Best HDMI 2.1 Cables for 4K and 8K LCD

HDMI 2.1 Cables Introduction

You might have your PS5 or Xbox Series X ready, and it’s time to try some 8K gaming. These best HDMI 2.1 cables for 8K allows you to take pleasure in crystal-clear 8K content in your HDMI 2.1 TV. When seeking to purchase an HDMI cable capable of 8k passthrough, the correct term to use is “ultra high speed HDMI” cable.Ultra high speed HDMI cables are the only cables that meet the requirements of the HDMI 2.1 specification. You can buy an HDMI 2.1 cable not only for 8K gaming but for other uses such as 4k gaming at 120Hz refresh rate on the latest gaming consoles. Ultra high speed HDMI cables are also recommended for Apple TV 4K, especially when using Dolby Vision.

With 48Gbps bandwidth, these HDMI 2.1 cables deliver lifelike and immersive 8K images with high-bandwidth dependent features such as Dolby Vision on compatible displays.

Whether you’re a gamer looking for 4k120 gameplay or a professional content creator who needs to edit high resolution 8K images, you won’t go wrong with any of these cables. Since all of them support 48Gbps bandwidth, you’ll get all the HDMI 2.1 features, regardless of the price or model. However, for the best build quality and reliability, it’s always worth paying a premium.

Top 3 Picks: Best HDMI 2.1 Cables

Category Product Certified Length Link
BEST OVERALL Belkin Ultra HD High Speed
Officially recommended by Apple
Yes 6.6 ft View
BEST VALUE Zeskit Maya 8K
Certified and affordable
Yes 3-16 ft View
LONG DISTANCE Pacroban Fiber Optic
For long runs up to 150ft
No 25-150 ft View

Selecting the Best HDMI 2.1 Cable for 8K

Not all claimed ultra high speed HDMI cables are genuine. HDMI requires all HDMI 2.1 compliant cables to be certified and gives an easy way to verify them so that you won’t fall prey to the marketing gimmicks of unscrupulous brands.

A certified ultra high speed cable is tested and verified to meet all the requirements and specs of HDMI 2.1, including support for 8K at 60Hz.

Genuine HDMI 2.1 cables have the “ultra high speed HDMI cable” name in the package (and cable jacket) and a certification label. The certification label includes a QR code and holographic image that you can scan using the HDMI Cable Certification app to verify the cable’s certification status.

Other factors to look out for when buying an HDMI 2.1 cable for 8K include the length of the cable and the cable jacket used. Some cables have a braided cable jacket, which is excellent for durability, but they are not that flexible.

If you are bending your cable a lot, just stick to a regular rubber cable. Ultra high speed HDMI cables are available in different lengths up to 16 ft (5m) mostly. HDMI confirms that “it is expected that passive cables of 5 meters will be achievable.” Beyond 5 meters, most copper cables start to experience poor signal strength and handshake issues. If you want an HDMI 2.1 cable that can support the full 48Gbps bandwidth over long distances of more than 16 ft, look for a fiber optic HDMI cable, but they are very expensive.


Best HDMI 2.1 Cables for 8K Accessible Now

1. Belkin Ultra HD High Speed HDMI 2.1 Cable

The Belkin Ultra HD High Speed HDMI 2.1 Cable is the best HDMI 2.1 cable you can buy to enjoy seamless 8K60 content. It’s “ultra certified” by HDMI.org, so you have peace of mind knowing that it supports the full 48Gbps bandwidth as per the HDMI 2.1 specification. The cable is also highly recommended for Apple TV 4K (it’s the only ultra high speed HDMI cable sold by Apple directly).

The Belkin Ultra HD High Speed HDMI cable is sold in black and two meters (6.6 ft.) long, ideal size for most users. Being a certified cable, it fully supports up to 8K at 60Hz and 4k at 120Hz on the latest gaming consoles and PCs. Its excellent 2-layer shielding construction minimizes interference to prevent issues with existing wireless devices.

Pros

  • Officially Certified Ultra High Speed cable.
  • Excellent construction to limit interference (EMI).
  • Recommended by Apple for Apple TV 4K.
  • Supports full 48Gbps bandwidth.

Cons

  • Not many options in length (only 2m).
  • More expensive than non-branded options.

2. Fusion8K HDMI 2.1 Cable

Fusion8K HDMI 2.1 Cable is another top recommended HDMI 2.1 cable for 8K gaming and content consumption. However, unlike the Belkin, it is not yet certified. But from the user reviews and specs, this cable supports the full requirements and specs of HDMI 2.1. The Fusion8K HDMI 2.1 Cable commands a higher price, but absolutely worth it since you’re getting the maximum 48Gbps bandwidth with the benefits of HDMI 2.1, including dynamic HDR, VRR, QMS, and more.


