HDMI cable types can get anyone confused. You have endless types of HDMI cables for a wide plethora of applications. Naturally, you need to choose the right cable matching your needs for the best results.
Today, we will explore the most common HDMI cable types you get in the market. We will go over cable types certificated by the HDMI Forum and cover some other types too.
So, let's start with the types of HDMI cables certified by HDMI LA.
HDMI Licensing Administrator Cable Types
The HDMI Org certifies HDMI cables for user convenience. Each cable will have a logo that tells you the type of HDMI cable you are purchasing. Here are the different HDMI cables you can buy-
1. Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable is the latest cable that supports the HDMI 2.1 specification. You can enjoy a 48Gbps data rate and display 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz. The cable will work with earlier versions of HDMI without any problem as it's backward compatible.
This type of HDMI cable is designed to reduce electrical and magnetic interferences.
2a. Premium High-Speed HDMI Cable
This HDMI cable is ideal for watching 4K at 60Hz and Ultra HD videos. The cables support a bandwidth of 18Gbps and come with additional features like HDR and expanded color spaces.
These HDMI cables also have low electromagnetic interference.
b. Premium High-Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet
You will get different types of HDMI cables with an in-built data channel called HDMI Ethernet Channel. The data channel helps you to connect your device using your WiFi network. However, both of your devices need the HDMI Ethernet Channel to enjoy this feature.
All the cable features are the same as Premium High-Speed HDMI Cable, except the Ethernet.
3a. High-Speed HDMI Cable
High-Speed HDMI Cables are perfect for watching videos with resolutions of 1080p and more. The cables have a data rate of 10.2Gbps and support 4K videos at 30Hz. They are also compatible with the latest visual technologies like Deep Color and 3D.
High-Speed HDMI Cables are what you need to hook up your HD source to display, like your Blu-ray player.
b. High-Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet
High-Speed HDMI cables are also available with Ethernet for networking.
4. High-Speed Automotive HDMI Cable
We all like to enjoy a video or two while we are traveling in our car. You can connect your car display to HDMI video sources using High-Speed Automotive HDMI Cable. These cables have the same specifications as the High-Speed HDMI Cable and support 1080p and beyond.
Additionally, these cables are designed to resist the interference of your car's electrical systems. Plus, they also come with vibration and dust-proof connectors for uncompromised performance.
5a. Standard HDMI Cable
Standard HDMI Cables are made for 720p and 1080i videos. They have a 4.95Gbps data rate and were used for earlier HDMI standards. Most people using this HDMI cable type have already switched to High-Speed HDMI Cables for reliability.
Plus, Standard Cables will not work with the latest standards like HDMI 2.1.
b. Standard HDMI Cable with Ethernet
Like other cables, the Standard HDMI cable is also available with the HDMI Ethernet Channel.
c. Standard Automotive HDMI Cable
You get an automotive version of the Standard HDMI cable to use in your vehicles. They are more robust and have sturdy connectors to withstand rough use and prevent electrical or magnetic interference.
We have covered all the HDMI cable types based on HDMI certifications. Now, let's check out the different types of HDMI cables based on connectors.
HDMI Cable: Types of Connectors
1. Type A
Type A is the regular-sized connector for all HDMI cables. You can use Type A connectors to hook up your DVD or Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, satellite boxes, and PCs. These are the most common HDMI cable sold in the market and comes with 19 pins.
2. Type C
Type C connectors are smaller than Type A and feature a mini size. You can use these HDMI cables to connect your DSLR or tablets. The mini connector hooks up with your source, while the other end having a Type A connector that connects to your display.
3. Type D
These micro-sized connectors are suitable for HDMI ports on smartphones, tablets, and digital cameras. The Type D connector is connected to the source, while the display uses Type-A connectors.
4. Type E
Type E connectors are used for automotive HDMI cables. These connectors are more durable and can resist vibrations successfully. They can also prevent dirt and dust from taking a toll on the picture quality.
Additional HDMI Cable Types
You may find other types of HDMI cables based on features or functions. Here are some of them-
1. Optical HDMI Cable
HDMI cables are available in optic fiber for superior performance over longer distances. You can buy these high-end cables for all the types mentioned above. These cables can also be very thin because of the material.
2. Passive HDMI Cables
Any standard HDMI cable is a passive HDMI cable. They are the affordable choice for home setups and connections made within 10-feet. You can connect the cables any way you like as they work both ways.
Passive HDMI cables don't need any external power.
3. Active HDMI Cables
Active HDMI cables pack a signal amplifier to support distances of over 10-feet. You will need an active cable if you want to enjoy the latest specifications like HDMI 2.1 over 20 - 25-feet distance. These cables are unidirectional and need external power to work.
Final Thoughts
We have covered the most common HDMI cable types you can buy. Determine your needs, and then pick a cable that meets your requirements. You will need at least a high-speed or ultra high-speed cable to take advantage of the latest specifications. Always purchase quality HDMI cables so that you don't have to compromise quality for the price. Also, remember the check the logo for authenticity.
