There are many important factors to keep in mind before buying an HDMI cable. Ask us a few years ago and we’d say there’s no difference in audio or sound quality between the cheapest and most expensive HDMI cables, but today, that couldn’t be farther from the truth and it’s a cause for confusion for many. HDMI 2.0 vs. HDMI 2.1, what’s the difference?

When it comes to HDMI 2.0 cables, there are two main categories and only one has the ability to play 4K content. Both categories of HDMI also come with or without ethernet capabilities, meaning there’s technically four different types of HDMI 2.1 cable.

HDMI 2.1 is the most recent type of cable to hit the market, and with the arrival of smart TV’s, 8K resolution and Dolby Atmos it’s the new norm when it comes to HDMI cables. In basic terms, these cables support a range of higher video resolutions and refresh rates including [email protected] and [email protected] Dynamic HDR comes as standard, and bandwidth for streaming is increased from 18Gbps to 48Gbps. These cables are backwards compatible with older systems as well.

When it comes to comparing cables we recommend taking a look at the application for your cable. If you’re using the latest generation gaming console, 4K television, or monitor we recommend choosing an HDMI 2.1 cable. Here, you’ll be able to take full advantage of the screen, audio and refresh rates provided on these devices with streaming up to [email protected] (frames per second) as well as [email protected] Considering most televisions and monitors also feature Dolby Atmos, you’ll want to take advantage of this feature as well.

When you’re looking for a long HDMI 2.1 cable, look no further than the GTEK range. These cables come in a variety of lengths up to 5-metres long, feature uncompressed 8k video resolution at 60Hz refresh, and are also capable of supporting 4K UHD resolutions at 120hz with bandwidth up to 48Gbps. These are the best cables for Sony Playstation 5, Xbox Series X/S and modern graphics cards. This cable also features a lifetime warranty and a connection guarantee, with Ultra certified HDMI cable to back up its authentic certification mark.

The best value for money cable on this list, the UGREEN cable measures in at only a couple of feet in length but offers HDMI 2.1 support for next-generation gaming. Your console might come with a cable of this length, however, if you’re looking to run dual displays, soundbar or maybe just need a backup cable for another room this is the option for you.

If size matters, then Monoprice more than delivers, with seven different-length HDMI cables, from a baby 3-ft all the way up to a monster 30-ft. Rigorously tested, premium certified, and beautifully affordable, it can simultaneously relay dual video streams to a single display screen.

The Tripp Lite might be a fairly standard 6-ft HDMI cable, but that doesn’t mean it’s not one of the best. Backed by a lifetime warranty, it features gold-plated signal connectors for optimal transfer. Pair it with an Apple Digital AV adapter and it will support iPad video mirroring for games, videos, and presentations.

Between its braided cord, metallic finish, and gold-plated connectors, this 4-ft cable doesn’t just perform but looks downright sleek in the process. Use it to connect DVD players, Blu ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, streaming devices, cable boxes, DVR, game consoles, computers, and other HDMI-enabled devices to your TV, display monitor, and more.

Coming in at 6 feet, this is a sturdy and affordable option for those looking for a longer HDMI cable. Thanks to triple-layer shielding, it keeps the interference at bay while delivering an audiovisual experience of cinematic proportion. All those five-star reviews can’t be wrong.

It may sound like some kind of prison facility, but SecurOMax actually offers a rather extensive HDMI cable selection. Wrapping a braided cord over oxygen-free bare copper wiring, it also features 24k gold-plated shielded connectors. With 15 feet of length at its disposal, this superior cable leaves nothing to chance.

Ignoring the spec-heavy name (18gbps is the standard for high-speed HDMI cables), this cable is heavy-duty durable and also comes with a lifetime warranty. Compatible with just about everything, it reduces interference while delivering maximum performance.

Syncwire may be bucking the trend somewhat with a 6.5-ft cable, but this is one of the more aesthetically-pleasing HDMI cables on the market, if that kind of thing matters to you. For optimal conductivity, lightning-fast transmissions, broad compatibility, and minimal interference, accept no substitutes.

Looking like something out of an Avengers film, the iBirdie is one of the more robust longer cables available. Hook it up to your new 4K Ultra HD TV and prepare to immerse yourself in sight and sound alike. Put simply: the best HDMI cables don’t get any better.

Unlike the Syncwire, this is a bulkier beast, but boasts Belkin’s superior product quality. Use it on Apple TV 4K, HDTV, streaming devices, gaming consoles, Blu ray players, and projectors alike, getting nothing but smooth and seamless performance in return. That’s the Belkin way.

Like others on our list, this is a gold-plated (literally) and flexible mid-sized cable. Also like others, it’s broadly compatible and super durable. Providing extra peace of mind is an unconditional lifetime warranty.

In this day and age, an HDMI cable is as vital a household item as a toaster, so it’s no surprise Amazon sells its own model under their AmazonBasics range. As the name suggests, it’s pretty standard fare, coming in only one size (1.8m/6 feet), and offering 4K and UHD, 3D and audio return.