One of the hottest pieces of technology these days isn’t a new kind of television screen, a super-charged computer processor, or even a hot new media format. It’s a series of cables, specifically the HDMI splitter and HDMI switch. These devices are changing how people watch and control their media at home and in the office. Here is everything you need to know about these wondrous devices and how to find the best HDMI switch and 4k HDMI splitter for your entertainment system.

The HDMI Splitter vs HDMI Switch

The first question most people have when they are looking for the best HDMI switch and 4k HDMI splitter is what the two devices are. Each have a similar name, but, interestingly enough, they perform completely different functions.

First up: the HDMI switch. These handy devices essentially turn a single HDMI port into multiple ports, so if you have a few media devices to plug into your television, like a projector, a game console, and a DVD player, but you only have two HDMI ports, then you will need an HDMI switch.

Then there is the HDMI splitter. These handy little devices do almost the exact opposite of the HDMI switch. Instead of turning a single port into multiple ports, the HDMI splitter takes one signal from a device and duplicates it, letting you run the same information to two separate devices. This is particularly handy in the corporate world, where you may be required to send a presentation to two or three different TV screens during large presentations. In some instances, you will need a 4k HDMI splitter to help send 4k video and audio to 4k devices.

How to Pick the Right Switch or Splitter

When it comes to finding the best HDMI switch and 4k HDMI splitter, you really need to consider three major factors: the devices at the end, what you need the splitter or switch to do, and your budget.

The best HDMI switch and 4k HDMI splitter is the one that matches with your devices. Without considering your existing televisions, etc., the splitter or switch you pick may end up being entirely useless. Always think about your device first, namely what kinds of ports it has and how many of each port. From there, you will be able to figure out which device you need. After all, you shouldn’t be spending money on a 4k HDMI splitter if your devices aren’t 4k. From there, think about what you need. How many devices do you have and how many ports do you need? In instances where you have lots of devices plugging into one 4k television, you may want to consider buying a 4k HDMI switch that has multiple inputs. Conversely, if you are sending signals to two televisions that are very close together, you need not worry about wireless. Finally, your budget. The best HDMI switch and 4k HDMI splitter available can be quite costly, but that doesn’t mean they are right for you.

If you are on the hunt for the best HDMI switch and 4k HDMI splitter, be sure you know everything you need to know about the devices and your needs. That way, you can get the right product for you.