When it comes to the question of whether you need both HDMI and DisplayPort, the answer depends on your specific needs and setup. Both HDMI and DisplayPort are widely used for connecting devices to displays, but they have some key differences.
If your computer has both an HDMI 2.0 port and a DisplayPort 1.4 or above, it’s worth considering which one to use based on your requirements. In terms of overall capabilities, DisplayPort tends to offer more advanced features and higher bandwidth, making it a better choice for certain scenarios.
One notable advantage of DisplayPort is its ability to support higher resolutions and refresh rates. If you’re looking to play games or watch media in 4K or even 8K resolution at 120Hz, DisplayPort is generally the preferred option. It provides the necessary bandwidth to handle these high-resolution and high-refresh-rate content without compromising on image quality or smoothness.
On the other hand, HDMI is more commonly found in entertainment systems such as TVs, gaming consoles, and audio players. It has gained popularity in these domains and has become the de facto standard for connecting consumer electronics to displays. HDMI supports various audio formats and features like Consumer Electronics Control (CEC), which allows you to control multiple devices with a single remote.
If your primary use case involves connecting your computer to a TV or other consumer electronics, HDMI may be the more convenient choice. It offers compatibility with a wide range of devices and is more likely to be supported by older or budget-friendly equipment. Additionally, HDMI cables are generally more widely available and come in different lengths, making it easier to find one that suits your needs.
It’s worth noting that the latest HDMI version, HDMI 2.1, introduced several improvements, including increased bandwidth and support for higher refresh rates and resolutions. However, as of now, HDMI 2.1 is not as widely adopted as DisplayPort 1.4, and compatible devices and cables may be more expensive or harder to come by.
If you’re primarily using your computer for gaming or other high-performance tasks and have a DisplayPort 1.4 or above, using DisplayPort would be ideal for taking advantage of its higher bandwidth and support for higher resolutions and refresh rates. However, if you’re connecting your computer to a TV or other consumer electronics, HDMI is likely the more practical choice due to its widespread compatibility and availability. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and the equipment you’re connecting to.