Skip to main content

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

The best HDMI switchers for 2023 to make the most of your TV’s inputs

Most modern TVs are equipped with at least two HDMI inputs, and many offer up to four of these must-have AV connections. But in the event that your TV or entertainment system runs out of inputs for whatever gaming system or additional components you buy, you can always add an HDMI switcher to quickly solve your “need more ports” problem.

The best HDMI switchers feature four or more HDMI connections, with ports powered by the latest HD chipsets to bring you the best picture and sound quality you can get. They plug directly into one of the many HDMI inputs your TV already has and tout awesome features like automatic input-switching, 4K, 8K and 3D support, as well as remote control operation. If you're in need of a great HDMI switcher, we've compiled this roundup of the best models on the market right now.

Kinivo 550BN HDMI Switch
Kinivo 550BN 4K/60Hz HDMI Switch
Best overall HDMI switcher
Jump to details
Kinivo 501BN HDMI Switch
Kinivo 501BN 4K/30Hz HDMI Switch
Best affordable HDMI switcher
Jump to details
Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher
Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher
Best for future-proofing
Jump to details
Roofull HDMI Switcher
Roofull Premium HDMI Switch
Best for audio compatibility
Jump to details
Gana 3x1 HDMI Switche
Gana 3x1 HDMI Switch
Best budget HDMI switcher
Jump to details
Zettaguard 4x1 HDMI Switcher
Zettaguard 4x1 HDMI Switch
Best with picture-in-picture support
Jump to details
MTVIKI 8 Port Rack Mount HDMI Switcher
MTVIKI 8 Port Rack Mount HDMI Switcher
Best for more than six HDMI devices
Jump to details
j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Adapter Hub- Multi Monitor Splitter - Support 4 1080p 60Hz Displays - Compatible with Type-C MacBook and Windows Laptop (JCA366)
j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Switcher
Best for desktops
Jump to details
The Kinivo 550BN.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Kinivo 550BN 4K/60Hz HDMI Switch

Best overall HDMI switcher

Pros
  • Compact, unobtrusive design
  • Lithium battery powered
  • HDR and Dolby Vision support
  • Auto input switching
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Auto switching can be finicky

Kinivo's line of HDMI switchers has some of the most popular on the market, and for good reason. Measuring 4.6 inches long and 2.5 inches tall, it's a breeze to sneak the 550BN in with your existing AV components without creating wire clutter. Best of all, there's no need to factor in where to run a power cable, as the switcher itself runs off a lithium-ion battery (included). Part of Kinivo's Pro Series, the 550BN features five HDMI inputs, each rated for 4K/60Hz with a data throughput of 18Gbps. Optimized for premium UHD pass-through, the 550BN supports HDR and Dolby Vision picture codecs, as well as Dolby Atmos, making it ideal for top-tier 4K Blu-ray players, UHD-capable gaming systems, and just about any other HD component you can throw at it.

Input switching is either automatic or manual. For auto-switching, performance is based on the connected hardware. Say you want to fire up your Xbox Series X. Once you power the system, the 550BN will automatically switch to the HDMI input your system is connected to. If you prefer manual switching, you can disable auto-sensing and change inputs with the included remote. Some users have reported the switcher being a bit finicky with certain components, although the vast majority report no issues whatsoever. While it's one of the more expensive switchers on our list, you'll be hard-pressed to beat the Kinivo's reliability and audio/video codec support.

Kinivo 550BN HDMI Switch
Kinivo 550BN 4K/60Hz HDMI Switch
Best overall HDMI switcher
The Kinivo 501BN HDMI switcher.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Kinivo 501BN 4K/30Hz HDMI Switch

Best affordable HDMI switcher

Pros
  • Well-priced, high-quality switcher
  • Automatic input switching
  • Remote included
Cons
  • Slightly slower data throughput than its premium sibling
  • No Dolby Vision or HDR support

If you want a 4K switcher that gets the job done, that's high-quality, and doesn't break the bank, the Kinivo 501BN is your guy.

