To watch UHD (4K) video via HDMI, you need a port that supports version 2.0 or higher. These ports support a resolution of 3840×2160. It’s important to consider not only the port itself but also the cable—it must also comply with the HDMI 2.0 or 2.1 standard, otherwise the UHD signal won’t be transmitted. When HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1 ports first appeared, manufacturers labeled them with completely different names. Let’s break down what these HDMI port labels mean.
HDMI port labels on TVs
A designation such as HDMI 4K@60Hz or DVI IN for any port means that the port supports 4K resolution at 60 frames per second and is compatible with DVI signals. You can connect any device to it, as long as it supports 4K.
A port labeled HDCP 2.2 is responsible for content protection—this is important for watching licensed 4K movies, for example, from Blu-ray players or streaming devices. If the TV or port does not support HDCP 2.2, such content may not play at maximum quality, and content with a high level of protection will not play at all on other ports.
HDMI ARC or eARC is used to transmit audio from the TV to external audio devices, such as soundbars, but if this feature is not needed, the port can be used as a standard HDMI port.
The “HDMI 10-bit” label indicates support for extended color depth; however, in practice, this is often just a marketing term, since HDMI 2.0 and later ports support 10-bit color depth, and this is not a critical factor when choosing a port.
The MHL designation refers to an outdated technology for connecting smartphones via USB to HDMI—it is rarely used today. This port contains a chip that converts the signal from USB-C to HDMI; in the past, it was mainly used to transfer videos and photos from a smartphone to a TV for viewing.
HDCP 2.2 and ARC are important, while the other designations are of secondary importance.
