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DisplayPort vs Thunderbolt vs HDMI – Which is better for Macs?

October 15, 2021

DisplayPort vs Thunderbolt vs HDMI – Which is better for Macs?

If you're in the market for a new Mac, figuring out what kind of video connector to use can be overwhelming. There are DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, and HDMI. All three of them offer high-quality visuals, but what sets them apart?

In this article, we will compare DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, and HDMI, and determine which one is best suited to Macs. We will look at their speed, compatibility, and image quality, as well as pros and cons of each.

DisplayPort

DisplayPort is the newest and most modern display interface technology out of the three. It can transmit both video and audio signal, and it supports resolutions up to 8K and refresh rates up to 144 Hz.

Pros:

  • Supports high-quality displays with a high refresh rate.
  • Audio and video signal transmissions are possible with only one cable.
  • Compatible with most devices through the use of adapters.

Cons:

  • Some older systems may not support DisplayPort, making it less versatile than the other interfaces.
  • Adapters and cables for DisplayPort are more expensive than those for HDMI.

Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt is a proprietary interface technology that is primarily used in Apple devices. It is an all-in-one interface that can simultaneously transmit data, power, and video signals. It supports resolutions up to 4K and refresh rates of up to 120 Hz.

Pros:

  • High-speed data transfer and Power delivery up to 100W.
  • It supports fast Charging.
  • Compatibility with DisplayPort and USB-C.
  • Support external GPUs for Mac gaming enthusiasts.

Cons:

  • Thunderbolt’s compatibility can be limited to Apple devices.

HDMI

HDMI is the oldest and most widely used interface out of the three. It transmits video and audio signals separately, and can support resolutions up to 8K and refresh rates up to 144 Hz (depending on the HDMI version).

Pros:

  • Affordable cables and adapters.
  • Plug and play technology, supported by almost every TV and monitor.

Cons:

  • Does not support data and power transfer simultaneously when compared to Thunderbolt.
  • Compatibility limits in terms of resolution and refresh rate.

Conclusion

When considering which interface technology to use, it is important to consider your needs. If you need high-speed data transfer & power transfer over a single cable, then Thunderbolt may be the best choice. If you need a high-quality display with high refresh rates, then DisplayPort is the way to go. Finally, if you have a limited budget, HDMI is a reliable, affordable option.

By the way, if you’re looking for an easy way to switch or compare products, Flare Compare can offer you side-by-side comparisons of different products, including connectors.

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