Here comes a fight between HDMI vs DisplayPort. Nowadays, many PCs and monitors support different kinds of video cables. This only makes us more confused about which one do we really need to purchase and use.
Look, different ports have different capabilities and compatibilities. You only have to know which one fits to your devices.
Baffled of which monitor is right for your computer? There are many factors to consider, but the main reason is the port availability. Like we’ve stated earlier, different ports have different compatibilities and capabilities, take a look at the back of your PC to see what’s we are working with.
If you have a high-end pc, or as the community knows, a gaming pc, you probably notice 2 ports. They look remarkably similar. There’s HDMI and DisplayPort ports to choose from. Yet, what are the differences? Does it really matter which one to use?
As for me, the answer will always, “it depends”.
For example, you are a gamer and needs to use all the ports, then you should use both of them. It always depends on your needs.
But, please take note, even if your monitor supports these connections, it may only support certain versions of each. We are talking about the resolution, refresh rate, and other features that your devices can handle.
Let’s see who will win in this fight between HDMI vs DisplayPort.
HDMI
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface or HDMI, is the standard cable which you’re probably most familiar with. It is commonly used on TVs, sending HD video and signals over one cable for a clean and tidy setup.
There are different versions of HDMI, some ports have combinations of these ports:
- HDMI 1.4: Supports up to 4K (4,096 by 2,160) at 24Hz, 4K (3,840 by 2,160) at 30Hz, or 1080p at 120Hz.
- The HDMI 2.0: Supports up to 4K at 60Hz, and later versions (HDMI 2.0a and 2.0b) include support for HDR
- HDMI 2.1: Supports up to 10K resolution at 120Hz.
These are the simplest way how to differentiate HDMI ports. There are many more features about it, and these are the things most PC users will care about.
If you want to optimize your experience, you should need an HDMI cable that supports, and capable of the correct bandwidth. If you are running 4K at 60Hz with HDR, you should have a Premium High Speed cable. And for 8K, you may need more bandwidth. Double check which one you need before buying.
Most HDMIs today support AMD’s FreeSync Technology. Yet, Nvidia’s G-Sync technology somehow, does not support HDMI on many monitors, it’s DisplayPort Only.
DisplayPort
The DisplayPort is commonly found on PCs than TVs, and looks similar to HDMI. It allows HD video and audio, however, it has different standards. You find the following on modern monitors.
- DisplayPort 1.2: Supports up to 4K at 60Hz, some 1.2a ports may also support AMD’s FreeSync
- DisplayPort 1.3: Supports up to 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 30Hz
- a DisplayPort 1.4: Supports up to 8K at 60Hz and HDR
- DisplayPort 2.0 (currently slated for late 2020): Supports 16K with HDR at 60Hz and 10K without HDR at 80Hz
The good thing about DisplayPort is that it supports AMD’s FreeSync and Nvidia’s G-Sync. You can have a tear-free gaming experience no matter which brand of card you actually use. Make sure your monitor also supports the technology.
You can also use multiple monitors from one DisplayPort connection, rather than having multiple ports. Nowadays, laptops, through USB-C port can send signals through DisplayPorts.
If you have to choose between DisplayPort 1.4 and HMDI 2.0, the Display Port 1.4 is obviously the clear winner. But, if you are to select between HDMI and DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI is the go to, as long as your devices supports HDMI.
Verdict
Which port really gives you the best experience? well, it always depends on your devices. If your monitor and video card supports HDMI 2.1 features, then there’s no need to think of things here. However, if one of them is running 2.0, then you won’t be able to take advantage of those new features.
So before purchasing, check your monitor and pc, so you can pick the best combination for the best performance.
HDMI vs DisplayPort
