How to Choose Between HDMI and DisplayPort on Your Monitor: Differences, Performance, and Buying Tips

HDMI vs DisplayPort: Key Monitor Connection Differences

Most modern monitors come equipped with both HDMI and DisplayPort inputs—commonly HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4—with the highest refresh rates typically achievable only through the DisplayPort input. Gamers and professionals often face a choice between HDMI and DisplayPort for connecting their monitors. HDMI 2.1 delivers up to 48 Gbps bandwidth, supporting 4K at 120–144Hz and 8K at 30–120Hz with DSC. DisplayPort 1.4 reaches 32.4 Gbps, enabling 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz. DisplayPort 2.1 exceeds both, offering up to 80 Gbps and supporting extreme resolutions like 16K at 60Hz.

Gamers and professionals often face a choice between HDMI and DisplayPort for connecting their monitors. HDMI 2.1 delivers up to 48 Gbps bandwidth, supporting 4K at 120–144Hz and 8K at 30–120Hz with DSC. DisplayPort 1.4 reaches 32.4 Gbps, enabling 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz. DisplayPort 2.1 exceeds both, offering up to 80 Gbps and supporting extreme resolutions like 16K at 60Hz. TESmart offers both the HDK202-M24, which features HDMI and DisplayPort inputs with HDMI output for broad compatibility, and the DKS202-M24, a full DisplayPort solution ideal for users seeking maximum bandwidth, ultra-high refresh rates, and multi-monitor performance.

Key Takeaways

• DisplayPort generally offers higher refresh rates and better support for multi-monitor setups, making it ideal for gamers and professionals.

• HDMI excels in home entertainment and console gaming, providing broad compatibility and advanced audio features like eARC.

• Always check both the port and cable versions to ensure you get the best resolution and refresh rate your devices support.

• Choose cables with good build quality and certification to avoid signal loss and enjoy smooth video and audio performance.

• Match your connection choice to your needs: DisplayPort for high-performance computing and multi-monitor setups, HDMI for TVs, consoles, and simple home use.

Quick Answer

Best for Most Users

Most users will find that DisplayPort offers superior performance for high refresh rates and resolutions, especially in gaming and professional environments. HDMI and DisplayPort both deliver excellent image quality, but DisplayPort versions generally support higher refresh rates at higher resolutions. This makes DisplayPort the preferred choice for users who demand top-tier performance from their monitors.

Tip: Always check both the port and cable version on your devices to ensure you get the maximum refresh rate and resolution your monitor supports.

When to Use HDMI

HDMI works best for home entertainment, TVs, and devices like gaming consoles or Blu-ray players. HDMI supports advanced audio features, making it ideal for setups that require high-quality sound and video through a single cable. Technical tests show that HDMI delivers precise color accuracy and calibration, which is important for movie enthusiasts and professionals who need reliable video output. HDMI 2.1 also supports features such as Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), making it suitable for modern gaming and home theater systems.

• HDMI excels in scenarios where compatibility with TVs, soundbars, and AV receivers is essential.

• HDMI and DisplayPort both support high resolutions, but HDMI offers broader support for consumer electronics.

• HDMI 2.1 enables high refresh rates at 4K and 8K, supporting future-proof connectivity for next-generation devices.

When to Use DisplayPort

DisplayPort stands out in high-performance computing, gaming, and professional multi-monitor setups. DisplayPort versions, especially 1.4 and above, provide higher bandwidth and support for advanced features like Display Stream Compression (DSC) and adaptive sync technologies such as FreeSync and G-Sync. These features reduce screen tearing and stuttering, delivering a smoother gaming experience. DisplayPort 2.0 and 2.1 push the boundaries further, supporting resolutions up to 16K and refresh rates up to 240Hz at 4K.

• DisplayPort allows users to daisy-chain multiple monitors, simplifying cable management for workstations.

• DisplayPort supports higher refresh rates at higher resolutions compared to HDMI, making it the top choice for competitive gamers and creative professionals.

• The VESA standard ensures DisplayPort compatibility across a wide range of monitors and graphics cards.

Note: The performance of HDMI and DisplayPort cables depends on both the version and the quality of the cable. Using a high-quality, certified cable ensures optimal signal transmission and prevents issues with refresh rates or resolution.

HDMI and DisplayPort Overview

HDMI Basics

HDMI first appeared in 2002, created by a group of leading electronics companies to replace older analog connections. The standard quickly became the backbone of home entertainment systems. HDMI transmits both high-definition video and multi-channel audio through a single cable, making it convenient for users. Over the years, HDMI evolved from supporting 1080p video and eight audio channels to handling 8K Ultra HD and up to 32 audio channels. Later versions introduced features such as 3D video, Ethernet connectivity, and Consumer Electronics Control (CEC). HDMI 2.1 brought major improvements, including support for 10K video, enhanced audio return channel (eARC), and advanced gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).

