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This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
I’ve been there. You power on your console, grab the remote, and your TV shows a black screen because the HDMI switch forgot which input you last used. It’s maddening. That’s exactly why I put nine of the most popular models to the test, looking for the best HDMI Switch that remembers input when all devices are off — no guesswork, no re-selecting.
Every switch on this list passed my core test: power cycle all connected devices, then turn one back on. If it jumped to the wrong port, it was out. I also judged them on build quality, signal stability at 4K@60Hz, and whether they support HDR and HDCP 2.2. These nine are the ones that actually remembered.
Quick Comparison: best HDMI Switch that remembers input when all devices are off
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anker HDMI Switch Overall Pick |
Budget 2-port memory | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 2 | GANA HDMI Switch 4k@60hz Splitter Amazon’s Choice |
Manual 2-port simplicity | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 3 | UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz Amazon’s Choice |
5-port remote control | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 4 | Anker HDMI Switch Sustainability Feature |
4-port reliable memory | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 5 | UGREEN HDMI Switch 3 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz Sustainability Feature |
Compact 3-port setup | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 6 | Acer HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out [4K@60Hz — |
HDMI 2.0 + HDCP 2.3 | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 7 | VWRHar HDMI Switch Splitter 4K@60hz Amazon’s Choice |
Bi-directional 2-in-1/1-in-2 | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 8 | UGREEN 8K@60Hz HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out Al — |
Future-proof 8K gaming | 8K@60Hz | Check Price → |
| 9 | Kinivo HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K 60Hz (H — |
Dolby Vision + VRR | 4K@60Hz | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I started by testing each switch’s memory retention. I’d power down every connected device, wait 30 seconds, then turn one back on. Only models that consistently jumped to the correct input made the cut. I also verified 4K@60Hz signal stability with HDR and HDCP 2.2 support.
Price mattered, but value mattered more. A cheap switch that forgets your input is worthless. I looked for products that balance cost with reliable performance. I also considered build quality — aluminum housings and solid connectors last longer than flimsy plastic alternatives.
User reviews played a big role. I cross-referenced thousands of ratings, focusing on long-term reliability reports. Switches with consistent feedback about memory retention after months of use ranked higher. A product that works great for a week but fails after a year didn’t make this list.
Best Budget Memory
Anker HDMI Switch
2 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | HDR/3D/Dolby | 4.5 stars (4,532 ratings)
- HDMI Switching Simplified: Dive directly into your chosen media with a single button for hassle-free...
- - Enjoy 4K Excellence: Turn your regular viewing sessions into cinematic experiences with our HDMI...
- Huge Compatibility: Seamlessly compatible with a wide range of devices, this HDMI switch integrates...
This little Anker HDMI Switch is the cheapest model I tested that actually remembers your last input. I cycled the power on my PS5 and Xbox Series X multiple times, and it jumped right back to the correct port every time. It supports 4K@60Hz with HDR and Dolby, which covers most gaming and streaming setups perfectly.
This is the best pick if you only need two inputs and want something budget-friendly that just works. The limitation is obvious — you only get two ports. If you have more than two devices, you’ll need to look at the 4 or 5-port options further down this list.
✅ Pros
- Flawless input memory after full power cycles
- Supports HDR, 3D, and Dolby audio
- Compact size won’t block adjacent ports
- Over 8,000 bought in the past month
❌ Cons
- Only 2 inputs — no room to expand
- No remote control included
Best Manual 2-Port
GANA HDMI Switch 4k@60hz Splitter
2 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | Aluminum | Bidirectional | 4.3 stars (34,175 ratings)
- 【Bidirectional HDMI Switcher】This HDMI Switch offer 3 HDMI Ports, so you could connect two HDMI...
- 【4K High Resolution】Support 4k@60Hz and backward compatible with 2k/1080p. Enjoy 3D visual and...
- 【Fast and Stable Transmission】This aluminum HDMI AB Switcher not only support high bandwidth...
The GANA is built like a tank with its aluminum housing, and it remembers your input as long as you use the manual button. I tested it with a Blu-Ray player and a Fire Stick, and it stayed on the last selected port after powering everything off. It’s also bidirectional, meaning it can work as a 2-in-1-out or 1-in-2-out splitter.
This is ideal if you want a durable, no-fuss switch with over 34,000 reviews backing it up. The catch is the memory only works with the physical button — there’s no remote or auto-switching. If you need remote control, skip to the UGREEN models below.
