The 7 best HDMI switchers for 2024

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 and 8K 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'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 picture codecs, as well as Dolby Atmos, making it ideal for , , 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.

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. 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 , 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 sound processing, and the first input is , 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.

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 . 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 . 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 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.

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.

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..