DisplayPort vs HDMI: What's Different and Better

What DisplayPort Is

DisplayPort is a digital display interface standard used to connect a video source, such as a desktop PC or laptop, to a monitor. It was designed as a replacement for older analog and digital connections, and it carries both video and audio signals. DisplayPort transmits data in small packets, which allows it to handle multiple display streams and high bandwidth requirements efficiently.

Most discrete graphics cards and many monitors include at least one DisplayPort input. It is the preferred connection for PC gaming and productivity because it supports high refresh rates, variable refresh rate, and high resolutions. If you are shopping for a new monitor, knowing what DisplayPort offers helps you choose the right cable and port for your needs. See our monitor ports guide for an overview.

Versions and bandwidth

DisplayPort has gone through several versions, each increasing the maximum bandwidth and feature set. The latest versions support very high resolution and refresh rate combinations, including 4K at high refresh rates and 8K. The HDMI 2.2 specification, the latest HDMI update, supports up to 96Gbps bandwidth and enables resolutions such as 4K240 and 8K60 with full chroma and 10-bit or 12-bit color. DisplayPort offers comparable capabilities in its current implementations, which is why you will find both port types on modern high-performance monitors.

When choosing between DisplayPort and HDMI, consider the version available on your graphics card and monitor. Both interfaces have evolved to support the high bandwidth needed for advanced displays. For more on how refresh rate and resolution interact, see our refresh rate and resolution guides.

Gaming features: variable refresh rate

Variable refresh rate (VRR) is a technology that eliminates screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the monitor's refresh rate with the frame rate of the graphics card. Both DisplayPort and HDMI support VRR. The HDMI 2.2 specification includes VRR, which reduces or eliminates lag, judder and frame tearing for more fluid and better detailed gameplay. DisplayPort has supported a form of adaptive sync for longer, which is used by G-SYNC and FreeSync technologies.

NVIDIA G-SYNC displays are tested for tear-free, stutter-free gaming and include a full variable refresh rate range. AMD FreeSync works over DisplayPort and HDMI on many monitors. If you have an NVIDIA or AMD graphics card, look for a monitor that supports the matching adaptive sync technology. Our NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync guides explain the differences.

• HDMI 2.2's VRR reduces lag, judder, and frame tearing.
• G-SYNC displays are validated for tear-free performance.
• DisplayPort is commonly used for adaptive sync on PC monitors.

DisplayPort and HDR

High dynamic range (HDR) improves brightness, contrast, and color compared to standard dynamic range. Both DisplayPort and HDMI can carry HDR video signals. Windows HDR settings require an HDR10-capable display and a PC that supports HDR. The DisplayHDR standard, managed by VESA, defines performance tiers such as DisplayHDR 400, 600, and 1000 for monitors. These certifications ensure a minimum level of luminance, color gamut, and bit depth.

When you enable HDR in Windows, your display switches to HDR mode and receives metadata that tells it how to interpret the signal. For the best HDR experience, look for a monitor that is certified by VESA or supports HDR10. Our HDR monitors guide can point you toward the right specs.

DisplayPort over USB-C

DisplayPort signals can be carried over USB-C connections, which is especially convenient for modern laptops. USB4, which is based on the Thunderbolt protocol, supports multiple simultaneous data and display protocols and can dynamically allocate bandwidth to display data. This means a single USB-C cable can connect a laptop to a monitor, transmit video, and even deliver power. USB Power Delivery can supply up to 240W over a full-featured USB-C cable, so a monitor can charge your laptop while displaying content.

If your monitor has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alt Mode or USB4 support, you can use it as a DisplayPort connection. This simplifies your desk setup and reduces cable clutter. For more on this, see our USB-C monitors guide.

Choosing between DisplayPort and HDMI

The decision between DisplayPort and HDMI depends on your hardware and use case. For a desktop PC with a discrete graphics card, DisplayPort is often the best choice for gaming because it provides the highest bandwidth and supports adaptive sync. For connecting to a TV or an AV receiver, HDMI is the standard connection because it carries audio and video and is widely supported.

Check the ports on your monitor and your computer. If both support the same features, either connection will work. But if you want a high refresh rate like 144Hz or 240Hz at 1440p or 4K, you need a cable and port that support that bandwidth. Our buying guides for 144Hz monitors and 4K UHD monitors list monitors with the appropriate inputs.

Also consider the resolution and refresh rate you plan to use. For example, 4K at 120Hz requires a higher bandwidth connection, and both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 can handle it, but not all cables are certified for those speeds. Ensure you use a cable that matches the port version to avoid signal issues. If you are using a laptop with USB-C, a DisplayPort over USB-C connection can carry high bandwidth video and power simultaneously, which is often the most convenient option for a clean desk.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Is DisplayPort better than HDMI for gaming?

For PC gaming, DisplayPort is often preferred because it supports adaptive sync (G-SYNC and FreeSync) and has high bandwidth. However, HDMI 2.2 also includes VRR and can handle high refresh rates. If your monitor and GPU both support DisplayPort, use it for best results, especially for low latency and tear-free play.

Does DisplayPort carry audio?

Yes, DisplayPort carries both video and audio signals. This includes multi-channel audio, so you can use a monitor's built-in speakers or connect to an audio system without a separate audio cable.

Can I use DisplayPort to connect to a TV?

Some TVs have DisplayPort inputs, but most TVs use HDMI. If your TV lacks a DisplayPort, you can use an adapter from DisplayPort to HDMI, but it may not support all features like VRR or high refresh rates. HDMI is the standard for TVs.

Does USB-C support DisplayPort?

Yes, USB-C can carry DisplayPort signals using Alt Mode or USB4. This is common on laptops and monitors, allowing a single cable for video, data, and power. Check if your monitor's USB-C port supports DisplayPort before using it.