While living room gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and HTPCs typically rely on HDMI connections for video and audio transmission, high-end desktop PCs have opted for something different. DisplayPort, a far more capable cable type, has been the preferred choice for high-end monitors and graphics cards for many years.
DisplayPort offers robust performance, high bandwidth, and support for advanced features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and High Dynamic Range (HDR), making it an ideal choice for gamers seeking the best visual and gameplay experience.
Among the various versions of DisplayPort, DP 1.2 and DP 1.4 are two of the most commonly used standards. Understanding the differences between these two versions can help you make an informed decision when upgrading your gaming setup or purchasing new equipment.
What is DisPlay Port?
DisplayPort (DP) is a digital display interface primarily used to connect a video source to a display device such as a computer monitor. Developed by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA), DisplayPort can carry audio, USB, and other forms of data. It is known for its high performance, supporting high resolutions (DP 2.0 supports up to 16K@120Hz with DSC), refresh rates (DP 2.0 supports up to 4K@240Hz), and color depths (DP 2.0 supports up to 30 bits per pixel deep color, or 10 bits per channel).
Its latest versions support features like High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), making it a preferred choice for gamers and professionals requiring high-quality visual output. Additionally, DisplayPort supports daisy-chaining multiple monitors, enhancing its versatility in multi-monitor setups.
Active vs. Passive Cables of DisplayPort
DP cables come in different versions and can be either active or passive.
Passive DisplayPort (DP) cables, including versions 1.2 and 1.4, transmit the signal directly from the source to the display without amplification. These cables are best suited for short distances, up to about 2 meters, and work well with standard resolutions and refresh rates. They are simpler and more affordable but may struggle with higher resolutions or longer lengths. For instance, a DP 1.2 passive cable can handle 4K@60Hz, while a DP 1.4 passive cable might support slightly higher resolutions or refresh rates but still within the same length constraints.
Active DisplayPort (DP) cables, which also include both 1.2 and 1.4 versions, feature built-in electronics that amplify and condition the signal. This makes them ideal for longer distances, up to 15 meters or more, and for high-performance needs, such as 4K@120Hz or 8K resolutions. They are more expensive and require power, typically from the DisplayPort connector. While DP 1.2 active cables are suitable for most high-resolution setups, DP 1.4 active cables provide additional bandwidth for more demanding applications, ensuring better performance over extended cable runs.
Key Differences Between DP 1.4 and DP 1.2
Even though DisplayPort 2.0 is the latest version of the DisplayPort standard, DisplayPort 1.4 and DisplayPort 1.2 remain the most widely used versions among consumers and professionals. This is largely because because they offer solid performance for 4K and 8K resolutions, respectively, and are compatible with a broad range of devices and displays. They provide sufficient bandwidth and features for most applications, making them cost-effective choices compared to newer versions.
- Bandwidth and Resolution
DisplayPort 1.2 offers a maximum bandwidth of 21.6 Gbps, with 5.4 Gbps per lane across its 4 lanes. This version supports resolutions up to 4K@60Hz (3840x2160). In contrast, DisplayPort 1.4 significantly increases bandwidth to 32.4 Gbps, with 8.1 Gbps per lane. This higher bandwidth allows DP 1.4 to support resolutions up to 8K@60Hz (7680x4320) when using Display Stream Compression (DSC), enhancing overall display performance.
- Display Stream Compression (DSC)
DP 1.4 supports DSC 1.2, which enables higher resolutions and refresh rates by compressing the data stream with minimal quality loss. This allows DP 1.4 to handle 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, and includes support for HDR (High Dynamic Range).
- HDR Support
In terms of HDR (High Dynamic Range) support, DP 1.2 has limited capabilities and primarily supports SDR (Standard Dynamic Range). On the other hand, DP 1.4 offers full HDR support, including HDR10 and other dynamic HDR standards. This advancement provides enhanced color depth and contrast, delivering a more vivid and lifelike visual experience.
- Forward Error Correction (FEC)
Forward Error Correction (FEC) is not included in DP 1.2, which can affect signal integrity, especially at higher resolutions and refresh rates. DP 1.4, however, incorporates FEC to improve signal integrity and reduce visual artifacts. This feature is particularly beneficial when dealing with higher bandwidths and resolutions.
