DisplayPort vs HDMI: Key Differences and Best Use Cases Explained

Trying to decide between DisplayPort vs HDMI? You're not alone. Both options handle audio and video via a single cable, but they're built for slightly different jobs. Whether you're setting up a new monitor, 4K TV, or upgrading your gaming rig, knowing the difference can save you a lot of hassle (and possibly money). In this guide, we'll walk you through how each one works, what sets them apart, and help you figure out which is best for your setup.

What Is DisplayPort and How Does It Work?

DisplayPort is a digital display interface developed primarily for computers, first introduced in 2006. It was designed to replace older standards like VGA and DVI, and it's become a favourite in the world of PC monitors, gaming setups, and high-end workstations.

What makes it stand out is how it moves data. Instead of sending a continuous signal like older cables, DisplayPort sends information in packets—kind of like how data travels over the internet. This packet-based system allows for high resolutions, fast refresh rates, and extra features like Multi-Stream Transport (MST), which lets you daisy-chain two or more monitors from a single output.

Newer versions of DisplayPort, especially 1.4 and 2.0+, support impressive bandwidth—up to 80 Gbps—which makes it ideal for 4K, 8K, and high-refresh-rate gaming monitors. It also supports Adaptive Sync, the open standard behind AMD FreeSync, which helps reduce screen tearing in games.

DisplayPort connectors typically come in two forms: the standard size and a Mini DisplayPort, which is often found on compact laptops or docking stations. Both versions deliver the same functionality when using the correct cable.

What Is HDMI and How Does It Work?

HDMI, short for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, was launched in 2003 and has become the standard connector for TVs, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and home theatre setups. It was built with consumer electronics in mind, combining high-quality digital video and multi-channel audio into a single, easy-to-use cable.

Earlier HDMI versions use a signalling method called TMDS (Transition-Minimized Differential Signalling), which works well for 1080p and standard 4K content. But from HDMI 2.1 onwards, it switched to Fixed Rate Link (FRL), which boosts bandwidth significantly—up to 48 Gbps—supporting 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz.

HDMI also comes with features tailored for home entertainment. These include CEC (so one remote can control multiple devices), ARC and eARC for sending audio back to soundbars or receivers, and gaming-friendly options like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

DisplayPort vs HDMI: What's the Difference?

At first glance, DisplayPort and HDMI might seem like they do the same thing, and in many ways, they do. Both carry high-quality digital video and audio through a single cable. But once you dig in, the differences start to matter, especially depending on what you're connecting.

So, which is better, DisplayPort or HDMI? Let's compare them across the key areas:

Bandwidth, Resolution & Refresh-Rate Headroom

DisplayPort generally offers more bandwidth than HDMI, especially with the latest versions. That means more headroom for higher resolutions and refresh rates, a big plus if you're into high-performance gaming or using professional displays.

• DisplayPort 2.1 supports up to 80 Gbps, which can handle 4K at 240Hz or even 8K at 120Hz without compression.
• HDMI 2.1 tops out at 48 Gbps, still great for 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz, but not quite as future-proof.

If you're using a high-refresh-rate monitor or pushing extreme resolutions, DisplayPort gives you more breathing room.

To give you a better idea of what each version of DisplayPort or HDMI can handle, here's a side-by-side comparison:

Standard	Year	Raw bandwidth	4K max Hz (un-compressed)	4K max Hz (with DSC*)	8K max Hz
HDMI 1.4	2009	10.2 Gbps	30 Hz
DisplayPort 1.2	2010	17.28 Gbps	60 Hz
HDMI 2.0	2013	18 Gbps	60 Hz
DisplayPort 1.4	2016	32.4 Gbps	120 Hz	240 Hz	60 Hz with DSC
HDMI 2.1	2017	48 Gbps	120 Hz	240 Hz	120 Hz with DSC
DisplayPort 2.1	2022	80 Gbps	240 Hz	480 Hz	120 Hz (un-compressed)

*DSC = Display Stream Compression (visually loss-less)

Gaming Features

Both interfaces support variable refresh rate tech, but they approach it a bit differently.

• DisplayPort supports Adaptive Sync, the tech behind AMD FreeSync and many G-Sync Compatible monitors, making it a top choice for PC gamers.
• HDMI 2.1 introduced its own VRR support, along with Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Quick Media Switching (QMS) for smoother transitions and less lag on supported TVs and consoles.

So, while both are gamer-friendly, DisplayPort is more common in PC setups, and HDMI is where console and TV gaming thrives.

Multi-Monitor Support

DisplayPort has a clear edge here. Thanks to a feature called Multi-Stream Transport (MST), you can daisy-chain multiple monitors from a single DisplayPort output, no hub needed.

HDMI, on the other hand, only supports one display per output. If you're building a multi-monitor workstation, DisplayPort keeps things simpler.

Audio and Home Entertainment

This is where HDMI pulls ahead. It was designed with home entertainment in mind and includes features specifically for AV setups:

• ARC/eARC lets you send audio from your TV back to a soundbar or AV receiver.
• CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) lets one remote control your TV, soundbar, and more, no need to juggle multiple remotes.

While DisplayPort can carry digital audio, it doesn't support ARC or CEC, so it's rarely used in home theatre setups.

