For most TVs and consoles, HDMI is the standard. For high-refresh-rate PC monitors, DisplayPort is often the better choice. Here is how to pick.
HDMI vs DisplayPort at a glance
| Factor | HDMI | DisplayPort |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | TVs, consoles, projectors | PC monitors, GPUs |
| Max bandwidth | Up to 48 Gbps (2.1) | Up to 80 Gbps (2.1) |
| High refresh rate | Good (2.1) | Excellent |
| Audio return | Yes (ARC/eARC) | No |
Which should you choose?
- TV, game console, or streaming box → HDMI (supports ARC for soundbars).
- PC monitor at 144Hz+ or 4K → DisplayPort (more bandwidth for refresh rate).
- Older devices → match the ports you already have.
Version matters more than the plug
A modern HDMI 2.1 cable handles 4K@120Hz, while an old HDMI 1.4 cable caps out far lower. Always check the version number, not just the connector shape.
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