![Best HDMI Switchers for Gaming, Home Theatre, and Streaming in 2021 [Buying Guide]](https://media.techietech.tech/2020/10/Best-HDMI-Switchers-for-Gaming-Home-Theatre-and-Streaming-in-2021-Buying-Guide.jpg)
Do you wish to connect multiple devices like PS4, Roku, and a cable box to your 4K TV without regularly swapping the HDMI cables? Do you want to set up a complete home entertainment system with a TV and multiple gaming or streaming devices, but your TV is not equipped with enough HDMI ports to handle all your devices? Are you tired of the constant plugging in and plugging out various devices to your TV?
If the answer to any of these questions is Yes, then all you need is an HDMI switch to get the job done. It offers a lot of input ports to connect several devices to your display.
An HDMI switcher offers great help when you have more display sources than the number of ports on your display. For example, a monitor does not usually have more than 2 input ports. So, you’ll need a switcher if you want to play XBOX/PS5, stream, and go back to working on PC.
Before we jump to the list of the best HDMI switchers for home theatre, gaming, and streaming, let’s get to know the switches a little more. It will help you spot better options.
What is an HDMI Switcher?
An HDMI switcher or switch is a device that takes input from multiple sources, allows you to switch between them, and send one signal to your TV. Therefore, if you’ve got a TV or monitor with a single HDMI port, you can still connect multiple devices (having HDMI ports), without having to swap the
HDMI cable to use other devices. A switch features multiple HDMI ports for the input and a single HDMI port for the output. For example, if you wish to connect your PS4 and Cable box to a 4K display, you can do this by using a 2×1 HDMI switcher. Yes, these devices are labeled in this way. First, let’s get to know what exactly these numbers mean.
An HDMI switch is labeled as 2×1, 4×1, as so on. It represents the number of inputs and outputs supported by a switch. A 2×1 HDMI switcher means the device can work with two input sources and a single output. The number of outputs will remain constant, and that is one. If you see a device labeled as 1×2 or 1×4, that particular device is a splitter and not a switch.
To make things easier to understand, we’ve mentioned key differences between an HDMI switch and a Splitter so that you can easily figure out when to use which device.
Do I need a Switch or a Splitter? (HDMI Switch vs HDMI Splitter)
HDMI switches and HDMI Splitters are meant to serve different purposes. When you want to connect multiple input devices(like Xbox, Roku, PS4, etc) to a single display/TV, you’ll need a switcher. On the flip side, in case you wish to connect a single input device to multiple displays, you’ll need a Splitter.
Let’s understand them with the help of an example.
You’ve got your work PC, a PS4 and an Apple TV 4K, and you want to connect all these devices to your display so that you can work during the day and game or binge watch Netflix at night. In this case, you’ll need an HDMI switch. The switcher will allow you to toggle between all 3 input units (PC, PS4, and Apple TV 4K) by just pressing a button.
On the other hand, if you want to mirror or duplicate your display on another display like a larger TV or a projector, then you will need an HDMI splitter.
If you’re setting up a home theatre or improving it, you most likely need an HDMI splitter. But before you proceed, make sure to read the factors you need to consider hitting the buy button.
How to buy a good HDMI switch?
There are some important features that you must look for in an HDMI switcher.
After all, you would not want to invest in a switch that doesn’t work well with your gaming consoles, streaming devices, monitors or TVs. We’ve mentioned some of the most important factors below. Make sure to check them out as they’ll help you make better buying decisions.
1. Number of Inputs
One of the most important factors for an HDMI switch for gaming or streaming is the number of input ports. If you wish to connect two gaming consoles or streaming devices to your TV, you need a 2×1 switcher. For power users, who need to connect 4, 5, or more devices, you should look for the switchers that are designed to work with more inputs. After all, there’s no point in buying an HDMI switch if you can’t connect all your devices to the TV. We recommend getting a switcher with an extra HDMI input. In case you want to add another input device like a camera or a laptop you won’t be plugging and unplugging HDMI cables.
