VGA Splitters & Switches

How to Choose the Best VGA Splitters and Switches in the UK: Top Stores, Buying Tips, and Setup Guide

Why VGA splitters and switches still matter

You might think VGA is ancient tech, but if you’ve got older projectors, monitors, or retro gaming rigs, VGA gear is a lifesaver. Think of VGA splitters and switches like traffic directors: splitters let one video feed go to several screens, while switches let you feed multiple sources into a single display. They’re affordable, reliable, and often the simplest way to keep legacy hardware working alongside modern kit.

Key differences: splitters vs switches

Before you click buy, ask yourself: do I want to duplicate a single signal across multiple displays, or do I need to select between several input sources? That answer decides whether you need a splitter or a switch. It’s like choosing between a multi‑outlet power strip and a light switch — both control flow, but in very different ways.

VGA splitters: one source to many displays

VGA splitters take one VGA input and copy it to multiple outputs. They’re ideal for classrooms, trade shows, and conference rooms where the same image shows on two or more screens. Basic passive splitters might work for short runs, but if you’re driving multiple screens over long cables — say 25 to 50 feet — choose an active splitter with signal amplification.

VGA switches: many sources to one display

Switches let you connect multiple PCs, laptops, or consoles to one monitor or projector and switch between them without plugging and unplugging. Picture a TV with several consoles attached: a VGA switch does the same for older displays. Look for switches with a front panel button or remote so you can switch sources without crawling behind equipment.

Modern alternatives and compatibility

While VGA still works, many modern devices use HDMI or DisplayPort. Luckily, adapters and converters bridge the gap. Want to plug an HDMI laptop into a VGA projector? Use an active HDMI-to-VGA converter. Converting VGA to HDMI is trickier because VGA is analogue and HDMI is digital, so pick a converter that includes active signal processing. If cable runs are long, measure in feet — a quality cable under 20 feet usually holds signal fine, but beyond 25 to 50 feet you’ll likely need boosters or active distribution.

Top UK retailers to buy VGA splitters and switches

Picking a store matters as much as picking the device. Some retailers focus on consumer bargains, while others specialise in pro AV hardware. Here are reliable UK options that stock VGA splitters, switches, and converters — with notes to help you choose.

Amazon UK

Amazon is a one-stop shop for budget and midrange VGA splitters and switches. You’ll find single‑vendor brands, user reviews, and fast delivery options. The upside is selection; the downside can be variable build quality. Read reviews and check return options before you commit. If you prefer fast browsing and want quick price comparisons, Amazon often has enough listings to spot a pattern in reliability.

Currys PC World

Currys is convenient for shoppers who like pairing online research with in‑store pickup. Their range tends toward mainstream consumer brands and adapters that are user‑friendly. For a classroom or home office setup where simplicity matters, Currys’s stock often includes plug‑and‑play active splitters and switches designed for general users.

Richer Sounds

If audio-visual performance is the priority, Richer Sounds is an excellent specialist retailer. Their staff know AV gear and can recommend solutions for signal loss, syncing displays, or even audio extraction from older VGA setups. Expect slightly higher prices but better guidance and warranty handling — useful when you’re trying to maintain a multi‑screen presentation rig.

Scan, eBuyer, and Overclockers

These computer specialists are great for shoppers who like technical specs and higher-end options. They often stock active splitters, pro-grade switches, and the right adapters for converting between VGA, HDMI, and DisplayPort. If you need specific features like EDID management or metal housings for rack use, these retailers tend to have the gear.

RS Components and Farnell

For professional installers or businesses, RS and Farnell are trusted sources for commercial‑grade distribution amplifiers and industrial switches. Their focus is quality and specifications; you’ll find datasheets, compliance information, and tech support. These stores are the place to go when your setup needs 24/7 reliability and long cable runs measured in feet rather than yards.

Argos and Box.co.uk

Argos is handy for quick local pickup, while Box.co.uk offers a broad catalogue at competitive prices. Both stock budget splitters and simple switches ideal for home setups or temporary event use. If you need a cheap backup solution or a spare for travel, these stores can be convenient and affordable.

What to look for when buying a VGA splitter or switch

Buying the cheapest one can be tempting, but with video signals you quickly pay later in headaches. Focus on these practical criteria to avoid surprises.

Resolution and refresh rate support

Check the supported resolution — many splitters list maximums like 1920x1080 (1080p). If you’re using older displays, this is fine; if you’re trying to push widescreen monitors, confirm aspect and pixel support. Also consider refresh rate; typical VGA gear handles 60 Hz, which is fine for most applications but may be limiting for fast video work. Think inches instead of centimetres when checking monitor size — a 24‑inch screen is easy to visualise.

