What is HDMI 2.1?
HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of the High-Definition Multimedia Interface, a long-standing standard for consumer devices. It brings significant improvements over previous versions but requires a new HDMI 2.1 cable to access all features. While it is backward compatible with older HDMI devices, HDMI 2.1 is primarily used for TVs, game consoles, and streaming devices, and it’s increasingly common in monitors and laptops.
A higher bandwidth of 48 Gbps, allowing for higher resolutions and refresh rates, such as 4K at 120 Hz and 8K at 60 Hz.A new encoding scheme called 16b/18b, reducing overhead and increasing the efficiency of data transmission.Support for dynamic HDR, which adjusts brightness and contrast based on the content and the display capabilities.
Support for variable refresh rate (VRR), which synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with the device’s output, reducing screen tearing and stuttering.Support for auto low latency mode (ALLM), automatically switching the display to the lowest latency mode when gaming or using interactive applications.Support for enhanced audio return channel (eARC), enabling high-quality audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, to be transmitted from the display to the audio system.
What is DisplayPort 1.4?
DisplayPort 1.4, one of the latest versions of the DisplayPort protocol, is favored for PC gaming and professional displays. It offers some advantages over HDMI 2.1, such as backward compatibility with older devices. However, a new DisplayPort 1.4 cable is needed to utilize all the advanced features. Primarily used for monitors, laptops, and desktop PCs, DisplayPort 1.4 is also gaining traction for TVs and game consoles.
A higher data rate of 25.92 Gbps, allowing for high resolutions and refresh rates, like 4K at 144 Hz and 8K at 60 Hz without compression.Support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) 1.2a, enabling lossless compression of video and audio signals, increasing effective bandwidth while reducing power consumption.Support for static HDR that delivers high dynamic range images with 10-bit or 12-bit color depth and wide color gamut.
Support for adaptive sync, which is similar to VRR but also compatible with AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync technologies, optimizing gaming performance and reducing input lag.Support for multi-stream transport (MST), allowing daisy-chaining of multiple displays or splitting the signal to multiple displays using a hub or splitter.
HDMI 2.1 vs DisplayPort 1.4
Both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 have their advantages and disadvantages based on the use case and desired features. Here’s a detailed comparison of HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, focusing on essential factors: HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 both provide excellent capabilities in terms of resolution, refresh rate, color depth, and VRR support. HDMI 2.1 stands out with its higher bandwidth, accommodating higher resolutions, refresh rates, dynamic HDR, and advanced gaming features. DisplayPort 1.4 is advantageous for connecting multiple displays through MST and offers versatility with USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 connections. Opt for HDMI 2.1 for enhanced gaming on consoles, while DisplayPort 1.4 is ideal for more flexible and connected setups on PCs. Ensure you have compatible cables and displays for the best experience.
HDMI 2.1 vs DisplayPort 1.4: Which is Better?
Here are some pros and cons of HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4: Both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 have their strengths and weaknesses depending on your needs. HDMI 2.1 is ideal for gaming, movies, and music due to its superior quality and smoother performance. DisplayPort 1.4 offers better flexibility for multiple displays and cost savings, making it a great choice for broader connectivity needs. Both standards work well with most devices and displays.
