There are many different HDMI cables out there, but which one do you need for your display? In this article, I'll go over the features of both HDMI 2.0 and 2.1 to help determine which one you need.
HDMI 2.1 vs. 2.0
HDMI 2.1 is an overhaul of the older HDMI 2.0 standard and has many significant upgrades compared to HDMI 2.0.
The main difference is that HDMI 2.1 can handle up to 48 Gb/s while HDMI 2.0 could only handle 18 Gb/s bandwidth. HDMI 2.1 also adds many additional features and improvements, along with the increased data transfer speed.
HDMI 2.1 can now handle higher resolutions up to 10K along with faster refresh rates overall. This new version of HDMI also added many new features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Dynamic HDR, HDMI Forum Variable Refresh Rate (VVR), enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), Quick Media Switching (QMS), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT).
| HDMI 2.1 Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Increased Bandwidth | Adds support for 4K, 5K, 8K, 10K resolutions at 120 Hz. |
| Auto Low Latency Mode | Enables ideal latency setting to be set automatically. Allows smooth lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity. |
| Dynamic HDR | Lets a display alter the HDR metadata on a scene by scene or frame by frame basis. |
| Variable Refresh Rate | Eliminates stuttering and frame tearing in games. |
| Enhanced Audio Return Channel | Improves support of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio standards. |
| Quick Media Switching | Decreases the delay when switching video sources. |
| Quick Frame Transport | Reduces latency for smoother gaming without lag and real-time interactive VR. |
Which HDMI Cable Type Should You Get?
Since HDMI 2.1 is backward compatible with older HDMI versions, it's probably best to buy an HDMI 2.1 cable for future-proofing. You will ensure that you'll get the most out of your display without worrying about which one to buy. HDMI 2.1 is also needed for devices that support eARC
, for better quality audio to soundbars and audio receivers. If you want to make it even easier, be sure to check out Our Recommended HDMI 2.1 Cables below.
With that said, to get all of the features and speed increase, be sure to check if your display and device (PCs, game consoles, etc.) both support HDMI 2.1 and its features.
Keep in mind that HDMI cables can only go up to specific lengths. If you want a very long HDMI cable, you may need to go with HDMI 2.0 instead and follow one of these HDMI extension methods.
Our Recommended HDMI 2.1 Cables
Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable
- After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable offers exceptional performance and a range of impressive features.
- You can find the Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable (6.6 ft) on Amazon
- With a bandwidth of 48 Gb/s, it supports high-resolution formats like 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, and chroma 4:4:4 (no compression), all while delivering stunning Dynamic HDR.
- Additionally, it boasts support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for enhanced audio transmission. It is compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS X 7.1, and DTS X 5.1 surround sound.
- We have found that the Anker 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable offers an excellent solution for those seeking top-notch performance and compatibility. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated enthusiast, this cable delivers the reliability and quality necessary to elevate your home entertainment experience.
Monoprice 8K Certified Braided HDMI 2.1 Cable
- After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Monoprice 8K certified braided HDMI 2.1 cable offers exceptional performance and a range of impressive features.
- You can find the Monoprice 8K Certified Braided HDMI 2.1 Cable on Amazon , available in lengths ranging from 6 to 10 feet.
- With a bandwidth of 48 Gb/s, it supports high-resolution formats like 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, and uncompressed video resolutions, all while delivering stunning Dynamic HDR and 3D visuals.
- Additionally, it boasts support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for enhanced audio transmission. It is compatible with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and DTS X surround sound.
- We have found that the Monoprice 8K certified braided HDMI 2.1 cable offers an excellent solution for those seeking top-notch performance and compatibility. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated enthusiast, this cable delivers the reliability and quality necessary to elevate your home entertainment experience.
Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 Cable
- After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable offers exceptional performance and a range of impressive features.
- You can find the Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable on Amazon , available in lengths ranging from 16.4 to 49.2 feet.
