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

HDMI 1.4 vs. HDMI 2.1

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

Comparing:
HDMI 1.4
HDMI 2.1
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 2.1 →

HDMI 2.1 increases total bandwidth to 48 Gbps via Fixed Rate Link (FRL). It mandates Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable certification and supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and eARC.

View full HDMI 2.1 spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

10 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
HDMI 1.4
HDMI 2.1
Max Bandwidth / Data Rate
10.2 (unchanged from 1.3) Gbps 48 Gbps (FRL 4 lanes)
Release Date
2009 —
Max 4K Resolution
3840x2160 @ 24, 25, or 30Hz only —
HDMI Ethernet Channel
100 Mbps —
Max Resolution @ Refresh Rate
— 8K @ 60Hz / 4K @ 120Hz (10K with DSC)
Pin Count
— 19 Pins (Type A)
Display Stream Compression (DSC)
— DSC 1.2a Supported
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
— HDMI Forum VRR & Quick Media Switching (QMS)
Max Audio Channels
— 32 Channels (eARC up to 192kHz / 24-bit uncompressed)
Max Recommended Cable Length
— 3 Meters (Passive Ultra High Speed) / 100m+ (Active Optical AOC)

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 2.0 → Compare HDMI 1.4 vs. VGA →