With the abundance of various cables and cords on the market, it can be difficult to determine which wires are right for your home or office setup. With HDMI cords alone, there’s a plethora of cable options. Even though HDMI cables are relatively easy to configure than most other cords, the range in costs, length, versions, and connectors can make the process of purchasing HDMI cables a bit intimidating for individuals with limited knowledge of different IT equipment. That’s why we created this comprehensive guide on what to consider when buying a high-speed HDMI cable.
CableWholesale’s team of tech representatives is dedicated to providing resources so you can make an educated purchase, whatever your network needs may be. Read on to explore the ins and outs of HDMI cables for your home, office, or wherever you need this versatile cord.
Considerations for Buying High-Speed HDMI Cables for Your Home or Office
Guarantee a satisfying purchase by making these considerations before making any kinds of investments in cables. By keeping the following factors in mind when on the hunt for high-speed HDMI cables, you minimize the risk of purchasing equipment that doesn’t quite successfully meet your demands.
HDMI 101: Understanding That It’s Digital
One noteworthy point you should acknowledge about HDMI cables is that they have a digital standard. This means that as long as the cable can function properly and is the right version for your setup, there should be no difference in performance between one that’s inexpensive and one that’s pricey. This differs from older analog standards that declare that the cable you purchase can make a huge difference, calling for cable users to make steeper investments in their cords.
The reason cost is not much of a factor to consider when buying a high-speed HDMI cable is that the data that they process is digital. Unless the HDMI cable has a physical hindrance, it should work to transmit digital video. Essentially, the cable will work, and the digital bits will get through, or it won’t work, and the bits won’t get through—price is an irrelevant factor to which will occur.
Despite the cost of an HDMI cable not making much of a difference in performance, there are still components of the cable that you ought to think about when buying one. Different factors between HDMI cables still influence whether it will work with your existing network elements.
Setting Standards: Checking for Adequate Build Quality and Reliability
Though the price tag doesn’t infer much on whether an HDMI cable is inherently good or bad, the way an HDMI cable is structured heavily influences its performance. That said, some cables are built to withstand greater use than others, which are likely to be sold at a higher price.
So, the build quality is impactful on determining an HDMI cable’s lifespan and can inform just how reliable your cable may be. One way to maximize your cable’s lifetime is by avoiding bending and moving it constantly.
Making Sure It Fits the Bill: Different Length Needs
It’s crucial to assess the length between connectors to determine the required length for your HDMI cable. One way you can achieve this is by running a string along the distance where your HDMI cord would go. Then, measure this string and add a little extra measurement so your cable isn’t pulled tight or doesn’t come up short.
If you plan to leave your HDMI cable unbothered after plugging it in, you don’t necessarily need an excess length, as that would only make cable management more difficult. Discover how to accommodate for a longer distance and more flexible setup in the next section.
Considering Longer Cable Runs for Your Network
Some setups, on the other hand, do require longer cables, whether that be to account for more flexibility or a longer distance between connectors. CableWholesale supplies 100-foot HDMI cable bundles to fit this need and cable management accessories to help organize any cable coiling that occurs.
Creating a Cohesive Unit: Reviewing HDMI Connector Type and Size
There are three main types of HDMI connectors:
- Standard
- Mini
- Micro
You’ll want to stick to one of these three when buying for your home or office, as Type E connectors are for automotive applications, and Type B and dual connectors are rarely used for everyday applications. Always be cognizant of the cable connectors on both ends, as some HDMI cables have different connectors on opposing ends to plug into various devices.
Deciding Between Straight or Right-Angled Connectors
In addition to selecting the right type of HDMI connectors, consider whether a straight or right-angled connector is for you. While straight connectors are most common, right-angled connectors are convenient for HDMI cables that get plugged into tight spaces, such as behind equipment or furnishing. This reduces the need for cable bending.
Evolution of HDMI: Recognizing the Different Versions of HDMI Cables
Cable manufacturers have evolved their HDMI cords over the years, leaving us with different versions of HDMI to choose from off the shelves. Each version has its own unique features that are worth reflecting on before making a cable selection, which we’ll discuss below.
Something that will be super influential over which HDMI version is right for you is noting which versions your existing equipment supports. When finding the right HDMI cable, be sure to check which applications the cable version supports.
The Difference in Versions of HDMI Cords: HDMI 1.4, 2.0, and 2.1
HDMI 1.4: This HDMI version’s inception dates over ten years old. HDMI 1.4’s specifications support 4K video at a maximum of 24 frames per second. There have since been evolutions of this HDMI version, though HDMI 1.4a and HDMI 1.4b are considered quite as dated. Manufacturers produce all HDMI cables with at least an HDMI 1.4 specification.
HDMI 2.0: Released in the early 2010s, HDMI 2.0 boosted HDMI cables’ bandwidths from 10.2 Gbps to 18 Gbps. This upgraded HDMI cables’ abilities to support 4K at up to 60 frames per second.
HDMI 2.1: This evolution of HDMI can transmit 4K and 8K video at up to 120 frames per second and resolutions above 8K, with a bandwidth of 48 Gbps. This design is intended for the highest-quality purposes, such as serious gaming setups and other entertainment systems.
With a better understanding of how to select the right HDMI cable, head on over to CableWholesale’s inventory of expansive HDMI products. Adapters, extenders, high-speed cables—we have everything you need to create a comprehensive setup at home or in-office. Contact a member of our team today to learn more about our well-performing products and ideal warranty.
