DisplayPort vs. HDMI: Which is Better for Gaming?
- Kenneth Mariotti
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
DisplayPort vs. HDMI: Which is Better for Gaming?
When setting up your gaming system, two main interfaces stand out: DisplayPort and HDMI. Both offer distinct features and benefits, making them ideal for various gaming situations. This article will delve into the significant differences between DisplayPort and HDMI to assist you in making a well-informed choice for your gaming requirements.
Understanding the Basics
DisplayPort and HDMI are standards designed to transmit video and audio signals from a source device to a display. Although they share similar functions, each has unique specifications suited for different applications. Both HDMI and DisplayPort can carry high-definition digital video and high-resolution audio from a source device to a display. So, what distinguishes them? Why might someone choose DisplayPort when HDMI is widely used? And how does the USB Type-C port fit into this scenario? We’ll explore these questions and more, but first, let's delve into the history of how these two standards emerged and the organizations that oversee them.
DisplayPort Evolution
With each update of the DisplayPort standard, more bandwidth is required to support higher video resolutions, refresh rates and color depths. The effective data rate of DP 1.3 and 1.4 is sufficient to support a 4K, 24-bit color monitor at a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, but it is not able to support the new generation of higher resolution 6K and 8K displays without resorting to compression which means a DP 2.0/2.1 Cable and Compatible Devices would be needed.
Evolution of the HDMI standard
Gaming Performance Comparison
When it comes to gaming performance, both interfaces have their strengths. Here’s how they stack up against each other:
DisplayPort: Due to its superior bandwidth, DisplayPort is ideal for high-resolution monitors (such as 4K and above) and supports high refresh rates (up to 240Hz and more). HDMI: Although HDMI 2.1 can handle high resolutions and refresh rates, earlier versions might have difficulty with higher settings, making DisplayPort a more dependable option for competitive gaming.
Latency and Response Time
Generally, DisplayPort connections are known for lower latency, which is crucial in fast-paced gaming environments. HDMI connections can introduce some latency, especially in older versions, though this gap has narrowed with the advancements in HDMI 2.1.
Multiple Displays and daisy chaining Monitors
Probably the biggest practical difference between the two standards is that DisplayPort can drive four daisy-chained displays and HDMI can drive just two, with implementations of the latter being extremely scarce.
Note that the 48Gbps per second and the 80Gbps quoted above are the raw HDMI 2.1a and DisplayPort delivery speeds respectively. DisplayPort 2.1 has four lanes that can deliver approximately 77.37Gbps (19.34Gbps per lane) of actual data, while DisplayPort 1.4a can deliver 32.4Gbps (6.48Gbps per lane). HDMI 2.0 delivers 14.4Gbps, and the older HDMI 2.1 offers 42.6Gbps.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between DisplayPort and HDMI ultimately depends on your gaming setup and what choices your Graphics Card and Monitor output. Choose DisplayPort if you have a high-refresh-rate monitor and want to take advantage of adaptive sync technologies, You plan to use multiple monitors with a single connection. You prioritize lower latency and higher bandwidth for competitive gaming. Choose HDMI if you are using a gaming console or a home theater system. - You need a versatile connection for multiple devices. You want features like ARC for audio management.
Conclusion
Both DisplayPort and HDMI have their unique advantages for gaming. DisplayPort excels in high-performance scenarios, while HDMI offers flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of devices. Understanding your specific gaming needs will help you choose the right interface for your setup. Whether you prioritize high refresh rates, multi-monitor capabilities, or compatibility with home entertainment systems, there's a suitable option for every gamer.