Featuring the same number of HDMI inputs as its older brother, the aforementioned 550BN, the Kinivo 501BN is a little cheaper than the company's flagship switcher. In terms of specs and performance, the difference here is the 501BN only supports 4K/30Hz at a slower data throughput of 10Gbps. There's also no onboard support for Dolby Vision or HDR.

Like the 550BN, input switching is either automatic (based on connected hardware) or manual through the switcher's IR remote. For only $10 less than the 550BN, you'll net yourself improved codec support, faster throughput, and future-proofed HDMI inputs if you opt for the flagship tier. But for those shopping on a strict budget or home theater owners with older HD hardware, the Kinivo 501BN may be all you need.

Kinivo 501BN HDMI Switch
Kinivo 501BN 4K/30Hz HDMI Switch
Best affordable HDMI switcher

Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher

Best for future-proofing

Pros
  • Delivers 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz
  • Works with Dolby Atmos
  • Includes HDMI ARC
  • Five HDMI inputs
Cons
  • Not the best remote
  • Handshake issues with certain components

The Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher is ideal if you need an HDMI switcher that can handle your PS5’s best picture and sound settings, and you want to be future-proofed for the 8K TV you buy in two years.

Next-gen game consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, along with flagship 4K Blu-ray players, are the kind of AV peripherals you don’t want to mess around with in terms of ports and cables. In the event that your amazing entertainment system is short on HDMI inputs, you’ll want to set your sights on the Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher. For around $90, it’s one of the more expensive HDMI switchers on our list, but it has performance metrics that are pretty hard to beat.

Each of the five HDMI input is not only rated to deliver 4K at up to 120Hz, but you’ll also be able to push through 8K at 60Hz. The entire switch box is built to handle Dolby Atmos sound-processing, and the first input is ARC-ready, too. On top of NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync and VRR support, you’ll also be able to control the Mrocioa with the included remote or iOS app. While some users have reported occasional glitches with the device (when trying to integrate older gaming systems), in most cases, a quick reset seems to put things in order.

Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher
Mrocioa 5-in-1 HDMI Switcher
Best for future-proofing
The Roofull HDMI Switcher and its remote control.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Roofull Premium HDMI Switch

Best for audio compatibility

Pros
  • Dolby Vision, HDCP, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X support
  • Backward compatible
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Requires a power connection
  • Remote design is clunky

This five-port HDMI switcher by Roofull is HDMI 2.0 compliant with backward compatibility for all older HDMI protocols. While 2.0 is still one of the most common standards, there's a chance you may need to replace the switcher if you plan on re-outfitting your AV rack with HDMI 2.1 components. With that in mind, the Roofull's five inputs are each rated for 4K/60Hz with a throughput of 18Gbps. Component switching is handled by auto-sensing or manual operation (remote or Switch button on the unit).

Featuring onboard support for Dolby Vision, HDCP, as well as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and most other Dolby and DTS audio codecs, the Roofull's performance and compatibility more than match its $40 price tag. The only drawback we can think of is the unit does require a physical power connection, so consider that if your home theater room is running out of electrical outlets. If that's big trouble, you could also consider one of these surge protectors.

Roofull HDMI Switcher
Roofull Premium HDMI Switch
Best for audio compatibility
The Gana 3:1 HDMI Switcher.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Gana 3x1 HDMI Switch

Best budget HDMI switcher

Pros
  • No-nonsense, well-built switcher
  • HDMI cable built-in
  • No power cable needed
Cons
  • Date throughput is lacking
  • Manual switching and no remote

You should buy the Gana 3x1 HDMI Switch if you're short on ports and don't want to drop the dough on a top-tier switcher. Maybe you only need to add one or two additional HDMI inputs to your home theater. For around $14, you can grab yourself this three-to-one switcher by Gana. The three inputs each support 4K/30Hz with a lesser data throughput of only 3Gbps. Unlike the other switchers in our roundup, the Gana features a built-in HDMI 1.8 output connection, meaning you won't need to supply your own HDMI cable to connect it to your TV or projection system. There's also no required power cable, as the switcher itself is powered by the components you have connected to it.

