Does HDMI 2.1 Really Matter?
HDMI 2.1 really matters for those who want to experience higher resolutions like 8K and higher frame rates of up to 120 frames per second (fps), but for most users, especially those with 1080p or 4K displays, HDMI 2.0 is sufficient. The significance of HDMI 2.1 largely depends on the specific needs and equipment of the user, making it a crucial consideration for gaming and home theater setups where high-definition and smooth performance are essential.
Understanding HDMI 2.1
HDMI 2.1 offers a significant upgrade over its predecessor, HDMI 2.0, by providing a much higher bandwidth capacity of 48 Gbps, which is essential for supporting higher resolutions and frame rates without the need for data compression. This feature is particularly beneficial for gaming and video streaming applications where high-quality video and fast response times are critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need HDMI 2.1 for 4K content?
Both new consoles are capable of 4K up to 120 frames per second, and some new TVs can handle this higher frame rate, but almost no older TVs can, even those called “120Hz“. The TV will need HDMI 2.1 to let the console run in all this high frame-rate glory.
Is HDMI 2.1 better than DisplayPort?
For gaming desktop PCs, DisplayPort remains the preferred choice, while HDMI 2.1 can be used if you have a compatible monitor or TV, but using it for multiple monitors will reduce the available bandwidth for each display.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for Dolby Atmos?
You’re in luck — all you need is a single HDMI cable to connect your TV and soundbar enabled with Dolby Atmos (HDMI 2.0 for ARC should do the trick, while HDMI 2.1 is necessary for eARC setups).
Is HDMI 2.1 the same as eARC?
HDMI 2.1 includes a home theater feature called eARC, or Enhanced Audio Return Channel, which will ensure forward compatibility between audio devices such as a Sound Bar, A/V Receiver (AVR), and TV.
Do you really need HDMI 2.1 for PS5?
In general, however, if you want the best results from your shiny new next-gen console, you’ll want to have a TV which also supports the HDMI 2.1 connection so you can enjoy 4K gaming at a silky smooth 60 or 120fps.
Is it worth getting a HDMI 2.1 monitor?
Higher Resolutions and Faster Refresh Rates — the era of 4K displays seems like an echo of the past as HDMI 2.1 can support resolutions of up to 10K, making it a worthwhile investment for future-proofing your display needs.
Is HDMI obsolete?
You’ll still need HDMI cables to support “legacy” devices which weren’t built with USB-C ports and will take years to disappear from homes.
Do you need HDMI 2.1 for 1440p 120Hz PS5?
While HDMI 2.0 does support 1080p 120Hz and even 1440p 120Hz in theory, the PS5 is designed with HDMI 2.1 in mind, and therefore any lower bandwidth version of HDMI will produce unexpected results.
Do HDMI cables make a difference in picture quality?
With the myths now debunked, it’s time to know the truth — can a very expensive HDMI cable show a better picture and sound quality than a cheaper one? The quick answer is no, an HDMI cable, regardless of the materials used, can either transmit a signal or not — there’s no in-between.
Can HDMI 2.1 do 240Hz?
HDMI 2.1 cables can technically support 240Hz at 4K if it uses display stream compression, but that’s not ideal for gaming as it can introduce visual artifacts.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 cable for eARC?
The increased bandwidth also brings with it support for the new eARC standard, affording you greater audio format compatibility — just make sure all your devices support HDMI 2.1 and that you’re using a HDMI 2.1 “ultra-high-speed” cable to take full advantage of all these great features.
Do I need eARC for Dolby Atmos?
The short answer would be no — Dolby Atmos does not require you to use HDMI eARC, as Dolby Atmos can be transmitted through HDMI ARC.
Is eARC better than ARC?
The main differences between ARC and eARC lie in bandwidth and speed — the enhanced version of the Audio Return Channel has a much higher bandwidth than its predecessor.
Can HDMI 2.1 be converted to DisplayPort?
An 8K HDMI 2.1 to DisplayPort cable lets you connect an HDMI video source to a DisplayPort monitor or projector and supports in and out resolutions up to 7680X4320@30Hz.
Why use DisplayPort over HDMI?
DisplayPort 1.4 has a maximum bandwidth of 32.4Gbps, which opens up a much greater resolution and frame rate potential, making it preferable for applications requiring high-definition video.
Can I plug HDMI into DisplayPort?
The answer is yes and no — for the record, the DisplayPort signal is not compatible with HDMI, but if the DisplayPort output is a Dual-mode DisplayPort, then it has the ability to recognize and adjust the signal to HDMI when a passive adapter cable is connected.
Does HDMI 2.1 increase FPS?
HDMI 2.1 allows for higher resolutions like 8K and higher frame rates of up to 120 frames per second (fps), directly impacting the FPS (frames per second) for a smoother gaming experience.
Do you need HDMI 2.1 for 1440p?
1440p @ 240 Hz requires 24.62 Gbps, so well within the capabilities of HDMI 2.1 — just make sure to use a cable that supports that kind of bandwidth.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for 165Hz?
Yes, HDMI 2.1 “supports” 1080p @ 165Hz, but in fact, HDMI 2.0 is actually enough — no need for 2.1 speeds.