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Ever wanted the same TV channel in the lounge and the bedroom without buying a second box or subscription? That’s where splitters come in. A splitter lets you share one signal—whether it’s aerial, satellite, or HDMI—across multiple devices. They’re small, inexpensive pieces of kit, but choosing the wrong type can mean pixelated pictures, poor audio, or constant signal dropouts. In this guide I’ll walk you through what to look for, which UK retailers stock reliable options, and practical tips for installation so your picture stays crisp and your sound stays punchy.
Not all splitters are created equal. You’ve got coaxial splitters for aerial and satellite feeds, HDMI splitters for digital video and surround sound systems, and audio splitters for headphone or line-level outputs. Coax splitters work with the TV aerial or satellite dish cables, while HDMI splitters duplicate a single HDMI input to two or more HDMI outputs. Audio splitters are simpler, often passive Y-cables or small boxes that let two sets of headphones share one output. Know your source and destination before buying—asking “coax or HDMI?” is the first step.
Coaxial splitters are typically used for terrestrial aerials and cable TV. They come in 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way variants and are rated in MHz and dB loss. For most homes, a 2-way or 3-way, properly amplified or high-quality passive splitter does the trick. Look for splitters that cover the full TV frequency range to avoid losing channels.
HDMI splitters duplicate your HDMI signal to multiple screens. They come with or without amplification and vary by supported resolutions and features such as 4K, HDR, and HDCP compliance. If you run long HDMI runs—say more than 15 feet—look for active (powered) splitters or consider HDMI over Ethernet solutions to maintain signal integrity.
Audio splitters are handy for sharing music between two sets of headphones or sending stereo to multiple speakers. Passive adapters are cheap and fine for short runs, but for better sound quality or longer distances, look for active splitters with buffering to avoid channel imbalance or volume drop.
When you’re hunting for the best splitter, check a few key specs: frequency response, insertion loss (dB), shielding quality, number of outputs, and whether the splitter is active or passive. Frequency response matters for coax splitters—look for a range that covers at least 5 MHz to 1000 MHz for modern broadcasts. Insertion loss tells you how much signal strength is lost; less loss is better. Finally, well-shielded splitters reduce interference, which is crucial if you’ve got lots of wireless devices nearby.
Shopping in the UK means you’ve got a mix of big-box retailers, specialist audio stores, and online marketplaces that all sell splitters. Below are some trusted places where you can compare prices, read reviews, and pick the right gear for your setup.
Currys is a go-to for many UK households. You’ll find a broad range of options from basic coax splitters to HDMI splitters that support 4K. The benefit of buying here is the ability to check specs and customer reviews online and, in many locations, to collect in-store if you need it fast. Currys often stocks known brands and budget-friendly own-label products, making it easy to compare value versus features.
Looking for premium audio and AV advice? Richer Sounds is an excellent specialist. Their staff are often audio enthusiasts who can advise on whether you need a simple passive splitter or a higher-end active unit with signal boosting. Richer Sounds will usually carry brands aimed at audiophiles and home cinema fans, which is perfect if sound quality is a priority.
Argos is a convenient option for quick buys and value picks. They carry practical splitters for everyday needs—2-way coax units, basic HDMI splitters, and simple audio adapters. With catalog-based shopping and many collection points, Argos is handy if you want an affordable solution without fuss, especially for short-term or simple multi-room set-ups.
Amazon has a huge selection, from obscure brands to well-known manufacturers. The upside is choice and customer feedback—reviews, photos, and Q&A can give you insight into real-world performance. Be careful to check specifications and seller ratings; there’s variability in build quality, especially with cheap HDMI splitters that promise features like 4K but don’t deliver reliably.
If you’re after more technical or professional-grade components, RS Components and Ebuyer are solid bets. RS tends to serve trade and industrial customers, offering high-quality splitters and RF components. Ebuyer covers a broad range of electronics and often lists detailed specs, helpful if you’re comparing insertion loss and frequency response numbers.
For DIYers and installers, Screwfix and B&Q stock rugged coaxial splitters suitable for home and small commercial installs. These stores are practical options for buying in person when you need parts for a weekend project. You’ll typically find good-value passive splitters and a few branded items for more reliable performance.
John Lewis is a good choice if you want a balance of quality and service. Their selection includes better-known AV accessories and branded HDMI splitters. The staff can help with compatibility questions and you’ll often find longer warranty options than extremely cheap alternatives.
