HDMI versions explained — 1.4, 2.0, 2.1
HDMI connectors look the same across versions; the version number determines bandwidth, maximum resolution, and optional features like ARC. Use the table below to find out which version you need.
Version comparison
| Version | Max bandwidth | 4K 30 Hz | 4K 60 Hz | 4K 120 Hz | 8K 30 Hz | ARC / eARC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI 1.4 | 10.2 Gbps | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ARC only |
| HDMI 2.0 | 18 Gbps | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ARC only |
| HDMI 2.0b | 18 Gbps | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ARC only |
| HDMI 2.1 | 48 Gbps | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | eARC |
Which HDMI version do you need?
- TV / streaming box at 1080p or 4K 30 Hz — HDMI 1.4 is sufficient.
- 4K Blu-ray or streaming at 4K 60 Hz — HDMI 2.0 minimum.
- Gaming console (PS5, Xbox Series X) at 4K 120 Hz — HDMI 2.1 required. Both consoles ship with HDMI 2.1 cables.
- Soundbar with lossless Dolby Atmos or DTS:X over a single cable — eARC (HDMI 2.1) required.
- 8K TV — HDMI 2.1 required.
ARC vs eARC
ARC (Audio Return Channel) lets a TV send compressed audio back to a soundbar or receiver over the same HDMI cable — available on HDMI 1.4 and later. Compressed formats only (Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1).
eARC (Enhanced ARC) is an HDMI 2.1 feature supporting uncompressed audio and high-bandwidth formats such as Dolby TrueHD Atmos and DTS:X. Requires an eARC-capable TV port and an eARC-capable receiver or soundbar, connected with a cable that supports bandwidth ≥ 18 Gbps.
Cable types by connector shape
| Cable type | Connector | Typical device |
|---|---|---|
| Standard HDMI (Type A) | 19-pin, 13.9 mm wide | TVs, monitors, game consoles, PCs |
| Mini HDMI (Type C) | 19-pin, 10.4 mm wide | Older cameras, tablets |
| Micro HDMI (Type D) | 19-pin, 6.4 mm wide | Small cameras, phones (rare) |
Cable labelling and ratings
HDMI cables are certified to bandwidth tiers rather than version numbers:
- Standard Speed — up to 2.25 Gbps (1080i)
- High Speed — up to 10.2 Gbps (HDMI 1.4 level, 4K 30 Hz)
- Premium High Speed — up to 18 Gbps (HDMI 2.0 level, 4K 60 Hz)
- Ultra High Speed — up to 48 Gbps (HDMI 2.1 level, 8K, 4K 120 Hz)
For 4K 60 Hz, buy a Premium High Speed certified cable. For 4K 120 Hz or 8K, buy an Ultra High Speed certified cable.