For the money, this is one of the best inexpensive switchers on the market, but there are a few drawbacks. For starters, there's no remote control. This means you'll need to manually press the Select button on the top of the unit every time you want to switch inputs. The switcher does feature auto-switching, but some users have reported infrequent reliability with this function. Also, if you're trying to keep your gear hidden, there's little chance of a clean look with the Gana, as the switcher's HDMI pigtail isn't very long. If you don't mind these minor inconveniences, there's no reason to stray from the Gana.

Gana 3x1 HDMI Switche
Gana 3x1 HDMI Switch
Best budget HDMI switcher
The Zettaguard 4x1 HDMI Switcher.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Zettaguard 4x1 HDMI Switch

Best with picture-in-picture support

Pros
  • PIP feature lets you view multiple sources at once
  • Compact design
  • Includes remote
Cons
  • Sound throughput is not great
  • No 4K support

This Zettaguard switcher features four HDMI inputs, with each port capable of 4K/30Hz. One of the more minimalist switchers on our list, it's easy to tuck this guy away in a media cabinet or wherever you choose to house your AV components. While not capable of some of the stronger data throughputs and picture/audio codecs that the other switchers in this roundup can handle, the Zettaguard edges forward with one winning feature — picture-in-picture (PIP) displays.

The switcher is capable of displaying up to two sub-screens for your HD components, in addition to one main HD image that will take up most of the screen. Cycling between sub-screens and the main image is quick and easy with the included IR remote. While we may not suggest it for those looking to get the very best sound out of a picture outputted from an HDMI switcher, it's a great device for experiencing more than one HD source at once.

Zettaguard 4x1 HDMI Switcher
Zettaguard 4x1 HDMI Switch
Best with picture-in-picture support
The MTVIKI 8 Port HDMI Switcher.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

MTVIKI 8 Port Rack Mount HDMI Switcher

Best for more than six HDMI devices

Pros
  • Eight HDMI inputs
  • Tailor-made for A/V rack systems
  • Multiple control methods
Cons
  • No 120Hz or 8K support
  • Some handshake issues

If you have an awesome home theater system and a ton of HDMI peripherals to go with it, you probably need a solid HDMI switcher for multiple components and inputs. Whether that’s for seven Wii U systems, six Blu-ray players, or eight cable boxes is your business; but whatever the reason for all these connections, look to the MT-VIKI 8 Port Rack Mount for all your switching needs. Designed to be seated inside an AV rack system, the MT-VIKI’s eight HDMI ports are all rated to deliver 4K at up to 60Hz. You also have the option of switching inputs using the included remote, or by pressing one of the eight buttons on the front of the unit.

There’s also an RS232 switch if you’re planning on incorporating the MT-VIKI into your automated home theater system. Depending on what components you’re using, you may have a handshaking hiccup or two (one user reported some trouble with a Fire TV Cube), but reviews for this device are generally positive.

MTVIKI 8 Port Rack Mount HDMI Switcher
MTVIKI 8 Port Rack Mount HDMI Switcher
Best for more than six HDMI devices
The j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Switcher.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Switcher

Best for desktops

Pros
  • Easy plug and play operation
  • Multiple display modes
  • Space-saving design
Cons
  • Doesn't support 4K
  • A little expensive

The j5create isn’t going to take up much space on your desk, and it’s going to let you output a full HD signal to up to four different monitors to help with your daily workflow. Don’t think we were going to leave our Mac and PC devotees in the dust with this HDMI switcher roundup. For those of us in need of a reliable multi-port display hub for multiple HD monitors, the j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Switcher is the tech for the job. With its quick plug-and-play operation, just connect the USB-C to your computer and wire those HDMI cables to whatever screens you’re adding to your workstation. Each of the four HDMI ports are capable of sending out 1080p at up to 60Hz, and you’ll be able to choose from four different display modes, including primary, extended, mirror and rotation (driver installation is required).

