Visual Connectors Explained
HDMI
High Definition Multimedia Interface or HDMI is one of the most common connectors on TVs, monitors, consoles, PCs, and more. This standard can carry uncompressed audio and video via a single cable. There have been several generations of HDMI, the most common being 1.4, 2.0, or the latest 2.1 - each of these is capable of different bandwidth capabilities. This means that the higher the combined resolution and refresh rate, the higher the bandwidth needed, so HDMI 1.4 can only really support 4K up to 24FPS and 8-bit colour. HDMI 2.0 can support 4K at 60Hz, 1080p at 144Hz, and also offers up to 12-bit colour. However, the newest format, HDMI 2.1, is capable of 4K resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate or 8K at up to 60Hz. In addition to this, HDMI 2.1 supports up to 10-bit colour, making it ideal for creators.
DisplayPort
DisplayPort, also known as DP, combines audio and video via a single cable. This technology can support up to 4K at 144Hz (depending on the version). Similar to HDMI, the newer the version, the more bandwidth and features are supported. DisplayPort 1.4 supports 4K at 144Hz, ideal for enthusiast gamers.
DVI
Digital Visual Interface (DVI) is less common on modern monitors. The DVI standard can be slightly confusing as there are a couple of different versions: DVI-D (digital signal) and DVI-I (integrated analogue and digital signal), which are available in both single-link and dual-link. Single-link can support a resolution up to 1200p, whereas dual-link can show up a resolution of up to 1600p, and can display 1080p at 144Hz.
USB-C
USB Type C allows you to output audio, video, data, and even power. This standard was introduced to offer a universal connector for monitors, laptops, consoles, and more. Thanks to the ability to transmit video, audio, and power, you can even use this technology to simplify cable management.
VGA
VGA (Video Graphics Array) is almost obsolete on modern monitors, and tops out at 1080p. These connectors tend to be seen only on older monitors and hardware.
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