PC monitors have always been the first choice of many gamers who pursue fast update rates and advanced display technology, but now they are not the only monitors suitable for game consoles.
The release of Sony PS5, Microsoft Xbox series X/S and new game graphics cards has increased the attention of everyone to games and related displays. TV manufacturers have also discovered opportunities to attract the game market by optimizing important functions. Many companies now provide TV models equipped with HDMI® 2.1 specifications, and their functions and prices have become a powerful tool to replace computer monitors.
Tyler Maclachlan, Twitch’s HDMI gaming ambassador (also known as Bustin on Twitch), said: “It’s a good idea to use a TV with e-sports capabilities (not just a monitor). This means more options and opportunities for competition. The place has greater flexibility.”
HDMI 2.1 TV game function
One of the biggest advantages that a TV equipped with HDMI 2.1 can bring to the gaming experience is the resolution and update rate it supports. Due to the support for 4K@120Hz resolution, these TVs not only provide four times the ultra-high picture quality of the pixels, but also the update rate is twice that of popular 4K@60Hz resolution TVs. 4K@120Hz resolution makes the picture of speed-type games clearer. For gamers who don’t care much about the update rate, but are more eager for immersive and higher resolution, some of these TVs also support 8K@60Hz.
Some TVs equipped with HDMI 2.1 also support fast variable update rate (VRR) and automatic low latency (ALLM), etc., specifications designed for heavy gamers.
VRR makes the game smoother. The graphics card will present the game screen. The time it takes to perform this operation will depend on the complexity of the screen, screen resolution, GPU speed and other variables. The VRR function will wait for the image to be rendered until the screen is completely displayed, eliminating the image Delays, pauses, and tearing of the screen.
ALLM, also known as game mode, sends a signal from a game console or a game PC to the TV, and automatically puts the TV in a low-wait and low-latency mode. When the TV no longer receives the ALLM signal, such as when watching a movie, it will leave ALLM to ensure the best entertainment viewing experience.
These TVs even give gamers who are accustomed to wearing headphones more reason to rethink their video game audio experience. By supporting enhanced audio return channel (eARC), TVs that support HDMI 2.1 specifications can support high data rate immersive audio experiences such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
In addition, the growing number of Dolby surround sound movies, TV shows and streaming services also benefit from HDMI 2.1.
Ultimate gaming experience
On the other hand, the development of graphics cards for gaming and gaming consoles is also very important, which is related to whether the above functions can be fully utilized.
The latest and most powerful AMD and Nvidia graphics cards are equipped with HDMI 2.1, have gaming functions, and support 4K@120Hz resolution. Similarly, Microsoft Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 also support game functions that include 4K@120Hz or even 8K resolution.
These consoles and memory cards combined with HDMI 2.1-standard TVs provide the best performance and ultimate gaming experience for heavy gamers.
It is necessary to use the correct cable to connect a video game console or PC, TV, and audiovisual receiver (AVR) or speakers that support HDMI 2.1. The ultra-high-speed HDMI cable is the only cable that supports strict specifications for all HDMI 2.1 functions. Once connected, all that remains to be done is to enable the correct settings on the TV, AVR/speaker and gaming device.
For players who prefer PC monitors, the first HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor has just been launched recently. Although the variety of choices is not as good as HDMI 2.1 TVs and the price is higher, it is the best choice for high-performance gamers.For more information, please visit the HDMI website
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