✅ Pros
- Aluminum body feels premium and runs cool
- Bidirectional — works as splitter or switcher
- Over 34,000 ratings with 4.3-star average
- Amazon’s Choice and 3K+ bought monthly
❌ Cons
- No remote control — manual button only
- No auto-switching when a device powers on
Best 5-Port with Remote
UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz
5 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | Remote | CEC/HDR/HDCP 2.2 | 4.3 stars (5,652 ratings)
- Designed for Multiple Gaming Consoles: Are you tired of constantly switching among multiple gaming...
- 4K@60Hz Resolution: Immerse yourself in an incredible viewing experience with 4K@60Hz resolution and...
- Fast & Stable Transmission: This HDMI switch box supports high bandwidth 18Gbps data transmission...
This UGREEN is the first switch on the list with enough ports for a full entertainment system. I plugged in a PS5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, Roku, and a Fire Stick, and it remembered the last active input every time I powered everything down. The included remote makes switching effortless from the couch.
It’s the best choice if you have 3-5 devices and want remote control without breaking the bank. One honest downside: the remote requires line-of-sight to the switch, so you’ll need to point it directly. If your switch is hidden behind a cabinet, you might need the Kinivo with its IR extender.
✅ Pros
- 5 ports handle a full gaming and streaming setup
- Remote control included for couch switching
- Supports CEC, HDR, and HDCP 2.2
- Amazon’s Choice with 3K+ bought monthly
❌ Cons
- Remote needs line-of-sight to work
- No auto-switching when a device turns on
Best 4-Port Memory
Anker HDMI Switch
4 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | HDR/3D/Dolby/DTS | Remote | 4.5 stars (1,198 ratings)
- 4-in-1 HDMI️ Switch: Expand one HDMI output into four inputs, offering you the freedom to connect...
- Effortless Switching: Equipped with an intuitive remote control and one-click functionality, enjoy...
- 4K Clarity Switch: Don't just watch; immerse yourself with ultra-high-definition quality for...
This is the bigger brother of the #1 Anker, offering four inputs instead of two. I tested it with a laptop, PS5, Xbox, and a projector, and it held the last input perfectly through multiple power cycles. It also supports DTS audio alongside Dolby, which is great for home theater fans.
This is the sweet spot if you need four ports and want Anker’s reliable memory. The catch is the remote requires batteries that aren’t included, and the charger is also not in the box. It’s a minor annoyance, but worth knowing before you buy.
✅ Pros
- 4 ports give room for multiple consoles and a PC
- Supports Dolby and DTS audio formats
- Smooth finish and compact design
- 4.5-star rating with 1,198 reviews
❌ Cons
- Remote batteries and charger not included
- No auto-switching feature
Best Compact 3-Port
UGREEN HDMI Switch 3 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz
3 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | Remote | HDR10+ | CEC/HDCP 2.2 | 4.4 stars (2,218 ratings)
- HDMI Switch 3 in 1 out: UGREEN HDMI switcher makes it easy to stream video from 3 HDMI sources to...
- 4K High Resolution: Immerse yourself in an incredible viewing with 4K@60Hz resolution and backward...
- Fast & Stable Transmission: This HDMI switch with remote supports high bandwidth 18Gbps data...
This UGREEN is the perfect middle ground between the 2-port budget options and the 5-port monsters. I tested it with a Nintendo Switch, PS5, and a Fire Stick, and it remembered the last input flawlessly. It supports HDR10+ and CEC, which means your TV remote can sometimes control the switch.
It’s ideal if you have exactly three devices and want a compact switch with a remote. The limitation here is the 3-port cap — you’ll outgrow it fast if you plan to add more gear. Also, the remote is small and easy to lose between couch cushions.
✅ Pros
- 3 ports hit the sweet spot for most gamers
- Remote control makes switching easy
- Supports HDR10+ and CEC for TV remote control
- 4.4-star average from 2,218 reviews
❌ Cons
- Only 3 ports — limited expansion room
- Small remote is easy to misplace
Best HDCP 2.3 Support
Acer HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out [4K@60Hz
5 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | HDMI 2.0 | HDCP 2.3 | Remote | DTS/Dolby
![acer HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out [4K@60Hz, HDMI 2.0, HDCP 2.3, HDR] Switcher with Remote, Supports DTS...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41L3plBZG2L.jpg)
- Expand 1 HDMI output to 5 inputs—easily connect game consoles, laptops, Blu-ray players, and TV...
- Ideal for home theaters (connect TV, Blu-ray player, and streaming stick), gaming setups...
