USB-C VS HDMI: Battle of Modern Connectivity Options

Introduction

When you want to connect your modern devices, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, TVs, and monitors, to external displays, you have two main options: USB-C and HDMI. These are the two most widely used connectors for data, audio, and video transmission, as well as device charging. However, they are not the same, and they have different features, advantages, and limitations that you should be aware of before choosing one. In this article, we will compare USB-C and HDMI in terms of their specifications, performance, and application in different scenarios. We will also suggest some of the best USB-C and HDMI cables for your devices, and look at the future of these connectors. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of USB-C and HDMI, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Overview of USB-C and HDMI

USB-C

USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is a type of USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector that was introduced in 2014. It is a small, reversible, and versatile connector that can deliver both high power and high data transfer rates. It can support various USB standards, such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, and USB 3.2, as well as other protocols, such as DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, and HDMI, through the Alternate Mode feature. This means that USB-C such as Intel Certified Thunderbolt 3 USB C Cable can be used for data transfer, charging, video output, and audio output, depending on the device and the cable. USB-C is becoming the standard for many devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, due to its convenience and functionality.

HDMI

HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is a proprietary audio/video interface for transmitting uncompressed video data and compressed/uncompressed digital audio data from an HDMI-compliant source device, such as a laptop, to a compatible display device, such as a TV or a monitor. It was introduced in 2002 and has since evolved through several versions, such as HDMI 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and HDMI 2.1, each offering higher bandwidth, resolution, and frame rate. HDMI such as AOC Active Optical HDMI 2.1 Cable 8K 60Hz 48Gbps HDR is mainly used for connecting multimedia devices, such as TVs, gaming consoles, and home theater systems, and delivering high-quality, high-definition audio and video. HDMI is widely compatible with various devices and supports various formats, such as 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.

Both USB-C and HDMI are prevalent and compatible with various devices, but they have different purposes and functions. USB-C is more versatile and flexible, while HDMI is more dedicated and stable.

Feature	USB-C	HDMI
Connector shape	Small, reversible, rectangular	Large, non-reversible, trapezoidal
Connector pins	24	19
Supported protocols	USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, HDMI (via Alternate Mode)	HDMI
Supported devices	Smartphones, laptops, tablets, monitors, TVs, game consoles, etc.	Laptops, monitors, TVs, game consoles, home theater systems, etc.
Supported resolutions and refresh rates	Up to 4K at 60Hz (via DisplayPort Alternate Mode)	Up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz (HDMI 2.1)
Supported formats	Depends on the protocol used (e.g. DisplayPort supports HDR10, Dolby Vision, etc.)	4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, etc.
Bandwidth	Up to 20 Gbps (USB 3.2) or 40 Gbps (Thunderbolt 3)	Up to 48 Gbps (HDMI 2.1)
Power delivery	Up to 100W	Up to 5V/0.05A (HDMI 1.4) or 5V/0.09A (HDMI 2.0)
Data transfer	Yes	No
Charging	Yes	No
Video output	Yes	Yes
Audio output	Yes	Yes

 

Performance and Application Comparison

The data transfer speeds of USB-C and HDMI

The data transfer speeds of USB-C and HDMI depend on the USB standard and the HDMI version they support, respectively. For example, Superspeed 5Gbps USB 3.0 A To USB C Charge Cable 3m can support speeds up to 5 Gbps, while 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable 48Gbps Braided can support bandwidth up to 48 Gbps. However, these speeds are not directly comparable, as USB-C focuses on data transfer, while HDMI focuses on audio and video transmission. Therefore, the performance of USB-C and HDMI in terms of video quality and audio transmission depends on other factors, such as the resolution, frame rate, color depth, and audio format of the content.

Video Quality of USB-C and HDMI

Generally speaking, USB-C can support video output up to 4K at 60 Hz, and audio output up to 7.1 channels, depending on the device and the cable. However, USB-C relies on the Alternate Mode feature to transmit video and audio signals, which means that it uses another protocol, such as DisplayPort or HDMI, under the hood. This may introduce some compatibility issues or quality degradation, depending on the device and the cable. Moreover, USB-C may not support some advanced features, such as HDR, Dolby Vision, or Dolby Atmos, that HDMI can support.

