DisplayPort vs. HDMI: Which One is Better

You have several alternatives when connecting your computer or other devices to a monitor. The two most well-liked ones are HDMI and DisplayPort. 

Although both digital interfaces support the transmission of high-definition video and audio, there are some significant distinctions between them. 

To assist you in choosing which one is the best fit for your needs, we will compare the characteristics and capabilities of DisplayPort and HDMI in this post.

Computer monitors and devices are frequently connected to displays using DisplayPort and HDMI. 

While HDMI is used more frequently on consumer electronics, DisplayPort is more flexible and supports the superior resolution and refresh rates. It depends on the application’s particular requirements.

We will examine DisplayPort and HDMI in-depth and present a side-by-side comparison of the two, from comprehending the technical variations and features of each to determining which is the greatest fit for your unique requirements and setup. 

Also, we will provide you with all the knowledge you need to upgrade your display, whether you’re a tech geek or simply trying to make an informed decision.

HDMI vs. DisplayPort

DisplayPort and HDMI are two of the most common methods for connecting a computer or other devices to a display. 

Although both digital interfaces support the transmission of high-definition video and audio, there are some significant distinctions between them. 

To assist you in choosing which one is the best fit for your needs, we will compare the characteristics and capabilities of DisplayPort and HDMI in this post.

DisplayPort is a preferable alternative for gaming and other high-performance applications due to its greater maximum resolution and refresh rate. 

The highest resolution and refresh rate that DisplayPort and HDMI can handle is one of their fundamental differences. 

For instance, whereas HDMI 2.0 allows 4K resolution at 60Hz, DisplayPort 1.4 supports 8K resolution at that same frame rate. 

Additionally, HDR (High Dynamic Range) video, which offers a broader color gamut and better contrast ratio for more bright and lifelike visuals, is supported by DisplayPort 1.4.

The amount of audio channels supported by each is another distinction. 

While DisplayPort may accommodate up to 32 audio channels, HDMI can only allow up to 8. 

Because of this, DisplayPort is preferable for individuals who want to play back high-quality audio on their display.

Regarding compatibility, HDMI is more frequently utilized and can be found on various gadgets, such as televisions, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. 

On the other hand, professional displays and computer monitors are the main uses for DisplayPort. 

This implies that HDMI would be better if you want to connect your computer to a television or other consumer device.

Many HDMI cables are available, and they are typically less expensive than DisplayPort cables. 

On the other hand, the locking mechanism on DisplayPort cables helps prevent unintentional disconnection and is advantageous for high-performance applications like gaming or video editing.

That said, high-definition video and audio can be transmitted using both DisplayPort and HDMI digital interfaces. 

Gaming and other high-performance applications benefit from DisplayPort’s greater refresh rates and resolution. 

The decision ultimately depends on your unique configuration and needs. DisplayPort might be a better choice if you’re seeking a high-performance solution. 

HDMI can be a better option if you’re seeking a more broadly compatible solution.

You can also check out this table below, where we compare all key differences between DisplayPort vs. HDMI.

Which is better for gaming: HDMI or Displayport?

The decision between DisplayPort and HDMI can be more complicated regarding gaming. 

DisplayPort is the best option if you want to play games at the maximum resolution and with the smoothest frame rate. 

DisplayPort’s greater full resolution and refresh rate are two of its key benefits. 

While HDMI 2.0 supports 4K resolution at 60Hz, DisplayPort 1.4 supports 8K resolution at the same speed.

Additionally, HDR (High Dynamic Range) video, which offers a broader color gamut and better contrast ratio for more bright and lifelike visuals, is supported by DisplayPort. 

DisplayPort cables for high-performance applications like gaming also contain a locking mechanism to prevent unintentional disconnection. 

This improves the immersion and enjoyment of the gaming experience. If you want to know the resolution and refresh rate of all the DisplayPort versions, check this now.

Displayport vs. HDMI: Wider Color Gamut And HDR Video

Wider color gamuts and high dynamic range (HDR) video are becoming increasingly significant in screens and video content. 

While both DisplayPort and HDMI support HDR video and a broader color gamut, there are some significant distinctions between the two that are worth noting.

Support for HDR video is one of DisplayPort’s key benefits. HDR video, which offers a broader color gamut and better contrast ratio for more bright and lifelike visuals, is supported by DisplayPort 1.4. 

This enhances the viewing experience, especially for high-quality video material like movies and video games. 

Also, DisplayPort is a better choice for HDR video because it supports higher resolution and refresh rates.

HDR video is supported via HDMI 2.0a and subsequent versions, although because of lower maximum resolution and refresh rates than DisplayPort, the overall quality of the HDR video may suffer. 

