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When you hook up a video game console, cable box, media-streaming device, or Blu-ray player to the TV in your living room, chances are that you'll be using an HDMI cable. You'll also need an HDMI cable to connect your computer or laptop to the monitor in your home office. HDMI stands for high-definition multimedia interface, and, in simple terms, HDMI cables carry sound and picture signals from a source to a display.
Although they may look the same, all HDMI cables are not created equal. There are a few different types of HDMI connectors, but this guide sticks to HDMI cables with Type A connectors. There are also several different standards of cable that offer bandwidths from below 5 gigabits per second (Gbps) all the way up to 48 Gbps. To complicate matters further, HDMI cables can support a range of different features and standards.
I can feel your eyes glazing over already, but don't worry, I'll keep things as simple as possible and tell you exactly what you need to look for. I've tested several HDMI cables with a range of TVs, monitors, video game consoles, laptops, and computers, and I've spoken with experts at HDMI Licensing, the organization that sets the standards, offers certification labels, and tests HDMI cables in the wild.
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Our top picks for HDMI cables
Best overall: Monoprice Certified Premium High Speed cable - See at Amazon
The Monoprice Certified Premium High Speed HDMI Cable offers lots of bandwidth and the features you need at a low price.
Best long: Monoprice Cabernet Ultra Series Active HDMI cable - See at Amazon
Offering durability and reliable performance in longer lengths, the Monoprice Cabernet Ultra Active Series HDMI cable may be your best bet for a long HDMI cable.
Best angled and flat: UGreen 4K Right Angle HDMI cable - See at Amazon
If you have a wall-mounted TV, or you want a cable to fit an awkwardly tight spot, then try the UGreen 4K Right Angle HDMI cable.
Best slim: Monoprice Ultra Slim Certified Premium High Speed HDMI cable - See at Amazon
The Monoprice Ultra Slim Certified Premium High Speed HDMI cable offers top-level performance in a slimmer format.
Best for 8K: Monoprice DynamicView Ultra 8K High Speed HDMI cable - See at Amazon
For early 8K adopters, 120Hz gamers, or people looking to future-proof, we recommend the Monoprice DynamicView Ultra 8K High Speed HDMI cable.
Best strong: Austere III Series HDMI cable - See at Amazon
Made with woven Kevlar, the Austere III Series HDMI cable is strong, it supports the 2.0 spec, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
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