We’ve come a long way from plugging in those three different coloured RCA connectors into the back of a chunky TV. High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is ‘the standard’ for digital transmission of video and audio content for home media. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about HDMI 2.1
HDMI 2.1b – The New Kid on The Block
Move over 2.1. There’s a new sheriff in town. Whilst the actual HDMI cable hasn’t changed in over twenty years, there have been numerous iterations of technology. HDMI 2.1b is the latest and greatest standard to be introduced for HDMI display cables.
What is HDMI 2.1b?
Keeping track can be a little confusing with so many different iterations and cable standards. All you really need to know is what HDMI 2.1b is capable of. This new variation supports a range of higher video resolutions and refresh rates, including 8K at 60Hz, 4K at 120Hz, and even 10K!
| Launch | 2023 |
| Connector Types | Type A, Type C (Mini-HDMI), Type D (Micro-HDMI) |
| Max Data Rate | 48Gbps |
| Max Image Resolution | 10K |
Notably, HDMI 2.1 boasts 48Gbps bandwidth alongside low electro-magnetic interference, reducing the level of noise from nearby wireless devices. There’s also baked-in support for Dynamic HDR, ensuring every moment of video is displayed at its ideal colour depth.
What is HDMI 2.1?
As the latest generation of the HDMI standard, 2.1 supports incredibly high resolutions and refresh rates. For example, HDMI 2.1 compatible devices can display 4k with up to a 120Hz refresh rate and 8k with up to 60Hz. The new 2.1 standard was announced in 2017 but only became mainstream to consumers with the launch of next-generation consoles and GPUs at the end of 2020.
HDMI 2.1 Specification
| Launch | 2017 |
| Connector Types | Type A, Type C (Mini-HDMI), Type D (Micro-HDMI) |
| Max Data Rate | 42.66 Gbit/s |
| Max Bandwidth | 1200MHz |
| Max Image Resolution | 4320p @60Hz |
| Max Refresh rate | 120Hz |
| Number of Displayable Colours | 4,400 Billion (42 Bit) |
| HDR Support | HDR 10, Dolby Vision |
In addition, to support for 120Hz at 4k, gamers benefit massively from HDMI 2.1 with native support for VRR (Variable Refresh Rate). VRR synchronises the calculated frames with the set framerate of your monitor or TV. This technology can prevent tearing and enables a smoother gaming experience. What’s more, you can enjoy these features alongside intense colour and contrasts with dynamic HDR.
2.1 vs 2.0: What’s New?
Compared to its predecessor, HDMI 2.1 features a data rate of 42.6Gbit/s, which is over twice as fast as HDMI 2.0’s rate of 18 Gbit/s. This vast increase in speed is necessary to be able to drive extreme resolutions such as 8K at 60Hz. The previous version of HDMI 2.0 is only capable of 4K at 60Hz.
HDMI 2.0 Specification
| Launch | 2013 |
| Connector Types | Type A, Type C (Mini-HDMI), Type D (Micro-HDMI) |
| Max Data Rate | 18 Gbit/s |
| Max Bandwidth | 600MHz |
| Max Image Resolution | 2160p @60Hz |
| Max Refresh rate | 120Hz |
| Number of Displayable Colours | 1 billion (30 bits), deep colour (30, 36 and 48 bits) |
| HDR Support | HDR 10, Dolby Vision |
HDMI 2.1 vs DisplayPort
In modern PC gaming the primary choice is between HDMI and DisplayPort. Most GPU’s feature multiple DisplayPort and HDMI ports to choose from. However, to drive high refresh rate gaming monitors above 4k @ 120FPS you’ll need to use both a compatible monitor and a DisplayPort cable.
DisplayPort 1.4 Specification
| Max. Resolution | 7680 x 4320 |
| Refresh @ 1080p | 360Hz |
| Refresh @ Max. Res | 240Hz |
| Max. Bandwidth | 25.92Gbps |
| HDCP Version | 2.2 |
| Dynamic HDR | Y |
| Multi-Stream* | Y |
You can see our full comparison of the differences between HDMI and DisplayPort here.
Does HDMI 2.1 Make a Difference?
To summarise HDMI 2.1 supports high-resolution high refresh rate video and is ideal for the majority of gamers. Not only this but this generation of the standard is set to be future-proof and will likely support resolutions as high as 10K. Make sure to check out our full range of HDMI cables here.
- 4 min read
Robert Mullane
Author
When not working, you'll find me in VR or losing in bottom-tier Valorant matches. I write about all topic's tech and gaming with a particular focus on representation in gaming, virtual reality, and LGBTQ+ themes. If you're still not fed up with me, you can also catch me over on the Overclockers UK TikTok and YouTube accounts.
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