In this guide
DisplayPort is better for PC gaming, offering up to 80Gbps bandwidth and native Adaptive Sync. HDMI 2.1 is the right choice for consoles and TVs.
- PC gaming at 1440p/4K with 144Hz+ monitor using DP 1.4 or higher
- GPU supports DisplayPort (RTX 30+, RX 6000+ recommended)
- Console gaming on a TV with HDMI 2.1 for 4K@120Hz
- Using a non-HDMI 2.1 cable on a console — caps refresh at 60Hz
- Older hardware without matching cable version (HDMI 2.0 limits 4K to 60Hz)
- TV lacks DisplayPort input — most TVs only have HDMI ports
DisplayPort vs HDMI: Key Differences
The core difference comes down to bandwidth. DisplayPort 2.1 supports up to 80Gbps, while HDMI 2.1 tops out at 48Gbps. More bandwidth means higher resolutions and refresh rates without compression. For competitive PC gaming, that gap is significant.
DisplayPort also includes native Adaptive Sync, which covers both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync. This gives you smoother, tear-free gameplay without extra configuration. HDMI supports VRR too, but it is less consistent across monitors.
When to Choose DisplayPort
- PC monitor gaming at 1440p@165Hz, 1440p@360Hz, or 4K@240Hz
- You want native G-Sync or FreeSync with no compatibility issues
- You need to daisy-chain multiple monitors from one GPU output
- Your GPU is an RTX 30 series, RTX 40 series, RX 6000 or newer
Check the official VESA DisplayPort specification page to verify which version your GPU and monitor support before buying a cable.
When to Choose HDMI
- PS5 or Xbox Series X gaming — both consoles output via HDMI 2.1 only
- Connecting to a TV, which almost never has a DisplayPort input
- You need eARC to pass audio through a single cable to a soundbar or AV receiver
- Your setup uses ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) for automatic game mode switching
If you game on a console, HDMI 2.1 is not optional — it is the only way to reach 4K@120Hz. Make sure you use a certified HDMI 2.1 cable rated for 48Gbps or the port will be bottlenecked.
Quick Comparison Table
| Setup | Works? | Need | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC + monitor at 4K@144Hz | Yes | DP 1.4 cable | Best choice for PC |
| PC + monitor at 1440p@360Hz | Yes | DP 2.1 cable | Requires DP 2.1 GPU/monitor |
| PS5 or Xbox + TV 4K@120Hz | Yes | HDMI 2.1 cable | Consoles have no DP output |
| Console + HDMI 2.0 cable | No | Upgrade to 2.1 | Caps at 4K@60Hz |
| PC + TV gaming | Yes | HDMI 2.1 cable | TVs lack DP ports |
USB-C and Alternate Mode
Some GPUs and monitors now connect via USB-C. Depending on the cable and port, USB-C can carry either DisplayPort Alt Mode or HDMI signals. If your monitor or GPU uses USB-C, check out whether USB-C can connect to HDMI or learn more about whether USB-C supports video output before assuming compatibility.
Bottom line: Choose DisplayPort for PC gaming — it delivers higher refresh rates, better Adaptive Sync support, and more headroom for future resolutions. Stick with HDMI 2.1 for consoles, TVs, and any setup where eARC or ALLM matters. Match your cable version to your hardware, or you will not see the full benefit of either connection.