Types of HDMI Cable: A Comprehensive Guide
HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface, is the standard cable used to connect digital devices to high-definition displays. HDMI cables carry both audio and video signals, and they support a wide range of resolutions and features.
There are four main types of HDMI cable:
- Standard HDMI: Standard HDMI cables are designed for use with 1080i and 720p resolutions. They have a bandwidth of 4.95Gbps.
- Standard HDMI with Ethernet: Standard HDMI with Ethernet cables are the same as standard HDMI cables, but they also include a dedicated Ethernet channel. This allows you to connect two devices over HDMI and share an Ethernet connection.
- High Speed HDMI: High Speed HDMI cables are designed for use with 4K and HDR resolutions. They have a bandwidth of 10.2Gbps.
- High Speed HDMI with Ethernet: High Speed HDMI with Ethernet cables are the same as High Speed HDMI cables, but they also include a dedicated Ethernet channel.
In addition to the four main types of HDMI cable, there are also two other types:
- Mini HDMI: Mini HDMI cables are smaller than standard HDMI cables, and they are often used with portable devices such as cameras and camcorders.
- Micro HDMI: Micro HDMI cables are even smaller than Mini HDMI cables, and they are often used with very small devices such as smartphones and tablets.
The following chart shows the different types of HDMI cable and their specifications:
| Cable Type | Resolution | Bandwidth |
|---|---|---|
| Standard HDMI | 1080i or 720p | 4.95Gbps |
| Standard HDMI with Ethernet | 1080i or 720p, plus a dedicated HDMI Ethernet Channel | 4.95Gbps |
| High Speed HDMI | 1080p, 4K @ 30 Hz | 10.2Gbps |
| High Speed HDMI with Ethernet | 1080p or 4K @ 30 Hz, plus a dedicated HDMI Ethernet Channel | 10.2Gbps |
| Mini HDMI | 1080i or 720p | 4.95Gbps |
| Micro HDMI | 1080i or 720p | 4.95Gbps |
Which type of HDMI cable do you need?
If you are using a 1080i or 720p display, then a standard HDMI cable will be sufficient. However, if you are using a 4K or HDR display, then you will need a High Speed HDMI cable.
If you need to connect two devices over HDMI and share an Ethernet connection, then you will need a standard or high speed HDMI with Ethernet cable.
If you are using a portable device such as a camera or camcorder, then you may need a Mini HDMI cable. If you are using a very small device such as a smartphone or tablet, then you may need a Micro HDMI cable.
When buying an HDMI cable, it is important to make sure that it is certified by the HDMI Licensing Administrator. This ensures that the cable meets the HDMI standard and will provide the best possible performance.