Not all brands are equal. For coax, think about brands like Triax, Televes, and One For All for reliable RF performance. For HDMI, look at Atlona, J-Tech, and OREI or more consumer-focused brands like Ugreen and Belkin if you want a balance of price and functionality. Audio splitters from companies like Sennheiser and JBL tend to maintain better signal fidelity than the cheapest adapters.
Satellite, cable, and terrestrial aerial signals have different requirements. Satellite feeds often use higher frequency bands and may need splitters rated for satellite use—usually labelled as “satellite” or “dual-band.” Cable TV uses slightly different frequency ranges and benefits from splitters that cover DOCSIS ranges if you’re dealing with cable networks. Aerial splitters must handle VHF and UHF bands used for free-to-air broadcasts. If you’re unsure, trace the feed from the source and choose a splitter rated for that system.
Satellite splitters often need to be designed to support a satellite LNB’s power and signalling. Use splitters rated for satellite to prevent issues with receiver communications and to preserve signal strength across multiple receivers.
For cable and terrestrial aerials, ensure the splitter covers the full TV frequency range. If you plan to split a cable modem signal, be cautious: splitters can affect upstream and downstream performance, so opt for high-quality components or consider a dedicated distribution amplifier for busy setups.
Installing a splitter is straightforward, but a few practical tips make a big difference. Keep coax cable runs as short as possible—under 50 feet is ideal for passive setups—and use good-quality coax with solid shielding. For HDMI, stay within reliable passive cable lengths—about 15 to 25 feet—before needing an active solution. Tighten connectors gently to avoid damaging the coax or thread. And always avoid daisy-chaining cheap splitters; a single high-quality splitter often outperforms multiple chained units.
Signal degradation is the main enemy of split setups. Each split introduces insertion loss, so factor that into your plan. Use splitters with minimal dB loss per output, or use an amplifier or powered splitter for multi-room installations. Keep splitters and cables away from wireless routers, fluorescent lights, and heavy electrical equipment to reduce interference. If you see pixelation or intermittent audio, check connectors first—loose or corroded connectors are often the culprit.
If you’re splitting to three or more endpoints, running long cables, or using multiple high-resolution displays, consider an active (powered) splitter or distribution amplifier. These devices restore signal strength and preserve quality over longer runs. They cost more and need power, but they’re worth it if you want consistent picture quality across several rooms or if you’re feeding a home cinema alongside other TVs.
Buying cheap can save money short-term but might frustrate you with dropouts or poorer quality. For a single bedroom split, a low-cost 2-way coax or HDMI splitter can work fine. For anything more ambitious—multi-room systems, long cable runs, 4K HDR content—pay a bit more for reputable brands and active options. Think of it as paying for a smoother motorway rather than constant potholes: the premium upfront often saves time and irritation later.
Before you click buy, run through a quick checklist: confirm the type of splitter (coax vs HDMI vs audio), check supported frequencies or resolutions, note insertion loss, see if it’s powered, verify the number of outputs, and read at least a handful of reviews. If buying in-store, bring a photo of your existing setup or the connector type—F-type for most coax, but some older setups use Belling-Lee connectors. A little prep saves returns.
If the idea of drilling, long cable runs, or matching LNBs makes you uneasy, specialist stores like Richer Sounds or independent AV installers can offer helpful advice or professional installation. Even retailers such as Currys and John Lewis can provide guidance, though for complex satellite and multi-room systems a professional installer is worth considering.
For most UK homes, start with a high-quality 2-way or 3-way coax splitter for aerials, and a powered HDMI splitter for longer HDMI runs or multi-screen 4K setups. Buy from retailers that list full specifications and offer clear returns if the product doesn’t match expectations. If you value sound or picture fidelity, choose specialist retailers and trusted brands. With the right components and a bit of planning, you’ll be enjoying the same signal across multiple rooms without compromise.
Conclusion: Splitters are small but powerful tools to expand your TV and audio setup. Know your signal type, shop for the right specs, and pick a reputable retailer. Whether you buy from Currys, Richer Sounds, Argos, or online via Amazon or specialist suppliers, the right choice depends on your priorities—budget, quality, or convenience. A little knowledge goes a long way, so take the time to match the splitter to your system and you’ll avoid headaches and poor picture quality down the line.
