avedio links HDMI Splitter 1 in 2 Out [w/ 4 Ft Hdmi Cable]Not for Extended Display-Mirror Same Screen Only, 4K 1x2 HDMI Splitter 1 to 2 for 3D 1080P@60Hz, Copy 1 Source to 2 Displays at The Same Time Review

Let's be honest — most people shopping for an HDMI splitter just want one simple thing: plug it in, have it work, stop thinking about it. The avedio links 1-in-2 HDMI Splitter mostly delivers exactly that, though with a few important caveats you need to understand before buying.

The One Thing You Must Understand Before Buying

The product name says it loudly and the listing repeats it: this is a mirror-only device. It copies one HDMI source to two displays simultaneously — both screens show the exact same image. If you're hoping to extend your desktop across two monitors, use different content on each screen, or run a dual-monitor PC setup, this is the wrong product entirely. Walk away now and look at an HDMI switch or a graphics card with multiple outputs.

Once that's clear, the use cases become obvious and genuinely useful: running a presentation on two projectors, mirroring your laptop to a second TV in a different room, displaying a menu board in two locations, or simply connecting a console to two screens. For those scenarios, this splitter punches well above its price.

Build and What's in the Box

The unit is compact and lightweight — the kind of thing that disappears behind your TV or AV rack without fuss. It includes a 4-foot HDMI cable in the box, which is a welcome addition that saves you an immediate extra purchase. The splitter itself has a single HDMI input and two HDMI outputs, with a small indicator light confirming it's receiving power. It draws power via USB (cable included), so you'll need a USB port or adapter nearby — typically not an issue, but worth noting for clean cable management setups.

The build is plastic and feels appropriately budget-tier, but it's sturdy enough for stationary use. This isn't a device you're going to be plugging and unplugging aggressively every day; for a fixed installation it's perfectly fine.

Performance: 4K, 1080p, and Real-World Signal Handling

The splitter supports up to 4K, 3D, and 1080p at 60Hz. Here's how it actually behaves: the output resolution defaults to match the lower-capability display of the two connected screens. So if one monitor tops out at 1080p and the other handles 4K, both outputs will run at 1080p. This is standard behavior for passive HDMI splitters and not a flaw — just something to plan around. If both displays are matched in resolution capability, you'll get the full advertised quality without issue.

HDCP compatibility is handled well here. The device supports HDCP 1.4, which covers most streaming content and Blu-ray playback. Some users running ultra-strict HDCP 2.2 content (certain 4K streaming services) may hit handshake issues — this is a limitation worth knowing if your primary use case is 4K Netflix or Disney+ on two screens.

Setup: About as Simple as It Gets

Plug in power, connect your source to the input, connect both displays to the outputs — you're done. No software, no drivers, no remote. The plug-and-play nature is genuinely one of this device's strongest selling points. For non-technical users setting up a dual-display mirror at home or in a small business, the experience is refreshingly friction-free.

One practical tip: if one of your displays isn't being detected, try powering the splitter on after both TVs or monitors are already on and showing input. HDMI handshake sequencing can be finicky with passive splitters, and this simple trick solves most detection issues without any other changes.

Who Should Buy This — and Who Shouldn't

Buy this if you need to:

• Mirror a laptop, PC, or console to two TVs or projectors at the same time
• Run a digital signage or display board in two locations from one source
• Connect a streaming device to screens in two rooms
• Keep things simple with zero configuration headaches

Skip this if you need to:

• Extend a desktop across two different screens
• Display different content on each output simultaneously
• Switch between multiple HDMI sources (you want a switcher, not a splitter)
• Handle 4K HDR content with HDCP 2.2 strict enforcement

Value at This Price Point

For what it is, the avedio links HDMI splitter represents solid value. The included HDMI cable means you're not immediately reaching for your wallet again. Setup takes under two minutes. It does exactly what it claims. At this price tier, the honest competition is very similar in quality — but the bundled cable and reliable plug-and-play behavior give avedio links a slight edge over bare-bones alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the avedio links HDMI Splitter display different content on each screen?

A: No. This is a mirror-only device — both outputs show identical content from the same source. It cannot extend a desktop or show separate content on each display.

Q: Does it need external power?

A: Yes, it requires USB power to operate. A USB power cable is included, and any standard USB charger or port will work.

Q: What resolution does it output if the two monitors are different?

A: The splitter defaults to the resolution of the lower-capability display. If one screen is 1080p and one is 4K, both will output at 1080p.

Q: Will it work with gaming consoles like PS5 or Xbox?

A: It will work for mirroring gameplay to two screens, but note that if your console outputs 4K HDR with HDCP 2.2, you may encounter handshake issues. For 1080p or 1080p/60Hz content, it works reliably.

Q: Is an HDMI cable included?

A: Yes — a 4-foot HDMI cable is included in the box, which covers the connection between your source device and the splitter's input.

— Tech Lead Editor, CPrice