HDMI cables are generally used for critical connections, such as carrying high-quality video and audio signals. So you have to make sure that it can work without any problem and the whole setup will successfully work. While doing this, you may think that does the length of HDMI cables is going to have an effect on the quality? So does the length of HDMI cables really matter?
Yes. The length of an HDMI cable may harm the quality of the signal. Most manufacturers usually recommend not to extend the cable more than 20 feet. While most people won’t need to extend the cable more than 6 feet at a time, but if you need to run HDMI further than that, you would be grateful to know that there is a way to do that while keeping the signal quality.
What is the Max Optimal Length for an HDMI Cable?
You might know that there are many solutions to your question out there, but all of them aren’t so clear at all. If you do not get the full details, then that would not be useful at all. At first, you should know that HDMI actually means the specification of a cable. That specification has a certain amount of tests you can use to see if a cable passes or fails the certification for the cable spec. So you can use any cable to test and see if they work with the spec.
You should also know why a cable fails the specification tests. HDMI uses optical cables. So the longer the cable is, the more the signal has to change while traveling. And the degradation of the signal, while it travels down the cable, is a usual affair. So using a short cable is obviously a good thing than using a long cable.
Many manufacturers will sell clear HDMI cables up to 50 feet in length, but you should displace them when you start to notice they’re degenerating. You should not buy an HDMI cable with a length of more than 50 feet. If you get any degraded signal, that does not mean that the cable will stop working. It’s just that the signal on the other end of the cable gets worse and worse. Most manufacturers recommend not extending the cable more than 20 feet if you do not have any extra power solution. So though there is no maximum length is determined, so you should think of 20 feet as the maximum optimal length.
Powered HDMI Cable Solutions – How to Resolve Cable Length Issues
- 𝐌𝐀𝐗𝐈𝐌𝐔𝐌 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐖𝐈𝐃𝐓𝐇 𝐔𝐏 𝐓𝐎 𝟔.𝟕𝟓 𝐆𝐁𝐏𝐒 - HDMI Over Ethernet Extender Support HDMI 1.4 & 1.3 signal /deep color 36bit/xv-YCC/1080p 24fs/DTS-HD.v-YCC/1080p 24fs/DTS-HD.
- 𝐄𝐗𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐃 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎 𝐒𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐂𝐄 𝐔𝐏 𝐓𝐎 150𝐅𝐓 - For 150ft transmit distance via CAT6/CAT7 LAN cable. For 165ft transmit distance via CAT5e cable. Zero Video Latency. NOTE: We recommend using direct HDMI to HDMI connections, avoid using signal converters or adapters at all costs.
- 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 𝐕𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐓𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐒 - HDCP 1.2/1.4 ; 1080P/1080i/720P/576P/576i/480P/480i; 3D video supported
- 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐑 & 𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐈𝐎 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 - 36bit(CAT7); 24bit(CAT6); Supports 2-channel PCM audio only. Supports Dolby Digital / DTS pass through if copied EDID from right display devices.
- 𝐎𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐈𝐙𝐄𝐃 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 - For better picture quality and longer distance transfer, we recommend to use Cat 6 or Cat 7 cable. For better performance, we suggest using solid COPPER ethernet cable with this product. For GUARANTEED optimal performance, use the J-Tech Digital Customized 150ft Cat6 Ethernet Cable. Please search the JTD-ID 943 on our website for more details.
The longer the HDMI cable is, the more bad your Video and Audio quality will be. So you can ask that what if you have to use a longer cable? Or is there any way to enlarge the cable without affecting the media quality?
If you do not really care about the quality, if you do not want your cable to play 4k video to a high-end projector or TV, you can easily use a longer cable. It will obviously get the job done without any problem, though the quality will not be that good.
But if the quality of the signal really matters to you, then you can buy and use a powered HDMI kit that extends the signal properly by boosting it or converting it to another format entirely. The most general way to do that is to convert the signal and boost it with a balun kit or use a wireless kit ant kick the cable off your system.