Audio transmission of USB-C and HDMI

HDMI, on the other hand, can support video output up to 8K at 60 Hz like AOC Active Optical HDMI 2.1 Cable 8K 60Hz 48Gbps HDR, and audio output up to 32 channels, depending on the HDMI version, the device, and the cable. HDMI is designed for audio and video transmission and supports various formats and features, such as 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and more. HDMI offers a more stable and consistent video and audio quality, as it does not rely on another protocol or mode to transmit signals. However, HDMI may not support some newer devices or standards, such as Thunderbolt or USB-C, that USB-C can support.

Therefore, the performance and application of USB-C and HDMI in terms of data transfer speeds, video quality, and audio transmission vary depending on the scenario. For example, if you want to connect your laptop to a 4K monitor and transfer data at the same time, Intel Certified Thunderbolt 4 Cable USB C To USB C 8k 60HZ  may be a better choice, as it offers faster data transfer speeds and decent video quality. However, if you want to connect your gaming console to a 4K TV and enjoy immersive audio and video, HDMI may be a better choice, as it offers higher video quality and more audio features.

Compatibility and Flexibility

The compatibility and flexibility of USB-C and HDMI depend on the devices and the cables you use. USB-C is more compatible and flexible, as it can support various USB standards and other protocols, such as DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, and HDMI, through the Alternate Mode feature.

HDMI is less compatible and flexible, as it only supports one protocol, which is HDMI. This means that HDMI can only be used for audio and video transmission, with devices that have HDMI ports, such as TVs, gaming consoles, and home theater systems. However, HDMI is more standardized and consistent, as it has clear specifications and versions, which are widely adopted by various devices and manufacturers.

Therefore, the compatibility and flexibility of USB-C and HDMI depend on the devices and the cables you use. For example, if you have a device that has both USB-C and HDMI ports, such as a laptop, you can choose either USB-C or HDMI to connect with an external display, depending on the features and modes you need. However, if you have a device that only has USB-C ports, such as a smartphone, you may need an adapter or a converter to connect with an HDMI display, or vice versa.

Choosing USB-C and HDMI at Cable Time

If you are looking for the best USB-C and HDMI cables for your devices, you can find them at Cable Time, the leading online store for cables and accessories. Here are some of our recommendations for USB-C and HDMI cables:

Recommendations for USB-C Cables

If you need a USB-C cable that can support data transfer, charging, and video output, you can choose the Cable Time USB-C to USB-C Cable, which supports USB 3.1 Gen 2, USB-PD, and DisplayPort Alternate Mode. It can deliver speeds up to 10 Gbps, power up to 100W, and video output up to 4K at 60 Hz. It is compatible with various devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, that have USB-C ports. It is also durable and flexible, with a braided nylon design and a 6.6 ft length.

If you need a USB-C cable that can support video output and audio output, you can choose the Cable Time USB-C to HDMI Cable, which supports HDMI Alternate Mode. It can deliver video output up to 4K at 60 Hz, and audio output up to 7.1 channels. It is compatible with various devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, that have USB-C ports, and devices, such as TVs, monitors, and projectors, that have HDMI ports. It is also sturdy and reliable, with a gold-plated connector and a 6 ft length.

Recommendations for HDMI Cables

If you need an HDMI cable that can support high-quality video and audio, you can choose the Cable Time High Speed 8K HDMI Cable 48Gbps For Projector PS3 Xbox, which supports HDMI 2.1. It can deliver video output up to 8K at 60 Hz, and audio output up to 32 channels. It also supports various features, such as HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and more. It is compatible with various devices, such as TVs, gaming consoles, and home theater systems, that have HDMI ports. It is also durable and flexible, with a braided nylon design and a 10 ft length.

If you need an HDMI cable that can support video and audio transmission over long distances, you can choose the  Active Fiber Optical HDMI 2.0 Cable（AOC) , which supports HDMI 2.0. It can deliver video output up to 4K at 60 Hz, and audio output up to 7.1 channels. It also supports various features, such as HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and more. It is compatible with various devices, such as TVs, gaming consoles, and home theater systems, that have HDMI ports. 

Future Trends and Conclusion

USB-C and HDMI are two essential connectors for modern devices. While both serve similar purposes—connecting devices to external displays—they have distinct features and applications. As technology evolves, both USB-C and HDMI will continue to play essential roles in connecting our devices. USB-C’s versatility and compatibility make it a go-to choice for many scenarios, while HDMI remains the standard for high-quality audio and video transmission. Keep an eye out for emerging technologies that could challenge their dominance, and always choose the right connection method based on your specific needs. Remember, whether you’re streaming content, working from home, or gaming, the right cable can make all the difference. So, next time you’re faced with the choice between USB-C and HDMI, consider your requirements and select the cable that suits your setup best!

