Splitters with more outputs are primarily for business and commercial use, where one source needs to be sent to multiple TVs or projectors. HDMI splitters that send two, three, four, or more signals from a single HDMI source are available, but for consumers, two is usually enough. This is important when switching between devices, as there is a temporary break in the handshake until the newly selected device locks in with a new handshake.ĭon't need an HDMI switcher but want to send the same HDMI signal to two TVs or a video projector and TV? As mentioned above, you can use an HDMI switcher with two HDMI outputs, but if you don't need a switcher, you can use an HDMI splitter. The switcher also has to support HDMI handshake requirements implemented via either the HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection) or HDCP 2.2 for 4K devices protocol between source devices and the TV or video projector.

If you are routing the output of the switcher through a home theater receiver (instead of going directly to the TV) that provides decoding for advanced audio formats, such as Dolby TrueHD, Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, you need to make sure that your HDMI switcher is compatible. If you need to pass HDR-encoded or 3D video signals, your HDMI switcher must have those capabilities.Īll HDMI switchers pass standard Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround audio signals.

If you have a 4K Ultra HD TV and 4K source components, the switcher must also be 4K compatible. HDMI switchers available for consumers are at least 1080p and Dolby Digital/ DTS compatible.

Lifewire / Emily Ramirez What to Look for in an HDMI Switcher Output Resolution

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