HDMI, VGA and USB Splitters

Which signal are you splitting? Video, audio, USB or coax

A splitter copies a signal, but each kind behaves differently. An HDMI or VGA splitter shows the same picture on every screen and cannot create a second desktop. A 3.5 mm audio splitter duplicates headphone sound; a headset with one combined plug needs a splitter that separates the microphone and headphone sockets. A USB splitter is usually a hub that shares one connection between its ports, though some only split charging power. Coax splitters for cable TV and satellite divide an RF signal and weaken it at every split.

Copy protection, resolution and signal loss

For video, check the highest resolution and refresh rate, and whether the splitter supports your HDCP version, because protected streaming or console content may blank on some outputs otherwise. Models with a scaler or EDID selection cope better when the screens differ. For coax, a two-way split loses roughly 3.5 dB on each output, so more outputs mean a weaker signal. Check the frequency range covers your service, and look for power-passing ports when the receiver powers a satellite dish through the cable.

Questions about HDMI, VGA and USB Splitters

Can a splitter give me two different desktops?

No. It duplicates one signal. For an extended desktop the computer needs a second video output or a USB display adapter, and a splitter will only mirror what it receives.

Does splitting reduce picture quality?

A powered digital splitter passes the image unchanged, as long as it supports your resolution. Unpowered passive splitters and long VGA splits can soften or darken the picture. Coax splitters always reduce signal level.

Why does one screen fail when two are connected?

The splitter must present one resolution that both displays accept. Mixed 4K and 1080p screens, or different HDCP support, can make one screen black. Choose a model with a scaler or selectable EDID, or match the displays.