- Color Depth and Compression
DP 1.2 supports up to 10-bit color depth without any form of compression. DP 1.4, however, extends this capability by supporting up to 12-bit color depth with DSC. This allows for a broader range of colors and improved color accuracy on compatible displays.
- Multi-Stream Transport (MST)
With DP 1.2, Multi-Stream Transport (MST) was introduced, enabling the connection of multiple displays in a daisy chain configuration. It supports up to 4 displays at 1080p resolution or 2 displays at 2560x1600. DP 1.4 builds on this by enhancing MST capabilities, allowing for higher resolutions and refresh rates across connected displays due to the increased bandwidth.
- Audio Support
DP 1.2 supports up to 8 channels of audio at 24-bit 192 kHz. In comparison, DP 1.4 offers significantly improved audio capabilities, including support for all known audio formats such as DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD. It can handle up to 32 audio channels, with a maximum sampling rate of 1536 kHz, and includes support for audio over USB.
KVM Switches Supporting DP 1.4
When it comes to enhancing your gameplay setup, KVM switches supporting DisplayPort are a popular choice among gamers and tech enthusiasts. Among the various options available, KVM switches with DisplayPort 1.4 support stand out as some of the best choices for a high-performance experience. DP 1.4 offers superior bandwidth, enabling resolutions up to 8K and refresh rates up to 120Hz, making it ideal for both immersive gaming and high-resolution multitasking.
TESmart offers a range of DP 1.4 8K KVM switches that are designed to meet these high standards. With it, you can seamlessly connect multiple devices and enjoy exceptional visual quality without compromising on performance.
DP 1.4 Dual 8K@60Hz KVM Switch Gaming Dock for 2 PCs 2 Monitors, w/ EDID, G-Sync FreeSync——TESmart’s latest innovation, DKS202-M24 KVM switch, sets a new standard in dual-monitor setups. Leveraging DP 1.4 technology, this switch supports dual 8K/4K editing with 12-bit color depth for precise image processing, and dual 4K/144Hz gaming enhanced by G-Sync, FreeSync, FEC, and DSC for smooth, tear-free visuals. Achieve dual 4K@144Hz/165Hz through DSC 1.2a technology. DKS202-M24 includes all necessary PC cables and offers support for resolutions up to 8K (4320p)@60Hz, with backward compatibility to 4K (2160p)@60Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz. Features include flexible desktop modes, multiple input switching options, and EDID emulation to maintain resolution and icon settings. With USB 3.2 Gen 1 support and broad compatibility across various systems, it’s perfect for home, office, or educational use.
DP 1.4 Triple 8K@60Hz KVM Switch Gaming Dock for 2 PCs 3 Monitors, w/ EDID, G-Sync FreeSync——TESmart’s new DKS203-M24 KVM switch, featuring DP 1.4 technology, takes your visual experience to the next level. With support for triple 8K/4K editing, it delivers precise 12-bit color depth, perfect for high-end gaming and professional image processing. DKS203-M24 excels in triple 4K/144Hz gaming with support for G-Sync, FreeSync, FEC, and DSC, ensuring smooth, tear-free visuals. The switch includes complete PC cables and supports resolutions up to 8K@60Hz, while backward compatibility with 4K@60Hz/120Hz/144Hz ensures versatile display options. It offers flexible desktop modes, easy input switching, and EDID emulation to maintain resolution and icon settings. With support for USB 3.2 Gen 1 and wide keyboard compatibility, this KVM switch is ideal for a variety of systems and scenarios.
Conclusion
DisplayPort is a top choice for high-quality video and audio, especially in gaming and professional setups. While HDMI is common for home entertainment, DisplayPort offers better performance and features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and High Dynamic Range (HDR) for a superior visual experience.
DP 1.4 brings key improvements over DP 1.2, including support for 8K resolutions, better color depth, and advanced compression. TESmart's DP 1.4 KVM switches, such as DKS202-M24 and DKS203-M24, fully leverage these upgrades. They provide excellent performance for dual and triple-monitor setups, making them ideal for high-resolution editing and immersive gaming.