Active vs passive splitters

Passive splitters just split the wiring and are cheapest, but they don’t boost the signal. Active splitters amplify and equalise the video, keeping images sharp over longer runs. If your cable run is more than about 25 feet, or you plan to feed two or more displays simultaneously, choose an active splitter. It’s a bit like adding an amplifier to your speaker system: the upfront cost keeps your output clean.

Cable types and adapters

Make sure you have the right cable lengths in feet. VGA cables commonly come in 3, 6, 10, or 25 foot lengths — shorter is better for signal integrity. For connecting HDMI or DisplayPort sources, use active converters and check that they explicitly list the conversion direction (HDMI-to-VGA versus VGA-to-HDMI). Some converters also extract audio, which is handy since VGA carries no sound.

Build quality and connectors

Metal housings and gold‑plated pins can reduce interference and last longer, especially in classrooms or dry‑hire setups. Screw-on thumbscrews help keep connectors tight when devices sit on carts or in racks. If you’re handing gear to different users, durability is worth paying for.

Installation tips and common pitfalls

Setting up a splitter or switch is usually straightforward, but a few practical tips help avoid the most common headaches.

Keep cable runs short and tidy

VGA is analogue, and signal quality drops with distance. Aim for cables under 25 feet for the best results, and if you must go longer, step up to an active splitter or a distribution amplifier. Avoid running VGA cables parallel to mains cables to reduce hum and interference.

Ensure power for active devices

Active splitters and many converters need external power. Check the box and plan for a nearby socket or a powered USB port. Treat the power brick like part of your kit — don’t leave it dangling off the device where it can be pulled out during use.

Check EDID and resolutions

Sometimes a switch or splitter copies the wrong EDID (that’s the handshake info between display and source), which can lead to black screens or odd resolutions. If that happens, try resetting devices, using a different cable, or purchasing a unit with EDID management. It’s like teaching two different people to dance to the same rhythm — they need a clear cue to sync up.

Use cases: which device fits your scenario?

Different needs call for different gear. Here are common scenarios and the right tools for each.

Classroom or lecture hall

Teachers often need a single laptop feed to reach multiple displays and projectors. An active splitter with 2 to 4 outputs and a short cable run of 10 to 30 feet is usually ideal. If the room has multiple input sources (e.g., podium PC, lecturer laptop, document camera), a switch with easy switching buttons or a remote is handy.

Retail displays and trade shows

Retail setups often show identical content on several screens. Use a robust active splitter or a dedicated video wall controller if you’re scaling across many screens. Ensure all cables are secured; a 2 or 3 year warranty is a good investment in these environments.

Home office, retro gaming, and DIY

For hobbyists running older consoles or monitors, a simple switch plus a few reliable cables will do the job. If your retro console is only VGA-capable, and you want to share one screen with other devices, a compact switch is perfect. Opt for cables under 10 feet to keep picture quality crisp.

Price ranges and getting good value

In the UK market, basic passive splitters can start very cheap, while active professional units cost significantly more. Expect economy splitters or switches to sit at the lower end of the price scale; quality active splitters and pro AV distribution amps command a premium. Think of it like shoes: you can buy a pair that looks fine for one event, or you can invest in a pair that lasts through many seasons.

How to verify compatibility before you buy

Don’t gamble on compatibility. Check connector types, supported resolutions, power requirements, and whether the splitter or switch is passive or active. Read user reviews focused on similar setups to yours, and if you’re still unsure, specialist retailers like Richer Sounds or RS Components can advise on pro solutions.

When to consider professional installation

If you’re installing multiple long cable runs, mounting devices in racks, or combining VGA with modern digital signals, hiring an AV installer can save time and protect your investment. Professionals will measure runs in feet, choose the right distribution amplifiers, and handle EDID or sync issues so you don’t spend hours troubleshooting on the day of an important presentation.

Final buying checklist

Before you click checkout, run through this short checklist: 1) Is it a splitter or a switch? 2) Active or passive? 3) Do cable lengths in feet match your setup? 4) Are any converters you need directional and active? 5) Does the retailer offer clear returns or warranty info? Following this will cut the odds of surprises.

Conclusion

VGA splitters and switches remain practical tools for classrooms, businesses, retail displays, and hobbyists keeping legacy hardware alive. The trick is matching the right device to your needs — active splitters for long runs, switches for multiple sources, and reputable UK retailers for reliable support. Spend a little time checking specs in feet for cable runs and reading user feedback, and you’ll save time and frustration in the long run. Whether you shop at Amazon UK, Currys, Richer Sounds, or specialist suppliers like RS Components, choosing the right splitter or switch means smoother presentations, happier audiences, and fewer last‑minute panics.