HDMI has long supplanted component and composite cables as the mainstream option for both video and audio devices. They offer a simple one-cable solution but picking out the right cable isn’t quite so easy.
Wide-Ranging Quality and Features
Even without going into the different formats available, the quality of different HDMI cables at the store can vary dramatically. The cables come in a variety of lengths, with designs fitting specific applications.
While many of the top cables are roughly the same, the cheapest options at the bottom have some serious quality issues.
What Exactly do HDMI Cables Do?
HDMI cables carry digital signals, as opposed to the analog signals of the antiquated yellow, white, and red connectors. The digital bits carried by the cables require consistent fidelity to properly transmit video and sound.
Dropped information can lead to complex issues when not delivered, unlike the simple static of previous technologies.
Avoiding Older Tech
The bottom of the bin HDMI cables are the same format that was originally introduced, standard HDMI. These cables can’t even handle full HD, and they aren’t going to be in any reputable big box stores.
Discount stores trying to offload old warehouse finds might carry these cables for as little as one dollar, but it just isn’t worth it. Always buy high-quality HDMI.
A Step in the Right Direction
An easier to find discount version is HDMI 1.4, a more recent format that can handle 4K up to 30 frames per second. This is obviously not what anyone with a 4K television is looking for and only suitable for 1080p applications.
The cheapest cables at most stores could be this type, a poor option for anyone looking for quality in their cable.
Modern Cables
The latest cables are HDMI 2.0 and 2.1, both suitable for most modern applications. HDMI 2.1 is the way to go with the latest gaming consoles, with 4K up to 120 frames per second. That being said, HDMI 2.0 still runs up to 60 frames per second at 4K.
The real point of contention between the two formats is whether the television has 2.0 or 2.1 ports, with many yet to adopt the newer format.
Cheap Cables Won’t Last
Anyone who thinks they’re saving money buying cheap cables will probably end up spending more in the long run. Quality cables last much longer, with better durability protecting the delicate wires inside.
Cheap cables inevitably have some wires break after repeated bending and adjusting, sending them straight to the trash.
Can you imagine any modern home theater system without an HDMI as your go-to cable – we can’t. Shop high-quality HDMI cables at PrimeCables.ca and connect a wide variety of devices to your flat-screen with ease, reliability, and sparklingly clear definition.