How to choose the Right HDMI Cable Versions

What are HDMI Cable Versions?

HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is a digitally used cable that can transmit uncompressed video and audio data from a source device to either a display device or an audio device. HDMI cable versions are nothing but different types of HDMI cables that are used for transmission.

Types of HDMI cables Versions

There are four different types of HDMI cables; now let’s look at this in detail:

Standard HDMI Cables:

 Standard HDMI cables, also known as type 1 HDMI cables, are the original types of cables designed to support 1080i or 720p video resolution. They are limited to 5 Gbps of bandwidth and are ideal for older devices such as TVs and projectors. Standard HDMI cables are typically much shorter than 5 meters in length. Although standard cables are still in use today, their capabilities make them unsuitable for many current applications, even if they are still utilized in Ethernet. 

Resolution: 1080i or 720p

Bandwidth: less than 5 Mbps

Use: Basic applications; now they are rarely used.

High-Speed HDMI Cables:

High Speed HDMI cables, which fall under type 2, are the second generation of HDMI cables that were introduced for resolutions up to 1080p. They support a bandwidth of 10.2 Gbps, 4K resolutions up to 30Hz, 3D video, and 8-channel audio with 24-bit capability. Additionally, they support Dolby TrueHD and Master Audio. High-speed cables are used in the majority of modern applications, and they offer Ethernet performance that is similar to that of regular cables.

Resolution: 1080P and Beyond

Bandwidth: up to 10.2 Gbps

Use: Latest application; they are common among modern devices.

Premium High Speed HDMI Cables:

Premium High Speed HDMI Cables are made to support even higher resolution devices. They have a bandwidth of 18 Gbps, which is a must for transmitting higher resolution video and audio. They are suitable to handle 4K with 60 Hz, much higher than the previous model, and suited for HDR content. Unlike other cables, they undergo rigorous training to get a proper certification. They are designed to transmit ultra HD and rich 4K content. They are widely used devices like 4K TVs, gaming consoles (PS5, Xbox), and sound systems.

Types of Premium High Speed HDMI Cable:

Premium High Speed Cable: This is a standard version that supports high bandwidth and resolution devices.

Premium High Speed Cable with Ethernet: they are specifically designed for the internet, which provides high speed.

Ultra High Speed HDMI Cables:

The most advanced model of HDMI cables on the market, Ultra High Speed HDMI cables are made to support 8k resolution and can also be used with 4k content. They are made to handle both 4k and 8k resolutions at 60Hz and 120Hz, which means they are the best option for the newest technologies. In compliance with the HDMI 2.1b specification, these HDMI cable versions go through rigorous testing to reduce interference from wireless devices and support HDR, variable refresh rate (VRR), and enhanced audio return (eARC).

Guide to Versions of HDMI Cables

Different HDMI Cable Versions

Over the years, HDMI cables have evolved through several versions from when they were first introduced; it entirely depends on the bandwidth and resolution of the devices. I will give you a brief overview of HDMI cables down below:

Overview of HDMI Cable Versions:

The following provides a brief overview of the various HDMI versions of cables, along with comprehensive explanations for each version.

HDMI 1.0: In 2002, HDMI 1.0 was originally released, featuring a 4.95 Gbps bandwidth. This is the initial version; it can support up to 8 audio channels and uncompressed video.

HDMI 1.1: This version had modifications and was published in 2004 to support devices that resemble DVD players.

HDMI 1.2: It debuted in 2005, can support super audio CDs, and also can be utilized in PC format.

HDMI 1.3: This interface supports up to 10.2 Gbps of bandwidth and 1440p resolution. With features including improved color support and lip sync correction, it was released in 2006.

HDMI 1.4 (2009): It shared the same bandwidth as the previous version and was utilized for networking in addition to supporting 4K at 30 Hz resolution, 3D video, and ARC.

HDMI 2.0: HDMI 2.0 had sophisticated features like support for 32 audio channels and twin video streams, along with a bandwidth of 18 Gbps and a resolution of 4K at 60Hz and had advanced features like support for 32 audio channels and dual video streams.

HDMI 2.0a: In 2015, HDMI 2.0a was released; it was designed specifically to handle HDR. A subsequent version, known as HDMi 2.0b, added hybrid log-gamma compatibility for HDR.

HDMI 2.1: This variant, which debuted in 2017, is now the most sophisticated on the market. Along with supporting 8K at 60 Hz, it boasts a 48 Gbps bandwidth and extra features including auto-low latency mode, HDR, eARC, and VRR.

