It may not seem like there is much difference between HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1, but the latter technology brings some significant changes to the audio/video interface. We’ve reviewed both to help you decide whether or not it’s worth upgrading your HDMI cables to the new standard.
Overall Findings
The easiest way to understand the differences between HDMI 2.0 and 2.1 is HDMI 2.1 is the current standard of the audio/video format.
To avoid confusion, all references to HDMI 2.0 in this article refer to HDMI 2.0b, the most recent version update.
Introduced in 2013.
18Gbps transmission bit rate.
Native support for 4K/8K resolutions at 60fps/30fps, respectively.
HDR support.
Introduced in 2017 (the current HDMI standard).
48Gbps transmission bit rate.
Native support for 4K/8K resolutions at 120fps/60fps, respectively.
Dynamic HDR support.
Since its initial release in 2002, the High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) has received numerous version updates, and HDMI 2.1 is the most recent version release. Each subsequent version gets new capabilities or an increase in bandwidth. It means HDMI 2.1 has the most capabilities and highest bandwidth transmission rates of all HDMI versions.
Data Transmission Rates: HDMI 2.1 Offers Superior Speed
HDMI 2.1 introduced a new HDMI cable category called Ultra High Speed or 48G, due to the fact it supports bandwidth speeds up to 48Gbps. It’s nearly three times the bandwidth of HDMI 2.0 and effectively means HDMI 2.1 can output higher resolutions and faster refresh rates.
Maximum transmission bit rate of 18Gbps.
Supports HDR.
Maximum transmission bit rate of 48Gbps.
Supports Dynamic HDR.
You’ll also see boosts to HDR (High Dynamic Range), which removes video signal limitations to display a broader range of brightness and color on compatible displays. While HDMI 2.0 already supports HDR technology, HDMI 2.1 introduces “Dynamic HDR,” which adjusts HDR metadata on a frame-by-frame basis to help get even clearer images (especially in very bright or dark scenes).
Video: HDMI 2.1 Offers Faster Refresh Rates at Higher Resolutions
The most significant practical upside to HDMI 2.1 is in its video output. If you have a compatible TV, you’ll enjoy higher resolutions with faster refresh rates. Although HDMI 2.0 can output in both 4K and 8K resolutions, it can only do so at 60fps (frames per second) and 30fps, respectively. While you can still get an impressive picture with an HDMI 2.0 cable, it’s not ideal for displaying content requiring smooth motion, such as sports or video games.
Resolution output of 4K/60fps and 8K/30fps.
First HDMI version to support 4K resolution at 60fps.
Resolution output of 4K/120fps and 8K/120fps.
Supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Media Switching.
HDMI 2.1 can deliver much better video performance, including 4K resolution at 120fps and 8K at 60fps. It’s even future-proofed to support resolutions as high as 10K, though it will be some time before commercial sets adopt this capability. This resolution and frame rate bump makes HDMI 2.1 the cable of choice for next-gen gaming on consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, both of which offer full HDMI 2.1 support. You’ll need to use an HDMI 2.1 cable to utilize either console’s full output capabilities (which also requires a compatible TV).
Additionally, HDMI 2.1 introduces a few features to complement its higher resolutions and frame rates. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) will adjust your display’s refresh rate in real-time to help eliminate stuttering and frame tearing in games. At the same time, QMS (Quick Media Switching) reduces delay while switching between video sources.
Audio: HDMI 2.1 Provides Minor Improvements
While the video benefits of HDMI 2.1 are significant, its audio improvements are minimal by comparison.
Supports ARC.
Up to 32 audio channels.
Supports eARC.
Up to 32 audio channels.
HDMI 2.0 cables have a feature called Audio Return Channel (ARC), which enables audio to be sent back and forth along the same cable. HDMI 2.1 brings an incremental update to this technology with Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), which essentially expands the range of audio codecs you can use, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Of course, you’ll need audio equipment that supports eARC to take advantage of it.
As things stand, HDMI 2.1 is the clear winner for serious audiophiles, but you won’t see much if any benefit unless you’ve recently upgraded your audio equipment.
Compatibility: 2.1 Is Backwards Compatible With Old Versions of HDMI
HDMI 2.1 cables are backward compatible, which means you can use them with devices that don’t support the 2.1 format. However, you can’t take advantage of the 2.1 features unless you have a compatible device and TV. For example, you can plug a PS5 into a TV with an HDMI 2.0 port using an HDMI 2.1 cable, and it will work fine. But you will only get 2.0 features since the cable will use the highest mode supported by all devices (in this case, it would be 2.0).
Found on most TVs manufactured since 2013.
Can be used with PS5 and Xbox Series X up to 4K at 60fps.
Compatible TV models include SonyX90J, LG CX OLED, Samsung QN85A, and more.
Supported by PS5 and Xbox Series X.
By this point, HDMI 2.1 has arguably become mainstream, as most TV manufacturers have incorporated the standard into their product lines. That said, pay close attention to the port count on any new TV you buy, as some TVs come with a mix of 2.0 and 2.1 ports.
Final Verdict: HDMI 2.1 Is Better, but Only If You Have the Right Equipment
HDMI 2.1 is the new standard for the format, making it superior in every way to HDMI 2.0. As long as you have compatible devices, you’ll get a superior audio/video experience by making the cable switch. That said, HDMI 2.0 is still adequate for most people, especially if you don’t own a next-gen console or TV that supports 2.1.
Just remember HDMI 2.1 is backward compatible, so it wouldn’t hurt to invest in some ultra-high-speed cables if you plan on investing in some new home cinema equipment over the next few years.
- Do I need to use HDMI 2.1 for 4K video?
- No, not necessarily. As long as you have a High-Speed HDMI cable and a 1080p display, you can enjoy 4K video quality. HDMI 2.1 or Ultra High-Speed HDMI cables could be beneficial for reducing interference and use with future HDMI 2.1 devices. Whichever HDMI version you’re working with, ensure that you choose the suitable HDMI cable types for your devices.
- How do I change HDMI 2.1 to HDMI 2.0?
- While you can’t change HDMI versions on your devices with firmware upgrades, you don’t have to do anything special to use HDMI 2.1 cables with products that use HDMI 2.0b and older. However, you should use HDMI 2.1 cables with HDMI 2.1 devices for the best performance.
No, not necessarily. As long as you have a High-Speed HDMI cable and a 1080p display, you can enjoy 4K video quality. HDMI 2.1 or Ultra High-Speed HDMI cables could be beneficial for reducing interference and use with future HDMI 2.1 devices. Whichever HDMI version you’re working with, ensure that you choose the suitable HDMI cable types for your devices.
While you can’t change HDMI versions on your devices with firmware upgrades, you don’t have to do anything special to use HDMI 2.1 cables with products that use HDMI 2.0b and older. However, you should use HDMI 2.1 cables with HDMI 2.1 devices for the best performance.
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