Do all HDMI cables support 4k
If you have just bought a 4K TV, you are probably wondering if the HDMI cable you have at home can help you connect different devices to it.
As TVs keep on progressing, so is the need for HDMI cables that can keep up. Sometimes, you don’t have to buy a new HDMI cable to use with a new 4K TV. This does not, however, mean that all HDMI cables support 4K. Though most of them do, you can still find some of them that don’t offer 4K support. For instance, the earlier HDMI cables lack enough bandwidth to carry 4K data.
Understanding more about HDMI cables can prevent you from disappointments. If you don’t use the right cable for 4K, the HDR content from your source of video cannot pass on to the TV screen. We can help you out by discussing more on HDMI cables and which standards support 4K. Enjoy!
Table of Contents
Introduction to HDMI cables
Many people keep on upgrading to 4K TVs. For you to maximize the benefits of such a TV, all the components in the chain should be able to handle 4K HDR content without any issues. One of the essential features that you need for 4K streaming is an HDMI cable. This is the cable that you can use to connect the TV screen to different video source components such as a streaming device or gaming console.
An HDMI cable is designed to send sound and video from such home entertainment devices to the TV. You can even connect a Blu-ray player or DVD to your 4K TV through an HDMI cable. The manufacturers of HDMI cables keep on coming up with different standards to meet various needs. Some of the earlier HDMI cables cannot support 4K since they lack the bandwidth to carry this kind of video signal or transmit HDR data. Most of the modern HDMI cables that are nowadays present in the market support 4K.
The HDMI cable standards you should know about
Many people find purchasing an HDMI cable that can support 4K challenging due to the confusing labeling. Some HDMI cable manufacturers take advantage of people’s confusion to overprice cables to uninformed buyers. Learning more about HDMI cables can prevent you from overpaying for one. When you understand the HDMI cable standards available, you should not find shopping for an ideal one challenging.
HDMI cables are divided into four categories, including standard, ultra-high speed, premium high speed, and high speed. These are the certification standards that are used in HDMI cables meant for home use. Standard HDMI cables were the first to be introduced before 2009. These are the earlier versions that we had mentioned before that don’t support 4K. Standard HDMI cables can only transmit 720p or 1080i video.
High-speed HDMI cables first came into existence in 2009. The first version of high-speed HDMI cable known as 1.4 could support not only 4K but also included Ethernet connectivity. The 1.4 High-speed HDMI cable is also known for its 3D capability and audio return channel.
In 2013, HDMI cable manufacturers released the second version of High-speed HDMI cable known as 2.0. This differs from the first one in that it has higher bandwidth and delivers a wide range of colors. If you choose a high-speed cable, you should expect it to transmit video resolutions ranging from 1080p- 4K. Experts recommend that you go for such an HDMI cable since it can help you enjoy a rich color palette. You have the option of choosing between non-Ethernet and Ethernet HDMI version. The 2.0 version features a bandwidth of 18 Gbps, which is enough for 4K resolution.
Since 2012, HDMI cable manufacturers have continually enhanced the versions available. They came up with two different versions of the 2.0 high-speed HDMI cables. The 2.0a high-speed HDMI cable was introduced in 2015, while the 2.0b version was released in 2016. All the HDMI cables that are certified as high speed can support 4K.
The market also began offering premium high-speed HDMI cables in 2015. Many people choose HDMI cables from this category since they provide a reliable 4K performance. You can also get the option of picking between non-Ethernet and Ethernet premium high-speed HDMI cables. Since premium high-speed cables go through thorough testing, you should expect them to deliver a good performance. They also offer a high bandwidth as well as an enhanced color palette.
A summary of HDMI cable standards
Certification standard |
Year released |
Version |
Characteristics |
Standard |
Before 2009 |
1.4 |
Can only handle 1080i and 720 P video. |
High speed |
2009 |
1.4 |
Offers Ethernet connectivity, 4K resolution and ARC |
2013 |
2.0 |
4K resolution |
|
2015-2016 |
2.0 b and a |
4K/ HDR |
|
Premium High speed |
2015 |
No version |
Thorough testing for 4K support, expanded color. |
Conclusion
An HDMI cable is an essential component that allows you to connect different devices to a 4K TV set. Almost all HDMI cables support 4K apart from the standard cables that were the first to be introduced. If you already own an HDMI cable that is not among the earlier models, you can use it with a 4K TV. You should, however, understand that HDMI cables tend to wear out after some time.
An old HDMI cable may have some flaws that can hinder it from inhibiting the best 4K HDR performance. If you choose to buy a new one, you should avoid cheap HDMI cables since they wear out fast. Since not all the HDMI cables meet the necessary standards, pay attention to the labeling to avoid buying the wrong one.
FAQs
Which HDMI cable can guarantee 4K support?
You should look for one whose labeling indicates a premium high-speed HDMI cable. Such cables have undergone numerous tests and have been proven to deliver excellent 4K resolution.
Should I consider the length when buying an HDMI cable?
Yes. You should choose an HDMI cable that is not too short or too long. Experts recommend an HDMI cable that does not exceed 30 feet.
