Modern displays offer a larger range of connectivity options. Each connectivity option has a different feature set for different needs, such as the ability to transmit signals at higher refresh rates, or the ability to transmit both video and audio via a single cable. This article provides information on which port is best suited for your needs.
Port Availability
The first thing to determine when you are choosing how to connect your devices is the kind of ports available on each device.
Check the user guide for each product to see which ports they have in common.
If your devices have no ports in common, you may need to use an adaptor.
Refresh Rates And Audio Transmission
Monitors and TVs typically have numerous ports to choose from, but not all cables and ports are equal.
Once you have confirmed which ports your display and source device have in common, it is time to choose a cable and port to use.
Below are some common display connections and their maximum resolutions and refresh rates.
You should choose a cable and port that can handle at least the maximum display output of your source device and the display you are connecting to. If you are unsure which to choose, use the highest connection in the list below that you are able to.
- DisplayPort 2.0: up to dual 4K@144Hz
- DisplayPort 1.4: up to 4K@144Hz
- HDMI 2.0: up to 4K@60Hz, 1440p@144Hz
- DisplayPort 1.2: up to 4K@60Hz, 1440p@144Hz
- HDMI 1.4: up to 4K@30Hz, 1600p@75Hz, 1080p@144Hz
- USB-C: Depends on device
- DVI: up to 1080p@144Hz — does not support audio
- VGA: up to 1080p@60Hz — does not support audio
As a general rule, try to avoid DVI and VGA where possible.
Choosing A Cable
When you are choosing a cable, make sure that the cable matches your port. For example, if you are connecting a monitor with a HDMI 2.0 port to a PC with a HDMI 2.0, you should not use a HDMI 1.4 cable, or the connection will be limited by the cable.
Try to keep the distance between your devices short. In some cases, you may need an extender. HDMI, for example, is often limited to 10-15 metres without an extender.
Freesync
Some monitors support FreeSync. FreeSync is a technology used by your computer’s graphics driver to sync the frame rate of your monitor to your graphics card to reduce display issues such as screen tearing.
To make the most out of Freesync, DisplayPort is the recommended input for monitors.
The Final Display Resolution And Refresh Rate
Your display setup is only as strong as its weakest link. It is important to keep in mind that if you have used a cable and port that supports 4K resolution, it does not necessarily mean you will be able to view 4K content. The final resolution and refresh rate you view will be determined by whichever of the following is the limiting factor:
- The port on the device such as a PC or game console
- The maximum supported output of the device
- The cable you use
- The port on your display
- The maximum resolution and refresh rate that your display can produce
Other Questions
If you have any other questions about cables and ports, please contact Our Customer Care Team.