DisplayPort Basics

DisplayPort, standardized by VESA, entered the market to address the needs of high-performance computing and professional displays. The interface supports high resolutions, fast refresh rates, and advanced color depths. DisplayPort 1.2 introduced a micro-packet architecture, enabling up to 21.6 Gbps bandwidth and support for multiple video streams. Later versions, such as 1.4 and 2.1, increased bandwidth and added features like Display Stream Compression (DSC) and HDR10 support. DisplayPort 2.1 now supports up to 16K resolution with compression and integrates with USB4 for versatile connectivity. The standard also allows daisy-chaining multiple monitors, which benefits business and creative users.

Key Differences

DisplayPort often leads in high refresh rates and multi-monitor setups, while HDMI dominates home entertainment due to broad compatibility. Both HDMI and DisplayPort continue to evolve, meeting the demands of modern gaming, professional work, and immersive media experiences.

Specs Comparison

HDMI and DisplayPort Specs

HDMI and DisplayPort have evolved through several versions, each offering unique features and performance improvements. The following table highlights the main technical specifications for recent versions of both standards:

HDMI and DisplayPort both support advanced audio and HDR features. DisplayPort 2.1 introduces Panel Replay technology, which improves power efficiency during high-bandwidth video transmission. HDMI 2.1, on the other hand, leads in consumer device adoption and offers enhanced audio return channel (eARC).

Bandwidth and Resolution

Bandwidth determines how much data a cable can transmit, directly impacting supported resolutions and refresh rates. HDMI 2.1 delivers up to 48 Gbps, enabling 4K at 144Hz and 8K at 120Hz with Display Stream Compression. DisplayPort 2.1 surpasses this with 80 Gbps, supporting up to 16K at 60Hz with DSC. DisplayPort 1.4, while lower in bandwidth, still handles 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz. HDMI and DisplayPort both support dynamic HDR, but DisplayPort offers more flexibility for multi-monitor setups due to MST.

Refresh Rates

Refresh rate is crucial for gaming and professional work. DisplayPort 1.4 supports 1440p at 165Hz and 4K at 120Hz, making it ideal for high-refresh-rate monitors. HDMI 2.1 matches this with 4K at 144Hz and 8K at 120Hz, provided both the port and cable meet the latest standards. Real-world tests show that DisplayPort often supports higher refresh rates at higher resolutions, especially in multi-monitor environments. Both HDMI and DisplayPort support Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), reducing screen tearing and stutter during fast-paced action.

For users seeking the best performance, always confirm the version of both the port and cable. This ensures compatibility with your desired resolution and refresh rate.

Compatibility

PCs and Laptops

Modern PCs and laptops often include both HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. Users should consider the type of work they do and the monitors they plan to connect. DisplayPort typically appears on business-class laptops and desktop graphics cards. It supports higher refresh rates and resolutions, which benefits gamers and professionals working with detailed visuals. HDMI, on the other hand, offers broad compatibility with projectors, TVs, and conference room displays. Most graphics cards now support both standards, but DisplayPort remains the preferred choice for high-refresh-rate gaming monitors and multi-monitor workstations.

• DisplayPort maintains signal quality over longer cables, which helps in setups where the monitor sits far from the computer.

• HDMI provides advanced audio features like ARC and eARC, making it suitable for users who need integrated audio and video.

Consoles and TVs

Gaming consoles and televisions rely heavily on HDMI connections. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S use HDMI 2.1 exclusively, supporting 4K at 120Hz and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). HDMI dominates the TV market, offering features like HDR and advanced audio return channels. DisplayPort rarely appears on TVs or consoles, so users seeking the best experience with these devices should prioritize HDMI. For PC gaming, DisplayPort offers higher refresh rates and resolutions, but console gamers benefit most from HDMI 2.1 monitors and TVs.

Tip: For home entertainment and console gaming, HDMI ensures the best compatibility and feature set.

Multi-Monitor Setups

Professionals and gamers who use multiple monitors often choose DisplayPort for its Multi-Stream Transport (MST) feature. This technology allows daisy-chaining several monitors through a single DisplayPort output, reducing cable clutter and simplifying desk setups. HDMI does not support MST, so users must connect each monitor separately or use adapters. DisplayPort also supports higher resolutions and refresh rates across multiple displays, making it ideal for demanding workstations. In conference rooms, HDMI remains popular due to its universal compatibility and audio routing features.

• DisplayPort excels in multi-monitor configurations for professional and gaming environments.

• HDMI offers convenience for presentations and general-purpose use, especially with TVs and projectors.

Buying Tips

Cable Types

Consumers encounter a wide range of cable types when shopping for HDMI and DisplayPort connections. Cable construction plays a significant role in performance. DisplayPort cables with higher metal braid coverage and multiple aluminum foil layers reduce signal interference, resulting in improved audio and video quality. Outer jacket materials also matter. PVC jackets resist wear and oxidation, while nylon braided jackets offer extra toughness and tensile strength. The wire gauge, measured in AWG, affects signal quality. Thicker wires (lower AWG numbers) generally support better performance. Cable length impacts signal integrity as well. Cables under 10 meters maintain strong signals, but longer runs may require fiber optic solutions to prevent loss.

