How to Use an HDMI Switcher – A Quick Introduction

HDMI switchers are extremely helpful yet simple tools for anyone who finds themselves in a situation where they need to connect multiple devices to a single display that is limited by HDMI inputs. A switch or switcher allows you to connect several sources like a laptop, streaming device, game console or any generic media player all to the same HDMI display and the best part is you don’t have to keep plugging them in and unplugging them you can freely switch without switching cables! All you need to do is press one button and you can freely switch between all the HDMI sources you want!

In the professional world, switchers and switches become even more valuable. An HDMI switcher allows for things like event spaces, classrooms, or offices to be able to switch between multiple different sources without any sort of interruption to the flow of work. It can be easy though to confuse a HDMI switch with a HDMI splitter but the difference is pretty simple. A splitter only sends one HDMI signal to several different screens but a switch allows you to choose which HDMI signal to send to one or many screens and have the flexibility to switch between sources instantly and conveniently..

HDMI 2.1 Switcher 120Hz – Understanding Specifications That Matter

When you’re in the market and looking for an HDMI switcher the specs can matter a whole lot (or maybe not that much) depending on what you need for your use case. One of the biggest things to check is the HDMI version support. HDMI 2.0 is fairly common these days but if you’re someone who likes to game or needs high refresh rate for other reasons, then HDMI 2.1 is what you’re going to want. Specifically HDMI 2.1 switcher 120Hz models can support higher refresh rates and resolutions which is great for things like the PS5, Xbox Series X or higher end PCs with HDMI 2.1 support. Another thing is if you’re in the market for a switcher determine how many displays you need. If it’s only for one display a simple switch will do, otherwise get a matrix switcher!

Other features to check for in your HDMI switcher:

• 4K at 60Hz or 120Hz
• HDR support for better contrast and color
• ARC for audio return to receivers or soundbars
• HDCP compliance for copy-protected content

HDMI Versions – What’s the Real Difference?

The largest difference to know about when looking at HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1 in your HDMI switch or switcher is the fact that HDMI 2.1 supports higher bandwidth which can be great for your switch or switcher. This is helpful for things like 4k at 120Hz or even being able to do 8K at 60Hz. This also means that your switch or switchers have access to more information in the image for things like more color density and more demanding formats. This is especially great for switchers in gaming or even professional use cases.

Refresh Rate and Resolution – 4K 60Hz vs. 120Hz

This comes down to what you want to do with your switch and display. If you want to be able to just sit back, relax and watch movies or are in an office where you just need to display information for people to see, then a HDMI switcher that can only handle 4k at 60Hz is more than enough. However if you want to be able to see every last detail at the most demanding resolution and at the highest frame rate possible either for your job or to enjoy fast paced games, then an HDMI switcher that supports 120hz is going to be more important to you. Whatever you choose, make sure that the switch (and the HDMI cable) is the proper resolution and refresh rate for you. Picking the right switch is imperative in these cases. 

4K HDMI USB KVM Switch 4x1 – Which Model Is Best for You?

Switches are fairly diverse and there are several different classifications that you can choose from. For example, a basic HDMI switch 4x1 4K can handle four inputs with a singular output allowing you to swap between the four inputs on one display. However, a 4K HDMI USB KVM switch 4x1 now adds in some USB support so you can potentially control multiple computers while using the same keyboard and mouse and being able to switch between them on the display. If convenience is your goal make sure to find a model that includes a remote for easy switching from your seat!

HDMI Switch 4x1 4K – Compact and Powerful

For most people, an HDMI switch 4x1 4K is a great option. These HDMI switches easily fit the home theater or small office needs, especially when space is limited. BZBGEAR offers HDMI switch models with solid build quality and reliable switching to ensure your HDMI signals remain stable.

4K HDMI Switch with Remote – Convenience at Your Fingertips

If you want quick and convenient control, a 4K HDMI switch with a remote lets you change inputs without touching the device. These HDMI switch models are perfect for wall-mounted setups or when your switcher is in a rack. With all these options controlling your switcher has never been easier or more convenient. Practically anyone can control your switcher with minimal training thanks to the modern conveniences that come standard with switchers.

Best 4K HDMI Switch with Remote – Top  Recommendations by BZBGEAR

BZBGEAR’s best 4K HDMI switch with remote lineup includes models with features like audio extraction, picture-in-picture, and KVM capability or even video wall depending on what you’re looking for. Match your choice to your needs:

• Home theater: pick a compact switcher with 4K 60Hz support such as the BG-8K-HS41!
• Office: perhaps a KVM-enabled switch for seamless workstation control like the BG-UHD-KVM21A for a simple setup or the BG-EXH-4KC7 for something that needs extension and a USB-C input for video. 
• Editing suite: An HDMI 2.1 switcher 120Hz for color-accurate high refresh displays would be good like the BG-8KHS-41A

When to Choose a KVM vs. Non-KVM Switcher

The simple answer here is to pick a KVM switcher if you need to switch between different computers or need to use the same USB peripherals on the different machines. A KVM switcher allows for different peripherals to be used whereas a normal switcher is solely for being able to switch between sources. 

How to Set Up and Use Your New HDMI Switch

Thankfully this is pretty easy to do!

1. Connect each source device to an input on the switch with HDMI.
2. Connect the output to your display with HDMI.
3. Power on the switcher and devices.
4. Use the front panel or remote to select inputs.

Conclusions – Finding the Best HDMI Switcher for Your Setup

At the end of the day, knowing how to use an HDMI switcher and what features matter to you will ensure you pick the right switch (or switcher)! Hopefully you should be a bit more educated about what you need and BZBGEAR is here to help you out if you don’t, after all BZBGEAR has options for practically any scenario, whether you need an HDMI switch or switcher or even other products like video wall processors or KVM switches!