2. Supported Resolution and HDR
If you’ve invested in 4K gaming consoles, media streaming devices, and TVs, you must look for the HDMI switchers that support 4K resolutions. Also, if you need to pass HDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision, or 3D video signals, make sure to buy the HDMI splitter that has support for these technologies. Also, if you’ve got 1080p devices and you’re planning to upgrade to 4K very soon, then also you should buy 4K switches. In this way, you don’t need to buy a new HDMI switch when you upgrade your home entertainment setup.
3. Automatic vs Manual switching
You must also decide whether you want an HDMI switch that supports manual or automatic switching. In manual switchers, the user has to switch between the inputs with the help of a button or remote. Whereas, automatic switchers provide hassle-free operation. It will detect the active input source and automatically switch the active source to the connected display. Once the signal goes away (the input device is disconnected or turned OFF), the HDMI switch will automatically change to the other active input port, if any.
Some HDMI switchers support both, manual and automatic switching.
4. HDCP Compliance
HDCP stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection, and it aims to protect digital copyrighted content as it travels from a device to a display.
Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu require HDCP compliance to stream content from a device to your TV. So, when you’re planning to buy an HDMI switch, please verify that it supports the latest HDCP version. If your HDMI switch doesn’t support HDCP, you cannot stream digital copyrighted content on your device.
5. Compatibility
Not all HDMI cable switchers are designed to work with every streaming or gaming device. Therefore, make sure to check out the list of supported devices of an HDMI switch. After all, there’s no use of buying a feature-packed HDMI switch, which is not compatible with your gaming console or streaming device. When you’re looking for an HDMI cable switcher, go for the one that supports a wide range of devices. This will prevent you from making additional purchases if you plan to change or add a device to your set up.
6. Price and Warranty
You usually don’t need to shell out a lot of cash to buy the right HDMI cable switcher for gaming, streaming, or to set up a home theatre. You’ll easily find an HDMI switcher that packs all the basic features at an affordable price. In case you want to notch up your entertainment setup and are looking for an HDMI switch with advanced features like Dolby Vision, 3D, HDCP 2.2 compliance, more input ports, auto-switching, you’ll have to spend a little extra. We would recommend that you first determine which features you really need, and then you can narrow down options. It’s of no use spending too much and going for the features that you don’t even need. Even the mid-range switchers are packed with features for an advanced user.
Besides price, you should also look for the devices that offer a warranty. Your HDMI switch will be protected, and you don’t have to worry if anything goes wrong with the device.
7. Others
HDMI switchers also have some additional features that may matter to tech-lovers. For example, some switchers support IR remote functionality and picture-in-picture features. Also, the design and overall construction of the device plays an important role. A compact HDMI switch can help you save a lot of space, and a durable switcher will last you a lifetime.
Another factor you need to consider is the build quality. Build quality is not only important from a durability perspective but you also need to take heat dissipation into the equation. An HDMI connector transferring a 4K signal gets pretty hot. Now, imagine, how much heat would be generated by a box full of such connectors. It’s ideal to go for an HDMI cable switcher with a metal build or the one that has a good thermal design for better heat dissipation.
Generally, all the good switchers support Dolby Digital or DTS audio signals. But, if you’re looking for an HDMI switcher for your home theatre system, you might need a switch that supports other audio formats like Dolby Atmos or Dolby TrueHD. In such cases, you must look for the HDMI switchers that can handle your audio systems.
One of the most underrated factors before buying the right switcher is using the right HDMI cables. Since you’ll be connecting different devices, you need to make sure you use the right HDMI cables. Make sure to read our detailed HDMI cable buying guide for 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, ARC.
Therefore, think about which features matter to you, prioritize them, and then buy the one that best satisfies your requirements.
