It is possible to determine whether or not a laptop has an HDMI port by checking the device’s specifications.
The technical requirements of a computer will list not only the version of the HDMI port but also the devices that are compatible with it.
You can view the laptop’s specs on the manufacturer’s website or the manual. Trying things out by eye is the only option if you don’t have access to the manual or online specs sheet.
Determining the type of HDMI port installed in your laptop will be discussed in depth below.
What Is HDMI?
HDMI is a connection and cable combination that enables the transmission of high-quality & high-bandwidth audio and video streams between devices. HDMI technology is compatible with high-definition television, a projector, a DVD player, or a Blu-ray player.
Multiple firms, including Hitachi, Philips, Sony, and Toshiba, collaborated on developing the HDMI standard. A single HDMI cable replaces three composite audio/video cables, simplifying connecting two devices for audio and video signal transmission. HDMI can carry standard-definition, enhanced-definition, and high-definition video signals and up to eight channels of digital audio.
Different Types of HDMI
High definition multimedia interfaces (HDMI) come in three primary flavors, for example:
- HDMI 1.4
- HDMI 2.0
- HDMI 2.1
HDMI 1.4
Let’s look at the oldest form of HDMI port, known as HDMI 1.4, to see how the number iterates the type of technology and how new the kind of port is.
Suppose you lower the resolution to 1080p, and the frame rate increases to 144hz, ideal for fast-paced competitive games. It supports resolutions up to 2560×1600 and can deliver frame rates up to 75hertz.
Because HDMI 1.4 lacks 60hz support for 4k resolutions, older laptops that don’t have HDMI support will only be able to display videos or still images at a 30hz frame rate.
Furthermore, HDMI 1.4’s lack of 21:9 ultra-wide video and the 3D stereoscopic format make projector use obsolete.
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HDMI 2.0
Even though it’s the “middle child” of HDMI, it still has a lot to offer regarding multimedia connections. The HDMI 2.0 offers a significant improvement over HDMI 1.0 in terms of both resolution and frame rate, being capable of 1080p at 240hz and 4K at 60K.
You can also enjoy smooth gameplay and high-definition visuals by playing at 144hz on 1440p with HDMI 2.0, which has a wider range of colors than HDMI 1.4.
With little to no difficulty, you can support the 21:9 aspect ratio and 3D stereoscopic format.
HDMI 2.1
In addition to HDR10 and HLG support, the most recent HDMI version supports 4k and 8k resolutions with frame rates up to 120hz, which is fantastic, but for 8k, you need specialized 48G HDMI cables to utilize the 120hz.
Free sync 2, a technology that prevents screen tearing when playing games at higher refresh rates, is also supported.
How to Check HDMI Version on Laptop? 3 Simply Ways
#1) On a Physical Level, Inspect Your Devices
Physical examinations are most effective when conducted by individuals familiar with the numerous HDMI connector configurations. Often, this is the most successful course of action. Ports are classified into five types and located on the rear of televisions, AV receivers, personal computers and laptops, Blu-ray players, and other devices.
These ports are similar to those found on a USB flash drive. They are, however, frequently taller and have a larger footprint. Additionally, they are not square. Each of them, though, is unique in some way. The following part will examine the numerous port types to understand these characteristics better.
#2) Consider Your Display Adapter List
Anyone who understands how ports function can utilize the method outlined above. As a result, in contrast to the previous way, the second one is reserved for computer users alone. The following tests can uses to determine the type of port you have:
- Select “Properties.” by right-clicking “My Computer.”
- The drop-down option will display “Properties.”
- From the drop-down menu, select Device Manager.’
- Scroll down to the “Display Adapters” section to locate the port type you’re looking for.
#3) Examination of the Port It Is Either Positive or Negative
Using Microsoft Windows Device Manager, follow these procedures to inspect your port.
- By pushing the start button, your laptop will boot up. Select “Properties” by right-clicking on “Computer.”
- Select the ‘Properties’ option from the setting menu. From the drop-down menu, click “Device Manager.”
- Examine your port in the list of ports by selecting “Display Adapters.”
- If your port is not listed, it has likely failed, and you will need to replace it.
- If the port list in the optic adapters list, verify its properties.
- Now, a dialogue window should appear to check the HDMI status.
Difference Between Expensive & Inexpensive HDMI Cables?
Retailers sell HDMI cables at a variety of price points, and there are numerous slick and fancy branded HDMI cables on the market that promise to deliver the most excellent picture you’ve ever seen. Many of these distinctions, however, are essentially aesthetic.
