Rocketfish™ – 4-Port 4K 60Hz HDMI Switch Box – Black
- Only at Best BuyQuickly select which device to use with your TV using this Rocketfish four-port HDMI switch. The quartet of ports lets you connect a wide variety of devices to a single TV so that you can seamlessly switch between them using the remote.
Your One-Stop Shop for Everything You Need to Know
If you have multiple HDMI devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming boxes, etc. but only one HDMI port on your TV, you need an HDMI switch. With a good HDMI switch, you can easily connect all your HDMI devices using just that single HDMI port on your TV. No more constantly plugging and unplugging cables every time you want to use a different device!
One of the most popular HDMI switch brands is Rocketfish. Rocketfish makes HDMI switches that are compatible with the latest 4K Ultra HD TVs and devices. They are designed to automatically switch between HDMI sources with just the click of a button.
In this ultimate buying guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Rocketfish’s HDMI switches including:
- What is a Rocketfish HDMI Switch?
- Key features and benefits
- Setup and usage
- Compatibility with 4K, HDR and HDCP
- Number of ports
- Durability and build quality
- Gaming performance
- Pricing and value
- Reviews and ratings
- Comparison with other brands
- Troubleshooting tips
- FAQs
Let’s get started!
What is a Rocketfish HDMI Switch?
A Rocketfish HDMI switch allows you to connect multiple HDMI source devices like Blu-ray players, game consoles, streaming boxes etc. to a single HDMI port on your TV or monitor.
It acts as a central hub, letting you seamlessly switch between the connected devices using the supplied remote control or buttons on the switch box itself. This eliminates the need to manually swap cables every time you want to change sources.
Rocketfish’s HDMI switches feature between 2 to 8 input ports. They support video resolutions up to 4K Ultra HD at 60Hz with HDR for crystal clear picture quality. The switches also have an auto-switching capability that will detect when a new device is powered on and change to that input automatically.
Key Features and Benefits
Here are some of the standout features and advantages of using a Rocketfish HDMI switch:
- 4K HDMI support – Rocketfish HDMI switches are fully compatible with 4K Ultra HD resolutions up to 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz. This ensures maximum compatibility with the latest 4K TVs, game consoles, Blu-ray players and more.
- HDR passthrough – The switches support High Dynamic Range (HDR) passthrough including HDR10, Dolby Vision and HLG formats. This allows full HDR quality when gaming or watching HDR-enabled content.
- HDCP 2.2 compliance – Rocketfish HDMI switches comply with HDCP 2.2 copy protection standards for 4K content. This allows you to view protected 4K sources like Netflix & Amazon Prime Video.
- Auto-switching – The HDMI switch will automatically change to a new input when a connected device is powered on, for quick and easy source switching.
- Remote control – A handy remote is included to easily change between inputs without needing to reach the switch box. Some models also have front panel buttons.
- Plug-and-play – No software installation is required. Just connect your HDMI devices and start using them right away through the switch.
- Compact design – Rocketfish HDMI switches come in a slim and compact enclosure that can be setup anywhere conveniently.
Setup and Usage
Setting up and using a Rocketfish HDMI switch is quick and straightforward:
- Connect HDMI devices – Using HDMI cables, connect your Blu-ray player, gaming console, streaming stick etc. to the HDMI input ports on the rear of the switch box.
- Connect to TV – Use an HDMI cable to connect the HDMI output port of the switch to the HDMI port on your TV.
- Power on – Plug in the AC power adapter to power on the switch box. The input source LED light will turn on for the active input.
- Select source – Press the source button on the remote control or on the front of the switch box to cycle through and select the HDMI device you want to use. The corresponding LED will light up showing the active port.
- Enjoy – Start enjoying all your HDMI devices effortlessly through the Rocketfish switch! The auto-switching function will also automatically change over when a new source device is powered on.
It’s that simple. The Rocketfish HDMI switch seamlessly integrates multiple devices making your home entertainment setup a breeze to use.
