5 Types of HDMI Cables – Which One Do I Choose?

Find the Proper HDMI Cable Type

Purchasing an HDMI cable can be confusing because there are so many on the market, so it’s important to understand exactly what type of cable you need as well as the specific cable requirements of the equipment you own and wish to connect. HDMI ConnectorsTechnology continues to produce smarter TVs, so that cable requirements, features and characteristics change too.

High Speed HDMI Cables

An HDMI cable is meant to connect HDMI compatible devices to each other such as home theater devices including HDTV receivers, a/v receivers and HD DVD players for example. Audio and visual data is transferred within the one cable at resolutions of up to 1080p. This is the most basic of available cable types and currently one of the most common.

High speed HDMI with Ethernet Cables

The speed transfer is higher with these cables because of the Ethernet capability which will allow you to share web browsing across multiple devices. Resolution can be up to 4 times faster than those required for 1080p, refresh rates are faster, gaming is faster and it will also support Deep Color. These cables are great for gamers.

HDMI Cables for In-Wall Installations

There are times when you will need to run a cable through a wall and to maintain audio and visual quality should be UL certified. These cables are usually very high speed as well so that picture and sound quality are not compromised. They can sometimes come with an Ethernet capability as well and provide locational installation flexibility.

3D Compatible HDMI Cables

This cable is a good example of where TV technology has surged ahead and cables have had to catch up. If you have a 3DTV you will need a 3D compatible cable and they fall under the newest 1.4 standard. These cables are high speed and Ethernet enabled as well as being forward compatible with likely imminent technological advances.

Micro HDMI Cables

A micro HDMI cable is a purpose specific cable and is designed to allow you to show videos and photos which you have taken with your phone, on another HDTV HDMI compatible device. One end of the cable will have a regular HDMI connector and the other will be ‘micro’ sized so as to connect to your phone.

You should purchase the HDMI cable which is going to be compatible with the equipment you own in order to achieve the best results. This is the key to deciding which cable to purchase, so if you have a 3D TV you will need an HDMI cable which is 3D compatible and because it falls under the new 1.4 standard, will also be forwards compatible – for awhile at least.

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