At Monoprice, we offer a wide variety of HDMI cables to suit just about any setup. While having many options is great, it can also be overwhelming. Many customers wonder if they are choosing the right cable for their needs.
This guide will help you understand how to select the best HDMI cables for your setup based on key factors like resolution, data rate, length, gauge, and more.
Choosing the Right HDMI Cable
Resolution Compatibility
The first step in selecting an HDMI cable is determining the resolution of both your display and source device. Your HDMI cable should support the highest resolution both devices are capable of.
However, keep in mind:
- If your display and source device support different resolutions, the system defaults to the lower resolution.
- If your HDMI cable doesn't support the required bandwidth, it can bottleneck your resolution, regardless of your display and source capabilities.
Understanding Data Rates
HDMI cables are rated by the amount of data they can transmit:
- 4.95 Gbps - Supports up to 720p
- 10.2 Gbps - Supports up to 1080p (and 4K at 30Hz)
- 18 Gbps - Supports 4K at 60Hz and HDR content
For optimal performance, make sure your cable meets the bandwidth needs of your setup.
Cable Length Considerations
Our HDMI cables range from 1.5 feet to 330 feet. However, longer cables may require additional power or signal boosting to maintain quality.
General guidelines for length:
- Passive HDMI cables can transmit up to 20 feet for 4K resolution.
- Active HDMI cables (which amplify the signal) support up to 50 feet for 4K.
For longer runs, consider using fiber optic HDMI cables or HDMI extender.
Cable Gauge (AWG) and Performance
The American Wire Gauge (AWG) rating indicates cable thickness:
- Higher AWG number = thinner cable (e.g., 36 AWG)
- Lower AWG number = thicker cable (e.g., 24 AWG)
Thicker cables (lower AWG) handle higher data loads better, especially over longer distances.
For example:
- A 24 AWG cable can maintain high resolution better over long distances compared to a 28 AWG cable
- If using a thinner cable at long distances, an active cable or signal booster may be needed
Active vs. Passive HDMI Cables
Passive HDMI Cables:
- Standard HDMI cables that work in both directions.
- Best for shorter runs (up to 15 feet for 1080p).
- At longer lengths, resolution may degrade.
Active HDMI Cables:
- Designed for longer distances, drawing power from the display.
- Directional - must be installed correctly (marked for "source" and "display").
- Not recommended between two distribution devices (like splitters/switches).
Double-check the direction before installing active cables, especially in walls.
HDR and HDMI 2.0a
High Dynamic Range (HDR) enhances color and contrast for superior viewing experience. Since HDR requires more data, we recommend 18 Gbps HDMI cables, such as our Certified Premium HDMI cables.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right HDMI cable ensures you get the best performance for your home theater, gaming, or professional setup. By considering factors like resolutions, data rate, length, gauge, and whether you need an active or passive cable, you can make an informed decision.
If you're still unsure, feel free to reach out - we're here to help!