Compatibility with 4K, HDR and HDCP
A major benefit of Rocketfish’s HDMI switches is that they fully support today’s highest video standards:
- 4K Ultra HD – The switches allow 4K UHD resolutions up to 3840 x 2160p at 60Hz to pass through so you can enjoy 4K gaming and video at the highest quality.
- HDR – HDR formats like HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG are supported enabling you to experience stunning High Dynamic Range content.
- HDCP 2.2 – HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) version 2.2 is the latest copy protection standard for 4K UHD content. Rocketfish HDMI switches are HDCP 2.2 compliant so you can view protected 4K sources.
This advanced compatibility ensures the switch will work optimally with 4K TVs, game consoles like the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X, 4K Blu-ray players, and 4K streaming devices. You’ll get the full benefit of Ultra HD picture quality and performance.
Number of Ports
Rocketfish makes HDMI switches with different numbers of input ports to suit your specific connectivity needs:
- 2-port – The RH2HDMI01 model has 2 HDMI input ports ideal for a simple setup with a couple devices like a Blu-ray player and gaming console.
- 4-port – The RH4HDMI01 has 4 HDMI ports perfect for connecting multiple devices like a Blu-ray player, Roku, Apple TV and Nintendo Switch with just one switch.
- 6-port – The RH6HDMI01 bumps it up to 6 HDMI inputs so you can hook up nearly all your home entertainment devices.
- 8-port – For the ultimate in connectivity, the RH8HDMI01 has a whopping 8 HDMI inputs to consolidate your entire A/V setup to one TV HDMI port.
The more ports the better so you can connect all your HDMI devices now and leave room for adding more down the road.
Durability and Build Quality
Rocketfish designs their HDMI switches to be durable and reliable for non-stop home entertainment use.
Key signs of quality construction:
- Sturdy metal enclosures that are scratch and dent resistant
- Gold-plated HDMI ports for corrosion-free connections
- Secure HDMI port locks to keep cables firmly attached
- Infrared extension window to boost remote control reception
- Ventilation holes prevent overheating
- Braided nylon cables on some models for tangle-free durability
- Input buttons covered by a sliding panel to prevent accidental presses
Rocketfish HDMI switches should provide many years of service. So you can be confident of a solidly-built product that will stand up to regular use.
Gaming Performance
Gamers will appreciate how Rocketfish HDMI switches can enhance their gaming setups.
Key gaming benefits include:
- Fast switching – Quickly switch between your PS4, Xbox One or Nintendo Switch consoles to access all your games through one TV.
- 4K HDR gaming – With 4K/60Hz and HDR support, immerse yourself in stunning 4K gaming graphics.
- Minimal lag – The switches introduce negligible signal latency so competitive online gaming is not affected.
- Game console charging – Some models have dedicated USB ports to charge your game controllers and accessories.
- Headset hookup – Connect your gaming headset to the audio extractor port (on selected models) to enjoy game sound through headphones.
Using a Rocketfish HDMI switch gives gamers a streamlined way to connect multiple consoles and enjoy their games in full 4K glory.
Pricing and Value
Rocketfish HDMI switches provide excellent value for money. Here are typical prices:
- 2-port – $25 to $35
- 4-port – $40 to $60
- 6-port – $80 to $120
- 8-port – $100 to $150
Given their 4K/HDR compatibility, auto-switching functionality, and robust build quality, Rocketfish HDMI switches deliver great performance and connectivity at reasonable price points.
The more ports you need, the better value the larger switches are. But even the 2-port models are very affordable yet fully-featured options.
Overall, Rocketfish HDMI switches give you premium home theater switching functionality at budget-friendly prices.
Reviews and Ratings
Rocketfish HDMI switches consistently earn strong reviews and ratings from customers:
- 4+ star average – The switches average between 4 to 5 stars across major retail sites. This indicates high rates of customer satisfaction.
- “Easy to set up” – A common theme in user reviews is how easy the Rocketfish switches are to get up and running. Simply plugging in cables and powering on is all it takes.
- “Great picture quality” – Users mention the switches reliably pass through 4K and HDR signal from sources to the TV with no loss of quality.
