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With new consoles from Sony and Microsoft alongside new displays supporting cutting edge 4K and 8K resolutions from LG and Samsung, we break down the important role of HDMI 2.1. And why you need the right cable to make the most of the games you play.

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What is HDMI 2.1?

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When we think of HDMI it’s best to look at the video image being sent from a console, PC, or Bluray player as raw data. Where the higher the resolution the source is, the more data required. And with each frame taking up bandwidth this means that a 4K video signal with HDR requires a lot more data than an old-timey 1080p signal. The additional information required to create those stunning ultra-HD images in games like Ratchet & Clank present an exponential challenge. A challenge that’s met and dealt with thanks to HDMI 2.1

Even though HDMI 2.0 was named so because it supported 4K for the very first time, it needed a boost in order to deal with performance-focused consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. So then, what’s HDMI 2.1 all about? On paper it’s the latest version of HDMI, and it increases the bandwidth to allow for more image data to be sent from one end to the other.

Although the .1 makes it sound like an incremental update, HDMI 2.1 features an exponential increase in bandwidth -- going from the 18 Gbps (gigabits per second) of HDMI 2.0 up to a massive 48 Gbps. This means HDMI 2.1 can easily support 4K at 120Hz with HDR in addition to 8K at 60Hz. Something that wasn’t possible until now. And it’s set to be the new gaming standard for years to come. HDMI 2.1 is an across the board upgrade, Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) technology sees better soundbar and audio hardware compatibility that ever before and the HDR benefits from the latest standard and dynamic advancements made in that space.

Head Here For Our Full Feature on HDMI 2.1.. and a great deal on high-quality cables.