The reality is that an HDMI cable is either functional or not. For instance, it makes no difference whether you choose Brand A’s $50 HDMI High-Speed cable or Brand B’s $20 HDMI High-Speed cable; all will provide the same level of quality. Many individuals are unaware of this and believe that costlier lines are always superior, but they pay for the cable’s appearance and packaging.
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There will be no difference in the quality of your HD video if you use inexpensive HDMI cables. Since the wires are the same, you might as well save money. Numerous users have been purchasing HDMI cables online to save money.
On the other hand, users must pay close attention to the HDMI cable type. Each HDMI cable type employs a unique hardware schematic and transmission specification.
Apart from length, the only other reason for a price variation is the HDMI cable type. HDMI cables with high-speed transmission will be more expensive than ordinary HDMI cables, while HDMI cables with Ethernet will be more expensive than HDMI cables without Ethernet.
How to Check HDMI Version in Windows 10?
Due to the fact that HDMI connections are merely made up of fancy wires, there are no electronic components that communicate with the program to indicate its “version.” There is no way to find out what version of HDMI it supports unless there is a model number or a label on the device that you can look up. Specific versions of version 1. 2 cables, for instance, have adequate bandwidth to perform the same tasks as version 1.
How to Check HDMI Cable Speed?
According to the Speed of HDMI, This port is available in three different types, each with a different speed rating.
#1) High-Speed HDMI Cable for Automobiles
The high-speed HDMI cable that comes with most HDTVs is very similar to this cable. It has additional shielding to make it more suitable for use in automobiles.
#2) Premium HDMI Cable with Fast Data Transfer Rates
These HDMI cables are capable of 4K/UltraHD resolution video output, increasing bandwidth support up to 18Gpbs. HDMI 2.0/a/b-optimized video formats include 1080p/120Hz and 4K/60Hz.
#3) HDMI Cables with Ultra-High Speed
The ultra-speed HDMI cable, designed for HDMI 2.1, is the last but not the least. So it can handle up to 48Gbps, has less EMI interference, and transmit video resolutions up to 8K and 10K at a maximum rate of 60Hz.
In addition, there are HDMI cables with built-in Ethernet, which can connect to broadband routers and reach speeds of up to 100 Mb/sec.
Instruction for HDMI Speed Test…
Testing cable speeds are unnecessary for most HDMI cables because they are clearly labeled.
On the other hand, Cable testers come in handy if you insist on performing your tests.
It is possible to test up to 19 wires with the Signstek UNI-T UT681 Handheld HDMI Cable Tester, which runs on a 9-volt battery.
Ensure that the lights on both ends of your cable are identical by inserting them into the appropriate ports. If this is the case, then the advertised speed of your HDMI is accurate. Replacements are required if not.
However, if you don’t want to go through this process, you highly recommend that you purchase a high-quality HDMI cable from a reputable brand.
FAQs – How to Check HDMI Version on Laptop?
Are HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 Cables the Same?
In a word, HDMI 2.0 intends to handle far more data than HDMI 1.4. Both can produce 4K video, although HDMI 2.0 supports data transfer rates of up to 18Gbps, whereas HDMI 1.4 supports up to 10.2Gbps. This additional bandwidth enables HDMI 2.0 to give a few features that may have looked superfluous only a few years ago.
What HDMI 14?
HDMI 1.4 enables the television to optimise image settings by allowing the source device to identify the type of content, such as a movie, game, or still image. For Home Theaters, an Audio Return Channel (ARC). The audio return channel, introduced in HDMI 1.4, enables the television to serve as the focal hub of the home theatre.
What Version Is Standard HDMI?
While older versions of the HDMI specification are accessible for download to the general public, only adopters have access to the most recent version (HDMI 1.4b/2.1). Adopters are the only ones who have access to the compliance test specification (CTS) used for compliance and certification.
What Is HDMI 2a?
HDMI 2.0a is the most current HDMI specification released by HDMI Licensing. It regulates the cables, inputs, and outputs that connect practically everything in your home entertainment centre. This specification’s new functionality secures and supervises the exchange of High Dynamic Range material between HDR-compatible source devices and televisions.
Conclusion
Do you now understand How to Check HDMI Version on Laptop? Now you’re aware of the many types of HDMI cables and their respective HDMI versions, you’re prepared to acquire the wires that are most compatible with the HDMI ports on your system.
At the end of the day, like lengthy, as you buy in a reasonably priced HDMI cable, you should have a worry-free experience setting up your device and viewing it.
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