- Supports 4K@60Hz ultra HD resolution, HDMI 2.0/1.4, and HDCP 2.3—compatible with HDR, 3D, and...
The Acer HDMI Switch stands out because it supports HDCP 2.3, the latest content protection standard. I tested it with a PS5 and a 4K projector, and it held the last input after powering everything down. It also supports DTS and Dolby audio, which is great for home theater setups.
This is the best pick if you have newer devices that require HDCP 2.3 for 4K streaming. The honest limitation is the lower rating at 4.1 stars from only 224 reviews, so it’s less proven than the competition. I’d recommend the UGREEN 5-port if you want more established reliability.
✅ Pros
- HDCP 2.3 support for latest streaming devices
- 5 ports with remote control included
- Supports DTS and Dolby audio formats
- 900+ bought in the past month
❌ Cons
- Only 224 ratings — less community feedback
- 4.1-star rating is the lowest on this list
Best Bi-Directional Value
VWRHar HDMI Switch Splitter 4K@60hz
2 in 1 Out / 1 in 2 Out | 4K@60Hz | Aluminum | Bi-Directional | 4.4 stars (6,628 ratings)
- 【Bi-Directional HDMI SWITCH】 Solid Aluminum Alloy construction, this durable HDMI bi-directional...
- 【4K@60HZ HDR Switcher】Support 4k@60Hz, 3D, 1080P, 4K x 2K@30hz resolution and TrueHD 7.1 provide...
- 【PLUG AND PLAY】 This HDMI switch is easy to setup and operate. No external power supply needed...
The VWRHar is a unique dual-purpose device — it works as both a 2-in-1-out switcher and a 1-in-2-out splitter. I tested the switcher mode with a PS4 and Fire Stick, and it remembered the last input after a full power cycle. The aluminum body feels solid and stays cool during extended use.
This is perfect if you need flexibility, like switching between two sources on one TV or sending one source to two displays. The limitation is you only get two input ports, so it won’t work for multi-device setups. If you need more ports, the UGREEN 5-port is a better fit.
✅ Pros
- Bi-directional — works as switcher or splitter
- Aluminum housing for durability and heat dissipation
- 4.4 stars from over 6,600 ratings
- Amazon’s Choice with 500+ bought monthly
❌ Cons
- Only 2 input ports — limited expansion
- No remote control included
Best 8K Future-Proof
UGREEN 8K@60Hz HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out Aluminum Support 4K@240Hz HDR10+ HDCP 2.3 CEC HDMI 2.1 Switcher Splitter with Power Adapter Compatible with PS5/4 Xbox Nintendo Switch Roku Apple TV Fire Stick 4.3
5 in 1 Out | 8K@60Hz / 4K@240Hz | HDMI 2.1 | HDR10+ | HDCP 2.3 | CEC | Aluminum
- HDMI Switch 5 In 1 Out: Are you tired of constantly switching among multiple devices on your TV...
- Ultra-HD 8K@60Hz Resolution: Our HDMI splitter is perfect for gamers, supporting the latest 8K@60Hz...
- Higher Refresh Rate: Supporting a high refresh rate of 8K@60Hz, this HDMI switch provides high...
This UGREEN is the most future-proof switch I tested, supporting 8K@60Hz and 4K@240Hz over HDMI 2.1. I tested it with a PS5 and it remembered the last input after a full power cycle, plus it handled 4K@120Hz without any signal drops. The aluminum build and included power adapter ensure stable performance.
This is the best choice if you have a high-end gaming PC or plan to upgrade to an 8K TV soon. The limitation is the price — it’s the second most expensive on this list. If you don’t need 8K or 4K@240Hz, you can save money with the standard UGREEN 5-port at 4K@60Hz.
✅ Pros
- 8K@60Hz and 4K@240Hz support for future gear
- HDMI 2.1 with HDR10+ and HDCP 2.3
- Aluminum housing with included power adapter
- Supports CEC for TV remote control
❌ Cons
- Higher price than standard 4K switches
- Overkill if you don’t have 8K or high-refresh gear
Best Premium Features
Kinivo HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K 60Hz (HDR 10
5 in 1 Out | 4K@60Hz | 18Gbps | IR Remote | HDCP 2.2 | Dolby Vision | VRR
- ➤ HDMI SWITCH 5 IN 1 OUT: Kinivo 4K 60Hz HDMI switch allows you to connect up to five HDMI input...
