If you want to get the best out of your 4K or 8K TV, then you'll want to get the best HDMI cable. Not all HDMI cables are the same, and not all will work for 4K or 8K TVs, so it's good to know the differences between them all.
This article will help you choose the best 4K/8K HDMI cable for your TV. You will also learn what to look for when buying an HDMI cable and which cables work for a 120 Hz refresh rate.
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HDMI Cable Version for 4K/8K
You will need an HDMI cable meant for 4K 120 Hz and 8K TVs to handle the high resolution and refresh rate. HDMI 2.1 cables are best for this case since they can handle 4K up to 120 Hz and 8K up to 60 Hz
.
HDMI 2.1 is currently the latest version of HDMI cables, so you can't get a better HDMI cable than that. HDMI 2.0 cables can only handle 4K at 60 Hz but not 8K resolutions.
If you want to get the best cable for your setup, check out Our Recommended HDMI 2.1 Cables.
| 60 Hz | 120 Hz | 144 Hz | 240 Hz | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 1440p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 4K | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 8K | Yes | No | No | No |
Refresh Rate
Refresh rates, measured in Hertz (Hz), determine how well a TV can handle motion — the higher the refresh rate, the better.
Refresh rate is the number of times a display can redraw the screen. Refresh rate is measured in hertz (Hz), defined as one cycle per second. For example, a refresh rate of 120 Hz means that the screen will redraw 120 times each second. This means 120 Hz is twice as fast as 60 Hz, so any motion on the screen will be much smoother.
HDMI 2.1
HDMI 2.1 cables are upgraded from the HDMI 2.0 standard and have many significant upgrades compared to HDMI 2.0 cables. The main difference is that HDMI 2.1 added many additional features and improvements and increased data transfer speed.
In the table below are the main new features of HDMI 2.1 cables.
| HDMI 2.1 Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Increased Bandwidth | Adds support for 4K, 5K, 8K, 10K resolutions at 120 Hz. |
| Auto Low Latency Mode | Enables ideal latency setting to be set automatically. Allows smooth lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity. |
| Dynamic HDR | Lets a display alter the HDR metadata on a scene by scene or frame by frame basis. |
| Variable Refresh Rate | Eliminates stuttering and frame tearing in games. |
| Enhanced Audio Return Channel | Improves support of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio standards. |
| Quick Media Switching | Decreases the delay when switching video sources. |
| Quick Frame Transport | Reduces latency for smoother gaming without lag and real-time interactive VR. |
Types of HDMI Cables
There are also different types of HDMI cables made with different materials. There are HDMI cables made with copper and others made with fiber optic. Fiber optic HDMI cables are mainly made for reaching farther than standard copper HDMI cables while keeping the high speed of the HDMI 2.1 specifications.
Higher HDMI cable speeds can help with higher resolution displays and a fast refresh rate, improving motion quality. If you need an HDMI cable that needs to reach across a large room and have a 4K TV, then a fiber optic HDMI cable would be a good choice.
Cable Matters Certified 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 Cable
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Standard HDMI cables are made of copper and have limited ranges and speeds, which you can learn about below in the section: Max HDMI Cable Length.
If you'd rather use standard HDMI cables but still want to extend their reach, sometimes even farther than fiber optic HDMI cables, check out the section: How to Extend HDMI 2.0 Cables.
Qualities of HDMI Cables
The quality of HDMI cables can vary depending on the brand, cost, and type. If you get a very cheap cable, it can have a higher chance of breaking, having signal loss/
When buying an HDMI cable, you should buy one that has high-quality insulation in the cable, EMI (Electromagnetic interference) shielding, and a robust connector. While not all cables will advertise these qualities, it's good to keep these in mind. If it's a cheap cable, it's less likely to have higher-quality components.
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 (affiliate link).
- 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.
Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable (6.6 ft) Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
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 (affiliate link), 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.
Monoprice 8K 48Gbps Certified Braided Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 Cable Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
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 (affiliate link), 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.
Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
Max HDMI Cable Length
Each type of HDMI cable has a limitation of how long it can reach. There's no specific "max" length a cable can go, but a limitation from the material they're made with.
Most newer copper HDMI cables reach around 15 to 25 ft (5 to 7.5 m). HDMI cables made with fiber optic can reach much farther. On average, fiber optic HDMI cables can reach around 50 to 200 ft (15 to 60 m).
Below are the three types of copper HDMI cables with their average length limits and resolutions they can handle at their max cable length:
| 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, limiting the cable's length because it loses signal strength the farther it reaches. Signal loss can happen with cables made of other materials also. This signal loss (attenuation) is measured in decibels per distance—the greater the distance, the more signal loss.
The signal level may not be high enough if an HDMI cable is too long due to too much attenuation. If you need to support a longer distance, you'll need an extender, repeater, or fiber optic HDMI cable. Otherwise, you will need to find a way to use a shorter HDMI cable.
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/
| 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 (affiliate link).
- Extends up to 100 ft for 4K @ 60 Hz.
- Supports 6.0 Gb/s bandwidth with 3D transmission.
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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/
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 (affiliate link).
- 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).
ATZEBE Fiber Optic HDMI Cable Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
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 (affiliate link).
Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10.
Supports ARC (Audio Return Channel).
AV Access HDMI 2.0 Over Ethernet Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
To go along with the HDMI over Ethernet extender, I recommend the Cable Matters Snagless Long Shielded Cat6A Ethernet Cable on Amazon (affiliate link).
Cable Matters Snagless Long Shielded Cat6A Ethernet Cable Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
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 (affiliate link).
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.
AV Access Fiber Optic HDMI 2.0 Extender Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
I also recommend the Cable Matters Multimode Duplex OM3 Fiber Cable on Amazon (affiliate link) to go along with the HDMI over Fiber extender (for indoor use).
Cable Matters Multimode Duplex OM3 Fiber Cable Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link
Learn About TVs
Want to learn more about TVs? Check out the articles in my TV series:
- Best TV Display Types
- TV Resolution Explained - 8K UHD vs. 4K vs. QHD vs. FHD
- Choosing the Best TV for Your Room
- Best TV for Playing PlayStation 5 Games
- What Type of TV Is Best for Gaming?
- Ultimate Guide to Samsung QLED TVs
- Best Type of TV for Bright Rooms
- What Type of TV Has the Best Refresh Rate & Response Time?
- What Type of TV Has the Best Viewing Angle?
- Do LED TVs Have Backlight Bleed?
- How to choose the best soundbar for your TV
Learn About HDMI
Find answers to your HDMI questions by checking out the articles in my HDMI series:
- Is Wireless HDMI Good for Gaming?
- HDMI ARC vs. Bluetooth - Is ARC/eARC Better Than Bluetooth?
- How to Choose the Best HDMI Cable for a 4K or 8K TV
- Are HDMI Cables All the Same?
- Does HDMI 2.0 and 2.1 Support 120, 144, and 240 Hz?
- What Are HDMI ARC and eARC? Are HDMI ARC Cables Different?
- Are HDMI Switches & Splitters Any Good? Pros and Cons
- Are HDMI Cables Backward Compatible?
- HDMI 2.1 vs. 2.0 - Which Cable Type Do I Need?
- What Is Wireless HDMI? Is It Worth Buying vs. Cables?
- HDMI Over Fiber - How to Extend HDMI With Fiber-Optic Cable
- What Is a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable and Is It Worth Getting?
- How to Extend HDMI Cables Beyond Their Limits
- HDMI Over Ethernet - How to Extend HDMI With Cat 5e/6a
- Max Length of an HDMI Cable
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