HDMI Balun Kits – Easily Extend the Length of HDMI Cables
- ✔ COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION - Extends HDMI audio/video signals over a cost effective CAT6/7 cable up to 165ft. Use gofanco pure COPPER CAT6 cables to ensure reliable performance: Search CAT6UTP-100 (B07PB3R8BK) / CAT6UTP-150 (B07P6TDMLH)
- ✔ HDMI LOSSLESS TRANSMISSION - It extends HDMI audio/video signals to synchronous output. Video display is as fluent as direct connection; Supports 480i/480p/720p/1080p at 60Hz video resolutions and 2-channel stereo audio; Compatible with HDCP compliant devices & content
- ✔ HDMI LOOP-OUT - Additional HDMI output on the Transmitter to connect to a local display for monitoring or cascade HDMI signals; Supports EDID pass-through. *Note: Monitors connected to the HDMI Loop-out and the Receiver unit will display the same resolution. The lowest common resolution will be used if there’s a mismatch in display resolution
- ✔ IR REMOTE CONTROL- Allow source device to recognize remote commands; You can control the HDMI source device at a secondary location with the included IR cables that forward commands over a CAT6 cable for convenience
- ✔ SIMPLE INSTALLATION - No driver required; Surface mountable metal housing provides durability and minimizes EMI/RFI noise interference. FCC, CE & RoHS compliant. Our products are backed with a 1-year limited warranty and experienced tech support team in Silicon Valley. Please click on gofanco in the buy box and select “Ask a Question” if you have any questions or concerns.
Using an HDMI balun kit is one of the easiest ways to extend the HDMI cable length. This kit converts the HDMI signal to something that can flow along a CAT 5 cable, which doesn’t have the same length limitations, and at the end of the cable, the signal is again converted back to HDMI.
The CAT 5 cable comes with a “maximum” length of 100 meters or 328 feet. So you can easily enlarge the length of an HDMI connection and take it wherever you want with the help of an HDMI balun kit.
But you should remember that not every HDMI balun kit works great. If you buy a cheap quality balun kit, then you may face the same issues as using a long HDMI cable.
Wireless HDMI Kits – A Different Solution for Cable Length Issues
- Transmits high definition video and audio up to 150ft
- Supports resolutions of up to 1080P @ 60fps
- Supports infrared (IR) remote signal transmission to control source device
- Plug-n-play solution. Hdmi 1. 3V and HDCP compliant. Wpa security protection - already paired
- Perfect applications are for the living room, patio, man/lady cave, supporting events, garage. Video streaming up to 10. 2 Gaps
There is also another path that you can use. You use a wireless HDMI kit instead of an HDMI balun kit. This does not only increase the range, but also it saves you from the hassle of cables. But it can be costly if you want to send a 4k video. But if you’re only running a 1080p setup, then it will not be that much expensive. In this system, you will face some limitations with refresh rate and lag; that’s why we do not recommend it for gaming purposes.
Best HDMI Cables to Use for Long Distance Runs
- ➤ High Speed 4K HDR HDMI: This cable supports HDMI 2.0b including upto 18Gbps high bandwidth (600 MHz Refresh Rate), Mirror & Extend mode, Ultra HD 4K 30Hz, HD 2K 1080p, QHD 1440p, HDCP 2.2, 48 bit/px HDR color depth, Audio Return(ARC), 3D,Ethernet,Dolby TrueHD 7.1 and hot plugging
- ➤ Heightened Viewing Experience: Supports HDMI 2.0 standard and backwards compatible with HDMI standards . Enjoy unparalleled video quality, crisp and accurate sound with no lag
- ➤ Unmatched Quality: The cable has 24 AWG copper wire and triple shielding . 24K Gold-plated full metal jacket connectors resist corrosion while maximizing stable signal strength. Can withstand over 25,000+ bend lifespans
- ➤ Universal Compatibilty: Compatible with all of HDMI devices like Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, XBox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, laptop, monitor, projector etc. Perfect for home and office use
- ➤ Lifetime Warranty: BlueRigger cables are backed by a lifetime warranty and US-based customer support. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns
Still, suppose you want to use an extended HDMI cable without having any external converter units or trying out wireless. In that case, you can use some special cables that are specialized for getting a clearer signal. But these cables are not so cheap though they are affordable. You can find most of them for under $100.
