The Kinivo 501BN 5 port HDMI Switcher is a must-have if you need an HDMI switcher. I have 8 devices on just one of my TVs. (Hey I am a tester it comes with the job.) Even if you don’t have 8 devices I still recommend it as some of the cheaper TVs only have TWO HDMI ports.
How to Use Kinivo 501BN HDMI Switch
When you don’t have enough HDMI ports on your TV, the best way to add more ports or to add more devices is by using an HDMI switch. In this video, I take a look at the Kinivo 501BN Switch. This connects up to 5 devices to one HDMI port.
This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
I tested out the 5-port version but it is exactly the same as the smaller and cheaper 3-port version.
Pros:
- Very quick switching between inputs
- Auto senses what HDMI port is active
- Great remote control
- Does what it says it will do (Something kind of rare now of days)
- Easy to setup
- Works with some universal remotes (Harmony remotes seem to work with it)
Cons:
Some devices like the Apple TV always leave their ports running even when sleeping. This prevents the auto-switching from working. (That is an issue with Apple TV and other devices not an issue with the 501BN.) You can still use the manual switching if you have an Apple TV.
Spec:
- Switches 5 high-speed HDMI inputs into one output
- Can switch automatically (based on active input)
- Works with 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p, and 480i Resolutions
- Supports manual switching using the supplied IR wireless remote or the button on the device
- Supports 3D, HDCP 1.2 compliant; Deep color up to 36-bit
- 1-year warranty
