If you own a TV, you’ll likely be familiar with HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables and their ability to connect external devices for viewing. You may have some across terms such as HDMI CEC or HDMI ARC which refer to features or ports on the TV. But did you know there are different types of HDMI? One type that is increasingly mentioned in the world of TV is HDMI 2.1
What is HDMI 2.1?
HDMI cables are the standard that we use to connect devices together. For example, the cables can be used to connect a games console to your TV. HDMI 2.1 is the latest iteration of HDMI technology. It pushes the boundaries of HDMI to improve quality, performance, and also device compatibility.
Improving your viewing experience
HDMI 2.1 is praised for the ability to enhance the viewing experience through the way it can almost upgrade the appearance. It can support higher resolutions now up to 8K video.
It can also deliver vibrant and rich colours with its HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology. Through HDR, it can significantly improve the appearance of TV visuals. This is through technology which can adapt to each individual scene to provide the best quality.
It also provides faster refresh rates, up to 120Hz at 4K. This creates a smoother motion of images and reduces the blur. Alongside this, it can reduce input lag and can support VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology. Essentially, this makes it the perfect combination for gamers to get an immersive experience in the digital world.
Increasing device compatibility
As HDMI 2.1 is the latest form of HDMI, newer devices will often have HDMI 2.1. This is not to be feared as HDMI 2.1 devices are still backwards compatible with older HDMI. All this means is that you will not be able to get the high image quality without investing in a HDMI 2.1 cable. However, the benefit of this is that you can be confident you will get great image quality with compatible devices with HDMI 2.1.
How do you know if a device is HDMI 2.1 compatible?
HDMI 2.1 compatibility will usually be stated on the product page, user guide, box, or even the device’s menus. If you are ever unsure we recommend consulting the relevant support team to obtain this information.
Conclusion
Overall HDMI 2.1 can upgrade your viewing experience through its technology. Of course, it is important to ensure your devices or TV can support the resolutions that HDMI 2.1 provides, otherwise it will not be able to display it at this quality.
For more on TVs and how to solve HDMI connectivity issues, click here.