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?

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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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An HDMI matrix switch is a device that allows you to route HDMI signals from multiple sources to multiple displays. All matrix switches usually consist of HDMI input and output ports, and a “switch matrix” that can control which input signals are routed to which output signals.

The “switch matrix” is what sets an HDMI matrix switch apart from other HDMI distribution devices like HDMI splitters and switches. With a switch matrix, it can route any input signal to any output signal, allowing for more flexibility and control.

How Is It Different From An HDMI Switch to An HDMI Splitter?

An HDMI switch allows you to connect multiple input sources to a single display. For example, through an HDMI switch, you can connect your cable box, tablet, laptop, and computer to one television and easily switch between your input sources to decide which one you want to display on your TV.

An HDMI splitter allows you to split a single HDMI source into multiple outputs. Splitters are commonly used in events, such as restaurants, prayer halls, churches, conferences,   live shows, concerts, social gatherings and more. With a splitter, you can place multiple displays across your event space and have your whole audience watch the same content simultaneously.

An HDMI matrix switch combines the capabilities of both an HDMI switch and an HDMI splitter, allowing you to connect multiple sources to multiple displays and switch between them as needed. For example, you might have a Blu-ray player, a cable box, and a gaming console connected to the inputs of your HDMI matrix switch, and a TV and a projector connected to the outputs. You could then switch between these sources and displays as needed, without having to manually unplug and replug HDMI cables.

What Are The Capabilities Of An HDMI Matrix Switch?

The capabilities of an HDMI matrix switch vary. However, there are some features that are common to many HDMI matrix switches. 

One important capability of an HDMI matrix switch is the ability to handle different HDMI resolutions. For example, some HDMI matrix switches support 4K resolutions, while others may only support 1080p or lower. If you have a 4K TV and sources that can output 4K signals, you'll want to make sure your HDMI matrix switch can handle those signals.Another is the ability to handle different audio formats. Many HDMI matrix switches support standard audio formats such as Dolby Digital and DTS, while others may support more advanced formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Make sure your HDMI matrix switch can handle the audio formats you require if your home theater has a surround sound system.

HDMI matrix switches may also include features such as remote control, web-based control, and scheduling. For example, you may be able to program your HDMI matrix switch to switch between inputs and outputs at specific times of the day, or you may be able to control it from anywhere in your home using a smartphone app.

Where Can You Use An HDMI Matrix Switch?

To shed more light on how HDMI matrix switches are used in real-world applications, here are a few examples.

1. Home Theaters

   
   

   
   An HDMI matrix switch is perfect if you want to level up your home theater. Easily decide what you want to show between a Blu-ray player, a computer, or a streaming device on your wide-screen TV or projector. If you want, you can even watch the same content on multiple displays at the same time.

   
   
   

2. Conference Rooms

   
   

   
   

   In a conference room setting, an HDMI matrix switch can help you connect multiple laptops or other devices to multiple displays for presentations or video conferencing. This is useful if you have multiple presenters or if you want to display different content on different displays.

   
   
   

3. Retail Stores

   
   

   
   

   With an HDMI matrix switch, you can display content on multiple screens throughout your entire store. For example, if you currently have store promotions going on, you may display them simultaneously across all available displays so they can engage more customers and generate more sales.

What Are The Benefits Of Using An HDMI Matrix Switch?

Here are some HDMI matrix switch benefits that you should know if you’re still wondering why you should get one.

1. Greater flexibility: With an HDMI matrix switch, you can connect multiple sources to multiple displays and switch between them as needed. This gives you greater flexibility and control over your audio and video setup.
2. Simplified cabling: Instead of having to manually unplug and replug cables every time you want to switch between sources and displays, an HDMI matrix switch allows you to do it with just a few button presses.
3. Cost savings: Instead of having to purchase multiple HDMI switches and splitters to achieve the same functionality, an HDMI matrix switch allows you to do it all with a single device. This can save you money and reduce clutter in your home theater or conference room.
4. Improved user experience: With an HDMI matrix switch, you can create a seamless and intuitive user experience  . Whether you're watching a movie, giving a presentation, or shopping in a retail store, an HDMI matrix switch can help you create a more engaging and enjoyable experience.

Of course, the last question you probably have in mind is how much an HDMI matrix switch costs. The best HDMI matrix switches are certainly priced higher, and will highly differ depending on your needs, but you can get an Ultra HD 4x2 HDMI matrix switch for as low as $59.99

Before buying an HDMI matrix switch, list down all your requirements. How many input and output devices do you have, and what are their display and audio capabilities? Do you need an HDMI matrix switch that supports ARC? Do you need one that can support up to 8K resolution? Once you have your list, you may now start browsing through our list of HDMI matrix switches in our shop. We included all relevant information to support you in your buying process. Each product has its detailed specifications, along with sample applications, reviews, and FAQs.

Check out more great reads on other types of HDMI distribution devices in our blog

and learn more about what type of HDMI device you need.