What are the Differences Between 4K and 8K HDMI Cables?

High-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) digital connectivity can simultaneously send both video and audio from one source to another. Various TVs and monitors all support HDMI connectivity. There are generally three different types of HDMI cables used that all vary in size. Mini (Type C) and micro (Type D) HDMI connectors are commonly used for tablets, recording devices, and other small devices. Standard (Type A) HDMI cables are a little bigger and are used for computers, HDTVs, gaming consoles, streaming media players and other devices.

All HDMI connectors feature a trapezium shape with a 19-pin configuration that allows video and audio signals to travel through copper cables inside each device, providing clear picture and sound in high definition.

Understanding the differences between 1080p, Full HD and 4K is helpful when comprehending how HDMI cables work. The resolution of an HDMI cable refers to the number of pixels that get scanned, resulting in the digital images you see on the screen. The higher the resolution, the clearer the image will be. This is directly related to the refresh rate, which is how many times per second a new image is produced. Both the resolution and refresh rate rely on an HDMI cable’s bandwidth. The bandwidth refers to the frequency range in which all this data can be transferred, setting the limit of a standard HDMI cable at 5 Gbps (gigabits per second).

When it comes to 4K technology, HDMI connections do make a difference. 4K has a much higher resolution, refresh rate and bandwidth than standard high-definition TVs and monitors. So, only 4K or 8K HDMI cables will work on a device that supports 4K.

With wider viewing angles, higher contrast ratios and better color quality, 4K technology is more popular than ever. Standard high-definition TVs and monitors are not capable of displaying resolutions over 1080p. However, high speed 4K HDMI cables, also referred to as HDMI 2.0 cables, can support resolutions up to 2160p (3,840 x 2,160), which equates to around 8 million pixels.

The addition of more pixels creates more detailed images with expanded color space. A 4K HDMI cable’s refresh rate is 60Hz, or 60 frames per second. With more pixels being refreshed faster, a 4K HDMI connector’s bandwidth is 18 Gbps. This bit rate transmits data over three times as fast as a standard HDMI cable.

Although 8K technology isn’t as prominent as 4K yet, TVs are still being produced for the next wave of high-definition viewing. 8K HDMI cables, or HDMI 2.1 cables, can support resolutions up to 4320p (7,680 x 4,320), which is approximately 33 million pixels. This creates a much sharper and more vibrant image than what 4K technology can offer.

The refresh rate of an 8K HDMI is also expanded to 120Hz, or 120 frames per second, which is twice as many as a 4K HDMI 2.0 connector. The maximum bandwidth of an 8K HDMI cable is 48 Gbps. This is over twice as fast as a 4K HDMI cable’s ability to transmit data and nearly ten times faster than a standard 1080p HDMI cord.

Since so many everyday devices use HDMI cables, both 4K and 8K HDMI cables can be found practically everywhere. However, they aren’t always the best 4k HDMI cables or the best 8K HDMI cables. Cheaper 4K and 8K HDMI cables will still possess the minimum requirements that make them 4K and 8K, including resolution, refresh rate and bandwidth. Yet, the materials that make up both the interior wiring and the exterior outer coating can sometimes be compromised.

The best HDMI 2.0 cables and the best HDMI 2.1 cables from top brands like Sony, Apple and Belkin as well as high-quality exclusive brands like Insignia, Rocketfish and Best Buy essentials™ can all be found at Best Buy. These HDMI cables all are made from durable materials that prevent wear and tear while increasing the lifespan of the cord. The outer material that encompasses the inner copper wiring is constructed from either a protective PVC or a nylon braid, both of which provide sufficient protection. 4K and 8K HDMI cables at Best Buy also include gold-plated HDMI connections that are more resistant to oxidation and will typically provide a better signal.