HDMI Cables

HDMI Cable Buying Guide 2026

What is an HDMI cable?

An HDMI cable (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is a digital interface that transmits both high-resolution video and audio in the best quality. It is used in most modern devices such as TVs, monitors, projectors, games consoles and home cinema systems.

Compared with older connections such as VGA or DVI, HDMI offers a single cable connection for audio and video signals, which makes setup easier and improves signal quality.

What are the advantages of an HDMI cable?

• High-resolution picture quality: Supports resolutions from Full HD to 8K
• Audio transmission: No separate audio cable needed
• Easy to use: Plug & play without complicated settings
• Wide compatibility: Works with almost all modern devices

If you want to buy an HDMI cable, you should make sure you choose the right HDMI version. In the next sections, you will find out more about the differences between HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.2.

Differences between HDMI versions

There are several HDMI versions, which differ in their features and transmission capacity. The most commonly used are HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.2. It is important to know the differences so you can choose the right cable for your device.

HDMI 2.0

HDMI 2.0 is the most common version for most modern devices. It supports resolutions of up to 4K at 60 Hz, which is sufficient for most TVs and monitors. It can also transmit High Dynamic Range (HDR) and multichannel audio.

HDMI 2.1

HDMI 2.1 is the most advanced version in widespread use today. It offers a much higher bandwidth of up to 48 Gbit/s, enabling the transmission of 8K video at 60 Hz or 4K at 120 Hz. It also supports advanced technologies such as eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which are particularly important for gaming.

HDMI 2.2

HDMI 2.2 is a newer version designed primarily for the 8K standard. It offers even higher bandwidth and therefore supports very high resolutions and frame rates. However, this version is not yet widespread, as 8K devices and content are still rare.

Key buying criteria for HDMI cables

1. HDMI cable length

Choosing the right length for your HDMI cable is crucial. A cable that is too short can make it difficult to position your devices, while a cable that is too long can cause unnecessary signal loss. Ideally, you should choose a cable that is just long enough to connect your device without putting unnecessary strain on the cable.

2. HDMI version

As explained in the previous section, the HDMI version plays a major role in choosing the right cable. HDMI 2.0 is ideal for 4K content, while HDMI 2.1 is required for 8K and high-resolution gaming. Make sure the cable supports the version that meets your requirements.

3. HDMI cable bandwidth

The bandwidth of an HDMI cable determines how much data it can transmit. A cable with higher bandwidth is better suited to high-resolution content (such as 4K and 8K) and higher refresh rates. HDMI 2.1 cables offer much higher bandwidth than HDMI 2.0 cables and are therefore the better choice for future applications.

4. Supported resolution and refresh rate

Another important criterion is support for resolutions and refresh rates. Make sure the cable is suitable for your device's resolution – whether Full HD, 4K or 8K. For gaming, the refresh rate is also crucial, as higher rates make for smoother gameplay.

5. HDMI cable certification

A certified HDMI cable ensures that the cable meets high quality standards. Make sure the cable bears an official "High Speed" or "Ultra High Speed" logo. These certifications guarantee optimum performance for modern devices and media playback.

6. Value for money

Price also plays a role. There are many HDMI cables in different price ranges, and you do not necessarily have to buy the most expensive cable to get good quality. Good value for money means a solid cable that meets your requirements without spending more than necessary.

The best HDMI cables for different applications

Depending on which devices you want to connect, there are different recommendations for HDMI cables. Here we present the best HDMI cables for different applications so that you always make the right choice.

1. Best HDMI cables for 4K TVs

For use with a 4K TV, we recommend HDMI 2.0 cables or higher. These cables support 4K resolutions at 60 Hz while delivering excellent colour reproduction and picture quality. Make sure the cable supports the necessary bandwidth of 18 Gbit/s so you can make the most of 4K resolution.

2. Best HDMI cables for gaming

If you are a gaming fan, you need an HDMI cable that supports high refresh rates and low latency. HDMI 2.1 cables are the best choice here, as they offer a high bandwidth of 48 Gbit/s and support resolutions of up to 4K at 120 Hz or 8K at 60 Hz. These cables also offer Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which are crucial for smooth, lag-free gameplay.

3. Best HDMI cables for home cinema systems

For home cinema systems, HDMI 2.1 cables are also the best choice, as they not only support high resolutions but can also transmit the latest audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio via eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel). These cables offer the bandwidth needed for crystal-clear picture and sound quality that takes your home cinema experience to a new level.

4. Best HDMI cables for 8K content

For the future of Ultra HD content, HDMI 2.1 cables are essential. These cables offer the bandwidth needed for 8K resolution at 60 Hz or 4K at 120 Hz. So if you have an 8K-capable device or plan to buy one in the near future, it is advisable to go for HDMI 2.1 now to stay future-proof.

5. Best HDMI cables for audio and video transmission

For a combination of excellent audio and video transmission, you should choose a cable that is optimised for both video resolutions and audio signals such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. HDMI 2.1 offers the best performance here, as it guarantees high bandwidth for both. It ensures your home cinema system performs at the highest level, both visually and acoustically.