Considering this isn’t a full 4K switcher, it may not be the best option for PC gamers. But if you’re trying to add some extra workflow real-estate for all things spreadsheets and word docs, the j5create is a great choice.

j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Adapter Hub- Multi Monitor Splitter - Support 4 1080p 60Hz Displays - Compatible with Type-C MacBook and Windows Laptop (JCA366)
j5create USB-C to 4 Port HDMI Switcher
Best for desktops

Editors' Recommendations

Michael Bizzaco
Michael Bizzaco has been writing about and working with consumer tech for well over a decade, writing about everything from…
The best Roku TVs of 2023: which should you buy?
Roku Plus Series

Roku TV is a smart TV platform and user interface that can be found on Roku’s first-party streaming devices and compatible QLED and LED TVs. Our focus today is on the latter, and fortunately some pretty awesome brands have signed their souls away to the Big R. As it stands, TCL is the kingpin of Roku-powered TVs, but depending on where you’re shopping, you’ll also be able to find some other noteworthy companies to grab a Roku TV from. These are mostly budget-friendly names like Hisense, Westinghouse and Roku themselves, but “budget-friendly” doesn’t translate to “low quality.” In fact, some of these Roku TVs are pretty dang great when it comes to things like HDR performance.

If you're looking for a sale, take a look at some of the best TV deals.

Read more
Best QLED TV deals: Get a QLED 4K TV for $340, and save on 8K TVs
55 inch samsung uhd 7 series q60 qled 4k tvs amazon deal 49 tv 720x720

When it comes to purchasing one of the best TVs for your home theater, QLED technology is at the forefront of picture quality. A QLED TV will present your favorite content with high contrast and with a huge variety of colors, creating an immersive environment within your home that you might otherwise have to track down at a movie theater. Prices have dropped substantially on even the best QLED TVs, and there are plenty of deals to pounce on right now as well. We’ve tracked them all down, so read onward for more details on the best QLED TV deals currently available, and how to determine which QLED TV is right for your watching needs.
Today’s best QLED TV deals
There are several deals that stand out among the current QLED TV deals. If you’re just looking to get into the QLED game, the Hisense 50-inch 4K QLED TV is a good option at just $340. One of the better values you’ll come across is the Samsung 55-inch QN700B. This 4K QLED TV is seeing a price of just $1,000, which makes for a savings of $600 from its regular price of $1,600. There are even a couple of 8K QLED TVs seeing impressive price drops right now, each of which makes a great option if you’d like to future-proof your home theater.

What features should I look for in a QLED TV?
When it comes to ensuring you get a TV with superior picture quality, QLED and OLED picture technologies are pretty much the cream of the crop at this point in. OLED TVs use self-lit pixels to create impressive image contrast, while QLED TVs produce an immersive, high quality image using nanoparticles called quantum dots. This technology makes pretty much any QLED TV you come across capable of producing an image worthy of your home theater.

Read more
The best TVs of 2023: from Samsung, LG, TCL, and more
The LG G3 OLED TV on a stand, showing a mountain scene on the screen.

A new TV is really getting tougher to buy, because all the big brands, middle brands, and even some of the entry-level guys are all making awesome stuff these days. But we've been testing and vetting flat-screens since the dawn of 1080p, and we’ve got plenty to tell you about the leading 4K, 8K, QLED, OLED, and QD-OLED models of 2023.

Of course, with all these new models come new and often higher prices. So while we continue to test the mettle of this year's TVs, many of 2022's models are still holding their own, so if you're looking to save some money on a TV, we'll be ushering you to the bottom of our list.

Read more