DisplayPort vs HDMI: Choosing the Right Connection for Your Setup

Found yourself staring at the back of a monitor, TV, or graphics card, wondering whether to use the DisplayPort or HDMI connection? You’re not alone. Both ports can deliver great video and audio quality, but they’re designed with different priorities in mind.

Whether you’re setting up a gaming rig, a home office, or just trying to get the most out of your screen, understanding the differences between DisplayPort vs HDMI will help you make the right call. In this guide, we’ll break down what each connection type does, how they stack up, and which one makes the most sense for you.

Alt: USB hub with DisplayPort and HDMI ports

What Is DisplayPort?

DisplayPort (DP) is a purely digital video-and-audio interface developed by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) and first introduced in 2006 as the PC world’s successor to DVI and VGA. You’ll spot it on graphics cards, high-refresh-rate monitors, docking stations, and increasingly on laptops via USB-C Alt-Mode.

What really sets DisplayPort apart is its bandwidth. The latest version, DisplayPort 2.1, can handle up to 80 Gbps, which is enough to support a single 8K display at 120Hz, or up to three 4K displays at 144Hz. Even older versions like DP 1.4 are powerful enough for 4K at 120Hz with HDR.

But the advantages go beyond raw performance. DisplayPort also comes with a few PC-focused features by default:

• Multi-Stream Transport (MST)lets you daisy-chain multiple monitors from one port.
• Adaptive Sync, the tech behind things like FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible.
• USB-C Alt Modeallows a full DisplayPort signal to run through a USB-C port.

As for connectors, you’ll see full-size DisplayPort, mini DisplayPort, and USB-C versions out there. And if you ever need to connect to something older, passive adapters can convert DisplayPort to HDMI or DVI without much hassle.

Alt: DisplayPort

What Is HDMI?

HDMI, short for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, hit the market in 2003 as a single-cable replacement for the tangle of analog A/V leads behind TVs and receivers. Unlike older PC-only standards, HDMI bakes uncompressed video and multi-channel audio into one compact connector, making it the default port on televisions, soundbars, game consoles, and streaming boxes.

The current standard, HDMI 2.1, supports up to 48 Gbps of bandwidth. That’s more than enough for 4K at 120Hz or even 8K at 60Hz with compression. It also brings in features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), both aimed at gamers who want smoother, more responsive play.

For home-theater audio, HDMI introduced ARC and now eARC, sending high-bit-rate Dolby Atmos or DTS:X from your TV back to a receiver over the same cable. Cable labeling matters: look for “Ultra High-Speed” to guarantee the full 48 Gbps, while previous “High-Speed” variants top out at 18 Gbps.

HDMI connectors come in three main sizes: full-size (Type A) for TVs and consoles, Mini (Type C) for smaller devices, and Micro (Type D) for things like action cams. Everything is backward compatible, so older HDMI gear will still work — just with older features.

Alt: HDMI cable

Comparison Between DisplayPort and HDMI

So, which is better, DisplayPort or HDMI? Let’s line them up and see where each one shines:

Physical Differences

To start, DisplayPort and HDMI may look alike, but they differ in pin count and connector design.

• Pins and shapes: HDMI uses 19 pins; DisplayPort has 20. Both look similar at a glance. Many DisplayPort plugs include a latch or button to lock in place. HDMI types rarely have latches.
• Mini and micro variants: Both standards offer smaller plugs—Mini HDMI, Micro HDMI, and Mini DisplayPort. You’ll mostly see full-size ports on monitors and TVs. Mini versions appear on laptops and cameras.

