What is the difference between HDMI and DVI and which is better?
HDMI is a digital signal while DVI is a choice of two analog signals (HDMI and DVI). HDMI has won out over the competition because it’s easier to send lengthy cables without degradation in quality.
There are six potential types of external video interfaces; 2 analog (DVI-A and DVI-I) and 4 varieties of digital interfaces (DVI-D, DisplayPort 1.x, DisplayPort 2.0a, TMDS/HDMI). Only the first four are in use today for computer monitors.
In simple terms, any device that needs to generate or process HDMI or DisplayPort signals can accept them as input via a suitable receiver / transmitter module such as an integrated circuit or by an external dedicated receiver / transmitter.
DisplayPort is the newest interface, though it is basically just a high-speed DVI connection with some benefits. The main benefit is that DisplayPort provides 20% more bandwidth than HDMI 1.3a, allowing for higher resolutions and refresh rates at lengths up to 15 meters (HDR) or 25 meters (non-HDR). It also allows for multiple monitor connections from a single DisplayPort output.
DisplayPort 1.2 is backward compatible with the original DisplayPort specification, and it can be used to drive displays that do not support the latest version of the standard via inexpensive cables or adapters.
The two main differences between HDMI and DVI are:
1) HDMI can carry audio and video signals, while DVI is for video only.
2) DVI’s max resolution is 1920×1080 (1080p), while HDMI allows a max res of 4096×2160 (4K). Some graphics cards only have a DVI-I socket which does not support the highest resolutions.
HDMI-DVI adapters are available, but the quality of the connection is unconfirmed. HDMI and DVI cannot be mixed in a single cable run or device. The devices at both ends must support that particular interface type.
