Difference Between DisplayPort 1.2 And 1.4
Introduction
The advancements in display technology have led to the development of various display interfaces such as HDMI, DVI, and DisplayPort. DisplayPort is a digital display interface primarily used for connecting high-resolution monitors, TVs, and other devices to a computer. Over the years, DisplayPort has evolved, with DisplayPort 1.2 and 1.4 being the most widely used versions. In this article, we will explore the key differences between DisplayPort 1.2 and 1.4.
Bandwidth and Resolution
One of the significant improvements in DisplayPort 1.4 over 1.2 is the increased bandwidth capacity. DisplayPort 1.2 offers a maximum bandwidth of 21.6 Gbps, while DisplayPort 1.4 has a maximum bandwidth of 32.4 Gbps. This increase in bandwidth allows for higher resolution and refresh rates.
With DisplayPort 1.2, you can achieve a maximum resolution of 3840×2160 pixels at 60Hz or 4096×2160 pixels at 30Hz. On the other hand, DisplayPort 1.4 supports resolutions up to 7680×4320 pixels at 60Hz or 3840×2160 pixels at 240Hz. This enhanced resolution and refresh rate capability make DisplayPort 1.4 ideal for gaming, video editing, and other demanding applications.
HDR Support
Another significant improvement in DisplayPort 1.4 is its enhanced support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) content. HRD allows for a more extensive range of colors, improved contrast, and overall better image quality. While DisplayPort 1.2 supports basic HDR, DisplayPort 1.4 brings support for more advanced HDR formats, including HDR10, Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), and Display Stream Compression (DSC).
These enhancements in HDR support enable DisplayPort 1.4 to deliver stunning visuals with greater color accuracy, deeper blacks, and brighter highlights when connected to compatible HDR displays.
Audio Capabilities
Both DisplayPort 1.2 and 1.4 support audio transmission alongside video signals. However, DisplayPort 1.4 offers some improvements in this aspect. While DisplayPort 1.2 can transmit 8-channel, 16-bit audio at a maximum of 192 kHz, DisplayPort 1.4 allows for up to 32 channels of audio at a maximum of 1536 kHz sample rate.
This improvement in audio capabilities makes DisplayPort 1.4 suitable for advanced audio setups, including immersive surround sound systems and multi-channel audio.
Multi-Stream Transport (MST)
Both DisplayPort 1.2 and 1.4 support Multi-Stream Transport (MST), which enables the use of multiple monitors from a single DisplayPort output. However, DisplayPort 1.4 brings improvements to MST by allowing for the daisy-chaining of up to two 4K displays or a single 8K display.
This advancement in MST support simplifies cable management and reduces the number of cables required to connect multiple displays. It makes DisplayPort 1.4 an excellent choice for multi-monitor setups.
Adaptive Sync
DisplayPort 1.2 introduced support for Adaptive Sync, which is an open standard for variable refresh rates. Adaptive Sync technology, also known as FreeSync when used with compatible AMD graphics cards, eliminates screen tearing and stuttering during fast-paced gaming or video playback by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the input source.
DisplayPort 1.4 builds upon this by supporting the more advanced Adaptive Sync 2.0 standard. Adaptive Sync 2.0 brings features like Low Framerate Compensation (LFC) and HDR support. This further enhances the gaming and viewing experience by delivering smoother gameplay, reduced latency, and improved color reproduction in HDR content.
Conclusion
DisplayPort 1.4 offers several significant improvements over DisplayPort 1.2, including higher bandwidth, support for higher resolutions and refresh rates, enhanced HDR compatibility, improved audio capabilities, better MST support, and advanced Adaptive Sync features with HDR support.
When choosing between the two versions, consider your specific requirements and the capabilities of your display devices. If you don’t require the advanced features provided by DisplayPort 1.4 or your current devices are compatible with DisplayPort 1.2, it might be more cost-effective to opt for the older version. However, for those seeking the best possible visual and audio experience, DisplayPort 1.4 is the way to go.
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Difference Between Displayport 1.2 And 1.4
