The Best HDMI Cable

So you finally got that high-definition television you’ve been dreaming about, but you forgot one little thing at the store -- an HDMI cable. To get the quality picture and sound you crave, this specialty cord is essential. There are a few things to consider before hitting the closest electronics store or browsing for a cable online. We are here to get you connected with a quick look at HDMI basics.

Experts agree that brand of HDMI cable will produce the same quality of sound and picture; however, there are four types of HDMI cables. Choosing the wrong one will leave you staring at a blank screen.

The Four Basic Types of HDMI Cables

— HDMI for high speed with Ethernet
— HDMI for high speed without Ethernet
— HDMI for standard speed with Ethernet
— HDMI for standard speed without Ethernet

If you’re unsure whether or not you have an Ethernet port, it’s very easy to determine. Simply look on the back of your device. There may be a thick, yellow cord already in the port. If so, that’s an Ethernet cable. The jack (or port) that accommodates an Ethernet cable is much wider than a phone jack, but looks similar.
If you have a television that has offers more than 1080 in picture resolution, you will need a high-speed cable. Fortunately, higher speed cables don’t necessarily cost more than standard speed cables. It’s all a matter of finding the cable that works for your system.
If you’re shopping for a cord right now and aren’t sure if you have Ethernet or a television that offers more than 1080i, simply buy an HDMI cord for high speed without Ethernet. It will work on any configuration.

Common Questions about HDMI Cables

Which cable do I buy if I have a 3D television?
You don’t need a special cable for 3D viewing. Base your purchase on whether or not you have Ethernet and the resolution of your television, as mentioned above.

Which devices need HDMI cables?
HDMI connections are on various types of devices, including Blu-ray players, PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Fire TV and Apple TV.

Which cable do I buy for HD2 programming?
Current cables work with HD2. They also work with Ultra HD. There aren’t many products that support HD2 at this time. Bottom line: Choose one of the Four Basic Types of HDMI Cables based on television resolution and Ethernet connection.

Shouldn’t I get a 4K HDMI cable for Ultra HD?
No. Experts agree that these cords are not necessary and do not produce better picture quality or audio than regular HDMI cables. They just cost more.
Where can I find the best deal on an HDMI cable?
More than likely, you will find the best price and selection of HDMI cables online. Competitors will usually put their lowest prices online because they know it’s easy to comparison shop online. It’s way more of a hassle to drive from store to store looking for the best deal, so their in-store prices may be higher.

Top HDMI Cable for high speed with Ethernet

AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable
With over 10,000 reviews, this gets our best all-round choice for HDMI cables for high speed with Ethernet connection. This cord meets all current standards for 4K and HD and has a lifetime guarantee through AmazonBasics.
Customers who gave five-star reviews wrote:

“Please do not waste your hard earned money on overpriced HDMI cables in the name of picture or sound improvements. I currently am using these AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI cables to connect our Yamaha v379 AV receiver to other HDMI enabled devices that link back to our 4K Samsung Smart TV. They have performed flawlessly.”

"The quality of the cable is high and the price is great.”

Top HDMI Cable for high speed without Ethernet

WiRoTech Black High Speed HDMI Cable
Dozens of consumers say these cables are outstanding, and the price on this WiRoTech brand is exceptional. That's why this is our best all-round choice for HDMI cables for high speed without Ethernet connection. The cord meets all current standards for 4K and HD. One reviewer said, “Works as well as high end cables.”

Top HDMI Cable for standard speed with Ethernet

Monoprice Standard Speed HDMI Cable
This standard speed HDMI cable by Monoprice is an excellent value, so we've chosen it as best all-round choice. The 6-foot cord meets all current HDMI standards for high-speed transmissions. A reviewer said the cable works just as described.

Top HDMI Cable for standard speed without Ethernet

Monster Standard Speed HDMI Cable
This first-generation HDMI cable is one meter long and has corrosion-resistant 24-carat gold contacts. It’s received quite a few positive reviews, including this one:
"Exactly as described and much cheaper than big box store versions.”

Another reviewer said, "Another quality product from Monster Cable. People complain about the price of Monster Cables, especially the HDMI cables, because they feel like the quality is the same with cheaper brands, but I believe the construction of Monster Cables especially at the point where the connecter is crimped to the cable is better than competitors' quality. In the end, when a cable assembly fails, it where the connector meets the cable due to wear and tear.”

Conclusion

Despite the confusion caused by ever-changing technology and high-end cable manufacturers, choosing an HDMI cable is really quite simple if you know a little about the devices you wish to connect. You can purchase any of the four types of HDMI cables online for less than $10 online. You may pay more elsewhere.

Top Rated HDMI Cables

The Lowest Price We Could Find

The HDMI Cable With the Most Reviews

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This page about HDMI Cable was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
It was last updated on 2025-04-30 08:11:19 and has been viewed 6097 times.