When it comes to connecting your TV, game console, Blu-ray player, or streaming device, you might assume that buying expensive HDMI cables is necessary to get the best picture quality. However, this is a misconception. In fact, you don’t need to spend a fortune on HDMI cables to enjoy high-quality 4K HDR video or even prepare for future standards. Some of the best HDMI cables available today cost about $1 per foot and can handle all your current and near-future needs with ease.
One of the most trusted brands in affordable HDMI cables is Monoprice. Known for their wide selection, Monoprice offers cables that far exceed the requirements of almost any TV on the market today, yet they remain incredibly affordable. For example, their cables support data transfer rates of up to 48 gigabits per second, which means they can comfortably handle 4K video at 60 frames per second—a common standard for streaming services, gaming consoles, and Blu-ray players. While these cables also have the bandwidth to support 8K video, which demands even more data, such resolutions are not yet mainstream, so you won’t need to invest in that capability right now.
Monoprice cables have been tested extensively, both in professional labs and in everyday home use, and have proven to be reliable over the long term. If you want something a little thinner and more flexible for easier cable management around tight corners, Monoprice also offers an 8K Ultra High Speed Slim version at a slightly higher price point. These cables carry a “Premium Certified” label, which guarantees they meet strict performance standards for higher resolutions and frame rates. While not every cable needs this certification, it provides peace of mind, especially if you plan to use devices that output 4K video at 120 frames per second, such as the latest PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X consoles.
Another brand that offers excellent value and quality is Cable Matters. Their Premium Certified cables are priced similarly to non-certified cables from other manufacturers, making them a smart choice for reliable performance without a premium price. Users, including technology reviewers like CNET’s Ty Pendlebury, have used these cables for years without encountering any issues. Plus, if you buy them in multi-packs, they often come with color-coded connectors to help you organize your setup easily.
Why are Monoprice and Cable Matters considered among the best HDMI cable brands? The primary reasons are their affordability, reliability, and strong warranties. Amazon Basics is another brand worth considering, offering HDMI cables at around $10 for typical lengths, which also deliver solid performance.
While CNET doesn’t conduct formal reviews of HDMI cables, their TV test labs have used inexpensive cables from Amazon and Monoprice for years. These cables have flawlessly transmitted hundreds of hours of 4K HDR video, enduring frequent plugging and unplugging without failure. This track record supports the idea that you don’t need to pay more for premium cables to get excellent performance.
There are cheaper cables on the market, but the recommended brands have strong buyer reviews and a proven history of reliability. Most importantly, these cables are rated to handle the bandwidth necessary for 4K and HDR content, typically listed as 18Gbps (gigabits per second). This bandwidth rating is essential because the HDMI 2.0 specification, which supports 4K HDR at 60Hz, requires cables that can handle this level of data throughput.
If you’re not sold on Monoprice or Cable Matters, other retailers offer decent options as well. For example, Walmart’s marketplace features GE-branded HDMI cables that claim Premium Certification and support for 4K at 60Hz. These cables come with a limited lifetime warranty but tend to be a bit pricier per foot compared to Amazon and Monoprice offerings. Target’s selection is smaller, but their Philips Premium Certified cables are a viable option if you need a cable immediately and have a gift card or prefer shopping in person. Although slightly more expensive per foot than Monoprice, Philips cables still deliver the necessary bandwidth and certification.
One important point to remember is that upgrading your TV to a new 4K HDR model doesn’t necessarily mean you need new HDMI cables, especially if your current cables are under six feet long and labeled “High Speed” or “Ultra High Speed.” These labels indicate the cable’s ability to handle 1080p or 4K resolutions, respectively. In simple terms, think of bandwidth like