How to Split an HDMI Signal to Multiple Displays

HDMI splitters (and graphics cards) can send video output to two HDMI monitors at the same time. But not just any splitter will do; you need one that works well for the least amount of money.

We'll discuss why finding the right splitter is so hard and recommend the three best HDMI splitters, plus an HDMI splitter alternative and HDMI cable.

What Is an HDMI Splitter?

An HDMI splitter takes an HDMI video output from a device, like a Roku, and splits it into two separate audio and video streams. You can then send each video feed to a separate monitor.

Unfortunately, most splitters suck. Many don't work because of an anti-piracy measure built into hardware called High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP).

HDCP Is the Problem With HDMI Splitters

HDCP is an anti-piracy measure built into streaming devices, televisions, and cables. It protects content by using a verification process between the video-playing device and the screen.

Once it establishes a verified connection, HDCP encrypts the signal to prevent unauthorized recording of the content. This arrangement also prevents content owners from viewing their own content.

If the video is HDCP-protected, but one part of your setup isn't HDCP-compliant, the video won't play (sometimes with an error message). That means a lot of people with older equipment can't watch legally purchased content.

HDMI Splitters That Bypass HDCP: Fallback Mode

There is a fallback mode inside HDCP that allows for HDCP-compliant content to fall back to a lower resolution (usually 720p) if the equipment isn't HDCP-compliant. Fallback mode rarely gets triggered by devices other than a splitter, which is why they're a great solution to this issue.

Some cheap splitters bypass HDCP entirely by accident. Because cheap splitter manufacturers didn't bother paying for an HDCP license, they shouldn't be able to play protected content at all. However, because they trigger Fallback mode, the content gets downgraded to a lower resolution and plays normally. Most of the time, at least.

Here's a video that explains how an HDMI splitter can mirror content from pretty much any streaming device, like an Amazon Fire or Roku:

If you'd like to find a splitter on your own, some features to look out for are:

• Self-powered (meaning it comes with a power adapter)
• HDMI 1.3a, HDMI 1.3b, and 1.4 splitters are known to work
• Cost $40 or less

If you just want a splitter that's reported to work for mirroring your video, with a high probability of working, keep reading.

There are two common kinds of HDMI splitters: 1x2 and 1x4. A 1x2 splitter has two outputs and one input. A 1x4 splitter comes with one input and four outputs.

The Best 1x2 HDMI Splitter: Orei HD-102 or ViewHD VHD-1X2MN3D

Both these splitters have identical features, which suggests they're made by the same manufacturer. Each supports and strips HDCP and includes a power adapter. On Amazon, they also both get great reviews. The Orei gets an average score of 4.4 stars out of five.

OREI HDMI Splitter 1 in 2 Out 4K - 1x2 HDMI Display Duplicate/Mirror - Powered Splitter Full HD 1080P, 4K @ 30Hz (One Input To Two Outputs) - USB Cable Included - 1 Source to 2 Identical Displays BUY NOW ON AMAZON

The ViewHD gets an average score of 4.3 stars out of five. Does that mean the Orei is a better device? Judging from the reviews, they're almost identical.

ViewHD 2 Port 1x2 Powered HDMI 1 in 2 Out Mini Splitter for 1080P & 3D | Model: VHD-1X2MN3D BUY NOW ON AMAZON

Something like 90% of all 1x2 HDMI splitters are made by the same company and rebranded. For example, at Walmart, a cheaper HDMI splitter sells for less than $14 and appears identical to the Orei and ViewHD devices. Judging from the reviews on Walmart, it provides the same function as the other two splitters.

The Best 1x4 HDMI Splitter: Ikkegol 1x4 HDMI Splitter

iKKEGOL 4 Port 1 x 4 HDMI Splitter Switch Video HUB Box 1080P HD Amplifier HDTV + Power Adapter BUY NOW ON AMAZON

If you're looking for a 1x4 splitter that works on non-HDCP-compliant hardware, the Ikkegol 1x4 should work. Unlike the 1x2 options, a 1x4 HDMI splitter supports up to four displays.

How to Split HDMI With a Graphics Card and Computer

If you own a desktop (or a laptop with an external graphics card), you can split an HDMI signal using a graphics card with dual video outputs. It works just like a splitter, except it doesn't strip HDCP. You only need to plug in a GPU and set up your operating system to mirror the screens. This process is ideal for people who own desktops and has the advantage of also splitting the audio signal between two HDMI displays.

While prices are far too high for gaming graphics cards, you can still find good substitute options on used markets like eBay. You can still find non-gaming cards from online retailers for non-inflated prices.

The Best Graphics Card With Dual HDMI Outputs: PNY NVS 310 Graphics Card

NVIDIA NVS 310 by PNY 512MB DDR3 PCI Express Gen 2 x16 DisplayPort 1.2 Multi-Display Professional Graphics Board, VCNVS310DP-PB BUY NOW ON AMAZON

We don't recommend buying an expensive graphics card, particularly if you're just watching video on two screens. The least expensive dual HDMI card is the low-profile PNY NVS 310.

The NVS 310 won't handle low-end gaming or 4K Netflix streaming. But it will allow you to split a PC video output between two displays at the same time. It uses HDCP version 1.3, so it may trigger HDCP Fallback mode.

Like all low-profile graphics cards, it should also include a modular full-sized bracket.

If you plan on doing hardcore gaming, virtual reality, or some other intensive task, you might want to hold off on buying a graphics card. The supply shortage won't last forever and when it does end, prices should crash.

For those who already own a GPU, you can split your video output into two HDMI-equipped monitors using a converter. The most common video display port is DVI. That's why a DVI-to-HDMI adapter can turn any DVI port into an HDMI video output. Unfortunately, you can't pass audio through a DVI port. So it's best used if you have some other way of getting sound working, like an auxiliary audio cable.

The "HDCP Unauthorized Content Disabled" Message

A common error that you might see on set-top boxes and gaming machines is the HDCP Unauthorized Content Disabled message, particularly on the Roku.

If you get the error, consider yourself lucky. Most people only get a blank screen and rage. In this situation, one component of your setup lacks HDCP support. Normally, that's either the splitter or the cable.

If you know your display and video source are HDCP-compliant, consider just getting an HDCP-compliant HDMI cable.

HDCP-Compliant HDMI Cable: 8K HDCP 2.3-Compliant HDMI Cable

If you're stripping HDCP, you won't need any compatible equipment. However, in case you want to one day play high-definition HDCP-protected content, you might want an HDCP-certified HDMI cable.

This was the cheapest cable we could find that includes compatibility with the latest version of HDCP as well as HDMI 2.0 support, which means up to 8K resolutions at 60Hz refresh speeds.

Is Splitting an HDMI Signal Illegal?

If you plan on illegally copying and distributing the content, yes, it's probably illegal. However, for the purposes of recording yourself playing video games, making legal backups of property you own, and other fair-use applications, it's not illegal.