Top 5 HDMI Splitters for Console Streaming

In the world of console game streaming — whether it’s PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or Nintendo Switch — a common challenge arises: how to output the game signal simultaneously to a TV or monitor for playing and to a capture card (or PC) for streaming. One of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to do this is by using an HDMI splitter. In this article, I have compiled five successful splitter models that help you stream from your console without noticeable delay, and I will explain how to choose them and what to look for.

Why You Need an HDMI Splitter for Console Streaming

An HDMI splitter is a device that takes a signal from one HDMI output (your console) and duplicates it to two or more HDMI outputs. This means you can simultaneously send the image to a monitor/TV for playing and to a capture card for streaming.

Main advantages:

Signal duplication without switching cables — convenient if you want to stream and play without extra hassle.
The ability to "pass through" the signal to both devices simultaneously — no need to manually switch.
With the right model — minimal input delay, which is critical for streamers and gamers.

But it is important to choose the splitter correctly — otherwise, you may face problems such as quality degradation, desynchronization, incompatibility with HDCP, and so on.

Now, onto the recommendations.

Criteria to Consider When Choosing a Splitter

Before moving on to a list of specific models, let’s focus on what characteristics are truly important for streaming setups:

HDMI version and resolution / frame rate. Ideally, the splitter should support at least Full HD 1080p at 60Hz — for smooth gameplay. If your console outputs 4K, 4K support is necessary, but many 4K splitters operate at 30Hz, which may be insufficient for fast-paced games.
Number of outputs. At least 2: one for the monitor/TV and the other for the capture card.
Signal amplification / stability. Especially important if cables are long or there are many devices; a quality splitter should "boost" the signal to avoid interference and artifacts.
Compatibility with HDCP and EDID. Without this, you might experience issues streaming protected content or the console might fail to detect the capture card.
Low latency. Especially important if you play and stream live — the splitter should not introduce noticeable delay.

Top 5 HDMI Splitters for Streaming — Our Picks

Our Recommendations

UGREEN HDMI 1×2 Splitter 4K 30Hz — an excellent basic option: distributes the HDMI signal from the console to two devices (e.g., TV and capture card). Compact, reliable, and popular. Good for those who want a simple solution without extra settings.
UGREEN HDMI 1×4 Splitter 4K 30Hz — if you want to connect several screens or devices simultaneously (e.g., TV, capture card, monitor, projector) — this splitter expands the signal to 4 outputs. Useful for streams, demonstrations, or rooms with multiple displays.
Anber-Tech HDMI Matrix (3 inputs → 2 outputs) — a more flexible solution: the “Matrix” allows not just duplicating one source but selecting which connected source to output to which screen. Convenient if you have, for example, a console + PC and want to switch between them without reconnecting cables. This provides flexibility and saves time.
LENKENG HDMI 1×2 Splitter LKV314HDR-V3.0 — compact and reliable splitter, well-suited for limited spaces (e.g., a small gaming area). Easy setup, stable signal, supports main HDMI standards.
Generic 1x2 HDMI Splitter 1080p 60Hz for streaming — a budget option for those just starting to stream. Don’t expect 4K, but for most Full HD games, it’s more than enough. A good start for an economical streaming studio setup.

How to Set Up a Splitter for Streaming and Avoid Delays

Connect the HDMI cable from the console to the splitter input.
Run two HDMI cables from the splitter: one to the TV/monitor for playing, and the other to the capture card.
If necessary, make sure the splitter is connected to power (some models require external power) — this is important for a stable signal on both outputs.
Since the splitter duplicates the signal, both outputs will receive the same resolution and frame rate — rely on the device with the lowest specs (for example, if the capture card is 1080p60 and the TV is 4K, the image might “drop” to 1080p).
Check compatibility with HDCP (if you plan to stream protected content) and signal stability — choose proven models.

Possible Pitfalls and What to Watch Out For

Signal quality degradation: if one output does not support the required resolution, the picture might “drop” in quality.
HDCP and content protection: some games, consoles, or capture cards may require proper authorization — the splitter must correctly handle this.
Input lag: cheap or low-quality splitters may add delay, which is critical for fast-paced games and streams. Often this is unnoticed, but for competitive games it’s important to choose proven models.
Cable length limitations: especially if you use long HDMI cables — the risk of signal loss or artifacts greatly increases.

Conclusion: Which Splitter to Choose for Streaming

If you are just starting to stream from a console or doing it for fun — an inexpensive and reliable splitter like the UGREEN 1×2 or LENKENG is sufficient.

If you plan “serious” streaming — with console + PC, want flexibility and switching — it makes sense to consider more advanced solutions like the HDMI Matrix (e.g., Anber-Tech).

The main thing is to focus on the characteristics: supported resolutions, signal stability, no HDCP issues, and minimal delay.