Reader-supported: we earn a commission on some links, at no extra cost to you. How this works
Display & ScreenGuide

HDMI vs DisplayPort for Gaming: What Is the Difference?

For gaming, DisplayPort usually allows higher refresh rates and strong variable refresh support, while HDMI 2.1 matches it. Here is which to use and when.

5 min read

For gaming, DisplayPort and modern HDMI are both excellent, but they differ by version. DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 can drive high refresh rates at high resolution, while older HDMI 2.0 caps at 4K 60Hz. DisplayPort has long supported variable refresh rate on PC, and HDMI 2.1 added it too. Use whichever version gives the bandwidth your monitor needs.

Why this happens

The real difference is not the shape of the plug but the version and bandwidth of the connection.

  • HDMI 2.0 carries about 18 Gbps, enough for 4K at 60Hz or 1440p at 144Hz.
  • HDMI 2.1 jumps to about 48 Gbps, enough for 4K at 120Hz and higher.
  • DisplayPort 1.2 handles 4K at 60Hz, similar to HDMI 2.0.
  • DisplayPort 1.4 carries about 32 Gbps and reaches 4K at 120Hz, or more using Display Stream Compression.
  • DisplayPort 2.0 and 2.1 push bandwidth much higher for future high resolution, high refresh displays.

For variable refresh rate, which reduces tearing, DisplayPort has supported Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync on PC for years. HDMI 2.1 now supports variable refresh rate as well, which matters for consoles.

Is this normal?

Yes. It is normal for a monitor to include both types, and either can be the best choice depending on the version each device supports.

Does it cause any problems?

Only if you pick a connection with too little bandwidth. Then you may be locked to a lower refresh rate or resolution than your monitor can actually reach.

How to fix or check it

  1. Check the exact HDMI and DisplayPort versions listed in your monitor and graphics card specifications.
  2. On a gaming PC, DisplayPort is usually the safe pick for high refresh rate at 1440p or 4K.
  3. On a current console, use the HDMI 2.1 port for 4K at 120Hz.
  4. Use a certified cable that matches the version, such as an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for HDMI 2.1.
  5. After connecting, set the refresh rate in Windows display settings and enable G-Sync or FreeSync in your graphics control panel.

Frequently asked questions

Is DisplayPort better than HDMI for gaming?

On a PC, DisplayPort is often the simpler choice for high refresh rate and variable refresh support. On consoles, HDMI 2.1 is the port you want. The version matters more than the type.

Can HDMI do 144Hz?

Yes, at the right version. HDMI 2.0 can do 1440p at 144Hz, and HDMI 2.1 can do 4K at 120Hz and beyond. HDMI 1.4 cannot.

Does the cable version matter?

Yes. A cable rated below the version you need becomes the bottleneck. Match the cable rating to the connection, for example an Ultra High Speed cable for HDMI 2.1.

More in this topic

More in Display & Screen

See the full guide →
★
Display & Screen
Why Does My Monitor Turn Off Then Come Back On?

A monitor that turns off then comes back usually has a loose or failing cable, a power saving glitch, or a DisplayPort handshake issue. Here is how to fix it.
★
Display & Screen
What Refresh Rate Can My Monitor Run at 4K?

The refresh rate your monitor runs at 4K depends on the cable. HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2 give 4K 60Hz; HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 reach 4K 120Hz.
★
Display & Screen
Why Does Display Scaling Make Some Apps Look Tiny?

Display scaling makes some apps tiny when they ignore Windows DPI scaling and draw at native pixels. Here is how to force older apps to scale correctly.