High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) offers a lossless way to share uncompressed audio and video from a source, such as a satellite or cable TV receiver, with a TV screen or monitor. Traditionally, this has meant running cables between them, but now there are several options on the market to make this process truly wireless. We have put together a list of the best wireless HDMI video transmitters available in the UK to help you decide which one is best for you. With a 30 metre range, the SV1760 kit works on the 5GHz frequency so it remains interference-free. One of the biggest issues faced by users of wireless HDMI video transmitters is that the range is not big enough – but this isn’t an issue here. This setup is compatible with all HDMI outputs and, with 128/256-bit AES encryption and instant pairing, you don’t need to worry about unauthorised sharing. Looks-wise, it is sleek, lightweight and compact, with a simple matt black finish – so it easily fits into any design or colour scheme in your home or office. One For All has reinvented the remote control, making it simple to control all your devices at once – and the company’s drive for simplicity is reflected in how easy we found the SV1760 to set up – just plug and play. When set up correctly, it has brilliant sound and video quality. It works best when plugged directly into the mains rather than into an extension cable. It offers a crystal-clear picture and excellent sound, with no noticeable latency issues. We found it to be simple to set up and easy to control – the infrared extender allows you to use your own remote control, even in another room. It does require a button press to turn on – so you would have to be at the source to start with, but after that, all normal applications can be controlled remotely. This is a well-priced entry-level option suitable for most applications. It is small and unobtrusive, which is a plus point for those looking for a minimalist, sleek finish. Sending uncompressed 1080p HD, or even 3D images, alongside HD sound means that movie nights are incredible – anywhere in the house. The small transmitter fits nicely into any HDMI output, so you can stream from drones, HDSLRs and video cameras for remote, real-time monitoring of footage – exploring the local area from above or capturing time-lapse footage has never been easier. Of course, this technology also works brilliantly in the office, allowing you to mirror or extend the screen on your laptop for the ultimate presentation. We loved the simplicity of this product but it is shipped with a US plug for the receiver so we needed to source an adapter. It was easy to pair, works well for audio and video with no noticeable syncing issues, and the transmitter being powered by USB means no need for extra wiring.
What Is a Wireless HDMI Video Transmitter?
In the most basic terms, a Wireless HDMI Video Transmitter allows you to take video (and audio) from a source, transmit it without wires and play it on another display. When you buy a system, you will receive a transmitter that you plug into a source – whether that is a cable or satellite, a games system, a Blu-ray player, or even Netflix or another streaming service. The transmitter usually has antennae that you can angle to improve the signal on the receiving monitor, TV or projector. The receiver will plug into the TV and display the HD picture and sound that is being sent.
Why You Will Want One
Wireless HDMI Video Transmitters can be used in meetings or in classrooms to share screens and give instructions, teach, or go through a PowerPoint presentation. In the home, you might want to watch the big game in your basement or transfer a movie to a projector screen for that big-screen cinema experience. It may, of course, be just that you have your living room TV on the wall and don’t want to have trailing wires – wireless living is becoming more and more popular as we become more connected to the ‘Internet of things’.
Important Features to Look For
When you are comparing Wireless HDMI Video Transmitters, there are a few things that you need to consider:
Distance/Range
Some wireless HDMI transmitters claim great range capabilities, even as much as 200 metres. The distance sometimes can depend on line of sight, while others can perform well through walls and ceilings.
Frequency
Most wireless devices in the home operate on the 2.4GHz frequency. From the Wi-Fi to the baby monitor, this channel can get crowded and suffer from interference. Some transmitters operate on the 5GHz frequency to circumvent this.
Latency
If you are watching something live, you don’t want to risk being behind – especially when it comes to the big game. If you are wirelessly transmitting a video game, latency can cause issues with accuracy and aiming too.
HD Compatibility
The best transmitters can send High Definition quality images without compression so you don’t lose quality while streaming. Some are 3D capable too – giving you the home cinema feel without the wires.
Audio
Surround sound can really enhance your viewing experience – the best transmitters can send Dolby and DTS as well as beautiful High Definition images.
Power
Because of the power needed to transmit HD signals, both senders and receivers are likely to need independent mains power for best performance.
Other Things to Think About When Buying
One of the most important things to make sure of when buying a wireless HDMI video transmitter is that there is no loss of quality in picture and sound. When you are looking for your perfect setup, be aware that the maximum distances quoted by the manufacturers often describe the range achieved with line of sight, that is with no barriers or interference. In today’s modern homes, this is not often achievable – and if you want to transmit a high definition picture through walls, floors and ceilings, you need to choose a setup that can cope. The best wireless HDMI video transmitters can send 1080p and 3D pictures, and some are even compatible with 4k, although the performance can sometimes be limited. The technology used in the transmitters, especially, can get hot, so it is a good idea to look for designs that dissipate heat to ensure that they last well. Removable antennae are another good call for longevity – it is easier to replace a damaged or disabled antenna than replace the whole kit.
Other Wireless HDMI Video Transmitters We Looked At
We like this setup because you can add additional receivers – you can share the input with more than one monitor or TV, depending on what you need. It also has an infrared extender built-in – so you can control the source from the TV you are watching using your remote control. This transmitter is another easy to install option – just plug and play. We found this transmitter easy to use and love that it offers a 1080p quality picture and great audio, with no noticeable sync issues. With High Definition video, 3D compatible and zero latency, the Aries Home+ can send uncompressed video and surround sound through walls, floors and ceilings. One of the main reasons this is a great option is that you can view two sources at once – a wired HDMI connection to one TV allows you to view one source (like a gaming system), while the wireless HDMI can send from another source (like your set-top box) into another room. We loved the easy set up and the clear picture and sound, but the cost might be prohibitive. All the usual functions on the source device can be controlled using your normal remote, making it easy to access menu functions and play/pause a movie. The unique Smart Link technology means full coverage throughout the house, through walls, ceilings and floors, so you can stream to any TV or projector. This isn’t truly a wireless system as it connects through the mains system in the house – so it wouldn’t be suitable for outdoor use. The mains technology means that you don’t need line of sight for the best picture. With the built-in HDMI splitter, you can stream from two different sources at the same time – perfect for those evenings when you can’t agree on what to watch. We found it to be quick and simple to pair, and the remote-control extender works well even from the front to the back of the house. We found that it worked well between floors and that it didn’t struggle with interference. It also offers an infrared extender so you can control the source with a remote control. The uncompressed HDMI signal can handle Ultra 4K/30Hz so is perfect for use with a Sky Q box, although with the latency of 0.1 to 0.3 seconds, it wouldn’t be a great idea to use it for gaming. It doesn’t get too hot thanks to the vents and metal casing. This version operates on the 60GHz frequency, supports lossless transmission of 4K video with less than 0.5 ms latency. With a 30 metre line of sight range and sleek looks, this is a smart piece of kit that has had some favourable reviews. But finding the right balance between range, frequency and picture quality can be difficult. Many products claim the ability to send uncompressed full HD video and audio across a wide distance with no latency, but the proof can be found in the reviews of these products available online.
