2.1.10 HDMI and DisplayPort Video Cables - Notes
Both carry video and audio through a single cable, but they are built for different use cases.
| HDMI | DisplayPort | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | High-Definition Multimedia Interface | DisplayPort |
| Carries | Video + audio | Video + audio |
| Common use | TVs, monitors, gaming consoles, consumer electronics | Computer monitors, professional and gaming setups |
| Resolutions/refresh | High; newer versions support HDR and high refresh rates | Higher than HDMI |
| Multi-monitor | No native multi-display from one port | Yes; MST (Multi-Stream Transport) allows multiple displays from a single port |
| Adaptive sync | No | Yes; AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync |
| Best for | General consumer and multimedia use | Professional work and high-performance gaming |
Key Things to Remember
- HDMI is simpler, more universal, and found on most consumer-facing devices.
- DisplayPort offers higher performance and is better for multi-monitor setups and gaming with adaptive sync.
- Both carry audio and video in a single cable.
- DisplayPort's MST feature is the biggest differentiator because one port can drive multiple displays.