Fibre optic HDMI cables

Fibre optic HDMI cables are a modern solution for transferring high-resolution audio and video signals over longer distances without loss of quality. These cables offer numerous advantages over conventional copper HDMI cables, especially when it comes to long transmission distances.

1. Advantages of fibre optic HDMI cables

• Longer distances: Fibre optic HDMI cables can bridge distances of up to 100 metres or more without the signal being affected. Compared with copper cables, which lose quality over longer distances, fibre optic cables deliver consistent performance.
• High bandwidth: Fibre optic HDMI cables support high bandwidths of up to 48 Gbit/s, making them ideal for transmitting 4K and 8K content with high refresh rates and extended colour modes.
• Interference-free: As fibre optic cables are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI), they are particularly well suited to devices operated in environments with strong interference (e.g. in large buildings or studios).
• Light and flexible: Fibre optic cables are much lighter and more flexible than conventional copper cables, which simplifies installation, especially when routing over longer distances.

2. Applications of fibre optic HDMI cables

Fibre optic HDMI cables are mainly used in environments where signals need to be transmitted over longer distances without loss of quality. They are perfect for:

• Professional home cinema systems
• Installations in large rooms or buildings
• Connections between device setups where the transmission distance is several metres (e.g. projectors, TVs, amplifiers)
• Streaming setups with 4K or 8K content

3. Differences from copper HDMI cables

The biggest difference between fibre optic and copper HDMI cables lies in the transmission technology. While copper cables use electrical signals for transmission, fibre optic HDMI cables transmit signals using light pulses carried through glass fibres. This means:

• Fibre optic HDMI cables offer a higher data rate and lower latency, especially over longer distances.
• Fibre optic cables are resistant to electromagnetic interference, which can impair quality with copper cables.
• Fibre optic HDMI cables are more expensive, but they are necessary for professional installations and particularly long distances.

4. When should you use a fibre optic HDMI cable?

A fibre optic HDMI cable is particularly useful if you want to transmit signals over long distances (10 metres or more) or need an interference-free connection. If you are setting up a home cinema with several devices or want to transmit a 4K/8K signal over long distances between a projector and TV, a fibre optic HDMI cable is the best choice.

5. Important note: check the connections on fibre optic HDMI cables

With fibre optic HDMI cables, it is particularly important to check you are using the right connections. These cables have different functions at each end – one end is intended for the display (screen/projector) and the other for the source (e.g. Blu-ray player or console). The ends are often labelled "Display" and "Source".

If the cable is connected the wrong way round, i.e. the "Display" end to the source and the "Source" end to the display, no picture will appear. You should therefore always make sure the cable is connected correctly to ensure error-free transmission.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a standard HDMI cable and a fibre optic HDMI cable?

The main difference lies in the transmission technology. Standard HDMI cables use copper wires to transmit the signal, while fibre optic HDMI cables use optical fibres. This enables lossless transmission over longer distances, which is why fibre optic cables are often preferred for installations covering long distances.

2. Can I use a fibre optic HDMI cable in any home cinema setup?

Yes, a fibre optic HDMI cable is ideal for home cinemas, especially if you have a long cable run (more than 10 metres) between the components. It is particularly useful if you are transmitting 4K or 8K content or have problems with signal interference.

3. How do I choose the right HDMI cable for my setup?

Choosing the right HDMI cable depends on several factors:

• Signal resolution: Make sure the cable supports the resolution you need (e.g. 4K, 8K).
• Distance: For longer distances, fibre optic HDMI cables are a good choice as they transmit the signal better.
• Bandwidth: If you stream HDR, high refresh rates or 3D content, choose an HDMI cable that supports the corresponding bandwidth.

4. Why is my screen not showing a picture even though everything is connected correctly?

If you are using a fibre optic HDMI cable and no picture is displayed, the cable may have been connected the wrong way round. Fibre optic HDMI cables usually have the connector for the source (e.g. Blu-ray player, console) at one end and the connector for the display (e.g. TV, projector) at the other. Make sure you connect the cable correctly – the display end must be connected to the screen and the source end to the source.

5. How long does a fibre optic HDMI cable last?

With proper use, a fibre optic HDMI cable can last for many years. Fibre optic cables are generally more robust than copper cables and do not wear out as quickly. They offer high reliability, especially when transmitting 4K and 8K content.

6. Can I use a fibre optic HDMI cable in a 1080p home cinema setup?

Yes, fibre optic HDMI cables are backwards compatible and can easily be used with 1080p devices. You benefit from the higher bandwidth and more stable transmission even if you are not streaming 4K or 8K content.

7. Do I need to reconfigure the fibre optic HDMI cable for each application?

No, a fibre optic HDMI cable does not need to be reconfigured. It is simply connected like a standard HDMI cable, and signal transmission takes place automatically. Just make sure you connect the cable correctly to ensure smooth transmission.

Personal advice and contact

Our experts will be happy to advise you on which HDMI cable is best suited to your home cinema or projector and which specifications you need to achieve the best picture and sound quality.