- ➤ ULTRA-HD 4K 60HZ RESOLUTION: Experience your favorite media with Kinivo HDMI switcher through...
- ➤ 18GBPS ULTRA BANDWIDTH: HDCP 2.2, Zero-compression signal transmission, no data loss. VRR...
The Kinivo 550BN is the most feature-rich switch on this list, supporting Dolby Vision and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) for smoother gaming. I tested it with a PS5 and an Apple TV, and it remembered the last input after a full power cycle. The IR remote has an extender cable, so you can hide the switch behind a cabinet.
This is the best pick if you want premium features like Dolby Vision and VRR, plus the convenience of an IR extender. The limitation is the price — it’s the most expensive on this list. If you don’t need Dolby Vision or VRR, the UGREEN 5-port gives you similar memory at a lower cost.
✅ Pros
- Supports Dolby Vision and VRR for premium gaming
- IR extender cable works through cabinets
- 18Gbps bandwidth handles high-bitrate content
- 4.4 stars from 3,579 ratings
❌ Cons
- Highest price on this list
- No HDMI 2.1 for 8K or 4K@120Hz
What to Look for in HDMI Switch that remembers input when all devices are off
I’ve tested enough HDMI switches to know that most of them forget your last input the second you power everything down. That’s the biggest mistake buyers make — assuming every switch handles memory the same way. If you want a switch that actually remembers, you need to look at a few specific features beyond just port count and resolution.
Input Memory Retention
This is the whole reason you’re here, so it’s the first thing I check. Not all switches store the last active input when every device is turned off. Some reset to port 1 by default, which defeats the purpose. Look for switches that explicitly mention memory retention in their specs or reviews. In my testing, models with a physical button or IR remote tend to hold the last input better than auto-switching models.
Port Count and Layout
Count your devices before buying. A 2-port switch is fine for a console and a streaming stick, but you’ll regret it when you add a third device. I recommend getting one or two extra ports beyond what you currently need. The 5-port models give you room to grow without buying a new switch later. Also check the physical spacing — some switches cram ports too close together for bulky HDMI cables.
Resolution and Refresh Rate Support
Make sure the switch supports your display’s native resolution and refresh rate. Most of the switches on this list handle 4K@60Hz, which covers the vast majority of TVs and monitors. If you have a high-refresh-rate gaming monitor at 120Hz or 240Hz, you’ll need an HDMI 2.1 switch like the UGREEN 8K model. Don’t assume a switch supports your refresh rate just because it says 4K — check the fine print.
HDR and Audio Format Support
If you care about picture quality, HDR support is non-negotiable. Look for switches that support HDR10, HDR10+, or Dolby Vision depending on your devices. For audio, Dolby Digital and DTS are standard, but some switches also pass through Dolby Atmos. If you have a soundbar or AV receiver, make sure the switch doesn’t strip out the audio format you need.
Remote Control and Auto-Switching
Remote control is a convenience feature, but it matters more than you’d think. Without a remote, you’ll be getting off the couch to press a button every time you switch inputs. Some switches also offer auto-switching, which detects when a new device powers on and switches to it automatically. The trade-off is that auto-switching can be unpredictable — I’ve seen it jump to the wrong port when two devices are on at once.
Build Quality and Power Requirements
Cheap switches with plastic housings can overheat or fail after a few months. I prefer aluminum models like the GANA and UGREEN because they dissipate heat better and feel more durable. Also check whether the switch needs external power. Some switches draw power from the HDMI port itself, which can cause signal instability with longer cables. A powered switch with an included adapter is almost always more reliable.
My Shortcut Advice: If you want a switch that remembers inputs without fuss, buy a model with a remote and at least one extra port than you need right now. Skip the auto-switching gimmick — manual memory with a remote is far more reliable in real-world use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best HDMI switch that remembers input when all devices are off?
In my testing, the Anker HDMI Switch is the best overall pick for reliable input memory. It’s a 2-in-1-out model that supports 4K@60Hz with HDR and Dolby, and it held the last active input every single time I power cycled my devices. If you need more ports, the Anker 4-in-1-out version also has the same reliable memory behavior.
How do I know if an HDMI switch will remember the last input?
You can’t always tell from the product description alone. I recommend looking for switches with a physical button or IR remote — those tend to store the last input in memory. Models that rely on auto-switching often forget when all devices are off. Reading recent customer reviews mentioning “memory” or “last input” is the best way to verify before buying.
Does the GANA HDMI Switch remember the last input?
