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Not by plugging an Ethernet cable into ordinary HDMI ports. Ethernet and HDMI carry signals in different ways. You can use Cat5e or Cat6 cable to extend an HDMI connection, but you need compatible transmitter and receiver hardware at each end. A networked HDMI-over-IP system is another option, but it requires encoders, decoders, and a suitably configured network. The phrase “HDMI over Ethernet” can describe either setup, so check the product’s connection diagram before you buy or connect it to a switch.
What “Ethernet instead of HDMI” can mean
People often call Cat5e or Cat6 cable “Ethernet cable” because it is commonly used for Ethernet networking. The cable itself is only the physical medium: it does not convert an HDMI signal into ordinary network traffic. The equipment at each end and the way it is connected determine what signals the cable can carry.
- Dedicated cable extender: A transmitter and receiver use category cable as a point-to-point link between one HDMI source and one display. This generally is not a connection to a network switch.
- HDBaseT: A point-to-point audiovisual transport standard that can carry video and, depending on the generation and equipment, other signals over category cable.
- HDMI over IP: An encoder converts HDMI for transport over an IP network, and a decoder restores it for the display. This can support networked distribution, subject to the system’s design and limits.
These approaches are not interchangeable. For example, AV Access says its 4KEX100-L requires a direct transmitter-to-receiver connection and does not work through a switch. Its Ethernet pass-through feature is separate from the dedicated video link. See the manufacturer’s product page for that model’s connection and compatibility details.
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| Option | How it connects | Typical fit | Check before choosing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longer HDMI cable | Directly connects an HDMI source to a display | A one-source, one-display connection where the cable run is manageable | Required length, supported video format, and installation constraints |
| Point-to-point category-cable extender | Transmitter and receiver carry the signal over a dedicated Cat cable | One source to one display over a longer run | Cable category and length, video and audio support, HDCP, power, and whether the link must be direct |
| HDBaseT | Compatible endpoints carry audiovisual signals over category cable | A fixed home or professional AV link | HDBaseT generation, cable type, supported format at the intended distance, and endpoint compatibility |
| HDMI over IP / AV over IP | Encoders and decoders send HDMI across an IP network | Multi-display, matrix, or expandable networked distribution | Codec and latency, port speed and switching capacity, multicast/IGMP, PoE, VLANs, controller, and endpoint limits |
How far can HDBaseT carry HDMI?
There is no single distance limit for every HDBaseT product or video format. The HDBaseT Alliance’s published specifications vary by generation, cable category, and signal. Its technology and specifications page gives examples including:
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
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- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- HDBaseT 1.0: 1080p up to 100 m (328 ft) over Cat5e and higher; 4K up to 70 m (230 ft) over Cat5e and higher, with up to 100 m (328 ft) on select Cat6a configurations.
- HDBaseT 2.0: 4K30 4:4:4 or 4K60 4:2:0 up to 100 m (328 ft) over Cat6, or 90 m (295 ft) over Cat5e.
- HDBaseT 3.0: Uncompressed 4K60 4:4:4 up to 100 m (328 ft); the Alliance recommends Cat6a U/FTP for this generation.
These are Alliance-published specification figures, not independent test results or guarantees for every product. Actual capability depends on the endpoints, cable, installation, and supported format. Check the specific extender’s manual for the distance and signal combination you intend to use.
What to check before buying an extender
A listing that says “HDMI over Ethernet” does not by itself tell you whether the device works through a live network. Confirm the product’s topology and compatibility before purchase.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
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- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Connection path: Does the manual show a dedicated transmitter-to-receiver cable, or encoders and decoders connected through a network?
- Video format: Verify resolution, refresh rate, and chroma format at the cable length you need.
- HDCP and audio: Check the required HDCP support and whether your audio format is supported.
- Cable and distance: Confirm the category, construction, and maximum length specified for the exact format. Do not assume a distance advertised for one generation or setup applies to another.
- Extra features: If you need ARC, control pass-through, USB, power over cable, or Ethernet pass-through, confirm that the particular endpoints support it. These features are not implied by the use of category cable.
- Switch requirements: For HDMI over IP, verify network speed and switching capacity, multicast/IGMP, PoE, VLANs, uplinks, controller needs, and endpoint-count limits against the system manufacturer’s design guide.
When HDMI over IP makes sense
HDMI over IP is the more relevant category when you need to distribute sources to multiple displays or build a system that can expand across a network. Its flexibility comes with network-planning requirements: the system may depend on managed-switch features, sufficient bandwidth, multicast configuration, and product-specific controller or endpoint limits. Some systems compress video because raw HDMI data can exceed common network capacity; the codec affects image quality and latency. Do not assume a home router or unmanaged switch will work without checking the manufacturer’s requirements.
A practical way to choose
- For a short, direct source-to-display connection: Use HDMI if the required cable length and installation allow it.
- For one source and one display over a longer run: Look for a matched point-to-point extender or HDBaseT kit. Confirm its direct-link requirement and exact format-at-distance specifications.
- For multiple displays or networked distribution: Evaluate HDMI-over-IP endpoints and the network they require. Check the system design guide before choosing a switch or assuming existing network equipment is suitable.
A paired HDBaseT transmitter/receiver kit is one product category for a dedicated long run. As one model-specific example, AV Access documents the 4KEX100-L’s supported formats and connection requirements on its product page, which also states that the model does not support ARC. That example is not evidence that other kits share the same capabilities. For broader terminology, see AV Access’s guide to HDMI extenders, HDBaseT, and HDMI over IP.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
