HDMI 2.0 vs DisplayPort 1.4 bandwidth explained

Description 

This document provides a technical comparison and practical guide for bandwidth assessment of common video formats using HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4.

High-definition video and audio interfaces like HDMI and DisplayPort are essential for delivering content between devices such as PCs, monitors, and TVs. Among the popular standards, HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 are often compared due to their widespread use and performance capabilities. 

Feature

HDMI 2.0

DisplayPort 1.4

Total Bandwidth

18.0 Gbps

32.4 Gbps

Encoding

8b / 10b (TMDS)

128b / 132b

Data rate / Effective Bandwidth

~14.4 Gbps

~25.92 Gbps

Max Resolution (uncompressed)

4K @ 60 Hz

4K @ 120 Hz / 8K @ 30 Hz

Note : Since HELIOS® does not support DSC, the table above refers to uncompressed limits.

Overview of HDMI 2.0

There are a variety of other important details and limits to be aware of.  Below is a detailed overview of HDMI 2.0. 

  • Total Bandwidth: 18.0 Gbps

  • Maximum Data Rate / Effective Bandwidth (after encoding overhead): ~14.4 Gbps 

  • Encoding Scheme: TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signaling) with 8b/10b encoding

  • Maximum Resolution & Refresh Rate:

    • 4K (3840x2160) at 60 Hz with 8-bit color

    • 4K at 60 Hz with 4:4:4 chroma requires compression for HDR

    • 1080p at 240 Hz is also supported (with lower bit depth / etc.)

Overview of DisplayPort 1.4

Similar to HDMI, there are a variety of other important details and limits to be aware of.  Below is a more detailed overview of DisplayPort 1.4. 

  • Total Bandwidth: 32.4 Gbps (across 4 lanes at 8.1 Gbps each)

  • Maximum Data Rate / Effective Bandwidth (after encoding): ~25.92 Gbps (with 128b/132b encoding)

  • Encoding Scheme: 128b/132b encoding (only ~3% overhead)

  • Maximum Resolution & Refresh Rate:

    • 8K (7680x4320) at 60 Hz with DSC (Display Stream Compression)

    • 4K at 120 Hz with HDR (with or without compression)

    • 1080p at 240 Hz (or higher)

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