Melissa Forrester Do you know the difference between HDMI 1.4 vs. 2.0? Do not worry if you can’t tell the answer, because many people have the same problem.
HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 cables share a lot of characteristics. However, they differ in multiple factors that will affect your experience.
So, this article will help you compare HDMI 1.4 vs. 2.0. Let’s read on, and you can determine the better one!
Contents
What Is HDMI 1.4 And 2.0?
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the digital interface to deliver high-quality video and audio signals between devices. There are many HDMI cables, with 1.4 and 2.0 being among the most common choices.
HDMI first came out in 2009 as an improvement over its previous versions. This cable can work with a maximum resolution of 4K. You may also use it with 3D video, ARC (Audio Return Channel), and Ethernet.
Yet, as the technology keeps developing, HDMI 1.4 couldn’t adapt to the higher demands of users. As a result, in 2013, we welcomed a new HDMI version, 2.0.
HDMI 2.0 offers impressive improvements in bandwidth. It can also support higher resolutions and refresh rates.
Furthermore, HDMI 2.0 supports a wider color range and can connect to 32 audio channels. Hence, feel free to use it with 4K TVs, home theater systems, and gaming consoles.
In fact, both HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 employ similar physical connectors. You can connect them to your devices, regardless of your cable.
Nevertheless, aside from the quality of the HDMI cable, the capabilities of your connected devices will also affect the system’s overall performance.
What Is The Difference Between HDMI 1.4 Vs 2.0?
Because both 1.4 and 2.0 cables develop based on HDMI technology, they surely have similarities. Yet, as a more advanced version, HDMI 2.0 has more features.
This section will explain the differences between HDMI 1.4 vs. 2.0. But first, let’s look at this comparison table to picture their characteristics.
| HDMI 1.4 | HDMI 2.0 | |
| Frame Rate | 24 FPS | 60 FPS |
| Resolution | 4K | 4K |
| Bandwidth | 10 Gbps | 18 Gbps |
| Color Palettes | 8 bits | 10 bits or 12 bits |
| Color Combinations | 16.7 million | 68.7 million |
| Audio Channels | 8 | 32 |
| Price | Cheaper | More expensive |
Refresh Rate
The frame rate illustrates how many images or frames your display can show per second. We measure it in FPS (Frames Per Second).
Using the HDMI 1.4 cable, you can only enjoy 4K videos at 24 FPS. It’s the standard for most TV shows and movies. However, we all try to shoot it higher.
If you want sharper images, go for the HDMI 2.0 cable. It can support 4K content at 60 FPS, which is perfect for video games and live sports.
Resolution
Both HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 can handle a max resolution of 4K (4,096 x 2,160 pixels). However, because of the different frame rates, you will have a different experience in resolution.
More specifically, HDMI 1.4 can work well with the 4K resolution at a frame rate of 24 FPS. You can also use it for lower resolutions, such as 1080p or 720p.
On the other hand, while HDMI 2.0 can support 4K resolution, it offers a higher frame rate, giving a better display.
In addition, HDMI 2.0 is good for lower resolutions, such as 1080p and 720p. Yet, you can use it for 5K and 8K displays.
Bandwidth
The bandwidth is the amount of data that an HDMI connection can transmit per second. We measure it in Gbps (gigabits per second).
HDMI 1.4 connection has a max bandwidth of 10 Gbps. This rate is enough for delivering 1080p and 4K resolution. However, if you need higher frame rates, go for the 2.0.
HDMI 2.0 has a bandwidth of 18 Gbps, which is excellent at supporting 4K displays. Besides, the higher bandwidth allows the connection to deal with higher resolutions, such as 5K and 8K.
Color
The color palettes supported by HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 affect the color range the screen can display. In this term, you will easily tell the difference between them.
Let’s talk about HDMI 1.4 first. It supports a color depth of 8 bits per color channel, allowing for a display of up to 16.7 million colors.
Moreover, HDMI 1.4 can support Deep Color technology that can increase its color depth to 10 or 12 puts.
On the other hand, HDMI 2.0 has a color depth of up to 12 bits. It means that your screen can handle up to 68.7 million colors.
The color gamut of HDMI 2.0 is another big plus. You can then enjoy more colors, especially in green and red ranges. Sadly, this feature is not available in HDMI 1.4.
Audio
With unidirectional speakers mounted on the sides, front, and back, HDMI 1.4 can manage up to eight channels. Nevertheless, it is insufficient nowadays.
On the contrary, HDMI 2.0 can support up to 32 audio channels with its immersive surround sound systems like Dolby Atmos.
You may install omnidirectional speakers around your home theater setup to transmit audio, enhancing your movie-watching and music-listening experience.
Related: Sony X900h which ports are HDMI 2.1 enabled?
Price
The price of HDMI cables depends on their length, features, brand, quality, and retailer. But typically, HDMI 2.0 cables are slightly more costly than their 1.4 counterparts. It’s because the 2.0 technology is more modern and comes with more impressive features.
But please note that the gap in the price of these cables is minor. Luckily, you can buy them at a low cost. In fact, the cost of HDMI cables only takes a tiny part of the overall cost of your home theater setup.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 depends on your preference and needs. Although HDMI 2.0 seems to stand out more, you may need 1.4 in some cases.
When should you use HDMI 2.0?
Obviously, this connection has more features thanks to the advanced technology. Hence, it will be your perfect fit if:
You love games and live sports. These types of content require a high resolution for a crisp display, making HDMI 2.0 an ideal choice.
Color is your priority. Thus, you want to take advantage of the wider color gamuts and more color bits from the HDMI 2.0 technology.
You desire to immerse in the world of music and intend to build a vast sound system. So, nothing is better for you than HDMI 2.0 which has up to 32 audio channels.
When should you use HDMI 1.4?
Some modern devices are not compatible with the HDMI 1.4 connection. However, if your display or TV supports 1080p or a lower resolution, HDMI 1.4 will suffice.
Moreover, HDMI 1.4 is cheaper than the 2.0 version. So if you are on a limited budget, you won’t need to upgrade your HDMI connection.
Can An HDMI Cable Work With A 1.4 Port?
Yes. HDMI cables are in charge of delivering audio and video data across the devices. Generally, a high-speed cable can easily transmit data with higher bandwidth than cables at lower speeds.
In fact, any HDMI cable can handle any port. Besides, all HDMI cables can support 4K at 60Hz.
Problems only arise when you need a higher resolution or a 4K resolution at a higher refresh rate. In this case, high-speed HDMI cables are a must.
Aside from the 2.0 and 1.4, HDMI has many types of cables. For example, while the 2.0 is excellent, the manufacturer also introduces another option for your connection, the 2.1.
Conclusion
HDMI 1.4 is the older version, setting it apart from 2.0 in multiple terms. In general, the 1.4 has a lower bandwidth, lower frame rate, and narrower color range.
As a result, HDMI 2.0 is the better option if you love games and live sports. While 1.4 is enough for TV shows and movies, newer content may have a higher frame rate that it can’t support.
So what is your choice? Please feel free to share with us your opinions about these connections. And for further information, comment in the section below. We will be back soon.
