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Yes—one cable box can usually send the same program to two TVs through a 1-input, 2-output HDMI splitter. Both screens mirror the box, so they share its channel and playback. To watch different channels or control each room independently, you’ll generally need provider-supported additional equipment or multiroom service.
How to show the same channel on two TVs
Connect the cable box’s HDMI OUT to the splitter’s HDMI IN, then connect each splitter output to an HDMI input on a TV. Select that HDMI input on both televisions. The box remains the source: changing its channel changes the program on both screens. Samsung’s cable-box connection guidance describes the standard HDMI connection from a box to a TV, and a 1×2 splitter distributes one HDMI source to two displays, as described in splitter guidance.
- Connect the cable box’s HDMI OUT to the splitter’s HDMI IN.
- Connect the splitter’s two outputs to the TVs’ HDMI inputs.
- Turn on both TVs and select the HDMI input used for the splitter.
- Use the cable box or its remote to choose the channel; both TVs display the same output.
Before buying, check that the splitter supports the resolution and HDCP version required by the cable box and both TVs. Roku advises that a splitter in a chain requiring HDCP 2.2 must also support HDCP 2.2. Xfinity notes that the TV, AV devices, HDMI cabling, and adapters all need to support HDCP for protected content. A mismatch may cause a blank picture or a content-protection error. See Roku’s HDCP guidance and Xfinity’s HDCP troubleshooting guidance.
Can two TVs watch different channels from one cable box?
No. A splitter duplicates the box’s one HDMI output; it does not add a tuner or let each TV select a different channel. If viewers need independent channel selection, ask the provider about a supported second receiver, mini box, or multiroom service. Availability, equipment limits, fees, and channel or recording access depend on the provider, account, region, and setup.
#1 Best Overall
- 1x2 HDMI Splitter Duplicate/Mirror Only（Not Support Extend): avedio links HDMI Splitter can only duplicate same content from one HDMI input signal to two HDMI displays, transmit video and audio simultaneously, two displays can work at the same time. Note: This splitter not support dual-screen extension. Due to HDMI standards, it only mirrors one signal to two displays simultaneously.
- Not Support: 1.Not Extended,it not extend different content to two monitors; 2.Not a switcher, it not support connect two HDMI input signal to one monitor; 3.Not a audio extractor, not support connect to any audio device such as speaker,sound-bar...
- 4K Ultra HD Resolution: Powered HDMI Splitter support 4K@30Hz, Backward compatible with 1080p@50/60Hz/1080i@50/60Hz/720p@50/60Hz/720i@50/60Hz/576p@50Hz/576i@50Hz/480p@60Hz/ 480i@60Hz.Advise use HDMI 2.0 AWG 26 cable, for 4K,length≤16ft; for 1080P,length≤32.8ft
- Plug and Play: No external drivers required. Please connect a 5V 1A power adapter to ensure stable performance, avoid no signal output or screen flickering issue. Support HDMI v1.3/1.4,HDCP1.4 (Not Compatible With HDCP2.2). Support deep color 12 bit/16 bit. Support audio format: DTS-HD/Dobly-true HD/LPCM7.1/DTS/Dobly-AC3/DSD/HD(HBR)
- Package List: 1* 1 in 2 out HDMI splitter(size:2.48*2.05*0.51inch), 1*4FT high speed HDMI cable, 1 * 2.6 ft USB power cable( power adapter not included, plug the usb cable with power adapter into wall outlet is necessary); use HDMI 2.0 AWG 26 cable, length ≤16ft for 4k; length ≤32.8ft for1080P
Provider equipment varies
For example, Verizon’s Fios TV One information describes a hub-and-spoke arrangement with TV One Mini units connected to additional TVs by wired or wireless connection. The page states that up to 10 total boxes may be connected, depending on the home setup; that is a provider-specific limit, not a general rule for cable systems.