For your help, the BJC Series-FE Bonded-Pair HDMI Cable is available on Amazon with a length of 25 feet, and you can get them for around 75 dollars. Many sellers are selling fake cables. So always make sure to check the details before you buy and look for sellers who individually call out that their cable is “Certified (Category 1)”. It actually means they pass all the tests required in the HDMI standard that we already have talked about in the earlier part of this article.
On the other hand, cables like the BlueRigger High-Speed HDMI Cable (on Amazon) are available with a length of 50 feet, and you can get them for only 28 dollars. So if you do not want to get high-quality and little high-priced cables like the BJC series, then you can get one of these cables and get your work done. It will be best for you to order both of them and test them out. If you do not see any difference between them, send back the expensive one.
A Note on What Matters When Buying Cables
If you have ever had a quick search on amazon about HDMI cables, then you may know that there are more acronyms than words in the description of a cable. That’s why sometimes you may not understand some features that are provided by the cable.
You will see most of the sellers are selling cables at a premium rate for “gold connectors” or “braided cords,” but you should know that these labels actually do not really matter to the signal; they are just for show and to pump the price up. You can also see some sellers use the word “advanced” or “high speed” in the title of their cables, but these are not technical descriptions; these are only for marketing.
Some of the manufacturers even add an “HD” label on their products, which is also a different thing. Because all HDMI cables are HD, so it is not a special feature. So you should look for “4k” tags if you need 4k. You should also look for shielded cables because these cables work better than unshielded, but it can be a little confusing. Because actually, all cables are shielded, but some manufacturers add extra shielding.
Best Seller List of HDMI Cable:
- IN THE BOX: HDMI cable (A Male to A Male) for connecting 2 HDMI-enabled devices; 3 feet long in Black
- DEVICE COMPATIBLE: Connects Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and computers to TVs, displays, A/V receivers, and more
- SUPPORTS 4K VIDEO: Supports 4K video at 60 Hz, 2160p, 48-bit/px color depth, as well as bandwidth up to 18Gbps, Ethernet, 3D, and Audio Return Channel (ARC)
- EASY CONNECTION: Share an Internet connection among multiple devices (no need for a separate Ethernet cable)
- BACKWARDS COMPATIBLE: Works with earlier versions to allow for use with a wide range of HDMI-enabled devices
- IN THE BOX: (1) 3-foot 8K 48Gbps HDMI cable for transmitting video and audio signals from source to display
- DEVICE COMPATIBLE: Connects tablets, laptops, and other host devices to projectors, video conference systems, HDTV, monitors, and more
- SUPPORTS 4K VIDEO & MORE: Supports Ethernet, 3D, 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz video, and Audio Return Channel (ARC); 48Gbps bandwidth
- DURABLE DESIGN: Flexible and durable PVC cable; gold-plated HDMI connector resists corrosion and abrasion and enhances the signal transmission performance
- PLUG & PLAY DESIGN: This plug and play cable removes the need for complicated drivers or setup time
- 4K HDMI Cable: Male to Male HDMI Cable Supports 4K Video @ 60Hz, 2K, 1080P, 48 bit/px HDR color depth, TrueHD 7.1, Audio Return Channel (ARC) & Ethernet
- Premium Quality HDMI Cable: This HDMI cable has 30WG copper wire, triple tin shielded in a double braided premium nylon with gold plated corrosion resistant connectors for guaranteed top tier image & sound
- Full Compatibility: Ultra high speed 4K HDMI cable supports 18Gbps transfer and is backwards compatible with earlier versions of HDMI cable (1.3/1.4/2.0/2.0a) NOT for 8K
- Universal HDMI Cable: Works with all of your HDMI devices. Compatible with Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS5, PS4, XBox One, Nintendo Switch, computer, laptop, monitor, projector and more. An essential HDMI cable for all of your home & office devices
- 10 Feet 1 Pack: One 10 ft HDMI cables (3 meters) thickness 0.24 inches (6 mm)
- Certified UHD 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable: Highwings Certified 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, is compatible with 8K@60HZ and 4K@120HZ, clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source