Yes, the GANA HDMI Switch 4k@60hz Splitter remembers the last input when you use the manual button on the unit. I tested it with a Blu-Ray player and a Fire Stick, and it stayed on the correct port after powering everything down. Just note that it doesn’t have a remote, so you have to press the button on the switch itself.
What’s the difference between a 2-port and a 5-port HDMI switch?
The obvious difference is port count — 2-port switches handle two devices, while 5-port switches handle up to five. But the bigger difference is convenience. The UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz includes a remote control, while most 2-port models like the Anker HDMI Switch don’t. If you have more than two devices, spring for the 5-port with a remote so you’re not crawling behind your TV to switch inputs.
Can an HDMI switch support 4K@120Hz or 8K?
Only if it has HDMI 2.1. Standard HDMI switches with HDMI 2.0 are capped at 4K@60Hz. The UGREEN 8K@60Hz HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out supports 4K@240Hz and 8K@60Hz over HDMI 2.1, which is perfect for high-refresh-rate gaming. If you’re just watching movies or playing on a standard 60Hz TV, a 4K@60Hz switch like the UGREEN HDMI Switch 3 in 1 Out is all you need.
Why does my HDMI switch keep resetting to port 1?
That usually means the switch doesn’t have input memory retention, or it’s losing power when all devices are off. Some cheap switches reset to port 1 by default because they lack the circuitry to store the last input. The Anker HDMI Switch and UGREEN models I tested don’t have this problem. If your current switch keeps resetting, replace it with one of the models on this list.
Do I need a powered HDMI switch or an unpowered one?
I strongly recommend a powered switch — one that plugs into a wall outlet. Unpowered switches draw power from the HDMI port, which can cause signal drops with longer cables or when multiple devices are connected. The UGREEN 8K@60Hz model comes with a power adapter, and it never dropped a signal in my tests. For a reliable memory experience, go powered.
Is the Kinivo HDMI Switch worth the higher price?
It depends on what you need. The Kinivo HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K 60Hz costs more than most, but it supports Dolby Vision and VRR, which the cheaper switches don’t. It also includes an IR extender cable so you can hide the switch behind a cabinet. If you don’t need Dolby Vision or VRR, the UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out gives you the same port count and memory for less money.
My Final Verdict
After testing all nine switches, the Anker HDMI Switch is my top pick because it nails the core requirement — it remembers the last input every time — at a budget-friendly price. It supports 4K@60Hz with HDR and Dolby, and it’s backed by over 4,500 ratings with a 4.5-star average. The GANA HDMI Switch 4k@60hz Splitter is the runner-up for its durable aluminum build and bidirectional flexibility, while the UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz is the best choice if you need five ports and a remote control.
If you’re still stuck, here’s my honest advice: count your devices and decide if you need a remote. Two devices and a tight budget? Get the Anker. Three to five devices and want couch control? Go with the UGREEN 5-port. Either way, you’ll get a switch that actually remembers your input when everything is off.
Overall Winner: Anker HDMI Switch
- HDMI Switching Simplified: Dive directly into your chosen media with a single button for hassle-free...
- - Enjoy 4K Excellence: Turn your regular viewing sessions into cinematic experiences with our HDMI...
- Huge Compatibility: Seamlessly compatible with a wide range of devices, this HDMI switch integrates...
Buy this if you want the most reliable input memory at the lowest price. It’s perfect for a console and a streaming stick, and it just works without any fuss.
Runner-Up: GANA HDMI Switch 4k@60hz Splitter
- 【Bidirectional HDMI Switcher】This HDMI Switch offer 3 HDMI Ports, so you could connect two HDMI...
- 【4K High Resolution】Support 4k@60Hz and backward compatible with 2k/1080p. Enjoy 3D visual and...
- 【Fast and Stable Transmission】This aluminum HDMI AB Switcher not only support high bandwidth...
Buy this if you want a tank-like aluminum switch that can also function as a splitter. It’s backed by over 34,000 ratings and remembers inputs reliably with the manual button.
Best Multi-Port: UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out 4K@60Hz
- Designed for Multiple Gaming Consoles: Are you tired of constantly switching among multiple gaming...
- 4K@60Hz Resolution: Immerse yourself in an incredible viewing experience with 4K@60Hz resolution and...
- Fast & Stable Transmission: This HDMI switch box supports high bandwidth 18Gbps data transmission...
Buy this if you have three to five devices and want a remote to switch inputs from the couch. It supports CEC, HDR, and HDCP 2.2 for a complete entertainment setup.
Disclosure
This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.