HDR video is also supported through HDMI, but the implementation is less reliable than with DisplayPort. 

The most current HDMI specification, HDMI 2.1, supports the identical resolution and refresh rate as DisplayPort 1.4. 

DisplayPort offers a broader color gamut and HDR video, but HDMI 2.1 is also a solid choice if you want a more universally compatible solution.

Is HDMI Better Than Displayport For 144hz?

Many gamers and fans debate whether DisplayPort or HDMI is preferable for high refresh rate monitors. 

Several variations between the two interfaces are significant when it comes to 144Hz monitors and should be considered.

DisplayPort is a more flexible option for high refresh rate screens because it enables higher resolution. 

While HDMI can offer refresh rates of up to 144Hz, its highest resolution is less than that of DisplayPort. 

Although HDMI 2.0 offers framerate rates of up to 144Hz, the highest resolution available is just 4K. 

DisplayPort is the best option if you want to play games at the maximum resolution and with the smoothest frame rate. HDMI is still a solid choice if you wish for a more broadly compatible solution.

DisplayPort is better for high-refresh-rate monitors, especially for powerful gaming and other uses that demand a steady frame rate. 

The 144Hz refresh rate can be supported by both HDMI and DisplayPort, but it also depends on your requirements and setup.

Is DisplayPort FPS-wise Better Than HDMI?

Many gamers debate whether DisplayPort or HDMI offers the best FPS (frames per second) in games. 

High-definition video and audio can be transferred over either interface, but some significant variations between the two can impact the entire game experience.

Support for greater refresh rates is one of DisplayPort’s key benefits. Refresh rates up to 144Hz are supported by DisplayPort 1.2 and subsequent versions, making them a superior choice for high-performance gaming and other applications that demand a smooth frame rate. 

Since a higher refresh rate enables more fluid and responsive gameplay, especially in fast-paced titles like FPS, this can significantly enhance the gaming experience. 

DisplayPort is a more flexible option for high-performance gaming because it enables higher resolution.

While HDMI can also handle refresh rates of up to 120Hz, its top resolution is less than that of DisplayPort. 

Because of this, HDMI may not be able to support the greatest resolutions, even though it can handle high refresh rates. 

Furthermore, HDMI does not offer variable refresh rate technology to the extent of DisplayPort, which may result in screen tearing and stuttering in games.

So, DisplayPort is a superior choice for first-person shooter games, especially for high-performance games and other uses requiring a fluid frame rate and excellent resolution. 

Remember that while both HDMI and DisplayPort can support high refresh rates, DisplayPort offers more robust and adaptable support, enhancing the gaming experience.

High-Definition Audio: HDMI vs. Displayport

DisplayPort and HDMI can broadcast high-definition audio, so far as that is concerned. 

But it’s important to note some significant variations between the two interfaces.

DisplayPort is preferable for people who want to use their display for high-quality audio playback, such as surround sound systems or multi-channel audio configurations. 

One of its key benefits is the number of audio channels supported by DisplayPort. 

While HDMI only supports up to 8 audio channels, DisplayPort can support up to 32. 

Also, advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X that can deliver a more immersive audio experience are supported by DisplayPort.

HDMI also supports high-definition audio, but there are fewer audio channels than with DisplayPort. 

Because of this, HDMI has been able to deliver high-quality audio with the same number of channels in an as sophisticated format. 

Furthermore, HDMI lacks the same level of ARC (audio return channel) capability as DisplayPort, which enables audio to be transmitted from the display to an audio system.

For people who want to use their display for cutting-edge audio formats and multi-channel audio configurations, DisplayPort is a superior choice for high-quality audio. 

With fewer channels and support for more advanced audio formats, HDMI is still a solid choice for high-definition audio. Here is a particular post on DisplayPort audio.

Daisy Chain & Multi-Stream Transport

Daisy Chain is a feature that allows you to connect multiple displays with one connection. This feature is useful for many things, to increase productivity, gaming, video editing, and others.

DisplayPort is currently the best interface to support this Daisy chain feature with one connection. But HDMI does not support this Daisy Chain feature.

DisplayPort has a feature called MST, or Multi-Stream Transport that allows daisy chaining with one connection. But HDMI does not have an MST feature, so you need multiple HDMI connections.

For video wall users, choosing DP over HDMI is a great feature. This is again another reason why DisplayPort is becoming more and more popular.

Sources:

https://www.techspot.com/article/2516-displayport-vs-hdmi/

https://www.tomshardware.com/features/displayport-vs-hdmi-better-for-gaming