What Are HDMI ARC and eARC? Are HDMI ARC Cables Different?

Find out what HDMI ARC and eARC are all about and if HDMI ARC/eARC cables are different than other HDMI cables.

There are a lot of features like eARC included in HDMI cables nowadays, so you may be wondering what the difference is between cable types.

In this article, I will explain what ARC and eARC are and if HDMI ARC and eARC cables are different from most HDMI cables. I also have some recommended cables for using eARC in your setup.

What Are ARC and eARC?

ARC stands for Audio Return Channel, while eARC stands for enhanced Audio Return Channel.

ARC allows audio to be returned from a TV to an audio receiver over an HDMI cable. Usually, this would require another cable from an audio receiver to your TV. The HDMI cable can still be used for video from a receiver to a TV while also sending audio from the TV to a receiver when using ARC.

HDMI ARC Uses

ARC is usually used to send audio from a TV if you have a smart TV with built-in apps like Netflix or Youtube, antenna TV, or even audio from other HDMI sources plugged into the TV.

Since ARC allows audio and video to send through the same cable, it's an excellent way to keep your setup cleaner with only one cable instead of both an HDMI cable and audio cable.

How Is HDMI eARC Different?

HDMI eARC was added in the HDMI 2.1 specification to transmit high-quality audio from a TV to an AV receiver or soundbar.

Unlike original ARC support, eARC adds extra bandwidth and speed for audio that uses more data, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based audio formats, along with other formats like DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD.

HDMI eARC also supports up to 32 audio channels with 24 bit / 192 kHz uncompressed data up to 38 Mb/s. Original ARC only supported 1 Mb/s speed.

Are HDMI ARC Cables and Ports Different?

HDMI ARC is supported in HDMI 1.4 and newer HDMI versions, while eARC is only supported in HDMI 2.1 cables. Since ARC is part of the standards and specifications of those HDMI versions, there are no different HDMI cables specifically with or without ARC support.

Most TVs nowadays support ARC but may not support eARC if it's an older TV. If you're considering using eARC, you will either have to test and see if it works or look at the specifications of your TV to see if it supports eARC audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS-HD Master Audio, or Dolby TrueHD.

HDMI ARC With an HDMI Extension

While HDMI ARC is supported in most HDMI cables, some extensions methods don't support ARC. This means, even if an HDMI cable says it supports ARC, it still might not work if the way you extend an HDMI cable doesn't support it.

For example, if you extend your HDMI connection with an HDMI repeater or HDMI over fiber optical extender, those methods most likely won't support using ARC. If you want other ways to extend an HDMI cable, you can either use a fiber optic HDMI cable or HDMI over Ethernet extender

Which HDMI Cable Type Should You Get?

Since HDMI 2.1 is backward compatible with older HDMI versions, it's probably best to buy an HDMI 2.1 cable for future-proofing. You will ensure that you'll get the most out of your display without worrying about which one to buy. HDMI 2.1 is also needed for devices that support eARC, for better quality audio to soundbars and audio receivers. If you want to make it even easier, be sure to check out Our Recommended HDMI 2.1 Cables below.

With that said, to get all of the features and speed increase, be sure to check if your display and device (PCs, game consoles, etc.) both support HDMI 2.1 and its features.

Keep in mind that HDMI cables can only go up to specific lengths. If you want a very long HDMI cable, you may need to go with HDMI 2.0 instead and follow one of these HDMI extension methods.

Our Recommended HDMI 2.1 Cables

Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable

After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable offers exceptional performance and a range of impressive features.
You can find the Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable (6.6 ft) on Amazon
With a bandwidth of 48 Gb/s, it supports high-resolution formats like 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, and chroma 4:4:4 (no compression), all while delivering stunning Dynamic HDR.
Additionally, it boasts support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for enhanced audio transmission. It is compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS X 7.1, and DTS X 5.1 surround sound.
We have found that the Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable offers an excellent solution for those seeking top-notch performance and compatibility. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated enthusiast, this cable delivers the reliability and quality necessary to elevate your home entertainment experience.

Monoprice 8K Certified Braided HDMI 2.1 Cable

After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Monoprice 8K certified braided HDMI 2.1 cable offers exceptional performance and a range of impressive features.
You can find the Monoprice 8K Certified Braided HDMI 2.1 Cable on Amazon , available in lengths ranging from 6 to 10 feet.
With a bandwidth of 48 Gb/s, it supports high-resolution formats like 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, and uncompressed video resolutions, all while delivering stunning Dynamic HDR and 3D visuals.
Additionally, it boasts support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for enhanced audio transmission. It is compatible with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and DTS X surround sound.
We have found that the Monoprice 8K certified braided HDMI 2.1 cable offers an excellent solution for those seeking top-notch performance and compatibility. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated enthusiast, this cable delivers the reliability and quality necessary to elevate your home entertainment experience.

Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 Cable

After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable offers exceptional performance and a range of impressive features.
You can find the Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable on Amazon , available in lengths ranging from 16.4 to 49.2 feet.
With a bandwidth of 48 Gb/s, it supports high-resolution formats like 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and and chroma 4:4:4 (no compression), all while delivering stunning Dolby Vision HDR (10 bit/12 bit color depth).
Additionally, it boasts support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for enhanced audio transmission. It is compatible with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and DTS X surround sound.
After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable surpasses expectations, providing an unrivaled solution for those seeking top-notch performance and compatibility. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated enthusiast, this cable delivers reliability and exceptional quality that will elevate your home entertainment experience to new heights.

