What HDMI Cable Should You Buy?

HDMI cables are used in a variety of applications such as home theater systems, computer monitors, and gaming consoles. HDMI cable can be the best option for transmitting audio and video because it can provide the clearest picture and richest sound.

The History of HDMI Cables

HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, which means it can transmit audio and video in high quality without any loss of signal. The HDMI cable's design allows for digital signals to be sent over long distances while maintaining their integrity so that they arrive at their destination intact.

The first HDMI cable was developed in 2002, and the technology has continued to advance ever since. HDMI cables now come in standard, high-speed, premium high-speed and ultra-high-speed versions—as well as versions capable of double-duty as both HDMI and Ethernet cables. As HDMI cables evolved and improved, so did their connectors. Initially, all HDMI cables had standard “Type A” connectors that worked with almost all components that required multimedia hookups. Now, there are several versions of ports and plugs for HDMI cables. Knowing the different types of HDMI connectors will help you understand how to connect multimedia devices for the optimal audio-visual experience.

HDMI Cables at Cables.com

Cables.com stocks on premium, popularly used HDMI cables so you can be sure you'll find the right one for your A/V setup. Some of our cables support high-speed full-duplex 150Mb/s Ethernet networking - meaning you can easily create a network of all your connected devices using your hardwired network and one of our cables.

For example, we offer 4K HDMI cables with the ability to enable video resolutions far beyond 1580p. They're backwards compatible with all previous versions of HDMI, are HDCP compliant, and are able to deliver lightning-fast 10.2 Gbps bandwidth capabilities for your 4K-capable HDTVs. 

And if you're looking to step up your setup, we even have 8K HDMI cables with ethernet! These cables operate at an amazing 48Gbps bandwidth, supporting up to 8K at 60Hz/4K at 120Hz resolution. 

Smaller versions of the standard HDMI, mini-HDMI connectors are often found on portable devices such as camcorders. Our mini HDMI cable is compatible with a huge assortment of cameras and video cameras, while our micro HDMI cable boasts a high powered HDMI 1.4 micro Type D input on one end and a HDMI 1.4 standard Type A output on the other, making it perfect for connecting your Android phone or any other devices that feature a Type D interconnect. Type C (or mini HDMI) connectors measure 10.42mm by 2.42mm, while Type D (or micro HDMI) connectors are approximately 50% smaller than that!

Depending on the space you have available for running your HDMI cable or where you want to set up your TV, you might consider investing in either a Plenum Rated HDMI Cable or an In-Wall Flat HDMI Cable. 

Flat HDMI cables, due to their thinner form and higher flexibility, make in-wall installation easier, and also allows for installation behind molding and under carpet (though under-carpet installs should be avoided in areas of high foot traffic). Because the wires are spread out flat rather than bundled, there is less potential for signal bleed between them.

Meanwhile, our Plenum-Rated HDMI cables are also intended to be installed within walls, above ceiling panels, or in other out-of-sight spaces. They're ethernet-enabled and are built to comply with fire codes, meaning that in the event of a fire they won't emit toxic fumes. 

Questions?

If you're still unsure which HDMI cable is the right choice for you, we're available to help! Contact Us, send us an email at sales@cables.com, or reach us by phone at 1-800-372-3725. 

Happy shopping!

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