People also ask

Here are some common questions and answers about USB-C and HDMI:

Can USB-C replace HDMI in all scenarios, or are there limitations to its video capabilities?

USB-C and HDMI are not mutually exclusive, and they can coexist in many scenarios. However, there are some limitations to USB-C’s video capabilities that may prevent it from replacing HDMI in all cases. For example:

Not all USB-C ports support HDMI output. Only USB-C ports that support alternate modes, such as DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 3, can directly output video signals to an HDMI display. 

Not all USB-C cables support HDMI output. Even if your USB-C port supports HDMI output, you will need a USB-C cable that supports the same alternate mode. 

Not all HDMI features are supported by USB-C. While USB-C can support video output up to 4K at 60 Hz and audio output up to 7.1 channels, it may not support some advanced features that HDMI can, such as HDR, Dolby Vision, or Dolby Atmos.

Therefore, USB-C can replace HDMI in some scenarios, but not in all. You will need to check the specifications of your devices, ports, and cables to ensure compatibility and performance.

What are the implications of the transition to USB-C for legacy devices that only support HDMI?

The transition to USB-C may pose some challenges for legacy devices that only support HDMI, such as older TVs, monitors, or gaming consoles. However, there are some solutions to overcome these challenges, such as:

Using adapters or converters:  You can use a USB-C to HDMI adapter or converter to connect a USB-C device to an HDMI display, or vice versa. However, you will need to make sure that the adapter or converter supports the same alternate mode, resolution, and features as your devices.

Using hubs or docks: You can use a USB-C hub or dock to expand the connectivity options of your USB-C device. For example, you can use a Slim 7-In-1 USB C Hub For Macbook Pro that has multiple USB-C ports, HDMI ports, and other ports, such as Ethernet, USB-A, or audio.

Upgrading your devices:  You can upgrade your devices to newer models that support USB-C, HDMI, or both. This will ensure compatibility and performance, as well as future-proofing your devices for emerging technologies.

How do the power delivery capabilities of USB-C compare to HDMI when it comes to charging devices?

One of the main benefits of USB-C over HDMI is its power delivery and charging capabilities. USB-C can support power delivery up to 100W, which means that it can charge devices quickly and effectively. For example, New USB-C To USB-C 100W Charging Cable can charge a laptop battery from 0% to 80% in about an hour, or a smartphone battery from 0% to 50% in about 15 minutes. Moreover, USB-C can also eliminate the need for separate power inputs on some devices, such as monitors and laptops, that can receive power from the same USB-C cable that connects them to another device. This can reduce the number of cables and power adapters required, and save space and energy.

Are there any emerging technologies that could challenge the dominance of USB-C and HDMI in the future?

USB-C and HDMI are currently the dominant connectors for data, audio, and video transmission, but they may face some competition from emerging technologies in the future. Some of these technologies include:

Wireless display technologies: Technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Miracast, AirPlay, or Chromecast can enable wireless display of content from one device to another, without the need for cables or connectors. 

Optical fiber technologies: Technologies such as optical HDMI or optical USB-C can use optical fibers instead of copper wires to transmit data, audio, and video signals.

Quantum technologies: Technologies such as quantum communication or quantum computing can use quantum phenomena, such as entanglement or superposition, to transmit or process information.

What are the best practices for managing cables and maintaining signal quality with both USB-C and HDMI?

Here are some best practices for managing cables and maintaining signal quality with both USB-C and HDMI:

Use cable trays and conduits:  These are enclosed channels that provide better cable protection and organization than ducts, which are open slots. 

Use cable ties or Velcro: These are useful tools to bundle and secure cables together, preventing them from becoming tangled or damaged. 

Use cable labels and markers: These are helpful devices to identify and differentiate cables, making it easier to troubleshoot or maintain them. 

Use the right cables and connectors: You should use cables and connectors that match the specifications and requirements of your devices, ports, and network.

Use the shortest cables possible: You should use the shortest cables possible to connect your devices, as this can reduce signal loss, interference, and power consumption. 

Avoid sharp bends or kinks: You should avoid sharp bends or kinks on your cables, as this can damage the wires or fibers inside, causing signal degradation or interruption.