HDMI 2.1 vs DisplayPort 2.1 for Gaming

What are HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1?

HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1 are the latest versions of the two main display interfaces used to connect a gaming PC to a monitor or TV. Both are designed to carry high-resolution video and audio signals, and both support features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and high dynamic range (HDR). The key difference lies in their bandwidth and how they are implemented across devices.

HDMI 2.1 is widely used in consumer electronics, including 4K TVs and many gaming monitors. It supports a maximum bandwidth of 48 Gbps, which is enough for 4K at 120Hz with HDR, or even 8K at 60Hz. DisplayPort 2.1, on the other hand, offers a higher maximum bandwidth of 80 Gbps, allowing for even higher refresh rates at 4K, such as 4K at 240Hz, without compression.

For a gaming PC, the choice between these interfaces often comes down to what ports your monitor and graphics card have. Most modern graphics cards, including the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 series, include both DisplayPort and HDMI outputs. The RTX 50 series, for example, features three DisplayPort 2.1 outputs and one HDMI 2.1 output, as noted in the NVIDIA specifications. This means you can use either interface, but the capabilities may vary depending on the monitor's inputs. To see how these ports fit into a complete gaming setup, check the best graphics cards for PC gaming.

Bandwidth and Resolution Support

Bandwidth determines how much data can be transmitted per second, which directly affects the maximum resolution and refresh rate a display can handle. HDMI 2.1's 48 Gbps bandwidth is sufficient for 4K at 120Hz with HDR, which is a common target for high-end gaming. DisplayPort 2.1's 80 Gbps bandwidth allows for higher refresh rates at 4K, such as 4K at 240Hz, or even 8K at 120Hz, though such displays are less common.

According to NVIDIA's specifications for the RTX 50 series, these graphics cards support a maximum digital resolution of 4K at 480Hz or 8K at 165Hz with Display Stream Compression (DSC). This capability is enabled by the DisplayPort 2.1 outputs. HDMI 2.1 on the same cards also supports high resolutions, but the exact maximum may be lower without DSC.

For most gamers, 4K at 120Hz is a sweet spot, and both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1 can handle this. If you have a monitor that supports 4K at 240Hz or higher, you will likely need DisplayPort 2.1 to take full advantage of it. However, such monitors are still rare, and the difference may not be noticeable in everyday gaming. For a deeper look at 4K gaming, see the best 4K gaming PCs.

Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) Support

Variable refresh rate (VRR) is a feature that synchronizes the monitor's refresh rate with the graphics card's output, reducing screen tearing and stuttering. Both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1 support VRR, but they use different implementations. HDMI 2.1 uses HDMI VRR, while DisplayPort 2.1 supports Adaptive-Sync, which is the basis for technologies like G-SYNC and FreeSync.

On a gaming PC, VRR is often implemented through G-SYNC or FreeSync, which work over DisplayPort. NVIDIA G-SYNC is supported on RTX graphics cards and works with DisplayPort connections. HDMI 2.1 also supports VRR, but it is more commonly used with TVs, where HDMI VRR is a standard feature.

If you are using a monitor with G-SYNC or FreeSync, DisplayPort is usually the recommended connection. However, many modern monitors also support HDMI VRR, so you can use either interface. The key is to check your monitor's specifications to see which ports support VRR and at what refresh rates. For monitors that support these features, browse the best 4K gaming monitors.

Compatibility and Connectors

Compatibility is a practical consideration when choosing between HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1. HDMI 2.1 is more common on TVs and some monitors, making it the go-to choice if you plan to connect your gaming PC to a TV. DisplayPort 2.1 is more prevalent on PC monitors, especially those designed for high refresh rates.

Graphics cards like the NVIDIA RTX 50 series come with both DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 outputs, as shown in the specifications. This gives you flexibility, but you need to ensure your monitor has the corresponding input. Some monitors may only have HDMI 2.1, while others may have both.

When setting up a multi-monitor configuration, DisplayPort is often preferred because it supports daisy-chaining, allowing you to connect multiple monitors to a single port. HDMI does not support daisy-chaining, so you would need separate cables for each monitor. This is a consideration if you are planning a multi-monitor setup for gaming or productivity. For more on multi-monitor setups, see how to choose a gaming PC for multi-monitor setups.

What to Pick for Your Play

The choice between HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1 ultimately depends on your monitor and how you play. If you have a 4K TV and want to play from your couch, HDMI 2.1 is the way to go. If you are using a high-refresh-rate monitor for competitive gaming, DisplayPort 2.1 is likely the better option.

For 4K gaming at 120Hz, both interfaces work well, so you can use whichever port is available. For 4K at 240Hz or higher, you will need DisplayPort 2.1 to achieve those refresh rates without compression. If you are using a 1440p monitor with a high refresh rate, DisplayPort 2.1 is also a good choice, as it provides ample bandwidth.

Consider your future upgrade path. If you plan to get a monitor with higher refresh rates or higher resolution, DisplayPort 2.1 offers more headroom. However, HDMI 2.1 is more universal, especially if you also use your PC with a TV. Many gamers find that having both options on their graphics card gives them the flexibility to connect to any display. For a range of monitors, check the best gaming monitors for PC.

What to pick for your play

Questions

Is DisplayPort 2.1 better than HDMI 2.1 for gaming?

DisplayPort 2.1 has higher bandwidth, which can support higher refresh rates at 4K, but HDMI 2.1 is sufficient for most gaming needs, especially at 4K 120Hz. The best choice depends on your monitor's ports and your specific gaming setup.

Can I use HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz gaming?

Yes, HDMI 2.1 supports 4K at 120Hz with HDR, making it a great choice for gaming on a 4K TV or monitor that has an HDMI 2.1 input.

Does DisplayPort 2.1 support G-SYNC?

Yes, DisplayPort 2.1 supports Adaptive-Sync, which is the technology behind G-SYNC and FreeSync. This allows for variable refresh rate gaming without screen tearing.

Which cable should I use for a 240Hz monitor?

For a 240Hz monitor, especially at 1440p or 4K, DisplayPort 2.1 is recommended because it offers the bandwidth needed for high refresh rates without compression. HDMI 2.1 can also work, but may require DSC for higher resolutions.