HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables can help you send and receive audio/video signals between devices. HDMI 2.0 has been around for years. But now, you have one more choice: HDMI 2.1.
So what is the difference between HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1? Which should you choose? I will compare the two cables now so you can make an informed decision.
Differences Between HDMI 2.0 Vs 2.1
The significant difference between HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1 is the bandwidth capacity. This feature affects the cable’s performance, leading to other differences. Before digging into each factor, please check this comparison table first:
| HDMI 2.0 | HDMI 2.1 | |
|
Bandwidth | 18 Gbps | 48 Gbps |
|
Refresh Rate | 60 Hz for 4K resolution 30 Hz for 8K resolution | 120 Hz for 4K resolution 60 Hz for 8K resolution |
|
Compatibility | Devices with HDMI ports | Devices with HDMI ports |
|
Audio | ARC | eARC |
Bandwidth
HDMI 2.0 is the common cable type found in households. It can handle up to 18 Gbps of data. Thus, you can use it to send high-quality audio and video signals.
However, HDMI 2.1 wins in this round. It’s faster than the previous version with the maximum bandwidth of 48 Gbps. Furthermore, HDMI 2.1 supports dynamic HDR, which makes the pictures clearer with a higher resolution rate.
In the past, we used static HDR. This technology was good enough to help you see the highlights and shadows of the images clearly. However, one element of the information defines the brightness of the entire screen. Thus, one scene can be too bright, making the rest a little dark.
Meanwhile, HDMI 2.1 offers dynamic HDR. This technology analyzes the brightness of a video frame-by-frame. So, the images will be more life-like.
Refresh rate
The refresh rate indicates how many times per second a screen can display a new image. We measure it in hertz (Hz).
The HDMI 2.0 supports a refresh rate of 60 Hz for 4K resolution. But if you use 8K resolution, the refresh rate will be 30 Hz.
If you have worked with HDMI 2.0 and just switched to the 2.1 version, it will wow you! The 2.1 cable can handle a refresh rate of 60 Hz for 8K resolution and 120 Hz for 4K. So, the images can update much faster, making the screen look smoother.
If you just use the screen to watch movies, you may not notice much difference. Yet, when you play games, the higher refresh rate will upgrade your experience significantly.
Compatibility
Both 2.0 and 2.1 cables can work with all devices with HDMI ports. So even when you upgrade your 2.0 to the 2.1 version, they can be compatible with your current devices.
Audio
The two cables have a feature called ARC (Audio Return Channel), which lets you use just one cable to transmit signals between your soundbar and TV. This feature is convenient as it allows for a simple setup with fewer cables.
But the HDMI 2.1 is cooler due to the presence of eARC. With this feature, you can achieve better audio quality.
Regular ARC offers surround sound. However, the audio can be compressed, which affects your experience slightly.
Then, eARC, the updated version of ARC, comes into play! It can handle more data. Thus, you can use it to support the uncompressed surround sound.
However, to use eARC, you need a monitor or TV compatible with HDMI 2.1 and a soundbar that can work with eARC. Then, you can immerse yourself in excellent sound formats, like Dolby TrueHD, DTS Master, and DTS: X.
Which Should You Choose Between HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1?
As you can see, HDMI 2.1 outweighs its competitor. Due to its higher refresh rate and more bandwidth, you can enjoy a smoother image display.
Moreover, the eARC support can provide uncompressed audio formats. Then, you can enjoy a more immersive audio experience.
How To Tell If The HDMI Cable Is 2.1?
You can check the “Ultra-High-Speed HDMI” label near the HDMI logo. Meanwhile, the label for the HDMI 2.0 is “Premium High Speed.”
Another way to check is to scan the QR code on the HDMI cable box. So, you can download the app on your mobile device from Google Play Store or Apple Store.
Conclusion
The HDMI 2.1 is better than the 2.0 version in terms of bandwidth, refresh rate, and audio quality. So, it will help bring your gaming experience to a high level. Hopefully, you can choose the right HDMI cable for your setup. For any further information, please leave a comment.
Pete is a software engineer who currently works full-time managing OMGMonitor.com. On the side, he enjoys coding his own projects and spending time with his wife and two dogs. When he's not working or hanging out with family and friends, you can find him playing the guitar or running. My Instagram.
