it’s one of the best high-end HDMI cables for gaming on PC and next-gen gaming consoles with future proof specifications. You can get this cable in various length options, and the longest variant (16ft) is CL3 rated. That means you can safely use the cable for in-wall setups.
Pros
- Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, CEC, and eARC
- 48Gbps bandwidth
- Supports HDCP 2.2, 2.3, DTS:X and Dolby Atmos
- Future proof (can transfer up to 10K resolution)
- A 2-year warranty
- Available in various length options
Cons
- Too rigid to bend
12. JSAUX HDMI 2.0 Cable
Speed: 18Gbps
Resolution: 4K@60Hz
Length: 3.3 to 15ft
Recommended for: PC, PS3. PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
For all the game-lovers who’re looking for a durable HDMI Cable at a budget-friendly price, the JSAUX HDMI Cable is worth checking out. It is constructed using military-grade materials and features a strain-relief design that can withstand more than 10,000 bends. It has got gold plated connectors and an aluminum casing to offer an interference-free signal transmission. This HDMI Cable offers a bandwidth of up to 18Gbps, supports 3D, and 32 Audio Channels to offer an ultimate audio-visual experience on your gaming devices. These cables can handle 4K videos at 60Hz, ARC, 3D video, have in-built Ethernet, and are backward compatible with previous HDMI standards. The trendy, durable, and flexible design makes it a must-have HDMI Cable for gaming that offers all the features at an affordable price.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Universal compatibility
- 24K Gold plated connectors
- Constructed using ultra-durable materials
- Supports 32 Audio Channel
Cons
- Only 18 months of warranty
Don’t forget to check the complete lineup of the PS5 games.
13. Basesailor HDMI 2.1 Cable
Speed: 48Gbps
Resolution: 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz
Length: 3.3 to 10ft
Recommended for: PC, PS3. PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
If you’re looking for the best HDMI cable for next generation consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X) or take full advantage of your Ray Tracing capable gaming setup, then this is the right cable for you. Basesailor’s double braided HDMI cable supports resolutions up to 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz. With a double braided cable and gold plated connectors, this is the right choice to future-proof your gaming setup.
Moreover, it comes with a 12 months warranty and in a funky purple color which will blend perfectly with your RGB setup.
Pros
- 12 Months warranty
- Supports 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz
- Officially supports PS5 and Xbox Series X
- 3 layer shielding for minimal signal interference
- Budget-friendly
- Supports eARC
Cons
- Comes in a pack of 2 cable
- No official HDMI certification
That was all for our list of the best HDMI cables for gaming on PC, PS4, and Xbox. Make sure to consider all the factors that we’ve listed at the starting of this guide and choose the best HDMI cable for devices. Pick your favorite and get the best possible gaming experience on your devices. Happy Gaming!