- With a bandwidth of 48 Gb/s, it supports high-resolution formats like 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and and chroma 4:4:4 (no compression), all while delivering stunning Dolby Vision HDR (10 bit/12 bit color depth).
- Additionally, it boasts support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for enhanced audio transmission. It is compatible with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and DTS X surround sound.
- After conducting our research and analysis, we have found that the Cable Matters Active 8K Fiber Optic HDMI 2.1 cable surpasses expectations, providing an unrivaled solution for those seeking top-notch performance and compatibility. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated enthusiast, this cable delivers reliability and exceptional quality that will elevate your home entertainment experience to new heights.
Max HDMI Cable Length
Each type of HDMI cable has a limitation on how far it can reach. There's no official "max" length specified in HDMI standards, but there is a practical limitation based on the materials used and the bandwidth requirements.
Most passive copper HDMI cables reliably reach around 10 to 25 ft (3 to 7.5 m) depending on the HDMI version and resolution. Newer HDMI 2.1 cables supporting 48Gbps typically max out at 10 to 15 ft (3 to 4.5 m), while older HDMI 2.0 cables can reach 15 to 25 ft (4.5 to 7.5 m). HDMI cables made with fiber optic technology can reach much farther. On average, active optical HDMI cables can extend from 50 to 300 ft (15 to 90 m) or more.
Below are the three types of copper HDMI cables with their average length limits and resolutions they can handle at their max cable length:
| Type | Max Cable Length | Speed | Supported Resolutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard HDMI | 49 ft (15 m) | < 10 Gb/s | 720p 60 Hz | 1080i 60 Hz |
| High Speed HDMI | 15–25 ft (5–7.5 m) | 18 Gb/s | 1080p 60 Hz | 4K 30 Hz |
| Ultra High Speed HDMI | 10–15 ft (3–5 m) | 48 Gb/s | 4K | 5K | 8K | 10K 120 Hz |
Why HDMI Cables Have a Max Length
Most HDMI cables are made of copper, which limits the cable's length because the signal loses strength the farther it travels. Signal loss can occur with cables made of other materials as well. This signal loss (called attenuation) is measured in decibels per distance. The greater the distance, the more signal loss occurs.
Higher bandwidth requirements also reduce maximum cable length. HDMI 2.1 cables supporting 48Gbps (for 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz) experience more attenuation than older HDMI 2.0 cables. The recently released HDMI 2.2 specification in June 2025 doubles the bandwidth to 96Gbps, which will require even more careful cable design for longer runs.
If an HDMI cable is too long, the signal level may not be high enough due to excessive attenuation, resulting in visual artifacts, audio dropouts, or complete signal loss. For longer distances, an HDMI extender, repeater, or active optical cable is needed. Otherwise, a shorter HDMI cable should be used.
How to Extend HDMI 2.0 Cables
- Short-range extension: HDMI repeater.
- Medium-range extension: Fiber optic HDMI cable or HDMI over Ethernet
- Long-range extension: HDMI over fiber extender.
HDMI Repeater
An HDMI repeater extends the connection for shorter runs by connecting two HDMI cables and amplifies the signals for better transmission.
Determining the max length when using a repeater depends on the HDMI repeater and the HDMI cable type, but I give the average ranges below. Remember that HDMI repeaters are directional, so be sure to use the device's correct input/
| Resolution | Length |
|---|---|
| 4K @ 60 Hz | 60–100 ft (18–30 m) |
| 4K @ 30 Hz | 100–130 ft (30–40 m) |
| 1080p @ 60 Hz | 135–195 ft (40–60 m) |
To be safe, assume a repeater can reach only the shorter end of those ranges.
- I recommend the JerGO HDMI 2.0 Repeater on Amazon
- Extends up to 100 ft for 4K @ 60 Hz.
- Supports 6.0 Gb/s bandwidth with 3D transmission.
Fiber Optic HDMI Cable
Fiber optic HDMI cables are like standard HDMI cables but made with optical fiber inside the cable and meant for farther distances up to 164 ft (50 m) for 4K @ 60 Hz.
