HDMI Splitter vs HDMI Switch vs HDMI Matrix

To help you better understand the differences between an HDMI Splitter, an HDMI Switch, and an HDMI Matrix, we’ll be doing a quick and easy run-through on their basic definitions. 

For easier understanding, let’s first define some of the terms that will be used in this article.

HDMI inputs refer to the source of your HDMI media content. This content source could be a gaming console, a DVD player, or a computer. 

HDMI outputs refer to the device where you’ll be displaying your HDMI content. Your HDMI output could be your monitor or your TV.

HDMI devices refer to equipment or gears such as HDMI Splitter, HDMI Switch, or HDMI Matrix. 

Now that we settled that, let’s continue to the main part of this discussion.

What is an HDMI Splitter? 

An HDMI Splitter takes a single input of HDMI media content and splits that into multiple outputs. For instance, if you’ll be using an HDMI Splitter for TVs, such as the OREI BK102 1x2 (which is an HDMI Splitter 1 in, 2 out), then you’ll be able to simultaneously display the same image on 2 different TVs.

HDMI Splitters are usually available in the market with 4 outputs, 8 outputs, or even more, but the most commonly used for home setups are those with 2 outputs.

What is an HDMI Switch?

An HDMI Switch allows you to provide a single monitor with multiple HDMI inputs. HDMI Switches are perfect if you have multiple multimedia devices on your desk, or have a media center where you have your gaming console, DVD player, and computer. 

For example, if you have the OREI BK-21A 2x1 HDMI Switch box, then you can connect two of your multimedia devices to one TV and be able to choose which one you want to be displayed with just a click of a button. 

What is an HDMI Matrix?

An HDMI Matrix, or an HDMI Matrix Switch, is the most complicated, yet most flexible among the three. An HDMI Matrix essentially combines the functions of both your HDMI Splitter and HDMI Switch.

For instance, if you have a 2x2 HDMI Matrix such as the OREI BK 202A 2x2, that means that you can connect 2 different input devices to 2 different display outputs. With a matrix switch, you have full control of which input you want to send to which output. Further, you can also opt to choose one input and display it to 2 outputs.

How to set up your HDMI Splitter, Switch, or Matrix

1. Connect your input and output devices in their respective ports.

2. Turn on your input and output devices, and connect your HDMI device to a power source as well.

3. If everything is connected properly, your output should prompt a display within a few seconds.

What happens when you turn on your OREI HDMI device?

Upon adding power, it immediately starts a self-test to properly check if all its electronics are functioning fine. After a couple of seconds, it then starts checking the resolutions of your input and output devices and makes the right adjustments needed in order for you to see the best possible image on your display.

Why you should consider purchasing your HDMI Splitter, Switch, or Matrix from OREI

The first reason is that OREI builds products with your future in mind. OREI equips its products with advanced features so that all their devices are still usable even if you choose to upgrade your setup later on. 

OREI builds products with the future in mind. By equipping their products with advanced features, you’re sure that the HDMI device you’ll be buying is still usable even if you choose to upgrade your setup later on. Here are a few more reasons.

1. Resolution
   

   
   

   Even though you’re enjoying 4K resolution today, you will eventually upgrade your gears to those that can support 8K. The 3 mentioned products in this article, which are the OREI BK102A, BK-21A, and BK202A are all equipped with the capability of supporting 8K Ultra HD media content so that even if you upgrade in the future, you can expect that these HDMI devices can still support it.

   
   
   

2. Certification Level

   
   

   
   

   All the products mentioned in this article are all fully HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3 compliant. But why is this important?

   
   

   
   

   They are important because HDMI standards have improved a lot over the last few years, and they now include more features that you’ll want to make use of. These are things such as CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) that allow you to take control of all your media equipment with a single remote. Other features also include the highly sought-after ARC, eARC, and HDR. All of these are built into the HDMI 2.1 Standard.

   
   

   
   

   On the other hand, the HDCP Compliant-factor of HDMI devices controls the copy-protected content that they can support. For example, if you decide to play HDCP copy-protected content that requires a 2.3 certification and you’re using one that can only support an older version, then that device will not be able to display it.

