Great HD Stocking Stuffer: An HDMI Switcher

What do PlayStation 3s, Xbox 360s, Wiis, Blu-ray and HD DVD players all have in common? True, they make awesome gifts—but they're also hungry for HD-capable HDMI ports, and most HDTVs only come with a couple. Here's a cheap way to up that number in time for the holidays.

Basically, all you need is an HDMI switcher: a box with one HDMI port at one end (for your HDTV) and two or more at the other (for HDMI-equipped components such as game consoles, HD disc players, and the like). The cheapest HDMI switchers have buttons or a switch on the box itself for switching HDMI sources, while the better ones come with RF or IR remote controls. Some even work with universal remotes (such as the Harmony 1000) for seamless operation.

How much should you pay for an HDMI switcher? Several solid models are available for less than $100, and Belkin just released a 2-to-1 HDMI switch with a remote for just $55. Here's a few more that caught my eye while browsing Yahoo! Shopping:

XTremeHD 4-to-1 HDMI switcher: Yep, four HDMI ports for your viewing pleasure, plus a remote and a sleek design borrowed from Apple TV. $99.

TERK Smart HDMI 2-to-1 HDMI switcher: No remote, but the device automatically switches ports when it senses a video signal. $80 list, but for sale online for $47.

Radio Shack 3-way HDMI switcher: Solid if unexciting design, and no remote, but you get three HDMI ports for $79.99.