4K video is a powerful medium. If you’ve recently purchased a 4K monitor or TV, you may see multiple ports on the back – usually HDMI, USB-C, DisplayPort, and/or Thunderbolt. If you’re fortunate to have a DisplayPort cable available, here’s why you might want to use it.
4K HDMI Cables Are Most Common
HDMI cables, or High Definition Multimedia Interface, are the most common for 4K monitors, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and more. HDMI 2.1 cables support up to 48 Gbps which equates to a theoretical 10K display. Needless to say, these cables are quite adequate and inexpensive. That said, your 4K monitor has to support HDMI 2.1 cables and not all do.
USB-C Cables Are Most Convenient for Laptops
USB-C has the ability to carry 4K signals if you have a cable that’s adequate enough. Why consumers often go to 4K USB-C cables is because they are easy to use, particularly on laptops. That said, one must ensure your display has USB-C Alt Mode activated, that it has appropriate output, and that you test it to make sure you receive a 4K signal.
Why 4K DisplayPort Cables Are Better
DisplayPort is what any passionate computer wizard goes for. It’s more powerful, boasts an all-around stronger signal, and is future-proof. While HDMI 2.1 cables are capable of 48 Gbps, DisplayPort 2.0 can handle up to 80 Gbps. Even DisplayPort 1.4 cables are immensely powerful, able to handle an 8K resolution at 60 frames in 10-bit color.
Another benefit of using DisplayPort is that it’s the easiest cable to daisy-chain if you have to. Connecting two or more displays is easy. No limits on pass-through audio and you receive FreeSync support on every 4K DisplayPort cable. The picture is brighter and color more diverse. Ultimately, if you’re looking to achieve the best video signal possible, it makes sense to go DisplayPort over HDMI and USB-C standards.
The Battle Between HDMI and DisplayPort Continues
As two highly-advanced media cable types, HDMI and DisplayPort have been competing for consumers for a long time. HDMI 2.1 cables have their advantages however DisplayPort does come with many advantages.
What’s right for your 4K TV or 4K monitor relies on your preference and what you expect to accomplish with your screen. Why we prefer DisplayPort is because we see future-proof advancements that are leading to more powerful cables being produced than any other standard. That said, not every user needs the power, benefits, or picture quality.
For HDMI 2.1 cables, DisplayPort 4K cables, USB-C cables, and more, visit PrimeCables.ca. Connecting devices with high-quality cables has never been easier. What’s your choice – let us know!
Featured Photo by Daniel Korpai on Unsplash