   
   

   
   

   For you to be able to watch the widest variety of media content without worrying about complying with HDCP 2.3 and

   HDMI 2.1, switch

   to the devices that can support them such as the three products mentioned in this article.

   
   
   

3. Inclusion of remote controls in the Switch and the Matrix

   
   

   
   

   While having a remote seems like a superficial feature, it actually allows you to have more flexibility in terms of your setup. Imagine enjoying your media room while resting comfortably on your couch but then you have to stand up because you have to click a button on your HDMI device. 

With a remote control, you’re free to place your HDMI device anywhere in your media room. You can have it placed on a top shelf, or inside a glass cabinet. Either way, you can easily control it by using your remote.

If you’re looking for the

best HDMI Switch

, Splitter, or Matrix, then consider buying from OREI. Choose from a wide range of high-quality and future-proof products by

visiting our shop

. Each product is equipped with all the right information, such as Device Specifications, Product Reviews, as well as answered questions from other interested buyers. 

Did you like what you read? Learn more about HDMI devices by

checking out our blog

!

HDMI Splitter, Switch & Matrix - What are the Differences

HDMI splitters and switches are very useful for many audio visual applications, but are they the same, or what are the differences?

HDMI Technology Includes:
HDMI - the basics     HDMI versions     HDMI connectors     Pinout / pin connections     HDMI cables     USB C to HDMI     HDMI & DVI     HDMI switch, splitter & matrix - the differences     HDMI extenders     HDMI repeaters     Essential HDMI products    

There is a lot of confusion about HDMI splitters and HDMI switches and even HDMI Matrixes. All are very useful devices, but they perform different functions.

Confusion reigns in many areas, with one device being advertised as a switch in the title, but part of the description indicates it is a splitter - in reality this one was a switch. This exemplifies the confusion and shows that care is needed in selecting the right device.

So if major suppliers can be confused, it helps to understand exactly what the differences are when buying either and HDMI switch or an HDMI splitter, so that you get exactly what you want and need.

HDMI switches, HDMI splitters and also HDMI matrixes are known as HDMI distribution equipment as they route HDMI signals in various ways.

HDMI splitters & switches - basic definitions

When looking at the possibility of buying an HDMI splitter or an HDMI switch it helps to have some basic definitions so that the it is possible to understand what each device is, and also the differences between HDMI switches and HDMI splitters.

HDMI splitter definition:

HDMI splitter is a device that takes one source and sends it to multiple displays or displays simultaneously.

A switch is rather different to a splitter as can be seen by the definition below.

HDMI switch definition:

HDMI switch is a device that takes multiple audio visual sources and selects one input to send to the display device such as a television, computer screen, etc sends one signal only to the display.

In summary in their basic forms, a switch selects one of multiple sources which is sends to a single display, whereas a splitter takes one source and sends it to multiple displays, or receivers.

It can be seen from the definitions that the terms "switch" and "splitter" actually serve opposite purposes, but despite this the terms are often used in interchangeably, which is incorrect.

There is still one other device and this is known as an HDMI matrix. This is essentially a combination of a splitter and a switch and allows the routing of multiple signals to multiple devices. The HDMI multiplex provides complete control over routing of HDMI signals.

HDMI splitter

As mentioned in the definition the HDMI splitter takes a single HDMI line and splits it into two. For example this enables one source to drive two or more screens, televisions, etc. The HDMI splitetr is actually the simplest of the three devices: splitter; switch & matrix.

A basic two way HDMI splitter

The HDMI splitter is often bought to enable one device or source to serve two or more televisions - it can even enable a single subscription source to be displayed on more than one screen or television, although it would mean that the same programme or stream has to be watched by both devices.

There are two different types of HDMI Splitters:

• HDMI cable splitter:   This form of HDMI splitter is the most basic form and it is normally more than adequate for most applications. It simply takes in one source on an HDMI cable, splits the signal and sends it out on two HDMI cables.
• Network cable HDMI splitter:   This form of HDMI splitting system is best suited to applications and installations where HDMI signals need to be routed over longer distances. Using Cat 5E or Cat 6 Cables, and it can be used over much longer distances.

