HDMI cables might look the same as they did over 20 years ago, but the technology has come a long way. HDMI 2.1 is the latest version, offering significant improvements and new features. It’s now included in the newest TVs from brands like LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL, and Vizio, as well as in the latest gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. To make the most of these modern devices and their advanced capabilities, having HDMI 2.1 support is essential.
What is HDMI 2.1?
HDMI 2.1 was officially introduced in November 2017 as the latest evolution of the HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) standard. It followed HDMI 2.0, which had been in use since 2013.
Key motivations for HDMI 2.1 included the rising popularity of 4K and 8K displays, the need for better performance in gaming and multimedia applications, and the desire for improved audio quality. HDMI 2.1 introduced a significant increase in bandwidth, allowing it to handle higher resolutions and refresh rates compared to its predecessors.
What are the Benefits of HDMI 2.1?
-
Increased Bandwidth
With a bandwidth of up to 48Gbps, HDMI 2.1 can transmit more data faster than its predecessors. This ensures smoother video playback, reduced lag, and the ability to support high dynamic range (HDR) content, delivering more vivid colors and better contrast.
*HDMI 2.1 includes support for Dynamic HDR. Unlike static HDR, which applies a single set of HDR parameters to an entire video, Dynamic HDR adjusts the brightness, contrast, and color on a scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis.
-
Support for 8K and 4K Resolutions
HDMI 2.1 KVM switches are designed to handle the latest high-resolution displays, including 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz or even 144Hz. This makes them ideal for users who want to maximize the visual quality of their gaming, content creation, or professional environments.
-
VRR and ALLM Supportfor Gaming
For gamers, HDMI 2.1’s support for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is a game-changer. VRR synchronizes the refresh rate of your display with the frame rate of your game, reducing screen tearing and stuttering for a smoother gaming experience. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) automatically optimizes the display settings for minimal input lag. When ALLM is enabled, the connected display will switch to its lowest latency mode, to minimize the delay between the input from the controller or keyboard and the action displayed on the screen.
*Both G-Sync and FreeSync also leverage VRR technology to enhance gaming experiences by reducing visual artifacts such as screen tearing and stuttering.
-
Enhanced Audio Features
HDMI 2.1 also supports advanced audio formats like eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), which provides better audio quality and enables the use of uncompressed sound formats. This is particularly beneficial for home theater setups and professional audio applications.
-
Versatile Compatibility
HDMI 2.1 is backward compatible with previous HDMI versions, so you can connect older devices without any issues. This versatility ensures that your KVM switch can be used with a wide range of equipment, from legacy systems to the latest gaming consoles and PCs.
-
Future-Proofing Your Setup
As more devices and displays adopt HDMI 2.1, investing in this standard ensures your setup is ready for the future. Whether you're upgrading now or planning ahead, an HDMI 2.1 KVM switch will accommodate newer technologies and devices.
Choose KVM Switches with HDMI 2.1
People nowadays are pursuing higher resolution and refresh rates such as 4K@120Hz or 8K@60Hz. To achieve those, HDMI 2.1 provides the necessary bandwidth for transmission. It allows up to 48Gbps of data transfer, ensuring smooth, high-quality video output without compression. This makes HDMI 2.1 the ideal choice for those looking to push the limits of their displays.
When integrated into a KVM switch, HDMI 2.1 ensures that you can switch between multiple devices—like gaming consoles, PCs, and professional workstations—while preserving the highest display performance. TESmart’s new HDMI 2.1 KVM switches are designed to leverage these benefits, offering a high-performance solution for both demanding computing tasks and immersive gaming experience.
This HDMI 2.1 KVM switch delivers true dual 8K@60Hz performance, thanks to its advanced ADI chip, ensuring stable signal processing and compatibility with most monitors. It features a built-in EDID emulator to prevent issues like flicker and black screens.
With HDMI 2.1 compliance, it offers 48Gbps bandwidth and supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision. It handles resolutions up to 8K@60Hz and is backward compatible with 4K at various refresh rates. The switch supports extend or split desktop modes, four input switching methods, and various keyboard types.
For editing, it supports 12-bit color, ideal for precise image processing. For gaming, its HDMI2.1 standard incorporates Dynamic HDR, VRR, FVA, and ALLM technologies, ensuring smooth, tear-free visuals and dual 4K@144Hz/160Hz via DSC 1.2a.
Additional features include USB 3.2 Gen 1 support, mobile device charging, hot-plugging, and customizable RGB lighting effects. It also supports Gigabit Ethernet, so both PCs can use one network cable. It's compatible with multiple operating systems and suitable for PCs and gaming consoles.
Compliant with HDMI 2.1 standards, this KVM switch supports a high bandwidth of 48Gbps FRL, allowing it to handle resolutions up to 8K (4320p) at 60Hz. It is also backward compatible with 4K (2160p) at 60Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz. With DSC technology, it can transmit resolutions of 7680x4320 at 60Hz 4:4:4 and 3840x2160 at 144Hz, delivering exceptional video quality.
Unlike many market solutions that rely solely on traditional physical hard-switching, this setup includes HDCP and EDID emulation, which ensures fast and stable signal switching. The solution also offers signal regeneration and enhancement, supporting long cable connections and maintaining signal quality and stability.
It is also ideal for gaming enthusiasts, this HDMI 2.1 KVM switch supports Dynamic HDR, including HDMI Dynamic HDR metadata, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, offering enhanced dynamic range and color accuracy for more realistic display effects. It also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Fast Vactive (FVA), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which reduce screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Additionally, it comes with a built-in shared USB 3.0 hub, allowing you to connect two PCs or game consoles and share 2x USB 3.0 peripherals, such as a 4K webcam, speakerphone, keyboard, mouse, or game controller. The front panel's USB 3.0 also supports 7.5W (5V1.5A) charging power, keeping connected mobile devices and tablets powered.
Conclusion
Choosing an HDMI 2.1 KVM switch for your setup upgrade not only enhances your current experience with cutting-edge video and audio capabilities but also prepares you for future advancements in display technology. Whether you're a gamer, a content creator, or a professional managing multiple devices, an HDMI 2.1 KVM switch is a solid investment that offers both performance and convenience.