Compatibility and Use Cases

• HDMI is everywhere, TVs, consoles, soundbars, projectors, streaming sticks, and laptops, so it's the default choice for most living room setups.
• DisplayPort is more common on PCs, graphics cards, and pro monitors. It also works over USB-C via DisplayPort Alt Mode, which is great for modern USB-C laptops and docks.

Feature Set Comparison: HDMI vs DisplayPort

Feature	HDMI	DisplayPort
Max Bandwidth	48 Gbps (HDMI 2.1)	80 Gbps (DP 2.1)
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)	Yes (HDMI 2.1)	Yes (Adaptive Sync)
Audio Return Channel (ARC/eARC)	Yes	No
Consumer Electronics Control (CEC)	Yes	No
Multi-Display Daisy-Chaining	No	Yes (MST)
SB-C Support (Alt Mode)	Rare/Not widely adopted	Common on modern laptops
Power Over Cable	No	Yes (up to 500mA)
Backwards Compatibility	Yes	Yes
Common Use Case	TVs, consoles, AV systems	PCs, graphics cards, pro monitors

When to Use DisplayPort or HDMI?

Still not sure which one to use? Here's a quick-fire way to break it down based on how you're using your setup:

Use DisplayPort if...

• You're using a high-refresh-rate monitor: DisplayPort handles higher refresh rates and resolutions more easily than HDMI, perfect for gaming at 144Hz, 240Hz or higher.
• You're building a multi-monitor setup: With Multi-Stream Transport (MST), you can daisy-chain multiple monitors from a single DisplayPort connection, no need for extra outputs or adapters.
• You're connecting a desktop PC or a docking station: Most graphics cards and docks include DisplayPort because it's built for flexibility and performance.
• You're using a USB-C monitor: Many laptops and monitors support DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C, making it easy to connect with just one cable for video, audio, and even charging.
• You need the most bandwidth: If you're working with 4K/8K content at high frame rates or just want to future-proof your setup, DisplayPort 2.1 offers more bandwidth than HDMI 2.1.

Use HDMI if...

• You're connecting to a TV, soundbar, or home theatre system: HDMI was built for consumer AV gear. It supports ARC/eARC for audio return and CEC for one-remote control.
• You're using a gaming console or streaming device: Consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, and devices like Apple TV or Fire Stick, all rely on HDMI.
• You need surround sound or Dolby Atmos: HDMI's audio features are unmatched when it comes to advanced sound formats and sending audio back to your sound system.
• You're hooking up a projector or external display in a shared space: HDMI is more universally supported across TVs, projectors, and presentation gear, making it the safer plug-and-play choice.
• You already have HDMI cables and ports: If you're not chasing extreme refresh rates or daisy-chaining monitors, HDMI does the job just fine for most everyday setups.

Bonus: Handy add-ons when HDMI ports (or sockets) run out

Need more HDMI ports than your TV offers? The 4-in-1 Anker HDMI Switch lets you leave up to four consoles, streamers, or set-top boxes permanently plugged in and flick between them with a front button or the included IR remote.

It passes a full 18 Gbps signal, so 4K at 60 Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HDCP 2.2 content reach the screen untouched, and it carries multi-channel formats such as Dolby AC-3, DTS, and 7.1 LPCM without down-mixing.

A USB-powered design keeps the box slim and cool behind a cabinet, while bright front LEDs show which input is live, and auto-switching can jump to the newest active source if you prefer hands-free operation.

Traveling with just your phone, tablet, or a USB-C-only laptop? The pocket-sized Anker 310 USB-C Adapter (4K HDMI) turns that USB-C port into a rock-solid HDMI 2.0 output, capable of driving a projector, monitor, or hotel-room TV at 4K 60Hz with no drivers or power brick required. Its aluminium shell dissipates heat and matches modern MacBooks and Ultrabooks, while a short, reinforced cable withstands daily bends in a backpack.

Conclusion

So, which should you use—DisplayPort vs HDMI? It really comes down to what you're plugging in and what you need from it. If you're after high refresh rates or running multiple monitors, DisplayPort often pulls ahead. For TVs, consoles, and all-round compatibility, HDMI tends to be the go-to. Both are capable and widely supported, so as long as you match the right cable to the job or add a compatible adapter if needed, you're on the right track.

FAQs

Is DisplayPort better than HDMI?

DisplayPort and HDMI each have their strengths. DisplayPort generally offers higher bandwidth, allowing for higher resolutions and refresh rates (for example, DP 2.1 supports 8K@120Hz). It also supports multi-monitor daisy-chaining via MST, making it ideal for PC gaming and professional setups.

HDMI, by contrast, is more common in TVs, consoles, and home entertainment systems. It includes more advanced audio features, and the latest HDMI 2.1 standard supports 4K@120Hz and 8K@60Hz.

Can I connect two monitors with DisplayPort?

Yes. DisplayPort supports Multi-Stream Transport (MST), which allows multiple monitors to be connected in a daisy-chain configuration using a single DisplayPort output. This feature is particularly helpful in office environments or creative workflows where multiple screens are needed. HDMI does not support this functionality natively.

Can I convert HDMI to DisplayPort?

It's possible but only with an active HDMI to DisplayPort adapter that contains signal-conversion electronics and usually draws power from USB. A simple passive cable will not work because HDMI and DisplayPort use different signalling protocols. Most active converters handle up to 4K@30Hz and carry stereo audio. Going from DisplayPort to HDMI is simpler and often passive, because DisplayPort outputs contain a dual-mode (DP++) transmitter for HDMI signalling.