Check out the HDMI Version Chart for more info:

In this HDMI version chart, I have given key specifications and features in detail:

HDMI cable Versions	Year	Bandwidth (Gbps)	Max Resolution	Key Features
1.0	2002	4.95	1920×1080	First version, Supports Uncompressed audio and video upto 8 audio channel
1.1	2004	4.95	1920×1080	Extra support for DVD audio
1.2	2005	4.95	1920×1080	Additional support for SACD audio
1.3	2006	10.2	2560×1440	Lip sync and extra support For 3D video
1.4	2009	10.2	4k at 30HZ	3D support, Ethernet and ARC
2.0	2013	18	4k at 60Hz	Support 32 audio channel and dual video streams
2.0a	2015	18	4k at 60Hz	Additional support for HDR
2.0b	2016	18	4k at 60Hz	HDR support with log gamma
2.1	2017	48	8k at 60Hz	Supports HDR,VRR,eARC and ALLM

Detailed Overview of HDMI Cable Versions:

HDMI CableVersions 1

HDMI Version 1.0:

This is the first version of the HDMI series, first introduced on December 9, 2002. It was an interface designed to transmit digital audio and video through a single cable.

Key features:

• Supported transmission of audio and video.
• It can support up to 8 channels of uncompressed audio.
• The data transfer range was up to 4.95 Gbps.
• We can even play standard Blu-ray disc video.
• It had two connector types A and B; type B was never used in commercial
• Supported RGB video
• Only the Rec. 601 color space was supported.

HDMI 1.0 Supported Devices: DVD players, televisions, projectors, set-top boxes.

HDMI Version 1.1:

The HDMI version was first introduced in May 2024; this was an updated version of the previous model. This model has several enhancements; let’s look at it in detail:

Key Features:

• HDMI 1.1 added the ability to transmit high-quality DVD signals, which provided better audio quality when connecting to television.
• It focused on improving audio standards compared to previous versions. 

HDMI 1.1 Supported Devices: DVD players, home theaters, TV, set-top boxes.

HDMI Version 1.2:

HDMI version 1.2 was debuted on August 8, 2005; it exceeded in several ways. Let’s look into the specification and features in detail:

Key features:

• It added support for one-bit audio, which is widely used in super audio CDs (SACD); this gave the best audio quality compared to previous ones.
• Manufacturers were able to make vendor-specific HDMI, which made it more suitable for PC resolution.
• It supports more audio formats, like 720p at 120Hz, which makes it more compatible with a lot of display versions.
• They were more compatible with PCs and home theaters.

HDMI version 1.2 supported devices: computers and graphic cards, DVDs, set-top boxes, TVs, and home theater receivers.

HDMI Version 1.3 and 1.3a:

HDMI Version 1.3:

HDMI version 1.3 was first introduced in June 2006. It had a bandwidth of 10.2 Gbps, increased the maximum TMDS clock, and was able to support resolutions up to 1080p.

Key features:

• It supported deep color (10-bit, 12-bit, and 16-bit).
• It incorporated video sync features.
• There were two categories, 1 and 2. Category 1 was tested up to 74.25 Hz, and category 2 was tested up to 340 Hz.
• There was an additional connector available for portable devices.

HDMI version 1.3a:

It was first released on November 10, 2006; it came with several enhancements mainly focused on cable performance. Let’s discuss in detail:

Key features:

• It primarily focused on modification for type C connectors. 
• It was designed to not get restricted in single rise and fall times.
• Through this model, they introduced audio commands.
• Bought back timer control models for better device management.

This model primarily introduces cable performance and interoperability.

HDMI Version 1.4:

HDMI version 1.4 was introduced in June 2009 with several key features primarily to support 4K devices.

Key features:

• HDMI 1.4 enables video versions greater than 1080p, supporting high-resolution displays like 4090×2160 at 24 Hz and 3840×2160 at 30 Hz.
• We were able to add a 100 Mbit/s Ethernet connection among HDMI devices; this made it possible to share internet connections.
• This version enabled ARC, which is used to send data upstream to a sound bar, preventing additional use of extra cables.
• Introduced mini connection for mobiles and cameras up to 1080P
• Were able to create connections in automotive video systems.

HDMI Cable Versions 2

HDMI Version 2.0:

HDMI version 2.0 is the advanced version compared to version 1. They had significant advancements in video and audio transmission. Now let’s look at features and specifications.

Key features:

• It supports a maximum bandwidth of 18 Gbps.
• It enables 4K at 60 Hz, providing a better video experience.
• HDMI supports 32 audio channels; compared to the previous version, it is much higher.
• We can simultaneously watch two video streams on a single display, from picture to picture.
• It is compatible with all previous versions and can be used on older devices too.

HDMI version 2.0 Supported devices: 4K HD Ultra Tv, Blu-ray players, Play Station Pro, and Xbox S for better gaming.

HDMI Version 2.0a:

HDMI Version 2.0a was introduced in 2015, primarily designed to support high dynamic range (HDR). This improved the quality of the display. Now let’s look into key features in detail:

Key features:

• It came with added features to transmit HDR metadata.
• It is compatible with all older model devices.
• It supports synchronization of audio and video formats.
• It supports dual video streams.

Supported devices: 4K ultra HD TV, game consoles, streaming devices, and AV receiver.

HDMI Version 2.1:

The HDMI version was announced in 2017, and they came up with several improvements and features.