Quick Version Reference Chart

When we go beyond the port shapes and dive into the versions behind DisplayPort and HDMI, different versions support very different resolutions, refresh rates, and features. Here’s a clear side-by-side breakdown to make things easy:

Standard Version	Release Year	Raw Bandwidth	4K Max Hz (uncompressed)	4K Max Hz (with DSC*)	8K Max Hz	Signature Extras
HDMI 1.4	2009	10.2 Gbps	30 Hz	—	—	Introduces ARC (Audio Return Channel), Ethernet channel, 3D video modes
DP 1.2	2010	17.28 Gbps	60 Hz	—	—	First spec with Multi-Stream Transport (daisy-chain)
HDMI 2.0	2013	18 Gbps	60 Hz	—	—	Adds 32-channel audio & HDR10 (via 2.0a/2.0b)
DP 1.4	2016	32.4 Gbps	120 Hz	240 Hz	60 Hz with DSC	Introduces Display Stream Compression + HDR meta-data
HDMI 2.1	2017	48 Gbps	120 Hz	240 Hz	120 Hz with DSC	VRR, ALLM, eARC, Ultra High-Speed cable program
DP 2.1	2022	80 Gbps	240 Hz	480 Hz	120 Hz uncompressed	UHBR20 lanes, USB-C Alt-Mode, DP40/DP80 cable certs

*DSC = Display Stream Compression, a visually lossless codec both standards use to stretch their bandwidth without ruining image quality.

Note: Both standards depend on version match between source and display. You’ll only get top performance if both support the same spec.

Bandwidth, Resolution, and Refresh Rates

As you see from the chart, raw bandwidth is where DisplayPort really flexes. The latest version, DisplayPort 2.1, supports up to 80 Gbps. That’s enough for an 8K display at 120Hz, or even three 4K displays at 144Hz when using DSC.

HDMI 2.1 isn’t far behind, offering 48 Gbps, which still comfortably handles 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz without compression. For most people using a modern TV or game console, that’s more than enough.

So, while both can deliver stunning visuals, DisplayPort gives you more headroom, especially useful for high-refresh-rate monitors or multi-display setups.

Gaming Performance

If you’re into gaming, both standards offer features that help keep things smooth and responsive, but they go about it a little differently.

• DisplayPorthas Adaptive Sync built in. That includes technologies like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible, which help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.
• HDMIcaught up with version 2.1, adding Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), perfect for newer TVs and consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.

Audio Support

HDMI has a clear advantage when it comes to audio. It’s designed to carry both video and multi-channel audio, and with features like ARC (Audio Return Channel) and eARC, you can send high-quality audio — including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X — from your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver over a single cable.

DisplayPort can carry audio too, but it doesn’t support ARC or eARC.

Multi-Monitor & Productivity Features

DisplayPort was built with productivity in mind. One standout feature is Multi-Stream Transport (MST), which lets you daisy-chain multiple monitors from a single DisplayPort output. That’s a huge win for clean desk setups and efficient workflows.

HDMI doesn’t support this natively, so you’d need extra gear, like a splitter or matrix switch, to achieve something similar.

Maximum Cable Length

Each cable struggles at different lengths before signal issues arise.

• HDMI:No official max, but certified cables work up to 15 m. For the most dependable connection, keep the cable length below 2 meters when used inside.
• DisplayPort:Official limit of 3 m. Some uncertified cables stretch further but risk signal drop.

Device Compatibility

• Monitors & PCs:Most high-end graphics cards ship with at least one DisplayPort for peak frame-rate gaming.
• TVs, Soundbars, Consoles:HDMI dominates here; every mainstream TV still drops the familiar Type-A port.
• Hubs and Docks:USB-C docks usually rely on DisplayPort Alt Mode internally, even if they give you an HDMI jack out front.

When to Use DisplayPort or HDMI

At this point, you’ve seen how DisplayPort and HDMI compare on paper. But let’s break it down to what actually matters: Which one should you use, and when? Here’s the bottom line.

When is DisplayPort better than HDMI?

Go with DisplayPort if:

• You’re using a high refresh rate monitor(like 144Hz or 240Hz) — especially at 1440p or 4K.
• You’re setting up a multi-monitor workspaceand want to daisy-chain screens from a single output.
• You’re a PC gamerlooking for Adaptive Sync (FreeSync or G-Sync Compatible) support with minimal latency.
• You want maximum bandwidthfor future-proofing — especially if you’re using 8K displays or ultra-wide monitors.

In short, DisplayPort is built for high-performance PC setups, whether you’re gaming, working, or running multiple monitors.

When is HDMI better than DisplayPort?

