UGREEN HDMI Switch Review: Great for Gaming, Some Flaws
Digging into user reports, the UGREEN HDMI Switch 5 in 1 Out with Remote scores a conditional 8/10. While its multi-device compatibility and strong video quality win praise, recurring complaints about HDCP errors, missing power adapters, and lack of auto-switching prevent it from being a universal recommendation. Gamers and multi-console owners seem to benefit most, but streaming app users may encounter frustrating roadblocks.
Quick Verdict
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports multiple devices simultaneously | No automatic input switching |
| Strong resolution and refresh rate support | Missing power adapter in box |
| Smooth gaming performance with minimal lag | HDCP errors on some streaming apps |
| Clear LED port indicators | Occasional compatibility issues with laptops |
| Remote and manual switching options | Needs short HDMI cables for best results |
| Solid build quality | 3-4 second input switch delay |
| Good value pricing on sale | Requires constant external power |
Claims vs Reality
UGREEN markets this HDMI switch as HDCP 2.2 compliant, promising compatibility with premium streaming services. However, feedback tells a different story. Reddit user reports include: "When I run any paid-media streaming apps, I get 'HDCP error'. Netflix and my cable TV app don't work… NVIDIA Shield reports 'HDMI > HDCP > none' when this UGREEN HDMI switch is used." This suggests the compliance claim may fail under certain setups, particularly with DRM-heavy sources.
The advertised 4K@60Hz and HDR10+ support does appear accurate for gaming. A slickdeals community member explained: "My setup is XSX + PS5 + Switch + Intel MacBook. No issue with gaming devices. MacBook works 95% of the time, but sometimes I need to restart the monitor/laptop." While gaming performance meets expectations, occasional quirks appear with computers.
UGREEN promotes the remote control convenience with a 33 ft range. Most users confirm this works, but one noted: "It is recommended that the remote control be facing the IR receiver." This limits flexibility if the device is tucked away in AV cabinets.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised:
Gamers benefit most from the UGREEN's multi-input design. A verified buyer on Amazon wrote: "I can connect PS5, Xbox, Switch, and Roku to my TV without plugging/unplugging cables." The high bandwidth transmission helps competitive players; one user noted smooth gameplay with no frame drops across multiple consoles. Reddit users also appreciate the build quality, describing it as “a very solid device” that takes only 3-4 seconds to switch inputs.
The LED indicators earn consistent praise. They allow quick identification of active ports, reducing setup confusion. For streamers with complex setups, this visual feedback helps with fast troubleshooting.
Common Complaints:
The lack of automatic switching is a repeated frustration. As one community member bluntly put it: "WTF—this is a very basic feature for an HDMI switch." While some users say manual switching is fine, others consider it a dealbreaker, especially when expecting seamless transitions between active devices.
Power supply issues are another sore point. Several platforms report that the included USB-C cable lacks a power adapter. Trustpilot reviewers warn that "this makes it a non-starter… I'm opposed to any product that doesn't come ready to use out of the box." Since the device requires constant external power, users without spare adapters must purchase one separately.
HDCP errors on streaming apps are perhaps the most critical complaint. This primarily affects Nvidia Shield owners and anyone relying on protected content. One Redditor speculated the switch “is trying to bypass HDCP,” causing apps to reject playback.
Divisive Features:
The top-facing LED lights are loved by some, disliked by others. One slickdeals user said they “appreciate that these are on top” to avoid nighttime glare, while others prefer front-facing indicators for visibility when the device is shelf-mounted.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot discussions show skepticism toward the brand’s marketing claims, with some suggesting UGREEN’s HDCP compliance is unreliable. However, long-term Reddit ownership stories report stable gaming use after months, with minimal degradation in performance. A recurring theme is that problems arise only in specific use cases—streaming DRM-heavy content or using certain laptops—rather than across all devices.
Reliability also hinges on cable length compliance. Multiple sources note that exceeding the recommended input/output lengths can cause flickering or loss of high refresh rates. This dependency on short HDMI cables may limit flexibility in large home theater setups.
Alternatives
Community members occasionally compare UGREEN to Monoprice, with some noting Monoprice offers auto-switching features missing here. However, UGREEN’s industrial design and LED placement receive better aesthetic marks from certain users. One slickdeals commenter drew parallels to Anker’s rise in reputation, suggesting UGREEN could similarly gain trust over time.
Price & Value
Prices vary widely—Amazon sales have dropped it to $27.99 with coupons, while New Zealand and Singapore listings remain near $69.90–$95 SGD. eBay resale shows limited availability, suggesting it’s not a common second-hand market item. Buying tips from the community stress waiting for discounts and ensuring you have a spare power adapter before purchase.
FAQ
Q: Does the UGREEN HDMI Switch support automatic input switching?
A: No, it only supports manual switching via the button or remote. Users expecting seamless detection may find this inconvenient.
Q: Will it work with streaming services like Netflix?
A: Not reliably for all setups. Some users experience HDCP errors, particularly with Nvidia Shield and DRM-heavy apps.
Q: Can it handle 4K@60Hz gaming?
A: Yes, multiple gamers report smooth performance with consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X, provided HDMI cable lengths are kept within recommended limits.
Q: Is a power adapter included?
A: No, only a USB-C cable is included. You must supply your own adapter to power the device.
Q: How long does it take to switch inputs?
A: User reports suggest around 3-4 seconds between devices.
Final Verdict:
Buy if you’re a gamer or multi-device user who values manual control and high-quality video output. Avoid if you rely heavily on streaming apps with DRM or expect auto-switching convenience. Pro tip from the community: keep HDMI cables short and have a dedicated power adapter ready to ensure stable performance.