Key features:

• It supports a maximum bandwidth of 48 Gbps, and it offers better frame rates compared to previous versions.
• It can handle resolutions up to 10k at 60Hz, making it suitable for high-performance gaming and applications.
• It supports VRR, eARC, ALLM, and Quick Frame support.

Supported Devices: 4K and 8K TV, high-end graphics cards, consoles; it is the most advanced model till date.

Latest HDMI Versions and Standards

• Current HDMI Version

The current HDMi version HDMI 2.1b is the updated model of HDMI 2.1. This is the newest HDMI cable version available in the market; originally released in 2022, it improved audio and video performance tremendously.

• Latest HDMI Standard: 

The latest HDMI standard model is HDMI 2.1b. Now let’s look at its key features in detail.

Key Features:

• It supports resolution up to 10K at 60Hz.
• It came up with an increased bandwidth of 48 Gbps.
• Suited for Dynamic HDR Format
• It comes with an ultra-high-speed HDMI cable.
• Most widely used to support graphic cards like NVIDIA and AMD

Comparison of the current HDMI version and previous versions:

Here is a comparison chart for HDMI current versions and previous versions in detail:

Feature	HDMI 1.0	HDMI 1.4	HDMI 2.0	HDMI 2.1	HDMI 2.1b
Introduced	2002	2009	2013	2017	2022
Max Band	4.95Gbps	10.2 Gbps	18 Gbps	48 Gbps	48Gbps
Max resolution	1080p	4K at 30Hz	4k at 60Hz	8K at 120Hz	8k at 120Hz
Sound Channels	8	8	32	32	32
HDR	no	no	no	yes	yes
ARC	no	yes	yes	Advanced eARC	Advanced Model
VRR	no	no	no	yes	yes
Ethernet	no	yes	no	no	no
3D support	no	yes	yes	yes	yes
Connecter	Type A	Type A Micro HDMI	Type A Micro HDMI	Type A Micro HDMI	Type A Micro HDMI

4K HDMI Version Comparisons:

4K 30Hz HDMI Cable Versions Vs 4K 60Hz HDMI Version: 

Now let’s look at differences in detail:

Feature	4K at 30Hz	4k at 60Hz
Refresh Rate	30 frame per seconds	60 frame per seconds
HDMI version support	HDMI 1.4	HDMI 2.0 and later
Bandwidth	10.2 Gbps	18 Gbps
Color Depth	Very limited up to 8-bit	Supports 10-bit,12-bit and 16bit
channel	8	32
HDR support	no	yes
smoothness	average	Smooth
Use cases	Watching movie and streaming	High prof content, sports

HDMI Cable Specifications and Features

• High-Speed HDMI Cable Version:

High-speed HDMI cables are designed for higher resolution and a better refresh rate in video and modern applications:

Feature	High-Speed HDMI Cable version	High- Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet version
Supported HDMI Version	1.3 to 2.0	1.4 to 2.0
Bandwidth	Upto 10.2 Gbps	Upto 10.2 Gbps
Resolution	4k at 30Hz	4k at 30Hz
Sound channel	8	32
Deep color	yes	yes
3D video	yes	yes
Ethernet	no	yes

Practical Tips on Choosing the Best HDMI Version

• Choosing the Best HDMI Version

Choosing the best HDMI version depends on resolution and refresh rate and also depends on audio formats like Dolby and DTS. Some HDMI versions do not have backward compatibility. It all depends on the specific needs; it depends on what type of usage.

• HDMI Cable Version Differences

Cable Type	Resolution Support	Refresh rate	Bandwidth	HDMI version	Use cases
Standard HDMI cable versions	108i or 720p	30Hz	5Gbps	1.0 to 1.2	Basic Tv,Blu-ray players
High Speed HDMI Cable Versions	4k	30Hz	10Gbps	1.3 to 1.4	Deep color, 3D graphics
UltraHigh speed HDMI Cable Versions	8k or 10K with HDR	240Hz	48Gbps	2.1	HDR Tv, gaming consoles
Premium High speed HDMI Cable Versions	4k	60Hz	18Gbps	2.0a to 2.0b	gaming
High Speed HDMI ethernet Cable Versions	1080p	30Hz	10Gbps	1.4	Network between HDMI Devices
High Speed HDMI Automotive cable Versions	4k	30Hz	10Gbps	1.3 to 1.4a	In car display

• HDMI CEC Cable Versions

HDMI CEC Cable version is a multifunctional cable that can be used in multiple devices and can be controlled with a single remote. It simplifies how different devices interact in between; the best example for this device is a TV, console, and Blu-ray player, which can be connected and used at the same time.

Conclusion

When selecting the HDMI Cable versions, it is crucial to consider one single version and its compatibility and use the version to the fullest. So it’s better to decide on how you’re going to use your HDMI cable. For demanding applications like gaming and streaming, we recommend you use high-speed HDMI cables; for simpler applications, you can try standard HDMi cables that entirely depend on your needs. In this article, we have clearly explained everything in detail so even a beginner can understand.

References:

1. HDMI
2. Different types of HDMI Cables
3. Youtube Link

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