- “Solidly built” – Reviews mention the sturdy metal construction and secure port locks as signs of quality materials and craftsmanship.
- “No lag” – Gamers report the switches cause no noticeable lag or delay in gaming responsiveness. This is great for fast-paced action games.
- “Great value” – Many reviews talk about the great functionality delivered by Rocketfish switches at very wallet-friendly prices.
The consensus is Rocketfish HDMI switches are easy to use plug-and-play devices that reliably handle 4K HDR media at affordable cost.
Comparison with Other Brands
How do Rocketfish HDMI switches compare with other major brands?
Rocketfish vs Kinivo:
- Rocketfish has higher 4K/HDR compatibility while Kinivo maxes out at 1080p.
- Kinivo has simpler designs but Rocketfish offers more robust metal construction.
- Rocketfish is generally cheaper for similar port counts.
Rocketfish vs AmazonBasics:
- AmazonBasics has higher maximum port counts but Rocketfish matches key specs like 4K/60Hz.
- Rocketfish has wider retailer availability whereas AmazonBasics is Amazon-exclusive.
- Rocketfish includes handy extras like remote controls and game controller charging.
Rocketfish vs IOGEAR:
- IOGEAR supports higher resolutions like 4K/120Hz but most users don’t need beyond 4K/60Hz.
- Rocketfish has wider retailer availability while IOGEAR mainly sells through Amazon.
- IOGEAR is more expensive than Rocketfish for similar performance.
While specs vary between brands, for most users, Rocketfish delivers the right balance of essential features, broad retail availability, and affordable pricing.
Troubleshooting Tips
Though Rocketfish HDMI switches are generally reliable, here are some troubleshooting tips if issues arise:
- No picture/signal loss
- Check HDMI cables are securely connected at both ends
- Try connecting suspect device like Blu-ray player directly to TV to isolate issue
- Power cycle devices by turning them off and on again
- Factory reset the switch by holding down the power button for 5-10 seconds
- Remote not working
- Point remote directly at IR sensor on front of switch
- Replace remote batteries
- Ensure no obstructions between remote and switch
- Use IR extender if switch is in closed cabinet
- No audio
- Change HDMI audio settings on source device and TV
- Try different HDMI cables in case of cable defects
- Use optical/RCA cables instead for separate audio
- Port not switching
- Enable auto-switching in the switch settings
- Set devices to power off completely instead of standby
- Manual switch to problematic port and power cycle devices
- Firmware issues
- Check for firmware updates from the manufacturer
- Factory reset the switch to wipe firmware back to defaults
If issues persist after troubleshooting, contact Rocketfish support for a replacement or warranty service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Rocketfish HDMI switches:
Do I need to install software or drivers?
No. Rocketfish HDMI switches are plug-and-play so no software or drivers are required.
What devices are compatible?
All HDMI devices like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, streaming boxes, etc. are compatible.
Can I connect a soundbar?
Yes, you can connect a soundbar or AV receiver to the HDMI switch to route audio and video through one device.
Do the ports support HDMI ARC?
Some models have HDMI ARC so you can send audio back from your TV to a sound system. Check port specifications to confirm.
Can I stream protected content?
Yes. The switches meet HDCP 2.2 standards so you can view protected 4K streaming content.
Do I need to turn devices on in any special order?
No. You can power devices on in any order. The switch will initialize and send the active source signal to the TV.
What is the maximum cable length?
Up to 15 feet is recommended from sources to switch, and switch to TV, for reliable 4K HDR signal transmission.
The Final Word
That wraps up our ultimate buyer’s guide for Rocketfish’s excellent lineup of HDMI switches.
In summary, Rocketfish HDMI switches provide an easy and affordable way to connect all your home A/V gear using just a single HDMI input on your TV.
With models offering up to 8 HDMI ports, 4K/HDR/HDCP 2.2 support, auto-switching, and robust build quality, Rocketfish switches check all the boxes for being highly versatile and reliable HDMI hubs.
So simplify your entertainment setup and minimize cable clutter with a quality Rocketfish HDMI switch!