List of the Best HDMI switchers for Gaming, Home Theatre, and Streaming
1. Kinivo 550BN HDMI switch (Best overall)
Number of inputs: 5
Resolution: 4K@60Hz, 3D, HDR
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Auto-switching: Yes
Compatible devices: Xbox, Nintendo, PS3, PS4, Chromecast, Roku, Apple TV, and more
If you’re looking for a feature-packed HDMI switch for gaming, streaming, or setting up a home theatre, Kinivo 550BN is an excellent option. It allows you to connect up to five input devices to a single display, which saves the hassle of continuous plugging in and plugging out. This HDMI switcher is designed to handle resolutions up to 4K@60Hz and supports 3D, HDR, as well as Dolby Vision. Therefore, if you’ve invested in any high-end media equipment that supports these features, you must own this HDMI switcher too. It features a hybrid aluminum body that offers better heat dissipation to prevent any overheating or lag issues. Kinivo 550BN supports Automatic switching, plus you can also use the IR remote to swap between the connected HDMI inputs. There’s also a switch button on the top to select the desired inputs. Another impressive feature of this HDMI switch is the support for HDCP 2.2, which makes it a perfect switch for any
media streaming device like Amazon Fire Stick.
Pros
- HDCP 2.2 Compliance
- Auto-switching
- Includes an IR remote
- A two-year warranty
- Supports HDR and Dolby Vision
Cons
- None
If you need to connect up to three input devices to your TV, you can go for the 3-port variant of this 4K HDMI switch.
2.KOOPMAN 4-port HDMI switch (Best Value for money)
Number of inputs: 4
Resolution: 4K@60Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Compatible devices: Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS3, PS4 Pro, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and more
Here comes an affordable HDMI switcher for PS4 Pro, Xbox, Apple TV, and other compatible devices that’s sure to impress you with its features and great performance. The KOOPMAN 4-port HDMI is designed to handle up to Ultra HD 4K@60Hz resolutions and is backward compatible with lower resolutions as well. It also supports HDR 10, Dolby Vision, and HDCP 2.2. It delivers rich, vibrant, and true-to-life colors on your compatible displays. You can switch between the connected input devices via the IR remote or the button on the top. Plus, there’s support for automatic switching as well. The best of all,
it’s compatible with all HDMI devices so you need not worry if you change or add a device to your home entertainment setup.
The KOOPMAN 4-port HDMI switch is a fantastic option that offers great value for money. It’s hard to find such a feature-packed HDMI switch for this price.
Pros
- 24-month money-back guarantee
- Supports Ultra HD 4K,2K@60Hz resolutions
- Plug and Play connectivity
- Support for HDR 10 and Dolby Vision
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Requires a high bandwidth HDMI cable for HDR content
Also read: Best HDMI Cable for gaming on PC, PS4, and Xbox
3. TOTU 4×1 HDMI switch
Number of inputs: 4
Resolution: 4K@60Hz, 3D, HDR
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Auto-switching: Yes
Compatible devices: Xbox, PS3, PS4, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, and more
If you’re searching for a durable HDMI switch that allows you to connect up to four devices, the TOTU 4×1 HDMI switch is an amazing option. It features a clean and sleek design that’s constructed with high-quality aluminum material to offer better heat dissipation. The TOTU 4×1 HDMI cable switcher for gaming supports 4K@60Hz, 3D, HDR, HDCP 2.2 pass-through, and deep color of up to 36-bit. It delivers crystal-clear video and offers three-way switching– Auto, Manual, and IR remote. Also, it supports a wide range of audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD, PCM, DTS, DTS-HD, LPCM7.1, Dolby Digital AC3, and DSD. This switch is compatible with most devices with HDMI interfaces. Please note that the TOTU 4×1 switch works well with cables (input as well as output) that are up to 2m/6.5ft in length. Also, it’s recommended to use HDMI 2.0 cables for the input.
Pros
- Durable design
- HDCP 2.2 pass-through
- Wide compatibility
- Affordable
Cons
- If your source device is HDCP 2.2 and HDMI 2.0, you’ll have to set 4K@30Hz resolution.
