# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Display Cables

HDMI 1.4 vs. HDMI 2.0

Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.

Comparing:
HDMI 1.4
HDMI 2.0
HDMI 1.4 →

HDMI 1.4, released in 2009, added the HDMI Ethernet Channel, Audio Return Channel (ARC), and stereoscopic 3D video support, plus a 4K mode -- but capped at 24-30Hz, since bandwidth stayed at 10.2 Gbps. The even smaller Type D Micro connector was also introduced.

View full HDMI 1.4 spec sheet →
HDMI 2.0 →

HDMI 2.0, released September 4, 2013, raised maximum bandwidth to 18 Gbps, finally enabling 4K resolution at 60Hz. It also increased maximum audio to 32 channels; HDR support followed later via the HDMI 2.0a update in 2015, not the original 2.0 release.

View full HDMI 2.0 spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

10 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
HDMI 1.4
HDMI 2.0
Max Bandwidth / Data Rate
10.2 (unchanged from 1.3) Gbps 18.0 Gbps (TMDS)
Release Date
2009 —
Max 4K Resolution
3840x2160 @ 24, 25, or 30Hz only —
HDMI Ethernet Channel
100 Mbps —
Max Resolution @ Refresh Rate
— 4K @ 60Hz / 1440p @ 144Hz
Pin Count
— 19 Pins (Type A)
Display Stream Compression (DSC)
— Not Supported
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
— Vendor-specific (AMD FreeSync over HDMI)
Max Audio Channels
— 32 Channels (Standard ARC up to 5.1 lossy)
Max Recommended Cable Length
— 5 Meters (Passive Premium High Speed)

Other Alternatives to Compare

Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. DisplayPort 1.0 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. DisplayPort 1.2 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. DisplayPort 1.4 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. DisplayPort 2.1 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. DVI → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. HDMI 1.0 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. HDMI 1.3 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. HDMI 2.1 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. VGA →