- Upgrade Revolution-HDMI 2.1:Highwings HDMI Cable 6ft conforms to the standard HDMI 2.1 version, its transmission speed has a qualitative leap from 18Gbps to 48Gbps (6GB/s) directly, there will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video
- High-Quality Materials:This 6ft HDMI Cable uses the most popular classic style, The upgraded strength of the aluminum alloy shell and the tail's anti-bending design make it more durable.The military grade tensile nylon material greatly extends its life
- Design For Game Enthusiasts: This HDMI cord can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120Hz and 8K@60Hz. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU, elevate gaming experience to a whole new level
- The Ultimate Perfectionist: Every HDMI cable even every part has been put through rigorous testing. We've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K HDMI cable, after pass the performance tests in the laboratory and you get a perfect HDMI cable 2-pack
- 🚀[Upgrade Revolution-HDMI 2.1 ]: Green Jiss 8k hdmi 2.1 cable is complies with the HDMI 2.1 standard and is the highest version currently in the world. Compared with the previous version hdmi 2.0, its transmission speed has made a qualitative leap, directly from 18Gbps to 48Gbps. What's more, The HDMI 2.1 cable contains and upgrades all the functions of the previous HDMI version, and is fully compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/2.0/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 version.
- 🚀[ Real 8K@60HZ HDMI Cable ]: This 8K HDMI cable uses the most cutting-edge technology to accurately process every signal particle and clearly display every signal source, transfer at lightning speed. It can achieve a resolution of 7680x4320, supports high frequency 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, 8K unique and upgraded HDR, EARC, VRR and 12-bit color processing technology, and has a higher level of improvement in audio and color, video Scenes, 3D scenes are more realistic!
- 🚀[ High-end material-High quality & Durable ]: The cable core is made of 30AWG tinned copper. The interface is made of 24K gold-plated, stable transmission, and will not oxidize. Super strong frequency blocking effect, excellent high-frequency transmission. The ultra high speed hdmi cable 2.1 is made with braided and high-strength cotton mesh to wrap the interior PVC tightly. Anti-bending tail design, breaking test 25000+, durable and fashionable
- 🚀[ Universal Compatibility ]: Compatible with all of your HDMI devices. Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS5, PS4, XBox One, Nintendo Switch, computer, laptop, monitor, projector and more. make the game smoother, no tearing, no stuttering, no dislocation, Indispensable hdmi cables for home and office equipment.
- 🚀[Strict Quality Control] Green Jiss HDMI 8K cables are manufactured with strict quality control standards. Every cable and even every part has been put through rigorous testing. We've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K HDMI cable. Then pass the performance tests in the laboratory and present them to you after passing the exam.
- Certified HDMI 2.1 Version: This hdmi cable fully complies with the strict HDMI LA requirements and carries the official certification label on the package. Snowkids hdmi cord also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 version
- Supports 8K Video and More: This hdmi to hdmi cable supports 3D, Ethernet, 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, 2K, 1080P, 48Gbps bandwidth, 48 bit/px HDR color depth, TrueHD 7.1 and new features such as eARC, VRR, QFT, QMS, ALLM, DSC, and more
- Universal Compatiblility: The 8k hdmi cable is compatible for all of HDMI devices, e.g., HDTV, Laptop, Monitor, PS5, Xbox, Projector, Entertainment/Sound/Video Conference System, Blu-ray players, and more. Fits for home and office, indoor and outdoor
- Durable Design: The SR Flexible Strength Design, 24K gold-plated ports and military-grade tensile nylon can ensure that this 8k hdmi cord withstand up to 25,000 flex times and accurately transmits signals, greatly extending use life
- Strict Quality Control: Our HDMI 2.1 cables have been put through rigorous performance tests in the laboratory before delivery. One 10 foot 8K HDMI cable in the box
- Top Technology----8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, is compatible with 8K@60HZ and 4K@120HZ, clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source.
- Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
- For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
- Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
- The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.
- HDMI 2.1 Cable: With a 48 Gbps bandwidth, this cable supports 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, and 2K@240Hz, along with enhanced Audio Return (eARC), HDCP 2.2, 48-Bit Deep Color, 21:9 aspect ratio, offering a top-tier audio-visual experience
- 4K@120Hz Experience: Achieve exceptional clarity and fluidity with VRR, ALLM, QFT, QMS support, and highest specification signal transmission of 4K 120FPS 12bit RGB4:4:4:4, delivering the highest specifications for immersive movie watching and gaming
- Fit for Various Devices: Perfect for all HDMI enabled devices such as TV's, PS5, PS4, PS3, Xbox Series X/S, Monitors, Computers, Displays or Projectors, and more; this cable suits home theaters, gaming setups, and professional environments
- Robust and Reliable: Built with a nylon-braided jacket and 24K gold-plated connectors, this cable offers a durable design with a 25,000+ bend lifespan, ensuring long-term reliability
- Backward Compatible: Supports all HDMI versions (2.1, 2.0, and so on) and features tinplate metal shielding and gold-plated connectors to reduce interference and ensure stable signal transmission
- 4k HD HDMI Cable: Innovative 4K HDMI Cable,built with gold-plated connectors to ensure high-speed and flawless signal transmission,4K*2K Ultra HD technology with resolution up to 3840 x 2160 @ 60 Hz for enjoying full HD crystal-clear TV sound quality.
- High Speed 18Gbps Data Capacity: Highwings HDMI 2.0 Cable transmits the data onto the speed up to 18Gbps of bandwidth. Transmit audio,video and photos at lightning speed without having to wait for buffering.Plug and play without preinstalling drivers.
- Newest Technology: Highwings HDMI 2.0 Cable meets the latest standard HDMI 2.0 Version,which has been tested and certified,Designed perfectly for all devices with HDMI 2.0 standard as well as being backwards compatible with previous HDMI 1.4 , 1.3 & 1.2.
- High-quality Materials: We have improved our craft constantly and adopt a unique SR joint design at both ends to effectively prevent joint cracking,Can withstand more than 15,000 bends in strict laboratory test,easy-grip design make interfacing a breeze.
- The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.
- Top Technology 8K@60Hz: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 3ft uses the most cutting-edge technology, is compatible with 8K@60HZ and 4K@120Hz; With 8K HDMI's unique dynamic HDR and 12 Bit color processing technology
- HDMI 2.1 HDCP 2.2: MT-VIKI Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) as specified in HDMI 2.1; Also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions
- For Game Enthusiasts:This 8K Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable can break through 4K and achieve 8K@60Hz ultra-high image quality. It can also achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120Hz
- Reinforced high-quality materials: 8K HDMI Cord uses a new smart chip, aluminum alloy shell,anti-bending design cord,24K gold-plated connectors, pure-copper core; The military-grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life
- Package Contents: Your purchase includes an Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable
Related Questions:
I think all the given information will help you to set up a great home theater. But here is one more question that you may have before you buy anything:
Does the HDMI quality even matter?
If you really want to use a long, simple HDMI cable, then there’s at least a possibility that you don’t need to worry about any of this. Its quality will always be a little degraded. However, the signal will be degraded. But if you want to play 720p or 1080p video and stream from Netflix, then you will not face that much problem.
If you buy and use top of a line 4k projector, then you will feel that the video quality is really good. But there a question comes that how you’re going to use your system? There are many solutions, including expensive options that will provide you higher quality, but before you buy them, we recommend you to think and consider if you really need them or not.
-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.
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Last update on 2024-09-15