4. Zettaguard 4K HDMI switch (Best HDMI switcher with Picture-in-Picture support)
Number of inputs: 4
Resolution: 4K@60Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Compatible devices: Xbox, PS3, PS4, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, and more
For all the tech-lovers who’re looking for the best 4K@60Hz HDMI switcher for gaming or streaming that supports the Picture-in-Picture feature, the Zettaguard 4K switch is worth checking out. The PIP feature supports up to three sub-screen and one main screen display, and this allows you to multitask and switch between main displays with a single click on the IR remote. This HDMI switch for streaming packs four neatly-organized input ports and one output port with special LED indicators to show which port is in use. It supports deep color 30bit, 36bit, 48-bit per pixel, and various digital audio formats like Dolby AC-3, DSD, DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, and LPCM 7.1. In short, it allows you to manage all your media needs, that too at an affordable price.
Pros
- Picture-in-Picture support
- Support for various digital audio formats
- Supports RGB/YCBCR 4:4:4
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Does not support HDCP 2.2
- Comes with a list of precautions for product durability
There’s an upgraded variant of this HDMI switch that features 4K@60Hz resolution, 3D, HDCP 2.2 compliance, and 18Gbps bandwidth. It’s worth mentioning that this model does not support the Picture-in-Picture mode.
5. ROOFULL Premium HDMI switcher with IR Remote
Number of inputs: 5
Resolution: 4K@60Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Compatible devices: PS3, PS4 Pro, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and more
Looking for a no-compromise HDMI cable switcher for PS4 Pro, Xbox, or Apple TV 4K? Have a look at the ROOFULL Premium HDMI switch that promises to deliver a
reliable and stable signal transmission, without any snowflake or splash screen issues. It supports multiple resolutions, including 4K@60, 3D support, and Dolby Vision. There’s support for a whole bunch of audio formats like Dolby Atmos, Dolby-TrueHD, Dolby Digital, DTS-HD, and others. It also supports 24bit, 30bit, and 36bit deep colors, and can work perfectly with the cables that are up to 16ft long. You can switch between the inputs via an IR remote, plus the device also supports auto-switching. However, the remote does not offer great performance and could get buggy from time-to-time. Apart from that, ROOFULL makes a fantastic HDMI switch for streaming as well as gaming. To achieve 4K@60Hz, it’s recommended to use AWG26 or AWG24 HDMI 2.0 cables that are up to 16ft in length.
Pros
- A two-year warranty
- HDCP 2.2 Compliance
- Wide compatibility
- Supports HDMI CEC, HDR, and Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital & more
- Efficient signal transmission
Cons
- Remote quality is not good
- Requires separate HDMI cable for 4K@60Hz
Also read: Best Amazon Fire Stick and Fire TV Alternatives to stream content
6. NEWCARE 3-in 1-out HDMI switch
Number of inputs: 3
Resolution: 4K@60Hz
Auto-switching: No
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Compatible devices: Laptops, PS3, PS4 Pro, Roku, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and more
If you’re looking for a no-frills HDMI switch for 4K devices that offers solid performance at an affordable price, you must check out the NEWCARE 3-in 1-out switch. It has got all the features that a casual user would look for in an HDMI cable switcher. The NEWCARE HDMI switch
supports up to 4K resolution and is backward compatible with lower resolutions as well. The switch is equipped with 24K gold plated connectors and supports up to 18Gbps fast data transmission rate, which ensures a stable signal transmission.
Unfortunately, you’ll have to switch between the connected input devices via a button that’s placed on the HDMI box. There’s no other way of switching. If a lack of IR remote and automatic switching doesn’t bother you, NEWCARE HDMI switcher is a great option for streaming as well as gaming. Also, it’s worth mentioning that to achieve 4K@60Hz HDCP 2.2, you must use 6ft(max) HDMI 2.0 cables.
