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HDMI has come a long way since our last buyers' guide back in 2015 - we're not only dealing with HDMI 2.0 hardware pushing 4K and HDR content; we also have a range of cable varieties which can help avoid or solve common cabling problems in the home theatre, office or even commercial applications.
In this guide, we'll touch on the best application for each cabling type, and put each option in context. You'll never again wonder what a specialty HDMI cable is for or why you'd choose one over the other!
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Standard HDMI CablesStandard HDMI cables are still a great option for general purpose use when budget is important. Quality materials and construction offer 1080p support up to 20m, and 4K@30Hz support up to 5m. They may not look as pretty as some of our other cables, but once hidden behind a TV or cabinet they'll do a great job. |
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Braided HDMI CablesA hard-wearing nylon braid makes these premium cables much stronger, and last longer when subjected to abuse such as frequent handling or permanent installation. Our braided cables have metal plug shells and moulded joints to prevent any part of the cable from coming apart. A favourite among installers and tradespeople looking for a reliable, long-term solution. |
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Thin HDMI CablesThin HDMI cables don't have the same bandwidth handling of full-size HDMI, but with smaller plugs and lightweight cabling they can be handy for travel, frequently moved hardware and running through conduit or narrow cavities. Expect 1080p/3D up to 5m, and 4K@30Hz up to about 2m. |
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Coiled HDMI CablesCoiled HDMI doubles down on the benefits of Thin HDMI by curling the cable into a smaller package, making it even easier to store by eliminating the need to coil it manually. Our 2m coiled extension rests at about 50cm in length, but stretches to just over 1 meter. 1080p and 3D |
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Flat HDMI CablesFlat HDMI is another variation of the Thin type, but the key difference is how the cable slack behaves. Flat HDMI won't tangle, and once it gets through a narrow gap, it has a tighter bend radius than other options. Our Flat HDMI cables are not the thinnest on the market, but make up for that by being 4K@60Hz & HDR compatible. |
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Boosted HDMI CablesHDMI cables with built-in repeaters allow 1080p and 4K@30Hz signals to go up to 40 metres, making them great for large rooms or when obstacles prevent a direct route. Boosted cables are directional, so ARC and Ethernet are not supported, but they're a great option for most content (excluding 4K gaming). |
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Active Optical HDMI CablesGood copper HDMI cables can only support 4K@60Hz up to about 5 metres. Our hybrid optical HDMI cables remove this limitation and can carry those signals up to 100m without loss, supporting 4K and HDR to their fullest without any external power supply! This thin, lightweight cable is unparalleled for reliable 1080p, 3D, 4K and HDR content. As with Boosted HDMI, Active Optical HDMI is directional and doesn't support ARC or Ethernet. |
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Locking HDMI CablesLocking HDMI cables prevent accidental disconnection. Rather than an anti-theft device, the locking tabs simply prevent the HDMI plug from falling out of the socket due to vibration (such as inside a vehicle) or remind users of critical connections by requiring an extra step to unlock them. The sliding tab shows red or green to let you know if its locked or not. |
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HDMI Extension CablesFinally, no guide would be complete without mentioning HDMI extension cables. They are built like the Standard HDMI range, but with a female socket on one end. They come to the rescue any time you need to bridge a gap in cable length when you move equipment, and can also be used to relocate hard-to-reach sockets on the backs of displays or computers. |
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HDMI also has other specialty cables, but these are generally aimed at very specific hardware, such as Mini-HDMI on a tablet PC or Micro-HDMI on a camcorder, and we stock these variants in a range of lengths, too. Cable Chick also carries a good collection of HDMI adapters, from right-angle plugs to couplers and converters. Again, these products generally have a very specific application and you'll know when you need one.
We like to think there is a HDMI cable for any application. If you don't see what you need above, why not contact us and we'll see what we can come up with?
