SCART Switches
Most of us in retro gaming have more consoles than inputs on our TV, leaving us looking for switches. If you’re using RGB SCART from your console, this page will show off some quality, tested SCART switches (and what to stay away from).
*If you’re looking for the best retro gaming component video switch, I’ll have a page on that soon, but my two favorites are the gcompsw and the GamesCare Component Switch – check both and decide which you’d prefer, but both are great. You can also try to use Extron Crosspoints with BNC connectors if you’re looking for something used and less expensive, but if you want something new and easy, the above two are the best.
As a note, if you need info on how to connect the switch to your RGB display, please see the SCART to Display page.
gscartsw: automatic 8:2 SCART-RGB switch
This is an 8-port SCART switch made specifically for retro-gaming. It’s the most mature product on this list with years of proven use. It’s a bit expensive, but offers auto switching, dual simultaneous outputs, true sync regeneration and the ability to convert RGsB to RGBs. Please check out the review page for more information.
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Retro Gaming Cables SCART Switch
This switch is a manual, pushbutton switch that works really well. It doesn’t have any of the features of the above gscart and only one output…but it’s only about $65!!! This is absolutely the switch I’d recommend, if you didn’t need the extra features of the gscartsw, or are on a budget. Here’s a full review: https://www.retrorgb.com/rgc-scart-switch-reviewed.html |
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GamesCare 8×2 Auto + Manual SCART Switch
This is an automatic, 8-in, 2-out switch from GamesCare. It’s completely safe to use in both single and dual output modes, doesn’t affect picture quality at all and offers two manual modes as well: One pushbutton and another via a web app! Here’s a full review: https://www.retrorgb.com/gamescare-8×2-scart-switch-review.html |
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SCA101 JP21 and SCART Switch
This is the only switch on the market that supports simultaneous use of both JP21 and SCART cables, acting as both a switch and a converter! It also supports 10 inputs and multiple output options; Single output is recommended, but simultaneous outputs are possible (check the review above for more info). There’s also some expert options such as RGB gain control and H&V controls. Please note that the sync stripper outputs TTL level sync, so please leave that off if you’re going into SCART equipment. |
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Otaku-Store SCART / RCA Switch
I’ve had mixed experience with the Otaku switches. The manual pushbutton one is good, but the 6×3 has some potential voltage issues. The 10×3 was good, but there are many board revisions, so you might have slightly different results. Manual Switch: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DFxPTtd
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Shinybow SB-5525
The Shinybow is the only “matrix” SCART switch on this list; You can assign different inputs to different outputs at the same time. It tested very well, but unless you require matrix switching, the others above are better choices |
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Bandridge 5-port SCART Selector
There are two models available: One with a push-button manual switch and another that auto-switches once your console is turned on. Please note that some people have had major issues with theirs: http://shmups.system11.org/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=49746 |
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Hydra 8-port SCART switch
This is an 8-port SCART switch from Lotharek. It has one SCART output and is powered by MicroUSB. Many people have positive reviews, but I had issues with the multiple revisions I tested. I’m only listing it here since I often get questions about it. It’ll probably be fine, but use at your own risk. |
What not to buy