Pros
- Includes a 1m High-speed HDMI cable
- Supports 12-bit Deep Color, RGB 4:4:4
- HDCP 2.2 compliance
- 24K gold plated connectors
Cons
- For some devices, this switch may not work properly if only one input source is powered on. Therefore, you may need to turn ON two or three devices.
- Absence of remote.
- Does not require a separate power
If you’re looking for an HDMI switcher with an IR remote that allows you to connect up to three input devices, you can go for the
GANA 3-port HDMI switcher. It supports 4K@30Hz, 3D, deep color, HDCP 1.4, and various audio formats. It offers good performance at an affordable price of just $9.89.
7. Fosmon 5×1 switch (Best for non-4K displays)
Number of inputs: 5
Resolution: 1080p
Auto-switching: No
Compatible devices: Blue-ray players, Cable box, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and more
For all the users who’re looking for an HDMI switch to connect non-4K (1080p) devices, the Fosmon 5×1 switch offers reliable performance. It supports up to 1080p resolutions, along with 3D, deep color, HD audio, and HDCP 1.1/1.0 compliance. This switch features gold plated connectors that offer steady signal transmission. It supports Dolby Digital AC3, DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, PCM, and LPCM7.1 audio formats. You’ll also get a remote so that you can easily switch between different input devices without getting up from your seat every now and then.
It’s worth mentioning that this HDMI switch is incompatible with devices like Apple TV 4, that require HDCP 2.2 or higher.
Pros
- Allows you to connect up to five input devices
- Supports 3D, deep color, and HD audio
- Gold plated connectors
Cons
- Does not support HDCP 2.2
- Supports resolutions up to 1080p only
8. SGEYR 5×1 HDMI switch
Number of inputs: 5
Resolution: 4K@30Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 1.4
Compatible devices: Xbox, PlayStation, Roku, and more
Here comes a basic yet highly useful HDMI switcher for watching 4K content. The SGEYR HDMI switch allows you to connect up to five devices and
supports 3D, 4K@30Hz, and 1080p resolutions. It’s an HDCP 1.4 compliant device that’s compatible with a large number of devices, including PS3, PS4, Nintendo switch, and others. It also supports Dolby Vision and deep colors. There’s a remote control for easy swapping between the connected inputs. The HDMI switch will itself switch to the next port if the existing signal source is disconnected. It’s USB-powered and works with upto 15ft long input and 49ft long output cables. Though it doesn’t offer top-of-the-line features, it’s a great option to connect multiple devices to your TV at an affordable price.
Pros
- Durable design
- Upgraded and well-designed remote
Cons
- Does not support 4K@60Hz resolution
- No HDCP 2.2. Compliance
Also read: Best HDMI Cables for 4K, HDR, ARC, and Dolby Vision
9. Techole Bi-directional HDMI switch
Number of inputs: 2
Resolution: 1080p, 4K, and 2K@30Hz
Auto-switching: No
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Compatible devices: Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3, PS4, and more
Looking for an HDMI switch that can be used as a splitter? Techole Bi-directional 4K switch is a great option. It’s an affordable and durable HDMI switcher that doesn’t require power and is super-easy to install, which makes it very convenient to use this HDMI cable splitter. It delivers crisp and clear picture quality, with no input lag or signal drop issues. You can use it as an HDMI switch to connect 2 sources with a single display, or a Splitter to connect multiple displays to a single source. It’s worth mentioning that this switcher neither comes with an IR remote nor supports Auto-switching. You’ll have to use the button located on the device to switch between different inputs/outputs. This might be a deal-breaker for a lot of users.
Pros
- Works as a switcher as well as a splitter
- Budget-friendly
- Supports up to 4K resolution
- Plug and play connectivity
Cons
- You’ll have to buy an HDMI 2.0 cable
- When used as a splitter, it can’t display two displays at the same time.