3. Pacroban 8K HDMI 2.1 Fiber Optic Cable

Pacroban 8K HDMI 2.1 Fiber Optic Cable is the only HDMI 2.1 cable on this roundup capable of delivering HDMI 2.1 features in longer distances greater than 16 ft. Generally, most copper cables will suffer from poor signal strength and handshake capabilities over long distances. HDMI forum estimates 5m (16 ft) to be the maximum length if using a standard copper cable.

However, using optical fiber, the Pacroban cable can fully support HDMI 2.1 features over long distances up to 150 ft. The cable is CL3-rated, so you can safely use it for in-wall installations, which gives you much flexibility on where to place your displays.

Pros

  • Full 48Gbps bandwidth up to 150 ft.
  • Safe for in-wall installations (CL3 rated).
  • Multiple length options (25ft, 75ft, 150ft).
  • Lifetime warranty.

Cons


Best Value HDMI 2.1 Cables for 8K

4. Basesailor 8K 60Hz HDMI Cable 6.6FT (2 Pack)

If you have two gaming consoles or HDMI 2.1 capable PCs, the Basesailor 8K 60Hz HDMI Cable sold in 2-pack allows you to connect them to your TV, avoiding the inconvenience of connecting and disconnecting if you want to switch inputs. It is also not expensive as our top recommendations, so you get the best value for your money.

Pros

  • Great build quality with braided jacket.
  • Range of sizes and colors (Grey, Black, Red).
  • Great value (sold as 2-pack).
  • One year warranty.

Cons

  • Not officially certified.

5. Cable Matters 3-Pack 48Gbps Ultra HD 8K HDMI Cable

Sold in 3-pack, Cable Matters 3-Pack 48Gbps Ultra HD 8K HDMI Cable offers the best bang for your bucks. They are from a reputable company and a licensed adopter of HDMI 2.1, so you can trust the reliability and overall quality of the cables. We recommend the Cable Matters 3-pack ultra high speed HDMI cables if you have multiple HDMI 2.1 sources in your home.

Pros

  • Officially Certified.
  • Color-coded for easy organization.
  • Great value for 3 cables.
  • Slim and flexible design.

Cons

  • Questionable durability at this price range (standard rubber).

Most Affordable HDMI 2.1 Cables for 8K

6. Zeskit Maya Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable

Zeskit Maya Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable is one of the few certified HDMI 2.1 cables in the market. The cable is tested and approved to support the full 48Gbps bandwidth required to drive 8K at a 60Hz refresh rate. Surprisingly, it is also among the most affordable ultra high speed HDMI cables you can find.

Pros

  • Certified ultra high speed HDMI cable.
  • Very affordable.
  • Different sizes available (3ft to 16ft).
  • Durable braided design.
  • CL3 rated for in-wall use.

Cons

  • Not very flexible (stiff braiding).

7. Anker Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable (A8743)

The Anker Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable is another certified and affordable HDMI 2.1 cable for 8K and 4K at 120Hz. Anker is one of the best companies and a respected provider of PC accessories and gadgets. They are an adopter of HDMI since 2017 and are officially licensed for HDMI 2.1. You can have peace of mind knowing the cables you get are certified and reliable.

Pros

  • Officially certified by HDMI.org.
  • Cheap and affordable.
  • Quality braided construction, durable and reliable.
  • Gold pins and metal connectors.

Cons

  • Available in only one size (6.6 ft / 2m).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HDMI 2.1 cable available?

Yes. There are several HDMI 2.1 cables available. The Belkin Ultra HD High Speed HDMI 2.1 Cable is our top recommendation for the best HDMI 2.1 cable for 8K.

Do you need a special HDMI cable for 8K?

Yes. An ultra high speed HDMI cable is required to deliver uncompressed 8K resolution.

Do you need HDMI 2.1 for PS5?

If you want smooth 4K gameplay at 120Hz refresh rate on your PS5, you need an HDMI 2.1 compatible cable and TV.

How long can HDMI 2.1 cables be?

HDMI Forum claims it will be possible to get longer HDMI 2.1 cables of up to 5 meters (passive copper). With optical fiber, the length can increase to 45 meters or more.

Can HDMI 2.0 do 8K?

HDMI 2.0 cables can support 8K resolution up to 30Hz refresh rate (with chroma subsampling). To enjoy smooth and fluid 8K at 60Hz, HDMI 2.1 is required.

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