If you're a veteran in the field of home theater systems, you know that it seems like you never have enough HDMI ports on your TV. You have your cable box, DVD player, gaming console, and a Fire TV Stick is just another addition. So, how would one go about connecting a Fire TV Stick? You may think about using an HDMI splitter, but will this give you an extra port? More importantly, can you use an HDMI splitter on a Fire TV stick?
Using an HDMI splitter to connect an Amazon Fire TV Stick won't work because there won't be a port for it. The splitter only accepts a single output to 2 different displays, therefore, using an HDMI Switch is a much better alternative. With that said, there are drawbacks to using an HDMI Switch.
Even though you can connect an HDMI splitter to a TV – among all the other things it can do which we've explored in our guide – it’s not a viable option, because you can’t connect the Fire TV Stick. Using An HDMI switch is a much better strategy because it will give you an extra port for the Firestick. There are other reasons why you shouldn't use an HDMI splitter to connect a Fire TV Stick to a TV.
Don't Use an HDMI Splitter to Connect a Fire TV Stick to a TV
Even though you can connect an HDMI splitter to your TV, you still won’t have a port for the Firestick. The splitter is designed to send the same content to another device. For example, if you have a Firestick connected to a TV in the living room, a splitter will let you watch the same shows upstairs.
Most HDMI splitters only divide the signal from the source twice so you can watch it on two different screens. You can find higher priced splitters that can divide the signal three or four times, however, you’re still stuck watching the same content on all the connected devices because of how the HDMI splitter works.
Use an HDMI Switch to Connect a Fire TV Stick to a TV
If your television only has one or two ports and you want to connect a Fire TV Stick, it makes more sense to use an HDMI switch, in fact, there are similar uses for an HDMI switch which we've talked about in our guide. Unlike a splitter, a switch doesn’t duplicate the signal, instead, it gives you at least one extra HDMI port.
If you want to connect a cable box, gaming console, and Fire TV Stick and your television only has two ports, the switch will give you an extra one. Now you won’t have to disconnect one device and plug another one in every time you want to play a game or watch a movie.
How to Connect an HDMI Switches
It’s surprisingly easy to use an HDMI switch. It’s even easier to connect one. On the back of your TV, or sometimes on the side, you’ll see a panel with a limited number of ports. Plug the switch into one of the ports. Yes, you lost one but you gained one with the switch.
If your TV came with two ports, along with the switch, you now have three to work with. You can connect one device to the remaining port on the TV. Your Firestick and the other component plug into the ports on the switch. Using your TV remote, you can switch between the various inputs as needed.
Recommended Small HDMI Switches
You won’t have any problems finding a small HDMI switch online or at an electronics store. These small devices can be found everywhere, and you have plenty of options to choose from if you do decide to use one.
If you aren’t sure what to look for in an HDMI switch, here are three highly recommended models that can all be found on Amazon by clicking the 3 links below.
GANA Gold Plated 3-Port HDMI Switch
The GANA HDMI Switch (on Amazon) comes with three inputs and boasts plug-n-play functionality. Once out of the box, all you need to do is connect the switch to the TV and three devices.
Since it does not need an external power source, there aren’t any extra cords to manage or clutter up your entertainment setup.
The inputs and output are 24K gold plated. While it does look great, it also ensures that the switch is worth the purchase price. Even though it is inexpensive, you don’t want to replace the switch every few years.
The gold plating prevents corrosion and other daily wear and tear and also increases transmission performance.
Fosmon 2-Port HDMI Switch
Some HDMI switches take into account gamers, along with 4K and 3D resolution. To ensure a smooth frame rate, the Fosmon 2-Port HDMI Switch (on Amazon) supports HDMI 2.0. You’ll experience fewer problems with signal loss regardless of resolution. The switch also supports both compressed and non-compressed audio files.
Like most HDMI switches, you don’t need an external power source so there are no additional cords to worry about. You can easily switch back and forth between the two inputs once your devices have been connected.
There are two ways you can use the Fosmon switch: you can have one signal coming in and two going out (or vice-versa) – two signals coming in and one going out.
GANA Intelligent 3-Port HDMI Switcher
The GANA Intelligent 3-Port HDMI Switcher (on Amazon) is plug and play ready and comes with convenient remote control. With three HD inputs, you can easily connect your Fire TV Stick and other devices.
With three switches in and one going out, you won’t have to disconnect a device just to use another component. The 24K gold connector ensures long-lasting durability.
The switch is also compatible with most devices, including Xboxes, PlayStations, Blu-ray, and CDC disc players to name a few. It also comes with 4K and 3D support.
Conclusion
While you don't want to use an HDMI splitter to connect a Firestick to a TV – simply because it won't work – you can use its close relative: the HDMI Switch.
In addition to being incredibly easy to use and inexpensive, it allows you to connect the Firestick and also other external components. Additionally, you won't have any problems finding one that is perfect for your home entertainment setup.
