HDMI Cable Guide: Which HDMI Cable Do You Need?
For most TVs, consoles and computers, a short high speed HDMI cable is all you need. For 4K at 120Hz or 8K, use a lead rated for it. For long runs, use an active optical (fibre) HDMI lead or an HDMI extender over network cable instead of a long standard lead.
We stock AV:Link HDMI leads, active fibre leads, extenders, switches and splitters, with UK delivery.
Which HDMI cable do I need?
| What you are connecting | What to buy |
|---|---|
| TV box, Blu-ray or laptop to a TV, 4K at 60Hz | A standard high speed cable, as short as practical |
| Games console or PC at 4K 120Hz, or 8K | A lead rated for 8K / 4K 120Hz, such as the AV:Link 8K HDMI lead |
| Projector or screen 10m to 100m away | An active fibre optic HDMI lead |
| Screen in another room, up to 100m, using network cable | An HDMI extender over Ethernet |
| One source to several screens | An HDMI splitter |
| Several sources to one screen | An HDMI switch |
HDMI 2.1, 8K and 4K at 120Hz
To get 4K at 120Hz or 8K from a console or graphics card, every part of the chain must support it: the source, the lead and the TV input. A lead labelled for 8K and 4K 120Hz is the safe choice; older leads may drop to 60Hz or flicker.
Long HDMI cable runs
Standard copper cables are most reliable over shorter lengths. For longer runs you have two good options:
- Active optical (fibre) HDMI lead: one lead from 5m up to 100m, powered from the HDMI port. These leads usually work in one direction only, so plug the source end into the source.
- HDMI extender over network cable: a transmitter and receiver joined by a Cat6 cable, useful when the cable is already in the wall. The AV:Link 4K extender kit is rated for up to 100m.
Common questions
Do expensive HDMI cables give a better picture?
HDMI is digital, so a lead either carries the signal reliably or it does not. Pay for the right rating and length, not for extras.
Why does my long HDMI cable flicker or drop out?
The run is too long for that lead or the lead is not rated for the resolution. Use an active fibre lead or an extender.
Which way round does a fibre HDMI lead go?
Most active optical leads are directional: the end marked source goes to the player or computer, the other end to the screen.
Do you deliver?
Yes. We ship nationally from Wolverhampton. Call 01902 902251 or email sales@zenithsecurityco.co.uk.
See all HDMI leads and adaptors and the AV:Link range.
