An HDMI switch is a device that allows users to select one source from multiple HDMI sources and output it to a single HDMI display device. An HDMI switch comes in handy when you have multiple HDMI devices (such as game consoles, DVD players, computers, etc.) and want them all to be connected to the same TV or monitor.
An HDMI splitter is a device widely used in the audio and video field. Its main function is to copy one HDMI audio and video signal into multiple identical signals and output them. It can connect an HDMI signal source (such as a high-definition set-top box, Blu-ray player, computer, etc.) to multiple HDMI display devices (such as TVs, monitors, projectors, etc.) at the same time, thereby realizing the simultaneous display of the same video and audio content on multiple screens.
HDMI switchers and HDMI splitters differ significantly in their functionality and purposes. The main distinctions between them are as follows:
Functional Definitions
HDMI Switcher: Its function is to switch one or multiple HDMI signal sources to a single HDMI display device. This means that if there are multiple HDMI signal sources (such as multiple computers, game consoles, or DVD players) but only one display device (like a TV or monitor), an HDMI switcher can conveniently switch between these multiple signal sources, allowing the display device to show the content from any one of them.
HDMI Splitter: On the contrary, its function is to distribute one HDMI signal source to multiple HDMI display devices. This allows a single signal source (such as a computer or Blu-ray player) to be connected and displayed simultaneously on multiple display devices, like multiple TVs or monitors.
Interface Quantity and Direction
HDMI Switcher: Typically has multiple input interfaces and one output interface, i.e., multiple inputs to one output. Depending on the model, they can be 4-in-1-out, 5-in-1-out, 8-in-1-out, etc.
HDMI Splitter: Has one input interface corresponding to multiple output interfaces, i.e., one input to multiple outputs. The number of output interfaces can be chosen based on need, such as 1-in-2-out, 1-in-4-out, 1-in-8-out, 1-in-16-out, etc.
Resolution and Supported Features
HDMI Switcher: Supports various resolutions, but typically up to 1080p or 4K30Hz. It can switch between signal sources through front panel buttons, infrared remote control, or RS232 serial port commands, and supports seamless switching to ensure no black screens or flickering during the switching process.
HDMI Splitter: Also supports various resolutions, including Ultra HD 4K60Hz. It can distribute the input HDMI signal into multiple identical and synchronized HDMI outputs, supports EDID management to automatically adjust the output resolution based on the connected display devices. Additionally, HDMI splitters have signal buffering and amplification capabilities, allowing for long-distance transmission of over 15 meters through serial connection or increasing the number of HDMI output ports through stacking (cascading).
Application Scenarios
HDMI Switcher: Suitable for scenarios where frequent switching between multiple signal sources to a single display device is required, such as home entertainment centers, conference rooms, classrooms, etc.
HDMI Splitter: Ideal for scenarios where the content from one signal source needs to be displayed simultaneously on multiple display devices, such as retail stores, exhibition halls, conference rooms, etc., where synchronized content display is necessary.
