You're buying a new monitor, graphics card, or docking setup and you see both HDMI and DisplayPort listed. They look similar, but they're built for different jobs. Here's how they compare and how to pick the right one.
HDMI vs. DisplayPort at a Glance
| Feature | HDMI 2.1 | DisplayPort 1.4 | DisplayPort 2.1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max bandwidth | 48 Gbps | 32.4 Gbps | Up to 80 Gbps |
| Typical use | TVs, consoles, AV gear | PC monitors, GPUs | High-end PC monitors |
| Audio return (eARC) | Yes | No | No |
| Multiple monitors from one port | No | Yes (MST daisy-chain) | Yes |
| Locking connector | No | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive sync | VRR | Adaptive-Sync / FreeSync / G-Sync | Adaptive-Sync |
Bandwidth numbers are the raw link rates. Actual usable data is a bit lower after encoding overhead.
Where HDMI Is the Better Choice
- TVs and home theater. Almost every TV, receiver, soundbar, Blu-ray player, and game console uses HDMI. DisplayPort is rare on TVs.
- Game consoles. PS5 and Xbox Series X output over HDMI, and they need an HDMI 2.1 port for 4K 120 Hz. See our guide to choosing an HDMI cable for PS5 and Xbox Series X.
- eARC and CEC. HDMI can send audio back from your TV to a soundbar or receiver, and lets one remote control several devices.
- Projectors and conference rooms. HDMI is the common standard on projectors and meeting-room displays.
Where DisplayPort Is the Better Choice
- PC gaming monitors. DisplayPort has traditionally supported the highest refresh rates at high resolutions on PC graphics cards, and it works well with FreeSync and G-Sync monitors.
- Multi-monitor setups. With Multi-Stream Transport (MST), you can connect several monitors through one DisplayPort output using compatible displays or a hub.
- Very high resolutions and refresh rates. DisplayPort 2.1 offers more bandwidth for the latest high-refresh 4K and 8K monitors.
- Secure connection. The locking connector makes it harder to pull out accidentally.
Cable Length Matters for Both
High-bandwidth signals travel poorly over long copper cables. For HDMI, our guide to how long an HDMI cable can be lists typical limits. DisplayPort cables at top speeds are best kept short, often around 2 m to 3 m for passive cables. For long runs, a Fiber Optic HDMI cable keeps the full signal.
Can You Convert Between HDMI and DisplayPort?
Yes, with an adapter or cable, but with limits:
- DisplayPort to HDMI adapters are common and work well for most setups. Check the adapter's maximum resolution and refresh rate.
- HDMI to DisplayPort requires an active converter, and they are less common. It may not support all features, such as high refresh rates or VRR.
When possible, use the same connector on both ends to avoid compatibility issues.
Which One Should You Use?
| Your setup | Use |
|---|---|
| TV, console, or home theater | HDMI |
| PC with a gaming monitor | DisplayPort (if both support it) |
| Multiple monitors from one GPU port | DisplayPort with MST |
| Laptop to projector or conference display | HDMI |
| Soundbar or receiver with eARC | HDMI |
If a monitor has both, check the manual. Some monitors support their highest refresh rate or HDR only on one input.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DisplayPort better than HDMI?
Neither is better overall. DisplayPort is often the preferred choice for PC monitors, and HDMI is the standard for TVs and home entertainment.
Does DisplayPort carry audio?
Yes. DisplayPort carries audio and video, like HDMI.
Can I use HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 together on the same PC?
Yes. Many graphics cards have both, so you can connect a monitor over DisplayPort and a TV over HDMI at the same time.
Which one is better for 4K 144 Hz?
Both can do it depending on the version of the ports on your graphics card and monitor. DisplayPort 1.4 typically needs compression (DSC) for 4K at high refresh rates with HDR, and HDMI 2.1 has more raw bandwidth. Check the specs of both devices.
Find the Right Cable
Browse our HDMI cables and Fiber Optic HDMI cables for TVs, consoles, and long runs. Want to understand the HDMI versions first? Read HDMI 2.1 vs 2.0.