What is HDMI 2.1? Everything you need to know

As new TV technologies emerge, it makes sense that the connections and cables we use are also due an upgrade...

What does HDMI 2.0 do?

HDMI 2.0 came out in 2013 and can pass 4K content at 60fps (frames per second) – that’s video of 3840 x 2160 resolution, refreshed 60 times per second. A few years later a small update, HDMI 2.0a, made the link between televisions and players capable of carrying HDR (High Dynamic Range) images, with HDMI 2.0b coming soon after and providing support for HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma). Until now, that’s been the top standard.

What does HDMI 2.1 do?

HDMI 2.1 builds on that by sending a maximum of 10K content at 120fps down the pipe. It will also be able to support Dynamic HDR, which allows the television to adjust its picture based on frame-by- frame information in the manner Dolby Vision and HDR10+ operate. Since a dark landscape might have different contrast requirements than that of a brighter scene, the ability to make instant adjustments should mean your movies and TV shows look their best.

HDMI 2.1 should also reduce the amount of time it takes to go from a blank screen to your content. And for game consoles and virtual reality headsets, HDMI 2.1’s Variable Refresh Rate and Quick Frame Transport features should result in a smoother experience. Finally, HDMI 2.1 supports EARC – an update to the ARC (Audio Return Channel) connection which means that you will be able to send DTS:X and Dolby Atmos soundtracks from your TV to your audio system.

Will I have to buy a new television?

You might have to in the future – it’ll depend on what you’re looking to use HDMI 2.1 for. With regards to EARC, the HDMI Forum says it’s unclear whether your existing ARC connection will still work because it’s up to the manufacturers to decide whether it will be available through a firmware update.

Likewise, it’s possible that compatibility with Dynamic HDR will be available via a firmware update, but that is likely to be down to the manufacturers too. It’s more than possible that 2019 televisions could have HDMI 2.1 ports rather than HDMI 2.0.

Will I have to buy new cables?

Yes, although there’s no need just yet. You’ll have to wait for the relevant hardware and software to become available first.