Virgin Media’s Multiroom information describes additional Stream boxes with separate channels and settings. It also says TV 360 Mini boxes can watch recordings from a connected primary box. Check with your own provider for current eligibility, fees, equipment compatibility, viewing restrictions, and installation instructions.
Rank #2
- HDMI Switching Simplified: Dive directly into your chosen media with a single button for hassle-free transitions between your game or movie without unplugging cables. Note: Manual button switching is supported. Automatic signal detection is not supported.
- - Enjoy 4K Excellence: Turn your regular viewing sessions into cinematic experiences with our HDMI switch that supports resolutions up to 4K@60Hz. Note: to guarantee a 4K60 display, please ensure that both the input and output HDMI cables are shorter than 3.3 feet with 30AWG, and that the combined length does not exceed 6.5 feet. Note: Supports one display at a time. Simultaneous dual display output is not supported.
- Huge Compatibility: Seamlessly compatible with a wide range of devices, this HDMI switch integrates everything from laptops and game consoles to TV screens and VR headsets. Note: This switch does not support HDMI CEC.
- What You Get: Anker HDMI Switch (2 in 1 Out, 4K HDMI), safety guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to reach a TV in a distant room
If the second TV is far from the cable box, a long HDMI cable or an HDMI extender/splitter kit may be suitable. Such a kit still distributes the box’s one source, so it does not provide different channels by itself. Check the specific product’s supported distance, cable type, resolution, and HDCP version. The Cable Matters manual, for example, describes extending one source—including a cable box—to remote displays and specifies HDCP 2.2 support for that product. Its specifications do not establish how every extender will perform.
Which setup fits your needs?
| Setup | Same channel on both TVs | Different channels | Check before setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI splitter | Yes; mirrors the source | No | Resolution, HDCP, outputs, power, and TV inputs |
| HDMI extender/splitter kit | Yes; distributes one source | No by itself | Distance, cable type, resolution, HDCP, and installation |
| Provider mini box or multiroom receiver | Functions vary by provider | May support independent viewing | Provider, plan, box compatibility, fees, and channel or recording restrictions |
Troubleshoot a two-TV splitter setup
One or both TVs show no picture
- Confirm the cable box’s HDMI OUT goes to the splitter’s HDMI IN, and each TV is connected to a splitter output.
- Make sure both TVs are set to the HDMI input connected to the splitter.
- Check the splitter manual for supported resolution and HDCP requirements, and verify compatibility across the box, splitter, cables, and TVs.
Protected content produces an error or blank screen
Test the cable box directly on a compatible TV, without the splitter or adapters. Xfinity recommends direct connection to an HDCP-compatible HDTV when troubleshooting. If that works, check HDCP support across every device and connection in the split setup.
Rank #3
- HDMI 2.0 b Splitter 1 in 2 Out - Mirror Only(Not Extend): avedio links HDMI 1 in 2 out Splitter 4K@60Hz can duplicate 1 HDMI input video signal to 2 HDMI display (TV, monitor, projector etc), mirror video and audio simultaneously without any loss
- Not Support: 1.Not Extend,it not extend separate content to 2 monitors; 2.Not a switcher, it not support connect two HDMI input signal to one monitor; 3.Not a audio extractor, not support connect to any audio device like sound-bar; 4.Not support ARC/eARC;5.Not support CEC
- Auto Down Scaler:1x2 HDMI splitter support mix 4K & 1080p display output; Support auto or forced downscale; Not support downscale from 4Kx2K@60Hz 4:2:2 to 1080P; it support UHD 4Kx2K@60Hz RGB 4:4:4, 1080P/60Hz/120Hz,deep color 30/36bit,18.5Gbps bandwidth; advise use HDMI 2.0 AWG 26 cable, for 4K output, cable length ≤16ft; for 1080P output, cable length ≤32.8ft
- Compatibility and Application: 2 Way HDMI splitter can connect various HDMI devices like TV, projector, monitor,STB, DVD,PC,PS3/4/5...; Solutions for home entertainment, presentation, event, education, and digital signage, enhancing viewing and engagement
- Packing: 1x avedio links HDMI splitter 4K@60Hz, 1x USB cable with power adapter, 1x 4ft HDMI 2.0 cable; This 1x 2 HDMI splitter is easy to set up—simply connect your HDMI devices and power adapter to effortlessly share stunning video with friends/family
The TVs behave differently
When the displays have different capabilities, consult the splitter’s manual for supported signal formats and how it handles displays with different resolutions. Behavior is product-specific, so do not assume every splitter will accommodate a mixed-resolution pair.