Stick with HDMI if:

• You’re connecting to a TV, projector, or home theater system.HDMI is the universal standard here.
• You need strong audio features, like ARC or eARC, to send high-quality sound (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X) to a soundbar or AV receiver.
• You’re using a game consolelike the PS5, Xbox Series X, or Nintendo Switch — they all use HDMI.
• You just want simplicity— HDMI cables are everywhere, easy to find, and work with nearly every modern device.

In short, HDMI is the better choice for entertainment setups, living rooms, and plug-and-play convenience.

Bridge the Gap: Best USB‑C Hubs That Handle DisplayPort and HDMI

If you’re using a modern, thin laptop, chances are it only has USB-C ports. To connect it to external displays — whether over HDMI or DisplayPort — you’ll need a reliable USB-C hub to keep things simple and avoid cable clutter. Here are three Anker hubs and docks worth checking out:

Anker 563 USB-C Hub (11-in-1): Best for Full Desktop Setups

If you’re building a full workstation and want to cover all your bases, the Anker 563 USB-C Hub (11-in-1) is a strong pick. It includes both DisplayPort and HDMI outputs, so you can run two external monitors simultaneously or take advantage of 4K at 60Hz on a single display.

With 85W pass-through charging, Gigabit Ethernet, multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, SD/microSD slots, and even a headphone jack, it’s basically a docking station in disguise. This is a great option for creators, remote workers, or anyone who wants to connect everything with one cable and leave the hub on their desk full-time.

Alt: Anker 563 USB-C Hub (11-in-1)

Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1): Best All-Around Travel Hub

Need a hub that’s powerful but still portable? The Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1) hits that sweet spot. It features a 4K@60Hz HDMI port, Gigabit Ethernet, SD/microSD slots, two USB-A ports, and USB-C for both data and up to 85W pass-through charging.

It’s compact enough to toss in your bag but covers the essentials for working on the go or docking at your desk. If you regularly move between the office, home, and coffee shops, this one balances flexibility and convenience really well.

Alt: Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1)

Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1): Best for Simple Setups

If you just need the basics and want to keep things light, the Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1) is a great everyday option. It gives you one HDMI port supporting 4K at 30Hz, two USB-A ports, USB-C for data, and 85W charging pass-through.

It’s ideal for students, remote workers, or anyone who just wants to plug in a monitor and a few accessories without overthinking it. Clean, compact, and budget-friendly, it’s a solid upgrade from living that single-port laptop life.

Alt: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1)

Conclusion

So, when it comes to DisplayPort vs HDMI, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it really depends on what you’re connecting and what you need it to do. If you’re chasing high refresh rates for gaming or working with multiple monitors, DisplayPort is probably your best bet. For TVs, consoles, or anything home theater-related, HDMI is still king. Now that you know the difference, you’ll be able to figure out exactly which cable to plug in.

FAQs

Is DisplayPort better quality than HDMI?

Not exactly. Both offer the same image quality if your resolution, refresh rate, and color settings match. But DisplayPort, like version 2.1, gives you more bandwidth than HDMI 2.1, which means better support for higher resolutions like 8K at 120Hz or daisy-chaining multiple monitors. On the other hand, HDMI 2.1 maxes out at 48 Gbps, great for 4K TVs and features like eARC and CEC, which DisplayPort doesn’t support.

What are the disadvantages of DisplayPort?

DisplayPort isn’t perfect. Cables longer than 2–3 meters can lose signal unless you use pricier active ones. It’s also less common on TVs and home theater gear, so you might need adapters—and you’ll miss out on features like ARC or remote control support. Some cables have locking latches, which can damage ports if you yank them out. And if you’re using older laptops or monitors, you might not find a DisplayPort at all.

What happens if you use HDMI instead of DisplayPort?

For most setups—like 4K at 60Hz or basic 1080p—you won’t notice a difference. HDMI handles digital signals just fine and even adds handy features like eARC audio and remote control support. But if your graphics card only has HDMI 2.0, you’ll be limited to 4K at 60Hz, missing out on higher refresh rates that DisplayPort could handle. You also lose DisplayPort-only perks like daisy-chaining and Adaptive-Sync.