HDMI 2.2 VS. DISPLAYPORT 2.1: WHICH STANDARD IS BETTER?

The choice between HDMI and DisplayPort is an important decision for many users, especially for gamers, home theater enthusiasts, and professional users. While HDMI dominates home theater systems and gaming consoles, DisplayPort is often preferred in high-end PCs and gaming monitors. With the potential introduction of HDMI 2.2, the question arises whether HDMI could become a real alternative to DisplayPort 2.1 in the future. In this article, we compare both standards and show which application scenarios they are best suited for.

HDMI vs. DisplayPort: The Current State

Currently, HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of the HDMI standard, while DisplayPort 2.1 is considered its direct competitor. Both interfaces have different strengths and use cases.

Bandwidth and Transmission Speed

  • HDMI 2.1: 48 Gbps
  • DisplayPort 2.1: 80 Gbps

Here, DisplayPort 2.1 offers significantly higher bandwidth, which is especially beneficial for multi-monitor setups and very high resolutions.

Maximum Resolutions and Refresh Rates

  • HDMI 2.1: 4K at 120 Hz, 8K at 60 Hz, up to 10K for certain applications
  • DisplayPort 2.1: 8K at 120 Hz, 16K at 60 Hz

DisplayPort is superior here as it supports higher resolutions and refresh rates. Particularly for professional applications, VR setups, and high-end gaming, DisplayPort offers clear advantages.

Multi-Monitor Support

  • HDMI: Supports only one screen per port
  • DisplayPort: Can connect multiple monitors via daisy-chaining

If you want to run multiple monitors with just one connection, DisplayPort is the better choice.

Audio Features

  • HDMI: Supports eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) for high-resolution audio signals
  • DisplayPort: Does not natively support eARC but uses alternative audio transmissions

For home theater systems, HDMI is better suited due to eARC, whereas DisplayPort is more geared towards gaming and PC applications.

Potential Developments with HDMI 2.2

The HDMI 2.2 version, announced for late 2025, is expected to bring the following improvements:

  • Higher bandwidth: 96 Gbps (double that of HDMI 2.1)
  • Support for higher resolutions: 4K at 480 Hz, 8K at 240 Hz, 12K at 120 Hz
  • Improved audio synchronization: Introduction of the Latency Indication Protocol (LIP) to minimize audio delays
  • Better HDR compatibility: Even more stable support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG

It is expected that HDMI 2.2, with its bandwidth and resolution, will be able to compete with DisplayPort for the first time.

Where Is HDMI Preferred and Where DisplayPort?

HDMI is particularly suitable for:

  • TVs and home theater systems: Most smart TVs and AV receivers rely on HDMI.
  • Gaming consoles: PlayStation and Xbox use HDMI as the primary standard.
  • Standard computer monitors: HDMI is widely used and compatible with most displays.

DisplayPort is ideal for:

  • Gaming monitors: Higher refresh rates and support for NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync.
  • Multi-monitor setups: Ability to connect multiple monitors via daisy-chaining.
  • Professional applications: High color accuracy for graphic designers, video editors, and CAD experts.

Frequently Asked Questions About HDMI 2.2 vs. DisplayPort

Is HDMI 2.2 better than DisplayPort 2.1?

Currently, DisplayPort 2.1 is the more powerful standard with higher bandwidth (80 Gbps vs. 48 Gbps for HDMI 2.1). With the introduction of HDMI 2.2, which will offer a bandwidth of 96 Gbps, HDMI will catch up in some areas. Nevertheless, DisplayPort remains the preferred choice for PC users due to its multi-monitor function, higher resolution support, and widespread use in monitors.

What are the differences between HDMI and DisplayPort?

  • Use case: HDMI is the top choice for home theater and consoles, while DisplayPort is preferred for gaming and professional monitors.
  • Bandwidth: DisplayPort 2.1 offers 80 Gbps, while HDMI 2.1 only provides 48 Gbps.
  • Multi-monitor support: DisplayPort allows daisy-chaining, while HDMI supports only one monitor per port.
  • Audio: HDMI offers eARC for high-quality audio, whereas DisplayPort focuses more on video transmission.

Should I use HDMI or DisplayPort for gaming?

  • Gaming on a TV: HDMI is the better choice since most TVs do not have DisplayPort inputs.
  • Gaming with a high-end monitor: DisplayPort 2.1 often provides higher refresh rates and better adaptive sync technologies.
  • Multiple monitors: DisplayPort enables an efficient daisy-chain connection for multiple screens.

Conclusion

HDMI and DisplayPort each have their own strengths. DisplayPort 2.1 remains the top choice for gamers and professional users who need the highest resolutions and multiple monitors. HDMI is still the leading standard for TVs, home theater systems, and gaming consoles.

With the introduction of HDMI 2.2 and the expected improvements, a standard will emerge that can compete with DisplayPort for the first time. However, the decisive factor will be whether manufacturers adopt this technology and release HDMI 2.2-capable monitors in the future.

Back to blog