Max HDMI Cable Length

Each type of HDMI cable has a limitation on how far it can reach. There's no official "max" length specified in HDMI standards, but there is a practical limitation based on the materials used and the bandwidth requirements.

Most passive copper HDMI cables reliably reach around 10 to 25 ft (3 to 7.5 m) depending on the HDMI version and resolution. Newer HDMI 2.1 cables supporting 48Gbps typically max out at 10 to 15 ft (3 to 4.5 m), while older HDMI 2.0 cables can reach 15 to 25 ft (4.5 to 7.5 m). HDMI cables made with fiber optic technology can reach much farther. On average, active optical HDMI cables can extend from 50 to 300 ft (15 to 90 m) or more.

Below are the three types of copper HDMI cables with their average length limits and resolutions they can handle at their max cable length:

Max Length of Copper HDMI Cables
Type	Max Cable Length	Speed	Supported Resolutions
Standard HDMI	49 ft (15 m)	< 10 Gb/s	720p 60 Hz \| 1080i 60 Hz
High Speed HDMI	15–25 ft (5–7.5 m)	18 Gb/s	1080p 60 Hz \| 4K 30 Hz
Ultra High Speed HDMI	10–15 ft (3–5 m)	48 Gb/s	4K \| 5K \| 8K \| 10K 120 Hz

Why HDMI Cables Have a Max Length

Most HDMI cables are made of copper, which limits the cable's length because the signal loses strength the farther it travels. Signal loss can occur with cables made of other materials as well. This signal loss (called attenuation) is measured in decibels per distance. The greater the distance, the more signal loss occurs.

Higher bandwidth requirements also reduce maximum cable length. HDMI 2.1 cables supporting 48Gbps (for 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz) experience more attenuation than older HDMI 2.0 cables. The recently released HDMI 2.2 specification in June 2025 doubles the bandwidth to 96Gbps, which will require even more careful cable design for longer runs.

If an HDMI cable is too long, the signal level may not be high enough due to excessive attenuation, resulting in visual artifacts, audio dropouts, or complete signal loss. For longer distances, an HDMI extender, repeater, or active optical cable is needed. Otherwise, a shorter HDMI cable should be used.

How to Extend HDMI 2.0 Cables

Short-range extension: HDMI repeater.
Medium-range extension: Fiber optic HDMI cable or HDMI over Ethernet
Long-range extension: HDMI over fiber extender.

HDMI Repeater

An HDMI repeater extends the connection for shorter runs by connecting two HDMI cables and amplifies the signals for better transmission.

Determining the max length when using a repeater depends on the HDMI repeater and the HDMI cable type, but I give the average ranges below. Remember that HDMI repeaters are directional, so be sure to use the device's correct input/output sides.

HDMI Repeater Range
Resolution	Length
4K @ 60 Hz	60–100 ft (18–30 m)
4K @ 30 Hz	100–130 ft (30–40 m)
1080p @ 60 Hz	135–195 ft (40–60 m)

To be safe, assume a repeater can reach only the shorter end of those ranges.

I recommend the JerGO HDMI 2.0 Repeater on Amazon
Extends up to 100 ft for 4K @ 60 Hz.
Supports 6.0 Gb/s bandwidth with 3D transmission.

Fiber Optic HDMI Cable

Fiber optic HDMI cables are like standard HDMI cables but made with optical fiber inside the cable and meant for farther distances up to 164 ft (50 m) for 4K @ 60 Hz.

These cables aren't meant to be used with an extender, repeater, or switch and should be used alone. They also must be installed in the correct direction, with the output/display label connecting to the side with the display.

Learn more about fiber optic HDMI cables in my article: What Is a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable and Is It Worth Getting?.

I recommend the ATZEBE Fiber Optic HDMI Cable on Amazon
Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10 and Dolby Vision.
Comes in lengths ranging from 6 to 164 ft (2 to 50 meters).
Supports ARC (Audio Return Channel).

HDMI Over Ethernet Extender

The HDMI over Ethernet extender is similar to an HDMI over fiber optic extender but uses an Ethernet cable for a shorter extension. An HDMI over Ethernet extender can extend the connection up to 130 ft (40 m) for 4K @ 60 Hz or 230 ft (70 m) for 1080p.

Learn more about HDMI over Ethernet in my article: HDMI Over Ethernet - How to Extend HDMI With Cat 5e/6a.

I recommend the AV Access HDMI 2.0 Over Ethernet on Amazon
Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10.
Supports ARC (Audio Return Channel).
To go along with the HDMI over Ethernet extender, I recommend the Cable Matters Snagless Long Shielded Cat6A Ethernet Cable on Amazon

HDMI Over Fiber Extender

An HDMI over Fiber extender uses an optical fiber cable to transmit the data to reach a much farther distance. You could use an HDMI over Fiber extender to extend the connection up 1,000 to 3,300 ft (300 to 1000 meters) for 4K @ 60 Hz.

Learn more about HDMI over fiber in my article: HDMI Over Fiber - How to Extend HDMI With Fiber-Optic Cable.

I recommend the AV Access Fiber Optic HDMI 2.0 Extender on Amazon
Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10.
Supports multi-channel PCM, Dolby, and DTS HD audio supported up to 7.1.
Supports bi-directional IR pass-through.
I also recommend the Cable Matters Multimode Duplex OM3 Fiber Cable on Amazon to go along with the HDMI over Fiber extender (for indoor use).

Learn About TVs

Want to learn more about TVs? Check out the articles in my TV series:

Learn About HDMI

Find answers to your HDMI questions by checking out the articles in my HDMI series: