HDMI vs DisplayPort: Which Is the Best Video Connector for Your Computer
If you’re building a new computer or buying a new monitor, chances are you’ve come across two primary video connector types: HDMI and DisplayPort. Both of these connectors can deliver high-quality digital audio and video signals, but which one is better for you? Let's compare!
HDMI
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a proprietary audio/video interface for transmitting uncompressed digital data. It’s the most commonly used video connector on TVs, monitors, and other display devices. HDMI is known for its easy setup and is compatible with most devices.
HDMI Version Changes
There are four HDMI versions: 1.0, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4. The latest version, HDMI 2.1, was released in 2017 and supports higher resolutions, refresh rates, and HDR. HDMI 2.0 is the most common version found in most electronics today.
HDMI Pros
- Supports video resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz (HDMI 2.0) and 8K up to 60Hz (HDMI 2.1)
- Audio and video are carried on one cable
- Supports 3D technology and Ethernet connectivity
HDMI Cons
- Limited cable length
- Bandwidth can be limited by the version you are using
- Audio quality can be limited
DisplayPort
DisplayPort is a digital display interface primarily used to connect a video source to a display device. It's similar to HDMI but was designed specifically for computers and displays. Unlike HDMI, DisplayPort is an open standard, meaning anyone can use it.
DisplayPort Version Changes
There are four different versions of DisplayPort: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4. The latest version, DisplayPort 2.0, was released in 2019, which supports maximum resolutions of 7680 × 4320 at 60 Hz.
DisplayPort Pros
- Higher bandwidth and longer cable length capability
- Supports higher refresh rates, better resolution, and multi-stream transport
- Supports daisy-chaining multiple monitors
DisplayPort Cons
- Not as widely supported and compatible with fewer devices
- Not as commonly used as HDMI, which means that some devices may not have a DisplayPort connection
- Cables tend to be more expensive
Which One Is The Best?
When it comes to determining whether HDMI or DisplayPort is the best video connector, the answer is, it depends on your setup and specific needs.
If you are connecting your computer to a TV that has HDMI ports, you may want to use HDMI to simplify the setup process. Still, if you have a computer with a high-quality graphics card and monitor, DisplayPort will offer higher bandwidth and allow for a better overall experience. The more demanding your video requirements are, the more important DisplayPort becomes.
No matter which video connector you choose, ensure that the version you are using supports the video quality and resolution that you want.