You need separate channels
A splitter cannot fix this limitation: the box is tuned to one channel and sends one output. Contact the provider about a second receiver or multiroom service.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- OREI ULTRA HD 1 X 2 HDMI Splitter : Perfect for Duplicating 1 HDMI Input Signal to 2 Monitors or 4K Display Screens, HDMI Splitter 1 in 2 out. The device comes with a dual voltage supply using a US plug, and an adapter/converter is provided for international use.
- This OREI HDMI splitter will NOT Extend Monitors to create dual screen mode; HDMI cables longer than 30 feet would not work.
- The UHDS-102 HDMI splitter 1 in 2 out will work with all HDMI versions 1.3 and 1.4, 2.0: Support 3D and LPCM, Dolby-AC3, DTS7.1, DSD/Dolby /DTS-HD master audio, Essentially all available audio options.
- Compatible with HDMI units such as Roku 4, 4K TV, Amazon Fire TV, Ultra Projector, PS4 ,Xbox, Apple TV, HDMI LCD, Gaming, Cable box, Blu-ray player, DVD player, PC, STB and more.
- 1 Year Full Warranty with OREI Support. Includes: UHDS-102 HDMI Splitter 1 in 2 out, Power Supply, Manual.
Rank #4
- HDMI DUPLICATOR 1 x 2 - Duplicates Mirror Displays to 2 TVs, NOT FOR LAPTOPS OR PC TO EXTEND MULTI MONITORS. ONLY Split one HDMI input signal to two HDMI output signals identical to the input signal.Supported resolution: up to 4K/30Hz, 1080p, 720p, VGA to WUXGA. The device comes with a dual voltage supply using a US plug, and an adapter/converter is provided for international use.
- WILL NOT STRIP OR BYPASS HDCP - Fully Compatible with any HDMI 1.4/ 1.3/ 1.2 version, support HDCP 1.4(NOTE: Will Not BYPASS HDCP), Easily Split Signal for devices with standard HDMI interface. Input: Computer, XBox 360, XBox one, PS3, PS4 Pro, Fire Stick, Blu-Ray DVD player, Satellite Receiver, Chromecast, PC, Projectors etc. Output: HD-Ready, Full HsD TVs,HD Monitors and more.
- DUPLICATE DISPLAY ONLY - Maximum HDMI Cable Use- 30 Feet. For Best Picture quality do not use with cables over 30 Feet. The heavy-duty cool metal enclosure protects the insides and keeps the unit cool by aiding in quick heat absorption and dissipation. Operating temperature is0°C 40°C / 32°F 104°F . Power Consumption (Max): 5W, We recommend using this splitter with HDMI cables that are 30 feet or shorter and of excellent quality.
- HDMI CABLES NOT INCLUDED, WILL NOT WORK WITH HDCP. Full Video format3D, 4K x 2K@30hz, 1080P @30hz, 1080P @60hz. Deep Color 4K @ 30Hz / 480i/ 576i/ 480p/ 576p/ 720p/ 1080i/ 1080p/ 1440i/ 1440p eidi duration 6 seconds. DOES NOT SUPPORT HDCP 2.0 & 2.2
- Package includes - 1 - 4K 1x2 Splitter, 1 - Power Adapter, 1 - User Manual. If you have any questions regarding our splitters please feel free to contact us through support. Remember this is a HDMI Duplicator will not extend display.
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.
