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After spending hours researching and buying the best TV, many feverishly set up their new gadgets to find they don’t have enough ports for all their devices. HDMI space is coveted in the modern age, and most TVs simply don’t give you enough. If this sounds like you, we’re here to show you how to get more HDMI ports on your TV.
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Also, if you’ve recently purchased a new television and need to get rid of your previous one, check out our resource on how to dispose of an old TV. Or perhaps you have an older TV and wanted a smart TV. If you don’t want to get rid of your TV, you can learn how to make your TV a smart TV. Once you have done this, be sure to get internet on your TV so you can get all the benefits of a smart TV. But remember you may need a new remote and to learn how to program a remote to your TV.
It’s an unfortunate reality that many TVs don’t come with enough HDMI ports for every device you want to connect. But luckily, there are modern solutions to this problem. An HDMI switcher is a great, affordable option that will give you up to seven more HDMI ports, so none of your devices are left out. There are more HDMI devices than ever, and most people will have at least a few of them. With devices like cable boxes, AV receivers, Blu-Ray players, gaming consoles, like Xbox, Playstation, and Nintendo Switch to even streaming devices like a Roku stick. It’s easy to see how a setup can lack these essential ports.
Insider Tip
It’s always a good idea to ensure you have more HDMI ports than you think you’ll need, even if you only have two or three devices that require an HDMI connection.
On an HDMI switch, there is one port into which you plug in the output cable. This output cable goes into your TV. Once you’ve done that, all that’s left for you to do is to plug in any additional device, whether it be a video game console or a streaming device.
After plugging in your devices, you can select which connection you want to display on your TV, choosing between your connected devices directly from the box or remote control. For those looking for advice on visual settings, read here about how to get rid of black bars on the top and bottom of your TV.
An HDMI switch will cost $10-$200 depending on how many ports it has and the quality and capability of the device. Still, they are easy to find, easy to set up, and will save you a lot of hassle. When looking for an HDMI switcher, keep an eye on auto-switching capabilities, as it is a nice convenience feature. Additionally, if your TV supports it and you are a gamer, keep an eye out for models that support HDMI 2.1 to take advantage of the latest generation consoles.
The terms HDMI switch and HDMI splitter are often used synonymously, but this is incorrect. An HDMI splitter doesn’t add more HDMI ports. Instead, it takes one HDMI connection — for example, a streaming device — and can connect it to multiple viewing sources. A splitter is helpful for spaces with numerous TVs that need to display the same content, like at a sports bar or gym. Make sure the splitter connection is nice and secure so you don’t have to wonder why your TV is fuzzy.
Warning
Not all HDMI switches come with a remote. If this is important to you, make sure the one you’re buying includes one.
F.A.Q.S
How many HDMI inputs do you need?
The required HDMI inputs always depend on your expected needs and the number of plug-ins. However, less is not more with HDMI ports, and it’s wise to have an extra port handy just in case.
What should you look for in an HDMI switch?
Plenty of ports, a remote included with the box, and 4k support are all things you want in an HDMI switch.
Can you connect a PC to an HDMI switch?
PCs can connect to an HDMI switch, but it will be as a video source.
STAT: The average HDMI switch comes with 5-6 inputs. (source)
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