HDMI 2.1 vs HDMI 2.0: What's the Difference and Which Do You Need?
Quick Answer
If you have a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a high-end gaming PC pushing 4K at 120Hz or higher, you need HDMI 2.1. For everything else — streaming, older consoles, standard monitors — HDMI 2.0 is perfectly fine and costs less.
What Is HDMI 2.0?
HDMI 2.0 was the standard from 2013 until recently and still handles the vast majority of home setups without issue. It supports:
- Up to 4K at 60Hz
- 18 Gbps bandwidth
- HDR (High Dynamic Range)
- Audio Return Channel (ARC)
If you're connecting a laptop to a monitor, running a streaming device like a Chromecast or Apple TV, or using an older gaming console (PS4, Xbox One), HDMI 2.0 is all you need.
What Is HDMI 2.1?
HDMI 2.1 is the current-generation standard, introduced in 2017 and now standard on modern TVs and consoles. It supports:
- Up to 10K resolution (practically, 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz are the key use cases)
- 48 Gbps bandwidth — nearly 3× more than 2.0
- Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) — reduces screen tearing in games
- Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
- Quick Frame Transport (QFT)
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | HDMI 2.0 | HDMI 2.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Max bandwidth | 18 Gbps | 48 Gbps |
| Max resolution | 4K @ 60Hz | 10K (4K @ 120Hz practical) |
| VRR support | No | Yes |
| eARC | No | Yes |
| Best for | Streaming, older consoles | PS5, Xbox Series X, PC gaming |
Which One Do You Need?
Choose HDMI 2.0 if you:
- Stream Netflix, Disney+, YouTube on a smart TV
- Use an Apple TV, Chromecast, or Fire Stick
- Have a PS4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch
- Connect a laptop or PC to a 1080p or 4K/60Hz monitor
Choose HDMI 2.1 if you:
- Own a PS5 or Xbox Series X and want 4K at 120Hz
- Have a gaming monitor with a 120Hz+ refresh rate
- Use a high-end GPU (RTX 4000 series, RX 7000 series)
- Want future-proofing for the next 5+ years
Does the Cable Actually Matter?
Yes — and this is where most people get caught out. Even if your TV and console both support HDMI 2.1, an old HDMI 2.0 cable will bottleneck the connection. You need a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable to unlock the full 48 Gbps bandwidth.
The good news: a quality HDMI 2.1 cable works perfectly fine on HDMI 2.0 devices too, so if you're upgrading, just go 2.1 and you're covered either way.
Our Recommended HDMI Cables
Browse our full range of certified HDMI cables — from reliable HDMI 2.0 options for everyday use to Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cables built for next-gen gaming.
Shop all HDMI Cables at DMHA Home →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an HDMI 2.1 cable on an HDMI 2.0 port?
Yes, absolutely. HDMI cables are backwards compatible. An HDMI 2.1 cable plugged into a 2.0 port will simply run at 2.0 speeds — no issues.
Will HDMI 2.1 make my picture look better on a 4K/60Hz TV?
No. If your TV maxes out at 4K/60Hz, you won't see any visual difference. HDMI 2.1 only shows its benefit when both your source and display support higher specs.
How do I know if my TV has HDMI 2.1?
Check your TV's manual or the manufacturer's website. Most TVs released from 2020 onwards have at least one HDMI 2.1 port, though not always all ports.
Is HDMI 2.1 worth it for PS5?
Yes, if you have a TV that supports 4K/120Hz. Without an HDMI 2.1 cable, your PS5 is capped at 4K/60Hz even if your TV can go higher.
What's the difference between HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.1a?
HDMI 2.1a added Source-Based Tone Mapping (SBTM) for improved HDR. For most users the difference is negligible — focus on getting a certified Ultra High Speed cable rather than worrying about minor sub-versions.
Ready to buy the right cable for your setup? Browse our HDMI Cables collection →