These cables aren't meant to be used with an extender, repeater, or switch and should be used alone. They also must be installed in the correct direction, with the output/
Learn more about fiber optic HDMI cables in my article: What Is a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable and Is It Worth Getting?.
- I recommend the ATZEBE Fiber Optic HDMI Cable on Amazon
- Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10 and Dolby Vision.
- Comes in lengths ranging from 6 to 164 ft (2 to 50 meters).
- Supports ARC (Audio Return Channel).
HDMI Over Ethernet Extender
The HDMI over Ethernet extender is similar to an HDMI over fiber optic extender but uses an Ethernet cable for a shorter extension. An HDMI over Ethernet extender can extend the connection up to 130 ft (40 m) for 4K @ 60 Hz or 230 ft (70 m) for 1080p.
Learn more about HDMI over Ethernet in my article: HDMI Over Ethernet - How to Extend HDMI With Cat 5e/6a.
I recommend the AV Access HDMI 2.0 Over Ethernet on Amazon
Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10.
Supports ARC (Audio Return Channel).
To go along with the HDMI over Ethernet extender, I recommend the Cable Matters Snagless Long Shielded Cat6A Ethernet Cable on Amazon
HDMI Over Fiber Extender
An HDMI over Fiber extender uses an optical fiber cable to transmit the data to reach a much farther distance. You could use an HDMI over Fiber extender to extend the connection up 1,000 to 3,300 ft (300 to 1000 meters) for 4K @ 60 Hz.
Learn more about HDMI over fiber in my article: HDMI Over Fiber - How to Extend HDMI With Fiber-Optic Cable.
I recommend the AV Access Fiber Optic HDMI 2.0 Extender on Amazon
Supports 18 Gb/s bandwidth and 4K @ 60 Hz chroma 4:4:4 (no compression) with HDR10.
Supports multi-channel PCM, Dolby, and DTS HD audio supported up to 7.1.
Supports bi-directional IR pass-through.
I also recommend the Cable Matters Multimode Duplex OM3 Fiber Cable on Amazon to go along with the HDMI over Fiber extender (for indoor use).
Learn About TVs
Want to learn more about TVs? Check out the articles in my TV series:
- Best TV Display Types
- TV Resolution Explained - 8K UHD vs. 4K vs. QHD vs. FHD
- Choosing the Best TV for Your Room
- Best TV for Playing PlayStation 5 Games
- What Type of TV Is Best for Gaming?
- Ultimate Guide to Samsung QLED TVs
- Best Type of TV for Bright Rooms
- What Type of TV Has the Best Refresh Rate & Response Time?
- What Type of TV Has the Best Viewing Angle?
- Do LED TVs Have Backlight Bleed?
- How to choose the best soundbar for your TV
Learn About HDMI
Find answers to your HDMI questions by checking out the articles in my HDMI series:
- Is Wireless HDMI Good for Gaming?
- HDMI ARC vs. Bluetooth - Is ARC/eARC Better Than Bluetooth?
- How to Choose the Best HDMI Cable for a 4K or 8K TV
- Are HDMI Cables All the Same?
- Does HDMI 2.0 and 2.1 Support 120, 144, and 240 Hz?
- What Are HDMI ARC and eARC? Are HDMI ARC Cables Different?
- Are HDMI Switches & Splitters Any Good? Pros and Cons
- Are HDMI Cables Backward Compatible?
- HDMI 2.1 vs. 2.0 - Which Cable Type Do I Need?
- What Is Wireless HDMI? Is It Worth Buying vs. Cables?
- HDMI Over Fiber - How to Extend HDMI With Fiber-Optic Cable
- What Is a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable and Is It Worth Getting?
- How to Extend HDMI Cables Beyond Their Limits
- HDMI Over Ethernet - How to Extend HDMI With Cat 5e/6a
- Max Length of an HDMI Cable