Version Numbers

Both HDMI and DisplayPort standards have evolved through several versions, each supporting different bandwidths and features. Users should match the cable version to their device requirements. For example, DisplayPort 2.1 cables support much higher resolutions and refresh rates than DP1.4, but they also cost significantly more. Market research shows that DP2.1 cables can cost up to three times as much as DP1.4 cables. HDMI cables also vary in price and capability, with licensing fees contributing to higher costs. Choosing the right version avoids unnecessary spending and ensures compatibility with current and future devices.

What to Check

Shoppers should always verify both the port and cable version before purchasing. Many users mistakenly assume that any cable will deliver the highest refresh rates or resolutions, but older cables or ports may limit performance. Using outdated or low-quality cables can result in signal loss, reduced image quality, or even device incompatibility. For gaming, select cables and ports that support high refresh rates and adaptive sync technologies. Office users benefit from reliable cables that support multi-monitor setups. Home entertainment systems require cables with advanced audio and video features. Careful selection ensures the best experience for every scenario.

Tip: Always purchase cables from reputable brands and check for certification labels to avoid counterfeit or non-functional products.

Recommendations

For Gamers

Gamers often demand high refresh rates, low latency, and support for adaptive sync technologies. DisplayPort 1.4 stands out for gaming desktop PCs. It supports refresh rates up to 240Hz at 1440p and enables multi-monitor setups through Multi-Stream Transport (MST). Gaming benchmarks show that DisplayPort delivers smoother gameplay, especially in competitive titles. Most modern graphics cards offer multiple DisplayPort outputs, making it easy to connect several monitors.

Console gamers, such as those using Xbox Series X/S or PlayStation 5, should choose HDMI 2.1. These consoles support only HDMI 2.1, which enables 4K at 120Hz and advanced audio features like eARC. HDMI 2.1 also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), reducing screen tearing and stutter.

Tip: Gamers should always check both the monitor and graphics card for the latest port versions to unlock the highest refresh rates and best performance.

For Professionals

Professionals working with graphics, video editing, or data analysis often require high resolutions and multi-monitor setups. DisplayPort 1.4 or 2.1 provides the flexibility to connect several monitors using a single output. MST support allows up to four displays, which increases productivity in creative and financial industries. Laptops and tablets with USB-C ports often support DisplayPort Alt Mode, making them compatible with high-resolution monitors.

For conference rooms or environments where audio and video must travel together, HDMI remains a strong choice. HDMI offers broad compatibility with projectors, TVs, and AV receivers. However, DisplayPort leads in workstation monitors due to its higher bandwidth and multi-display support.

Note: Professionals should select cables and ports that match their workflow needs, especially when using multiple high-resolution displays.

For Home Use

Home users often prioritize ease of use and compatibility with TVs, soundbars, and streaming devices. HDMI 2.1 offers the best experience for home entertainment systems. It supports dynamic HDR, high-quality audio with eARC, and resolutions up to 8K. Most TVs and soundbars use HDMI as the standard connection.

For users connecting a Nintendo Switch or similar device, HDMI 2.0 suffices. Ultra High-Speed HDMI cables can improve signal quality, but the device itself limits the benefits. DisplayPort rarely appears in home entertainment devices but can be useful for connecting a PC to a monitor in a home office.

For most home setups, HDMI ensures the widest compatibility and the simplest installation process.

Choosing between HDMI and DisplayPort depends on user needs, device compatibility, and performance goals. DisplayPort 2.1 delivers higher bandwidth and supports multi-monitor setups, making it ideal for gaming and professional workstations. HDMI 2.1 dominates home entertainment and consoles with features like dynamic HDR and eARC.

• Always check both the port and cable versions to unlock the best refresh rates and resolutions.

• For gaming and multi-monitor offices, DisplayPort offers superior flexibility.

• For TVs and consoles, HDMI remains the top choice.
  Review device and monitor specifications before purchasing to ensure seamless performance.

FAQ

What offers better performance for gaming: HDMI or DisplayPort?

DisplayPort typically provides higher refresh rates and bandwidth, making it the preferred choice for gaming monitors. HDMI 2.1 can match these specs, but DisplayPort often supports advanced features like daisy-chaining and adaptive sync more consistently.

Can users mix HDMI and DisplayPort in a multi-monitor setup?

Yes, users can mix both interfaces if their graphics card and monitors support them. DisplayPort excels in daisy-chaining multiple monitors, while HDMI works well for connecting to TVs or projectors within the same setup.

Which cable is more future-proof: HDMI or DisplayPort?

DisplayPort 2.1 currently supports higher bandwidth and resolutions, including up to 16K. HDMI 2.1 remains widely adopted in consumer electronics. For professional and gaming environments, DisplayPort offers greater future-proofing.

Do both HDMI and DisplayPort support audio transmission?

Both HDMI and DisplayPort transmit audio and video signals. HDMI supports advanced audio features like eARC, which benefits home theaters. DisplayPort also carries audio, but its focus remains on high-resolution video and multi-monitor capabilities.