HDMI 2.1 is the latest cable on the scene, offering improved performance over HDMI 2.0. With many of the latest televisions and devices still yet to adopt the format, buyers face a choice between the two.

HDMI Standards in Televisions

Despite being already replaced, HDMI 2.0 itself is relatively new. Everything but the cheapest televisions will have an HDMI 2.0 port. There is some variation within HDMI 2.0, with 2.0a and 2.0b versions. There isn’t that much of a difference between the two versions, so the real question is HDMI 2.0 vs. HDMI 2.1.

Bandwidth Makes or Breaks the Cable

HDMI 2.1 cables represent a marked improvement in bandwidth, the speed at which a cable can carry data. HDMI 2.0 has up to 18 Gbps, while HDMI 2.1 offers 48 Gbps. This is over double, allowing for improved frame rate and resolution.

HDMI 2.0 cables stand up to the most demanding applications with up to 120 frames per second in 4K and 60 frames per second at 8K.

Additional Benefits

There isn’t just improved bandwidth. HDMI 2.1 has other things going for it. The cables support Dynamic HDR, a more responsive version of the HDR supported by HDMI 2.0. Audio quality is also improved.

These are just a few of the reasons to choose HDMI 2.1, with many other more technical benefits present as well.

When is HDMI 2.1 Needed?

Gamers still booting up their Xbox 360 will probably get along just fine with HDMI 2.0, but anyone with an Xbox Series X should consider the new cables. HDMI 2.1 is the only cable to handle the full output of the latest consoles.

Only HDMI 2.1 can handle 4K at 120 frames per second, HDMI 2.0 simply can’t compete.

Cost Concerns

There was a period where “premium” HDMI cables were being sold at outrageous prices, hundreds of dollars. These cables advertised better quality through better materials and construction, rather than a new format.

HDMI 2.1 is nothing like these, offering a real boost in quality without costing all that much more than regular 2.0 cables.

Looking Forward

It seems unlikely that resolution and frame rates in gaming and other media are going to stop increasing any time soon. With demands increasing, consumers should go for the option that will stay relevant the longest.

HDMI 2.1 is the only cable on the market that could conceivably handle 10K, making it the top option going into the future.

Shop HDMI 2.0 cables and HDMI 2.1 cables as well as audio-video cables of all types from PrimeCables.ca. As one of the most common home theater cables going, you can’t go wrong sharing audio and video across a high-quality HDMI cable.