OREI 4K HDMI Matrix Switch 2x2 (UHDS-202) review
Product description
What is it and what problem does it solve
The OREI UHDS-202 is a compact 2 input / 2 output HDMI matrix switch designed to route two HDMI sources to two displays. On paper, it provides a straightforward way to select which source feeds which display, using a remote, without needing to unplug cables or swap cables around. It supports high-bandwidth 18Gbps and resolutions up to 4K x 2K at 60Hz with 4:4:4 colour, HDR, and HDCP 2.2. It also offers EDID bypass, 3D support and both digital and analogue audio outputs. If your goal is to switch between two devices on two screens, this device aims to simplify the setup with a remote rather than manual switchers.
How it’s put together and what to expect in use
The unit is a 2x2 HDMI switch/switcher with IR remote control for easy source selection. It’s designed to embed or de-embed audio and to manage EDID in a way that can bypass or use the monitor’s EDID as needed. It doesn’t extend PC monitors, so it’s primarily about routing video and audio between a pair of sources and displays rather than enlarging a single PC desktop across multiple screens.
Pros and what stands out
On the positive side, the device adheres to modern HDMI standards, including 4K/60Hz 4:4:4 and HDCP 2.2, which means it should handle contemporary content protection and colour fidelity when used with compatible sources and displays. The inclusion of EDID bypass can be helpful in scenarios where you want to control what the displays report to the sources, potentially avoiding compatibility quirks. The compact 2x2 form factor and remote control add convenience for straightforward switching without manual reconfiguration.
Potential limitations and who it’s for
If you need a single PC monitor to be extended across multiple displays or require more than two sources or outputs, this 2x2 model won’t cover those needs. The entry is pragmatic but it’s not a universal matrix solution, you’re limited to two sources and two displays. It may also fall short for users who require advanced upscaling, variable refresh rate control beyond the basic HDR/HDCP2.2 capabilities, or more granular audio routing options beyond pass-through and basic de-embedding.
Who should consider this product
This matrix is sensible if you have two HDMI sources (such as a Blu-ray player and a streaming device) and two displays and you want a simple, remote-controlled way to switch between them. It’s especially worth considering if you value HDMI 18Gbps bandwidth and 4K/60Hz compatibility alongside HDR and HDCP2.2, packaged in a compact unit with basic audio options.
When to think twice and what to check before buying
If your setup requires more than two sources or displays, or you rely on specific EDID behaviours for complex AV setups, this model may feel limited. Confirm that your devices support 4K/60Hz at 4:4:4 and HDCP 2.2 in your intended configuration, and decide whether you need full audio de-embedding or only pass-through. Also note that this device does not extend PC desktops across monitors, which is a common expectation for some multi-monitor needs.
Practical use case example
Imagine a small media room where a Blu-ray player and a streaming box sit side by side, and you want to toggle between two TVs or projectors without swapping cables. With the UHDS-202, you can switch sources to each display remotely, keeping cables tidy and avoiding manual reconfiguration—handy for shared living spaces or a compact media rack.
Technical baseline in plain terms
The switch uses HDMI 2.0a (18Gbps) bandwidth, supports up to 4K/60Hz 4:4:4, HDR, and HDCP 2.2, and offers both digital and analogue audio outputs with audio de-embedding. It features Smart EDID management to help compatibility across devices. The device is designed with two inputs and two outputs and is controlled via an IR remote.
What to check in the box and set-up notes
Before buying, verify compatibility with your two preferred sources and two displays, ensure you have the required HDMI cables of sufficient length, and test whether EDID bypass meets your needs in practice. If you rely on precise audio routing, consider how the de-embedded audio aligns with your AV receiver or speakers.
Final decision and buying rationale
Is it worth it?
Worth considering if you prioritise a simple, dual-source, dual-display routing solution with remote control and solid HDMI 2.0a features, without needing a larger matrix. It’s a pragmatic option for straightforward AV switching and audio handling in a compact package.
FAQ
- Does it extend PC monitors? No, it will not extend PC monitors, it is for routing two sources to two displays.
- Can I use it with 4K content at 60Hz? Yes, it supports 4K x 2K at 60Hz with 4:4:4 colour and HDR, when the connected devices support it.
- Is EDID bypass available? Yes, it offers EDID bypass to help with compatibility decisions between sources and displays.
- What kind of audio does it output? It provides both digital and analogue audio outputs with audio de-embedding options.