DisplayPort vs. HDMI: Which Is Better? – How-To Geek

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DisplayPort and HDMI are both popular video and audio interface standards used to connect devices like computers, monitors, TVs, and gaming consoles. Both have their advantages, and the choice between DisplayPort and HDMI depends on your specific needs and the devices you’re using. Here’s a comparison of DisplayPort vs. HDMI:

DisplayPort:

  1. Bandwidth and Resolution: DisplayPort generally has higher bandwidth capabilities, which allows it to support higher resolutions and refresh rates. The latest version, DisplayPort 2.0, supports resolutions up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz.
  2. Adaptability and Multi-Stream Transport (MST): DisplayPort supports daisy-chaining multiple monitors from a single DisplayPort output using Multi-Stream Transport (MST). It allows you to connect several monitors to one DisplayPort port via a compatible hub or monitor.
  3. VESA Adaptive-Sync (AMD FreeSync): DisplayPort is commonly used with adaptive-sync technologies like AMD FreeSync, which reduces screen tearing and stuttering in gaming and video playback.
  4. Audio: DisplayPort supports audio, including high-definition audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. However, it is not as commonly used for audio transmission as HDMI.

HDMI:

  1. Compatibility: HDMI is widely used in consumer electronics, including TVs, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and soundbars. Most modern devices come equipped with HDMI ports.
  2. Audio: HDMI is the preferred choice for audio transmission, as it supports various audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and uncompressed multichannel audio.
  3. CEC and ARC: HDMI supports Consumer Electronics Control (CEC), allowing devices to control each other over the HDMI connection. HDMI also supports Audio Return Channel (ARC), enabling audio to be sent back from a TV to a soundbar or AV receiver without an additional audio cable.
  4. HDR Support: The latest HDMI versions (2.0 and above) support High Dynamic Range (HDR) for improved color and contrast in compatible displays and content.

Which Is Better? The choice between DisplayPort and HDMI depends on your specific needs:

  • If you need high resolutions and refresh rates, DisplayPort is generally better, especially for gaming and content creation.
  • If you’re connecting to a TV or common consumer electronics, HDMI is more widely supported and convenient.
  • If you want to daisy-chain multiple monitors or use adaptive-sync technology, DisplayPort is the preferred choice.
  • For audio transmission and compatibility with a wide range of devices, HDMI is the better option.

Ultimately, both interfaces are reliable and can deliver excellent performance for most applications. In many cases, you may find that the best choice is the one that matches the available ports on your devices and provides the features you need for your specific setup.

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