What Is HDMI 2.1a and How Is It Different?

We explain it all to you

HDMI 2.1a is the latest HDMI standard, supporting higher video resolutions, frame rates, and bandwidth capabilities. It also comes with a stack of new features which offer drastic improvements for gamers, including reduced screen lag and stuttering.

In this article, we’ll explain what HDMI 2.1a is and then dive into its features so you know what to expect from this new technology.

What Is HDMI 2.1a?

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is one of the standard audio/video interfaces allowing video transmission from a source device to a display.

With the expected release date earlier in 2022, HDMI 2.1a is HDMI’s new standard. It boasts a suite of upgrades, including support for higher resolutions, improved frame rates, HDR video, and much higher bandwidth capacity.

HDMI 2.1a uses the same connector as previous HDMI versions and has backward compatibility.

HDMI 2.1a is developed by the HDMI Forum, Inc., a group of 90 of the world’s leading electronics manufacturers, movie studios, test labs, and video service providers. HDMI 2.1a was announced at CES 2022.

What Are the New Features of HDMI 2.1a?

HDMI 2.1a has a stack of new features that improve the quality of video and gaming, such as support for much higher resolutions and refresh rates.

For more information, see theHDMI specifications pageon HDMI.org.

Is HDMI 2.1a The Future of A/V?

HDMI has quickly become the industry standard A/V interface. Compared with other interfaces like DisplayPort, HDMI supports a far wider range of devices. But do you need to upgrade as soon as possible?

Right now, the main benefit of HDMI 2.1a is support for higher video and audio resolutions (such as being able to play at 4K resolution and 120Hz on a Sony Playstation 5 or Xbox Series X). So, unless you need 4K120 or you’ve bought an 8K TV, there’s little reason to upgrade immediately.

Jake Harfield is an Australian freelance writer whose passion is finding out how different technologies work. He has written for several online publications, focusing on explaining what he has learned to help others with their tech problems. He’s an avid hiker and birder, and in his spare time you’ll find him in the Aussie bush listening to the birdsong.Read Jake’s Full Bio

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What Is HDMI 2.1a and How Is It Different?#

What Is HDMI 2.1a?#

What Are the New Features of HDMI 2.1a?#

Is HDMI 2.1a The Future of A/V?#