What Is The Difference Between Certified HDMI 2.1 Vs. Noncertified Ones

What Is The Difference Between Certified HDMI 2.1 Vs. Noncertified Ones

Do you need an officially certified HDMI 2.1 cable?

If you want to make the most of your AV equipment, you need to have an understanding – at least at a rudimentary level – of today's HDMI cables. They come in several different grades to keep up with the ever-increasing data demands placed on them. When it comes to using the right HDMI cable, different requirements must be met courtesy of today's 4K UHD smart TVs, Xbox One Series X, PS5, and more.

HDMI cables were designed to provide a digital, single cable audio and video solution. Since their introduction, their enduring legacy of HDMI connections continues – this, despite some problems. The good news, however, is that they meet the demands of the smart home, the AV world, and are seemingly endlessly upgradable.

Here, we will introduce you to the differences between noncertified cables and certified ones. But in doing so, we'll also explore one of the biggest HDMI myths.

HDMI Certification

If you see an HDMI 2.1 cable on the market, it may be an imposter! If, by the HDMI Forum Authorized Test Centers, it has not been tested/certified, it may not live up to their standards – or yours. So that you can be sure of quality, the Ultra-High-Speed HDMI Cable Certification Program employs specific compliance test specs developed by HDMI Forum members. The specification for HDMI 2.1 is highly technical and very specific. The only way you can be assured that you're getting what you pay for is if you see the official Ultra-High-Speed HDMI Cable label and name. It is not certified to meet HDMI 2.1 specifications if you do not see this displayed.

Myth – All HDMI Connections Are Alike

Playing a key role in today's AV world, there are different generations of HDMI ports. They have, after all, had to adapt very quickly. In fact, multiple generations of HDMI can sometimes be carried by a single product!

So, no, all HDMI connections are not the same. 

What You Need to Know about HDMI Cables

Different amounts of data can be carried by various HDMI cables, as with HDMI connections. You might not get the features you want if you go with the cheapest HDMI cable. Here's an example: You won't be able to support 4K at 120Hz gaming if at least 40Gpbs of data can't be carried by your HDMI 2.0 cable.

Today's HDMI 2.1 format relies on higher data rates than the 18Gbps for HDMI 2.0's. Truth be told, as much as 48Gbps may be needed. So, you will require an Ultra-High-Speed HDMI Cable to adapt to this, because it's more capable of handling data in such huge amounts.

Remember, official certification has not been received by a vast majority of the HDMI cables you may see advertised online! Buying from an established, dependable source is always your best bet. In pursuit of reliable accessories for electronics – including certified HDMI cables – here's what to do…

Shop Pacroban For HDMI 2.1 Cables

Here at Pacroban, we carry a vast array of equipment to meet your needs. That does, of course, include HDMI 2.1 cables – but much, much more, as well. Contact us to let us know if you have any questions and, as soon as possible, a friendly customer service representative will get back to you.

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