HDMI Versions Explained: 1.4, 2.0, 2.1 and 2.2

HDMI is a digital connection for video, audio, and related control data. A version number describes a revision of the HDMI specification. It does not tell you that a particular TV, GPU, console, receiver, or monitor implements every optional feature or the highest possible link rate. HDMI Licensing Administrator tells buyers to check the actual advertised features and bandwidth instead of relying on a version number alone.

For a purchase decision, ask what you want to run—4K 60Hz, 4K 120Hz with HDR and VRR, or something more demanding—and look for that exact mode on the specific input and output. The table below lists specification ceilings, not minimum requirements that every device bearing a version label must meet.

HDMI 1.4 is associated with a 10.2 Gbps ceiling and 4K at up to 30Hz. It can still be perfectly adequate for 1080p use or an older display, but a 4K desktop at 30Hz often feels much less responsive than 60Hz. If a device shows 4K but only offers 30Hz, inspect its port and cable path before blaming the panel.

HDMI 2.0 raised the maximum raw rate to 18 Gbps and supports 4K at 60Hz under suitable signal settings. It remains useful for many TVs, streaming devices and office monitors. Do not infer that every 4K/60 HDR combination has the same bandwidth need: 8-bit versus 10-bit color and 4:4:4 versus 4:2:0 chroma make a difference.

HDMI 2.1 increased the specification ceiling to 48 Gbps and introduced Fixed Rate Link (FRL) for demanding video modes. The specification includes 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz scenarios, as well as features such as eARC for TV audio return, VRR for variable gaming frame rates, and ALLM for automatic low-latency mode. Which of these work on your setup depends on the products, their exact ports, and sometimes firmware.

A TV may have several HDMI inputs with different capabilities. One might be the eARC port, while a different input may be the best choice for a console. Before buying, confirm the input-specific mode table and count the number of ports that support all the devices you plan to connect.

The HDMI 2.2 specification raises the maximum raw link rate to 96 Gbps. HDMI Licensing Administrator lists demanding examples such as uncompressed 4K at 240Hz and 8K at 60Hz with full chroma at 10- or 12-bit color. It also defines the Ultra96 HDMI Cable for up to 96 Gbps systems. These examples describe what the specification can support; they are not a guarantee for every product sold with an HDMI 2.2-associated feature.

Most buyers do not need to replace a working 4K 60Hz or 4K 120Hz setup just because a newer HDMI specification exists. Upgrade only when your source and screen both support a mode you need and your present path cannot deliver it.

Choose the cable class for the bandwidth the complete setup requires. Premium High Speed HDMI Cables are specified for up to 18 Gbps systems, Ultra High Speed HDMI Cables for up to 48 Gbps, and Ultra96 HDMI Cables for up to 96 Gbps. A certified cable helps establish that the cable meets its test program. It cannot turn an HDMI 2.0 port into a 2.1-capable output.

HDMI guidance does not allow cables to be marketed by an HDMI specification version number alone. Treat “HDMI 2.1 cable” as an imprecise retail phrase; look for the official cable class and certification label. For a long run, switch, receiver or wall plate, verify that every middle component supports your target mode.

For 1080p or 4K at 60Hz, many existing HDMI paths are enough; use the display’s manual to confirm the exact mode. For a 4K 120Hz console or gaming PC, verify FRL-capable HDMI output and input, VRR where desired, and an appropriate cable. For 4K 240Hz uncompressed full-chroma modes, inspect real HDMI 2.2/Ultra96 support and device specifications rather than buying by a headline number.

If your screen is a PC monitor with both HDMI and DisplayPort, compare their mode tables side by side. Our HDMI vs DisplayPort guide explains that choice, while the resolution versus refresh-rate guide helps decide whether the higher mode is useful to you in the first place.