- Does not support HDCP 2.2
- No IR remote and auto-switching support
Are you searching for the best HDMI Splitters? Make sure to browse through our recommendations.
If you wish to connect up to three input devices at the same time, you can check out the Techole 3×1 HDMI switch. It offers lag-free performance with good sound and video quality at a super-affordable price. Please note that it’s mentioned that the Techole 3×1 switch supports 4K@60Hz, but in actuality, it supports 4K@30Hz.
10. UGREEN 3-Port HDMI switcher (Premium design)
Number of inputs: 3
Resolution: 1080p, 4K, and 2K@30Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 1.4 and above
Compatible devices: Roku, TV Stick, PC, laptop, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3, PS4, and more
Here we’ve got a 3×1 switch that packs everything a regular user would expect from a good HDMI switcher for gaming or streaming. The UGREEN 3-port switcher is designed to handle up to 4K@30Hz resolution as well as 3D video. It works well on a wide range of devices, including PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Roku, and others. This HDMI switch offers per channel 3.4Gbps data transmission (10.2Gbps total) with no input lag issues. For a hassle-free performance, you should not use input and output cables that are more than 5m and 10m in length, respectively.
Pros
- Fast and stable transmission
- Seamless auto-switch
- Includes an IR remote controller
Cons
- Does not support 4K@60Hz resolution
- Does not bypass HDCP
11. FiveHome 5-Port HDMI switch
Number of inputs: 5
Resolution: 4K@60Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 2.0
Compatible devices: Laptops, PS4, PS5, Roku, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and more
Here we’ve got a supremely-useful HDMI Switch for gaming and streaming that allows you to connect and switch between up to 5 devices simultaneously. The FiveHome 5-Port HDMI Switch is packed with some impressive features like HDR, CEC, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and can handle up to 4K@60Hz resolutions.
This HDMI Switch for gaming also supports Automatic switching, and there’s an IR wireless remote to swap between the connected HDMI inputs. You can also press the switch button on the top to select the desired input.
It’s an HDCP 2.2 compliant HDMI Switcher that allows you to stream digital copyrighted content from your favorite streaming services on your device. Therefore, it’s an excellent choice for all the users who are looking for the best HDMI Switch for streaming and home theatres.
Pros
- HDCP 2.2 Compliance
- Wide compatibility
- Supports HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, CEC, 36-bit Deep Color & more
- Auto-switching with IR wireless remote
Cons
- None
12. PROZOR 3×1 HDMI Switch with Audio Extractor
Number of inputs: 3
Resolution: 4K@30Hz
Auto-switching: Yes
Supported HDMI versions: HDMI 1.4
Compatible devices: Laptops, PS3, PS4, Roku, Xbox, Apple TV, and more
Here comes a useful and budget-friendly HDMI Switcher for 4K displays. The PROZOR HDMI switch allows you to connect up to three devices and supports PIP, 4K@30Hz resolutions, and 3D video. This 4K HDMI Switch with Audio Extractor for home theatre and gaming is an HDCP 1.4 compliant device that works with a wide range of devices, including PS3, PS4, PC, laptops, Amazon Fire TV, and others. It also supports Dolby Vision and deep colors. This HDMI switch will automatically switch to the next port if the existing signal source is disconnected. Besides, there’s a remote control to easily switch between the connected inputs. Though it packs basic features, this HDMI Switch for streaming allows you to connect multiple devices to your 4K TV at an affordable price.
Pros
- Supports Picture-in-Picture
- HDMI Audio Extractor
- Gold plated connectors
- Includes an IR remote
Cons
- Does not support HDCP 2.2
- Does not support 4K@60Hz resolution
That was all for our roundup of the best HDMI switchers for gaming, home theatre, and streaming in 2021. We hope you’ve already spotted your favorites. Make sure to check all the important factors that we’ve mentioned in this guide. It will help you in making better decisions.
Also, don’t forget to check our top 10 HDMI Splitters for gaming, streaming, and home entertainment.