When considering the use of an HDMI splitter, it is necessary to consider the resolution. It must be possible for the source and displays all to accommodate and adjust to the same resolution - normally the lowest common denominator for all the HDMI devices active.

If there is an issue with the resolution as can happen, then the lowest common resolution display must be connected to output 1 on a splitter. Fortunately some issues can be resolved by undertaken a power reset, i.e. switch it off and then on again after a short period for any capacitors to discharge.

HDMI switch

As mentioned in the definition the HDMI switch takes a single HDMI line and and switches between two or more destinations. This allows multiple sources to be switched to a screen or television.

The HDMI switch is the ideal solution of the television or display device has insufficient HDMI inputs. The switch can be used to switch between the various inputs of the display device, TV, etc, and allow multiple devices to be connected it. This is particularly useful when the display or television has fewer HDMI inputs than there are sources.

A very basic HDMI switch

As the HDMI switch needs to be controlled, if nothing else to switch the various lines, this can be accomplished in a number of ways. There may be some form of push button on the front panel, or there may be a remote control. Others may have wired remote controls so that the switching can be controlled by another device like a computer.

When buying an HDMI switch, there are a number of points to look out for:

• Check resolution:   Most HDMI switches are 1080p and Digital DTS compatible, but if you are using 4K, check the HDMI switch can accommodate this.
• Home theatre capability:   Most HDMI switches can pass Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround audio signals, but when used with a home theatre, other advanced audio formats may be used - Dolby TrueHD, Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X. Before selecting the HDMI switch, check that it can handle the required formats.
• HDMI switch handshake requirements:   For use with systems carrying 4K, etc, ensure that the switch can handle HDMI handshake requirements that are needed. These may include HDCP, High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection, or HDCP 2.2.

HDMI matrix

An HDMI matrix is effectively the combination of a switch and a splitter. It allows the connection of multiple HDMI devices to multiple displays / televisions etc.

One reason for having an HDMI multiplex would be for a home audio-visual installation where it allowed multiple source devices to be connected to different displays.

The use of an HDMI matrix can allow all the devices to be hidden from view, and one simple unit, the HDMI matrix used to control the routing of everything where it is required. Often the HDMI matrix can be controlled using a remote, making operation very easy. An HDMI splitter or HDMI switch could never give the same functionality or flexibility.

Again, there are two types of HDMI matrix: those that use HDMI cable, and those that use network cable.

Points to check for splitters, switches and matrixes

There are a few points that are common to all HDMI distribution devices like HDMI splitters, HDMI switches and HDMI matrixes. Even though some of these devices can be quite cheap, others are more expensive and whatever the devices, it is annoying if it arrives and does not work, of an additional item is needed.

Here are a few pointers for all these devices:

• Is a power supply required:   Some of the simplest HDMI splitters and switches do not need a power supply, but others do. When one is needed, this is likely to come with the device, but this may not always be the case.
• Plan the system:   This may sound an obvious thing to do, but it is easy to get carried away with ordering the new HDMI distribution devices and not think exactly what is needed. Some systems may be simple and others a little more complicated. Even if it is sketched on a scrap of paper, this can help highlight any issues, and also make sure that all the equipment is included.
• Allow for expansion:   Sometimes, when setting up an HDMI distribution system, the system can be planned with the existing sources and displays. It is sometimes worth considering allowing a little extra capability in case a new item is bought. May be allow for an additional output and input or so. In this way, if a new TV, or a new signal source is bought, then it can be accommodated quite easily and without having to replace the HDMI distribution device.
• Check there are enough HDMI cables:   It is quite possible that when installing an HDMI switch, splitter or matrix, that there won't be enough HDMI cables - plan the system and check how many cables are needed and then any additional HDMI cables can be bought at the same time.

Whatever is being bought, it is worth taking a little thought to ensure it is exactly what is needed.

HDMI switches, HDMI splitters and HDMI matrixes are easy to buy. There is a good selection on the market, normally at very good prices.

Check out the Electronics Notes: Essential HDMI Items List.

Before buying an HDMI splitter, switch or matrix, it is worth fully checking out the specification to ensure it meets the real needs of the system. With lots of misunderstanding about the differences between HDMI splitter and HDMI switches, it is necessary to make sure the right type is bought.

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