Best HDMI Cables For 2024

HDMI cables are the established standard for connecting modern AV components. They provide a reliable connection that carries both digital video and audio. Whenever a new video standard is introduced, HDMI specifications are sure to follow. HDMI 2.1 is the current state-of-the-art HDMI specification than encompasses 8K as well as high frame rate 4K, dynamic HDR, eARC and more.

While you specifically need a HDMI 2.1 capable display and source to leverage what the standard offers, when it comes to the actual cables there is no such thing as a "HDMI 2.1 cable". Instead, what you've got is cables that either can or cannot pass the full bandwidth needed for whatever HDMI standard is in use. The bandwidth capacity of an HDMI cable is determined by a combination of factors that include cable type (passive vs. active, copper vs. optical) and the cable length, with shorter HDMI cables typically handling higher bandwidth without issue.

HDMI Cable Types: Passive vs. Active

Passive HDMI is what most consumers have encountered. Passive HDMI cables are made from copper and their bandwidth drops the longer they get. In a 4K or 8K system, this means that a 3-foot or 6-foot cable might work perfectly, but a 25-foot cable from the same brand might have a harder time of it. Due to these factors, it is often the case that short HDMI cables do not need to be "upgraded" in order to handle higher resolutions and frame rates. Nevertheless, you'll find some cables are certified to meet a particular performance standard. If you want to take the guesswork out of choosing an HDMI cable, certification helps.

Active HDMI cables are useful for longer runs, like you'd encounter in a home theater. They are available in both copper and fiber-optic varieties. With active HDMI cables, you do have to ensure the cable is rated to handle the resolution/bandwidth required for the application. You can achieve far longer runs with active HDMI than with passive (1000 feet is achievable) and the fiber-optic variety has the added benefit of being very thin.

What to look for when shopping HDMI cables

• Ensure the cable supports the maximum bandwidth you need
• For 4K, look at "High Speed" HDMI cables
• For 8K, shop "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cables
• For longer runs (but even as short as 10 feet) consider active/optical HDMI
• Look for an in-wall rating if that's part of your installation
• Keep the length of passive/copper HDMI cables as short as possible
• Look for cables certified to handle the bandwidth you need